14 Volunteer Vacations Where You Can Help Animals & Explore Amazing Places

4. Big Cat Rescue – Limpopo, South Africa

In South Africa’s Limpopo province, you’ll help care for lions, leopards, and cheetahs rescued from captivity or human-wildlife conflict. Duties include preparing meals, monitoring animal behavior, and assisting with habitat enrichment—keeping these powerful creatures physically and mentally stimulated. Set against sweeping bushveld and near iconic safari reserves, the experience is as immersive as it is humbling. You won’t touch the cats—but you’ll learn from them daily. Sunrises bring lion roars; evenings end with firelight and stars. It’s a volunteer role that demands respect, patience, and leaves you changed.