Gap Year Expeditions, Global Volunteering & Conservation Projects – Greenforce

Highlights

With opportunities to take part in regular boat release programs at Robben Island and exposure to a variety of local seabirds, SANCCOB (Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds) is an immensely enjoyable and rewarding environment for nature lovers.

The centre is located on the banks of Flamingo Vlei with wonderful views of Table Mountain and Cape Town across the bay. The Vlei is also home to an amazing variety of water birds including resident Pelicans, Cormorants and a colony of Pink Flamingos. Close by are the popular beaches of Blouberg and Big Bay, famous for the 'postcard' views of Table Mountain.

As well as learning about the life-cycle and conservation of the African Penguin, which is still an endangered species, you will also be very 'hands - on' as you are taught how to catch, hold, feed and tube feed these wonderful birds each with their own individual characters.

You will care for the weak, the strong, the cheeky and the just plain daft and when the sun is high you will probably find yourself longing to join them in the pool too! You will also be involved with the many other tasks that need to be carried out daily including the preparation of fish, cleaning the pens, pools and mats, sterilising syringes and many more things besides. Be warned, as cute as they are, penguins will bite given the opportunity. The training you will receive together with the protective clothing provided by SANCCOB will allow you to handle these birds safely.

Essentials

What will I achieve?

• You will gain a more thorough understanding of these incredible birds, learning about their biology, habitat and handling techniques, whilst making be making a real impact on South Africa’s marine life.
• You will have the chance to see some the world’s most amazing scenery, with enough free time to experience a whole host of activities.
• You will set your CV apart from the rest, through gaining skills and experiences which look favourable to employers.

Where will I live?

Your accommodation in Table View is a secure home away from home for our volunteers with comfortable beds, 24/7 Internet access, a spacious lounge with satellite TV & DVD, a fully equipped kitchen, lockable cupboards and a large garden complete with a large swimming pool! Self-service breakfasts are also provided.

Money
• The currency is Rand. The best way to carry your money is to split it between separate payment methods, e.g. cash, card and traveller’s cheques. Never carry a lot of cash as you can always get more out at a cash point or exchange money in all the major banks and hotels and large towns.

• We suggest to take 500 Rand with you in cash upon arrival, to cover any incidentals when you first arrive.

• Most credit cards are accepted in South Africa

Eligibility
• The trip is open to all nationalities.
• The minimum age for this trip is 17; there is no maximum. Expedition teams consist of individuals from a diverse range of ages, backgrounds, and experiences. Everyone is welcome!

What's included?

• Cape Town Airport collection and drop-off.
• A comprehensive welcome brief from a member of the Gapforce team.
• A Welcome Pack complete with many useful items that will help you settle in and an opportunity to let your friends and family know you have arrived safely.
• A full-day Peninsula tour which includes lunch, visits to Hout Bay, Chapman’s Peak Drive, Cape Point, Simon’s Town, Boulders Beach Penguin Colony and much more. An incredible day rich with history and some of the world’s most beautiful scenery.
• A half-day Cultural tour, a fascinating introduction to South Africa’s recent political history before and after Apartheid. Includes highlights of Khayelitsha, South Africa’s second largest township after Soweto.
• A full-day tour to the Cape Winelands including the Paarl, Franschoek and Stellenbosch regions. Wine tastings and lunch are included.
• Advice and support from our experienced team during your stay.
• Our booking service for attractions, events and tours.
• A letter of reference from SANCCOB (South African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds) to accompany your Resume/CV
• An attractive certificate recognising your contribution to SANCCOB.
• If required, extra nights can be added to your stay to meet your flight dates for only R120 per night through either a house or homestay option. This may help you to take advantage of any cheaper flights that arrive in Cape Town before your planned arrival date.

• You should budget about 500 Rand (approx. £35) a week to cover expenses such as meals, laundry, taxis etc.

Points to note:
• On receipt of deposit, you’ll receive a welcome e-mail with access to your personal page.
• We provide helpful advice on flights, insurance and more.
• A staff member is in South Africa all year round.

Country Information

• South Africa is bordered on the west by the Atlantic Ocean and on the east by the Indian Ocean. The waters meet at the country's most southern tip, Cape Agulhas, it is visibly clear by the large contrast of the colours of the waters.
• Size of the country: slightly less than twice the size of Texas
• Climate: mostly semiarid; subtropical along east coast; sunny days, cool nights
• The rand is the currency of South Africa. It takes its name from the Witwatersrand (White-waters-ridge in English)

Maps

Our project is located in the Southwest region of the country, near Table Mountain. The closest city is Cape Town.

Feedback

"From Cape Town to London - we are here. Just wanted to say Silke met us all ok. We just spent the weekend in Cape Town - lunch on Table Mtn, the Briefing Day seems a long time ago!

"...and I nearly did not take a gap year - well 5 weeks! Thx".

Amber - Greenforce Marine South Africa. November.