00012 Penguin rescue

This volunteer work on the south coast of South Africa provides the perfect experience for any marine wildlife lover. The programme enables you to aid injured, ill and oil stricken penguins as well as a number of other sea birds that have been washed up on the coast of South Africa which, without the help of volunteers would undoubtedly perish. This is very much a hands-on programme, with volunteers having the opportunity to not only catch and handle the birds, but also feed, tube and administer medications to them. The highlight of this adventure comes weekly, with the release and rehabilitation of the revitalised birds on Robben Island, a truly unforgettable and satisfying experience. Robben Island is home to one of the largest African penguin colonies in the world as well as being famous for the island on which Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years. The trip to Robben Island also provides the perfect opportunity for whale watching off the south west coast of South Africa where at least 37 species of whales and dolphins can be found.