Welcome at the Thandile Wild Heart Volunteers 

More than just volunteering , this is a chance to live, learn and grow in the heart of  South Africa.

Based on a stunning horse ranch surrounded by nature, our program offers a unique blend of hands-on work, connection with animals, and personal awareness.
Whether you're caring for horses, building something from scratch, or simply sharing stories around the fire. You’ll be part of something real.

At Thandile, you don’t just help. You grow, explore, and rediscover your place in the world.

About our program 

 The Thandile Wild Heart Volunteer Experience is not your average working holiday. Our program combines hands-on work with personal awareness, in a way that’s raw, real and unforgettable.

We offer two main focus areas:

Horse Connection & Care
For those who love horses: join our herd in their natural environment. You’ll help with grooming, feeding, groundwork and natural horsemanship. It’s not about controlling the horse, it’s about learning to lead through energy, presence and intention. We work with trust-based methods, and you’ll learn how horses reflect human emotion and behavior.

Construction & Outdoor Projects
Not a horse person? No problem. There’s plenty to do around the ranch: helping build new volunteer cabins, maintaining trails, creating eco-experiences or developing our tree-top adventure park. Ideal for anyone who loves working with their hands, being outside, and creating something tangible.

This makes our program unique:

  • You don't just "volunteer" — you become part of a small, dedicated team shaping something meaningful

  • We combine practical work with awareness: learning from animals, nature and your own responses

  • Want to join with a friend or partner? Great! One can work with horses, the other with tools

 

Whether you're coming for the horses or the building, there’s one thing you’ll leave with: a deep connection to nature, yourself, and the incredible African land.

 

Curious to know what your days will look like, what we offer, and what we expect from you?
Find all the practical details, included services, and optional adventures here:

 

Some of our activities included in the program 

Natural horsemanship

Basic Natural Horsemanship – Building a Bond of Trust
At Thandile Volunteer Experience, we believe that the relationship between human and horse starts with trust. That’s why we use natural horsemanship , an approach based on mutual respect, body language, and clear energy.

You’ll learn how to observe a horse’s subtle signals, communicate without force, and create a connection that’s built on safety and understanding. Whether you’re grooming, leading, or simply spending time together.  Every moment is a chance to deepen the bond.

Our goal is not control, but connection. By focusing on trust and presence, you’ll discover how horses respond when you truly show up : calm, grounded, and real. And you might just learn something new about yourself along the way.

Swimming with horses

Swim with Horses – A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
Ever dreamed of swimming side by side with a horse? At Thandile Volunteer Experience, we offer the rare opportunity to cool off with our horses in one of the natural dams nearby.

 Horses love the water, and once they relax, they invite you into a playful, peaceful connection that you’ll never forget.

Whether you're a confident rider or just starting out, swimming with horses is a magical experience that blends trust, freedom, and pure joy.

Horsetrails

Discover the African bush on horseback.
Our ranch offers guided horse trails through untouched nature. From sunrise rides to full-day explorations. Ride alongside giraffes, zebras and Kudus, cross shallow rivers, or enjoy a scenic picnic on the mountain.

For the adventurous soul, we also offer  horse safaris with overnight stays under the stars.
Whether you're an experienced rider or just starting out, the trails are adapted to your level and always guided by someone who knows the land and the horses.

This isn’t your average trail ride.
It’s an immersive experience in nature, connection, and freedom.