VolunTourism, the approach of combining traveling and volunteering at your particular chosen destination, is concept that has slowly been gaining popularity. It’s a great way to travel, see the world and experience foreign cultures, and at the same time giving back into the local community. The wide array of options available are also a big plus, which means you get to choose something that is also of interest to you.

For the animal lovers out there, here are a list of 6 ways to volunteer at the Singapore Zoo, courtesy of Heather. This list is understandably geared towards the Singapore Zoo alone, but you’ll no doubt be able to find similar roles in your local zoo!

Splash Safari. Photo credit - Loeffle.

Be a Docent

Docents are also known as our volunteer rangers. Stationed at strategic ‘Ranger Stations’ around the Zoo, they excite visitors with tools of engagement ranging from animal specimens (yes, they are real) to storytelling sessions. Through interaction with visitors, it is every docent’s aim to raise conservation awareness. We’re recruiting, so apply now!

Be a Conservation Ambassador

Friendly and enthusiastic, our conservation ambassadors are our youthful spokespeople for wildlife. Guided tours are their forte and they enjoy sharing animal facts and info with visitors.

Be a Zoolympix Station Master

Yes, the Youth Olympics has already arrived at the Singapore Zoo! For nine consecutive days from 20 to 28 June, children pit their skills against our animal champions. Station masters educate the game participants about the animals they are ‘competing’ with and also ensure they come away with a fun learning experience.

Indian rhino & white tiger. Photo credit - supersam5.

Join us as a Wildlife Buddy

Buddy up to do your part for wildlife! After training by our education staff, Wildlife Buddies will in turn become wildlife guides for their ‘buddies’. Through active learning about animals and the environment, you will foster a deeper appreciation for animal conservation, and share this interest with your friends. You can sign up as a class or with a group of like-minded friends.

Education Volunteer

Education volunteers help out in all aspects of an education officer’s job, which includes the running of in-park programs, school talks, outdoor camps and even husbandry for education’s collection of animals. They also assist in the caring of our specimens as well as our library of animal-related books.

Veterinary Volunteer

Veterinary volunteers shadow our vets on their rounds and assist during animal treatment. They also take care of the animals at the ward and help with general upkeep of the hospital. Only open to clinical year veterinary degree students (third year and above).