So, you think you can volunteer in Africa? Sitting mighty between the shores of the Atlantic and Indian oceans, Africa is a continent rife with incredible diversity. The 54 nations that make up Africa each boast their own tribes, wildlife, music, innovation, and so much more. It’s a continent with something for just about every kind of traveler. Including you!
Get to know every way of life as a volunteer in Africa - from the cities to the plains.
Life across much of Africa is rapidly evolving. Nations are growing further apart from their colonial pasts, and African economies are developing at lightning speed. Yet, despite advancement, there are still marginalized communities in dire need of support. As a volunteer, you can be a part of the solution, through meaningful service trips.
This is a continent brimming with untapped potential. Are you ready to make a sustainable impact through service trips to Africa? Then The Busy (but Big-Hearted) Person’s Guide to All Things Volunteer in Africa is the perfect place to start your journey. Join the tribe of people who’ve had life changing experiences as volunteers in Africa. Read on to find our ultimate guide to all things volunteer abroad in Africa!
FAQs from every volunteer in Africa
Africa is a big continent. Can you break down the regions for me?
You’re right. Africa is huge! It’s the world’s second largest continent and covers an expanse of over 10 million square miles. Africa is generally divided into five regions; each has it’s own wildly different climates, tribes, landmarks, and geographies.
North Africa: North African countries are known for their visible Arabic influences and majority Muslim populations. Berber and Arabic are widely spoken across the region. From Morocco to Egypt, you’ll find vast expanses of desert. The Atlas Mountains and Nile Valley are just two of the stunning topographies that this region boasts. Many north African nations are also known for their oil wealth and stability; however, countries like Tunisia and Egypt have experienced Arab Spring rebellions for political change in the last five years. Some of the most impoverished north African communities are made up of Africans from West Africa. These groups travel to north Africa with the hopes of migrating to nearby European nations, like Spain.
Southern Africa: Maybe you’re thinking, “I want to volunteer in Africa but I don’t want to be hot all year!” If this sounds like you, then Africa volunteer trips in Southern Africa are a great option. Southern African nations actually experience summers and winters. It even snows sometimes in South Africa and Lesotho! English is widely spoken in Southern African nations alongside local mother tongues. The region is marred by histories of colonialism and apartheid which ended less than three decades ago in Namibia and South Africa. Today, southern African nations are working to solve the massive socioeconomic inequality in the region. Issues like high HIV/AIDS rates, schools with limited resources, unemployment and poverty have devastated many communities. You’ll also find some of the most stable economies on the continent here. South Africa is the economic powerhouse of the region.
East Africa: Eastern Africa is filled with endless scenic landscape. It’s home to the famed Serengeti National Park and Mt. Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain. You can dip into the serene waters of the Indian ocean or go inland to visit gorillas in the lush hills of Rwanda. East Africa’s history of colonization can be seen in the architecture of cities like Zanzibar. Despite horrific genocides in Rwanda, Uganda and Burundi, these nations have made giant improvements to unify their citizens. Today East African countries like Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania are tourism hotspots. You’ll also find vastly differing scenery and cultures in the countries that make up “The Horn of Africa.” The Horn includes Djibouti, Ethiopia, Somalia, and Eritrea.
West Africa: West Africa boasts the rhythms of Afrobeat music and Africa’s most populated country - Nigeria. This part of the continent has a history of strong African civilizations like the Mali empire. Volunteers will also discover untouched beaches and monuments to remember Africans sold into the Transatlantic slave trade. The tropical climate of West Africa means hot, humid weather and lots of mosquitos. So be prepared for mosquito nets and antimalarial pills (we’ll talk about this in more detail a bit later). That won’t take away from the exciting experience west African nations from Gabon to Senegal have to offer volunteers.
Central Africa: This part of Africa is marked by its extreme cultural and geographic diversity. It’s also home to Equatorial Guinea - Africa’s only Spanish speaking country. Central Africa also embodies Africa’s second largest country (the Democratic Republic of Congo) and the world’s newest country (South Sudan). Much of this region hugs the Equator which means hot tropical conditions! While you might think of instability when you think of central Africa, countries like Congo Brazzaville, Gabon, and Rwanda are stable developing nations with growing tourism infrastructures.
Can’t seem to choose a location? Our online advisors are here to help.
You’ll constantly be in awe of your community, the beauty of every country, and the vastness and variety of this continent.
Can I volunteer in Africa for free?
The short answer is, no! Well, you can, but free programs are not always the best route. Take the following scenario:
You’re at your computer googling phrases like “volunteer work in Africa for students” or “volunteer projects in Africa with animals.” In seconds, tons of free programs pop up. Now, you’re thinking, “sweet!”
Hey, it’s tempting to run to an organization that flaunts a free experience. After all, who doesn’t like free stuff? But, when it comes to volunteering in Africa, free programs aren’t necessarily the best bet.
Why, you ask? Well, there are substantial costs associated with running volunteer organizations. Volunteer training sessions and transportation costs money. Local staff has to be paid. And volunteers need to eat! Free volunteer programs can end up skimping out on essentials to cut costs. This can quickly compromise the quality and integrity of a volunteer program. This can trickle down and make a less effective volunteer.
[How to *Almost* Volunteer in Africa for Free]
No-fee programs can also put a strain on the host country. This happens when program expenses aren’t covered by the organization. The host country can sometimes end up picking up the slack. Being a burden on an already needy community is the last thing a volunteer or their organization should be. Program fees also makes it easier for organizations to hire in-country staff. This helps to reduce the high unemployment rates that most African nations face.
Scams are another risk associated with free volunteer programs. In these instances, middle-men ask for money while pocketing all the profits. Yikes! You want to be part of a program that adequately invests in balancing the volunteer experience with project goals. So before assuming that volunteering should be free, understand how program fees ultimately make for higher quality service work. Consider how the program you choose is really helping Africa.
Looking for ways to reduce the cost of your experience? Here are a few pointers:
- Consider fundraising from friends and family.
- Save up extra money by taking up a part-time job.
- Apply for scholarships or grants to support your program.
- Ask your volunteer organization if there are opportunities to reduce your fee through blogging or other skills that you can offer.
- Check out one of GoAbroad’s recommended low-cost volunteer programs that have been vetted for quality.
Can I find paid volunteer work in Africa?
The truth is paid volunteer work is hard to find in Africa. Volunteers in parts of Asia and the Middle East often receive liveable wages; however, the work here is generally the opposite, paying volunteers little or no salary.
There are some organizations that do offer paid volunteer work in Africa; however, this will often be a small amount like a water and electricity allowance. So it’s wise to arrive in-country with your own funds (more on planning for moola in a few!).
Two great volunteer programs that do offer paid volunteer work in Africa are WorldTeach and VSO International. WorldTeach volunteers in Namibia receive a monthly stipend of about $300. VSO volunteers receive a “basic living allowance.” These stipends are generally just enough to cover groceries and utilities like water and electricity.
[7 Volunteer Abroad Grants & Scholarships to Bookmark]
You won’t forget your time volunteering in Africa, and neither will these guys.
3 things to know before you go
1. The requirements of an Africa volunteer
What are the requirements to volunteer in Africa?
Passport
You’ll definitely need a passport to travel to and between African nations. Passports are also needed for completing certain in-country processes like receiving wired money. It’s a good idea to make sure your passport has several extra blank pages, as some countries have this as a travel requirement.
While in-country, keep your passport in a safe place. You can walk around with copies of it while on your daily excursions.
Visa(s)
For service trips to Africa, you’ll need at least a tourist visa to stay in-country. As a volunteer, you may also qualify for a work visa. The type of visa you need will vary depending on the country you volunteer in. Your volunteer organization will most likely handle your visa application; if not, they’ll provide guidance on how to submit it yourself.
Some African nations will require your visa be approved before arriving in-country. Other nations may grant it at the airport itself. And sometimes, you may not receive your official visa until a few days or weeks into your service trip. While unnerving, try not to panic. Patience and flexibility will take you far on this continent!
Immunizations
The hot climate of much of the African continent means more communicable diseases; many of these illnesses may not be endemic to your home country. Further, some communities are at higher risks of outbreaks due to poor living conditions.
To prepare for your health during Africa volunteer trips, you’ll need to get any required vaccinations. This is for your own health and safety. It’s also because some African immigration agents at the airport may ask for proof that you’ve had a certain vaccine, such as yellow fever.
Let's get to the point: You need to check off a few boxes before you can volunteer in Africa
A travel health specialist can guide you through the recommended vaccinations for your destination and administer them. Your volunteer organization will provide you with details on recommended or required shots you need.
A note on malaria: Malaria is a mosquito born disease that is prevalent across much of Africa. It thrives in hot humid African countries and peaks during their rainy seasons. Most of the world’s malaria cases and deaths occur in sub Saharan Africa. Depending on the country your volunteer program is in, a doctor may recommend you travel with malaria preventing medication. These antibiotics, along with mosquito nets, can be useful preventative measures. You can also find antimalarials, nets, and bug repellants in many African nations.
Money!
Helping Africa as a volunteer means there’s a good chance you won’t be receiving a salary. That’s because you’re a volunteer! There are programs that do offer volunteers a small monthly stipend, but you certainly won’t be making big bucks.
This is why many volunteers arrive in Africa with money they’ve saved up from home. Plus, an emergency fund is never a bad thing. Or maybe you’ll want to visit a few other countries after your project or program is complete. Either way, living abroad with empty pockets is a dicey decision. So plan carefully and be smart about managing your money in-country.
Miscellaneous documents
You may want to travel with your a few special documents—a police clearance letter from your home police department and original copies of your high school and college diplomas. These documents may be needed to apply for a visa, or let’s say you to get your dream job in-country (awesome!). You may need your clearance and diplomas to process new immigration papers.
Police clearances sometimes take several weeks to obtain. And if you lost your diplomas, you’ll need to order those too. So don’t leave getting these to the last minute! Feel free to ask your volunteer organization about any documents you might need to travel with for down the road.
Learn about deep rooted tribal culture while you volunteer abroad.
2. Your volunteer project focus
What are the most popular volunteer projects in Africa?
Wildlife Conservation
Modernization and human interaction have caused many African animals to become endangered species. The black rhino, cheetah, and elephant are just a few examples whose very existence is being threatened on the continent. These animals are facing extinction from illegal poachers and loss of habitat. They’re also being killed by local community members who feel threatened.
Are you an animal lover searching for a cause to take up? Does being a volunteer with elephants in Africa ignite you with excitement? As a volunteer, you can help improve relationships between locals and threatened species. Wildlife volunteers also directly assist with tasks like animal sanctuary care. If you’re passionate about wildlife rehabilitation, there are plenty of volunteer opportunities in Africa for you to make a difference.
Recommended wildlife volunteer programs in Africa:
Child Care
According to UNICEF, there are a staggering 50 million orphans living in Africa. These children have lost their parents to HIV/AIDS, poverty, and poor maternal health care. Many became orphans when their parents were killed in regional wars and conflicts. Orphanages across the continent are often understaffed and overcrowded. These are not ideal environments for children to grow up in. With such incredible odds, these children often struggle in school and lack emotional support.
Volunteers can help through mentoring and teaching. Simply giving children the one-on-one attention they’re lacking is a need. Volunteering with children and in particular with orphans is a serious responsibility that requires an ethical approach. So be sure to evaluate your own skillset and intentions for wanting to work with these children. It’s also important to thoroughly research any organization that advertises opportunities for volunteering in Africa orphanages.
Recommended childcare volunteer programs in Africa:
Even in your downtime, you won’t be lion around like this dude.
Teaching English
Millions of children across Africa face challenges with English literacy. Many children’s first language is their mother-tongue — not English — and much of the continent’s schools are under-resourced and understaffed. The issue is compounded by teachers who many times aren’t that proficient speaking or teaching English.
As an English teaching volunteer abroad, you’ll help narrow the gaps that exist in schools. Your native English speaking will be considered an asset for students to learn around. And you’ll nurture the minds of African youth. Many volunteers say that teaching English in Africa isn’t easy, but they’re also appreciative of the experience and bonds they’ve made by the time their service has finished.
There are a variety of short and long term trips to Africa to teach and improve English literacy. However, longer termed programs typically allow you to have the strongest impact.
Recommended teaching English volunteer programs in Africa:
Girls’ and Women’s Empowerment
Despite advancements, gender inequality continues to plague African women. Here are some pretty alarming statistics:
- It’s estimated that up to half of the world’s maternal deaths occur in Africa.
- According to UNICEF, two-fifths of African women marry before they turn 18.
- Africa only has one female president. Women in Africa are also not equally represented in government and other workplace environments.
- Teenage pregnancy results in higher school dropout rates in girls compared to boys.
These are just a few examples illustrating the magnitude of gender inequality across Africa. Volunteers can be tasked with anything from one-on-one classes with girls to hosting health workshops with women. Service trips to Africa can help improve the status of its girls and women.
Recommended women’s empowerment volunteer programs in Africa:
- GVI — Read reviews
- Kaya Responsible Travel - Read reviews
- See all volunteer programs with women in Africa
From the rocky coastlines to the high savannah, you’ll be #blessed with great views.
3. Where your volunteer project should be
Where are the popular countries to be an Africa volunteer?
Kenya
Kenya is the giant of east Africa. The nation gained independence from Britain in 1963 and has made significant advances since. Despite it’s status as the region’s biggest economy, poverty is prevalent. In fact, Kibera, Africa’s largest urban slum, is located in Nairobi, Kenya’s capital city. There is a need for volunteers across many sectors — from animal conservation to youth development.
Recommended volunteer programs in Kenya:
South Africa
South Africa, also known as “The Rainbow Nation,” is regarded as one of Africa’s most developed nations. In cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town, you’ll find lively metropolises beating with infectious energy.
South Africa has come a long way since Apartheid and its independence in 1994. Still, the country is battling social ills like high HIV/AIDS rates, unemployment, and socioeconomic inequality. South Africa has many severely marginalized communities that would benefit from volunteer work.
Recommended volunteer programs in South Africa:
Ghana
On the west coast of Africa lies Ghana, one of the continent’s most stable and developed nations. From Ghanaian nightlife to its somber colonial slave castles, Ghana is a captivating country to experience.
The “Black Star of Africa” has a very developed tourism industry and stable economy. However, there are still impoverished communities around much of the country. Many children struggle with learning English in school, and rural communities suffer from poverty and inadequate health care. Volunteers are primarily needed in health and education, as well as for working with orphaned children.
Recommended volunteer programs in Ghana:
Rwanda
Over the last decade, Rwanda has been recognized for making giant strides past a turbulent history. This is a country that is making tremendous advancements and is marked by stunning greenery and hills. However, the lingering effects of its 1994 genocide are ever-present.
HIV/AIDS and poverty are ravaging much of this tiny country’s population. And many of the descendants of Rwandan genocide have mental health disorders like PTSD, anxiety, and depression due to the brutality that they witnessed. A significant portion of the country’s workforce was also killed in the violence. This has left large gaps in professional sectors across the country.
Volunteers are needed in Rwanda in many sectors to help redevelop its local communities. There are volunteer opportunities in teaching, childcare, mentorship, healthcare, community development, and much more.
Recommended Volunteer Programs in Rwanda:
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The ride may be a little bumpy, both literally and figuratively.
What NOT to do while volunteering in Africa
Pitfalls you should be aware of before going abroad...
Thinking you know more than the locals
It’s easy to view Africa through a stereotypical lens of people needing help and direction. The media hasn’t done the greatest job of giving a true depiction of what continental societies look like. So you might arrive in-country assuming your western upbringing means you’ve got all the solutions to local problems.
The reality on the ground is that locals may know more than you. After all, it is their home community and you are a visitor.
So, don’t begin your volunteer project thinking your foreign background gives you better insight. Approach your project truly listening and observing how things are done. Integrating and adding to systems already in place is often better than starting brand new ones. Whether it’s a teacher at your school or the local headman in your village, try not to underestimate the ideas and perspectives of locals. Their insight and guidance into how to make your work more effective will often be gold!
Not respecting privacy
As a international volunteer here, you won’t face a shortage of stunning imagery and landscapes to photograph. It’s also natural to want to take photos of the friends you make during your service. These are memories for a lifetime! And of course, your family back home will appreciate you sharing.
But before you post your photos online, it’s important to be aware of where you’re sharing photos of locals to. Get permission before posting photos online of your friends in-country. And definitely think twice before posting photos of children on public platforms like a blog. Would you post close-up shots of random American children on your blog? Probably not. Treat African youth with the same thoughtfulness with respect to their privacy.
Not spending enough time in your host community
It’s a fact. There’s so much to see around the African continent! It can be tempting to whisk away to a nearby country in your free time.
But do you want to have a truly meaningful volunteer experience? Then try to spend off-days immersing yourself into your local community. Nurture your relationship with locals outside of work hours. This will make for deeper friendships and cultural immersion.
Complaining about the way things are done
Life across Africa will definitely be different than back home. Things like “African time” (events starting late) and the speed at which things get done in Africa can be frustrating. It’s easy to fall into a pit of complaining and negativity.
Before you go down that road, try to keep your stressors in perspective. Many of the great experiences and lessons of living abroad come from being pushed outside of your comfort zone. You’ll become a more flexible person and learn the value of patience. Many volunteers in Africa discover life abroad runs smoother once they fall into the groove of their host community.
Sunsets just won’t look the same after volunteering in Africa.
6 steps to find Africa volunteer trips
So you’ve decided to take the leap and volunteer in Africa. So exciting and what a great choice! You’re thinking, “Yes, I want to volunteer in Africa!” But you have no idea which African country and volunteer program to choose. Ack! Where to begin? The following steps will help you narrow down your options.
1. Think about your skill set and passions
Ready to choose a program? Start out by analyzing your skill set and passions. Are you great at certain subjects math or English? Are you a medical student? Do you want to volunteer with animals? How does being a volunteer with elephants in Africa sound to you? Maybe you have a lot of experience at animal shelters, making you an ideal wildlife conservation volunteer.
Try to research programs that match your background and interests. Volunteering with a company that aligns with your expertise will make your work more service effective.
Insider tip: You may not need a specific skill set to be accepted into some volunteer programs. Many programs take a more generalist approach, listing a bachelor’s degree as their main acceptance requirement. In this situation, when you arrive in-country, you’ll have to quickly adjust to whatever skills your project calls for. This may sound a bit daunting, but it keeps you on your toes!
2. Choose what part of Africa interests you
Now it’s time to think about what part of Africa you’d like to volunteer in. Do you want to live in an English speaking country? Would you experience life in a country that with mild comfortable seasons? Do you want to work in a capital city or rural area?
These are the types of questions to think about as you brainstorm where to volunteer in Africa. You can start out by researching Africa’s regions and countries to narrow down your options. It’s also helpful to get to know what specific needs and challenges a country you’re considering faces.
3. Figure out your personal situation
Depending on your financial situation, this experience could be a big monetary commitment. So you’ll need to evaluate if you can afford to spend time volunteering abroad. And if you realize you can’t, you’ll need to make a plan for saving up or raising the funds. Or, if you’re lucky, you might score a scholarship for volunteering abroad in Africa!
You should also think about any personal commitments you may need to make down the line. Is your sister’s big wedding coming up soon? Do you have a sick relative who needs your help? Try and evaluate your personal schedule when you’re thinking about volunteering overseas. Ending your volunteer commitment early or taking off a huge amount of time can disrupt the program’s effectiveness.
4. Match your skills and locational interests with volunteer programs
Alright! Now you have a feel for your skill set and where you’d like to volunteer. So how do you find programs? Well, you could just start googling phrases like:
- Volunteer work Africa
- Volunteer work in Africa for students
- Volunteering in Africa orphanages
- Teach abroad in Africa
However, be warned: by taking this route, you’ll find millions of search results and end up feeling a bit overwhelmed. You’ll also have to weed through some not so great programs.
Or you can use our amazingly thorough directory of volunteer programs. We take the hard part out for you — allowing you to filter results based on your availability, preferred location, ideal focus/project type, and several other options, narrowing your program choices down to your best options. It makes the search process for finding programs super easy!
Oh, neither will the sunrise. #SorryNotSorry
5. Research more thoroughly the programs that you’ve narrowed down
Now that you have a few program that you’re interested in, it’s time to dig a bit deeper and understand their specifics. You want to learn as much as you can about what you’re potentially signing up for. Basically, you want to make sure you and the organization will be a good fit.
Get in touch with the program to find out what their application requirements are. For example, some programs require college degrees while others don’t. Ask for information about:
- Program fees
- Application deadlines
- In-country staff support, training and response to emergency situations
- The day-to-day life of volunteers in the program
Another great step is to read reviews of the program from past volunteers. This can give you even deeper insight into what you can expect. Former volunteers are also excellent resources for tips and advice for adjusting in-country.
6. Pack those bags & get outta here!
You’ve chosen a service program to volunteer with in Africa. Congrats! Now the real fun begins.
Packing for a volunteer trip in Africa can be a stressful and overwhelming task. But try not to freak out too much about packing everything you think you need. You can find a lot in many African nations, especially in their capital cities. And don’t forget to pick the brains of previous volunteers for packing tips as well.
Finally, check with your airline about luggage allowance, bring some mementos from home (family photos are always nice to bring to show new friends), and get ready for a life changing journey!
Top programs for service work in Africa
There are dozens of organizations out there doing great work in Africa — working themselves out of a job, eradicating hardship, brightening the lives of others. Ultimately, finding the top volunteer programs in Africa come down to your goals and skills set. That’s right — the program that will be best for me might not be a great fit for you. With that in mind, here’s a short list of some reputable volunteer programs in Africa to help you jumpstart YOUR research.
*Editor’s note: This information was accurate at the time of publishing. Please refer to each individual program for current data.
1. Volunteer in Africa with GVI—9.76 rating
Global Vision International is a family-run organization that accepts over 2000 volunteers annually. In Africa they offer volunteer placements in Seychelles, Kenya and South Africa. The organization’s primarily offers trips to Africa to help community development and conservation.
2. Volunteer projects in Africa with IVHQ—9.53 rating
International Volunteer HQ is touted as one of the world’s leading volunteer travel companies. They offer programs in more than nine African countries including Tanzania, Ghana, and Morocco. From improving medical access to rural Ghanaian communities to teaching children how to surf in South Africa, International Volunteer HQ has something for every type of volunteer.
- Related: Read reviews of IVHQ programs
3. Volunteer with Love Volunteers—128 reviews
Love Volunteers has placed thousands of volunteers in 11 African countries since 2009. Their programs in Africa range include animal rescue and welfare, drug rehabilitation, child care, education and community development. The organization prides itself on providing low fee impactful volunteer opportunities.
4. Volunteer with Connect-123—9.52 rating
Connect-123 boasts extraordinary volunteer work in Africa for students and professionals at leading South African health facilities. Through their Cape Town program you’ll get to work as a health care volunteer in local hospitals, clinics and research centers. Become a Connect-123 volunteer and help to improve South African public health.
- Related: Read reviews of Connect-123 programs
5. Volunteer projects in Africa with GoEco—9.46 rating
GoEco is a world renowned company offering trips to Africa to help improve ecotourism. The company offers African programs in Zimbabwe, Tanzania and Madagascar. From volunteering in the Masai Mara to diving into the deep waters off Madagascar. GoEco is one of Go Abroad’s top rated volunteer in Africa programs.
- Related: Read reviews of GoEco programs
6. Volunteer programs in Africa with Performing Arts Abroad—9.11 rating
Lovers of the arts can exchange their talents with Performing Arts Abroad. The organization offers volunteers the opportunity to work with children and adults using performing arts as a tool for social change. Programs are offered in Ghana, Kenya and South Africa.
Join other volunteers in Africa!
Many volunteers say that this is one of the most rewarding experiences of their lives. It’s why you’ll find so many former volunteers itching to return back to the continent after their service. From the rich spirits of the people you meet to the extraordinary vastness of the continent, to say you’ll have a phenomenal experience is an understatement.
By choosing the right program, you’ll be able to contribute to the development of an African nation in a truly meaningful way. When you return home, your reflections will be a direct opportunity to break many of the negative stereotypes that exist about life across Africa. So come to Africa, open-minded ready to be blown away by what will be sure to be a life changing experience.
Now that you’re equipped with your guide to all things volunteer in Africa, get in touch with one of our online advisors today to help you launch your volunteer experience.
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