TIA—this is Africa. You’ll hear that a lot. Things will go wrong, but it is almost expected. Your train might not run on time (or at all), your meetings might start late (on Africa time), and descriptions of tours or activities won’t always be as advertised. However, that’s part of the experience—be flexible and roll with it!

Africa is rapidly changing. Africa is so much more than the media portrays. It is a continent of contrasts, from deserts to beaches, and rural villages to cosmopolitan cities. You’ll meet people who live traditional pastoral lifestyles and others who are burgeoning entrepreneurs living in the heart of their cities. Be open to challenging your assumptions of the continent and be sure to visit as many different destinations as you can to get a true sense of Africa’s diversity.

Taking a gap year in Africa isn’t for everyone, but it will surely set you apart when you’re ready to apply to college or to your first job. Gappers are by nature curious, globally-minded citizens, and by immersing yourself in other cultures, you’ll come away with a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of us all—a rare yet valuable quality in this ever-increasingly globalized world.

There’s a lot to consider when thinking about a gap year, like whether or not you’ll go at it alone or as part of some larger organized program. Unsure which path is best for you? Keep reading to learn more about their pros and cons!