
Luisa Rulfo
Baret Scholars
AlumniWhat inspired me to go abroad was a mix of restlessness and curiosity—a need to understand the world beyond my small orbit. I always sensed that life ...
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with Seamester Study Abroad at Sea


GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization
77
GoEco offers more than 60 wildlife and animal conservation volunteer opportunities and internships worldwide! Our programs focus on the welfare a...
See All 66 ProgramsMAXIMO NIVEL
9
Maximo Nivel’s Country Jumper Gap Year is a unique program that takes participants through an immersive experience in 3 of Latin America's most iconic countries! Explore Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru over 12, 24, or 36 weeks. All itineraries are fully customizable, so you can travel for as long
See All 5 ProgramsInternational Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
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Work on a private African game reserve dedicated to protecting endangered species and preserving natural habitat. You will support vital conservation and research activities such as removing invasive plants, controlling soil erosion, maintaining waterholes, helping repair reserve infrastructure, and
See All 3 ProgramsVAC Internships Cape Town
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The VAC GAP Year Internship Program offers the perfect blend of professional skill-building, cultural immersion, and unforgettable adventures, all set in the stunning city of Cape Town. This unique, college-level experience is designed specifically for pre-college students, with no prior experience
Quest
14
This is not a pause. It is a complete reset. The Quest Men's Core is our flagship 7-month journey for young men ready to answer the question, "What am I truly capable of?" This is a profound, hands-on immersion into the real world, designed to forge the character, skills, and unshakeable self-belie
See All 3 ProgramsGo Abroad China Ltd.
23
Go Abroad China’s High School Chinese Language Immersion Program is designed for international students aged 13–18 who want to learn Chinese in China while experiencing authentic Chinese culture in a safe and supportive environment. Students can choose from University Chinese Language Programs, Sm
Pacific Discovery
40
Experience an unforgettable 10-week Gap Year Semester through New Zealand and Australia, two of the world’s most amazing travel destinations. This Pacific Discovery program is designed for students taking a gap year, seeking an alternative study abroad, or looking to combine travel with purpose. Jo
See All 8 ProgramsAfrican Conservation Experience
9
Are you looking for an epic adventure that will change your life forever? Then look no further! This Ultimate Gap Year Experience is unique; you will be transported to four different projects across southern Africa, working on the front lines of conservation and connecting with local and expert prof
Spanish Gap Year
10
This all-in-one semester begins with one month traveling Spain by train, followed by two months in Barcelona where you choose your pathway. You’ll build soft skills (communication, confidence, problem-solving), hard skills (Spanish, digital tools, cooking), professional skills through internships or
Gapforce
6
Lying in the crystal-clear tropical waters of the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Tao’s abundant and diverse coral reefs offer some of the finest scuba diving found anywhere on the planet! The perfect location to maximize your diving and reef ecology experience, this exciting and in-depth program has been spe
See All 2 ProgramsINTERNeX Pacific
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Experience rural life by living and working with a New Zealand farming family. The Farmstay New Zealand program offers hands-on farming tasks, providing practical skills and insight into New Zealand’s farming culture, from agriculture to animal care. Work enough hours to cover your accommodation, m
Raleigh International
1
A Raleigh South Africa Expedition is your chance for Adventure. In the stunning Kruger region, you have the chance to take action on some of the world's most pertinent issues through immersive Community projects, and impactful Environmental work. Through our life-changing Adventure Leadership Trek y
See All 2 ProgramsVolunteer Safari Initiative
3
Join us in Kenya for an unforgettable wildlife conservation project that combines your passion for protecting nature with hands-on action to preserve our planet’s incredible biodiversity. Make a lasting impact on Kenya’s precious wildlife and ecosystems as you immerse yourself in conservation work.
Adelante Abroad
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Equine Summer Study Abroad is now in its 10th year and sold out. Apply now for next year! Limited to just 16 students, it includes daily English-style riding and coursework in Equine Anatomy & Physiology and Equine Fitness. Ideal for animal science or pre-vet majors, but open to all—no riding experi
See All 4 ProgramsIntern Abroad HQ
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Are you an aspiring Environmental Conservationist or Marine Biologist? Intern Abroad HQ offers the most flexible, valuable, and affordable Environmental Science internships around South Africa, starting from just 2 weeks duration. Choose from 4 unique internship placements: - GIS Specialization for
Volunteering Journeys
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Sea turtle and marine conservation volunteer abroad projects are fun and combine your beach vacations with meaningful work which goes a long way in the concentrated efforts globally to prevent these enchanting marine creatures from going extinct. All seven sea turtle species are endangered today and
See All 4 ProgramsKaya Responsible Travel
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Unsure about your academic or professional future? Take a breather by joining the 7 or 10-week Community and Conservation Gap Year in South Africa. This is a journey of personal development and self-discovery as well as immersion in a new culture and environment. The full program is 10 weeks long a
Rustic Pathways
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Costa Rica is where adventure, service, cultural immersion, and the wonders of nature intersect. Our programs focus on turtle conservation, surfing, and connection with the local communities. With programs for high school students, college students, and young explorers, there’s an exciting opportuni
See All 2 ProgramsBoresha Maisha Global Adventure Academy
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Spend 6 or 12 weeks in Arusha, Tanzania, combining hands-on veterinary and animal welfare experience with accredited Global Citizenship learning, cultural immersion and adventure. Work alongside an experienced qualified veterinarian and local animal rescue shelter, supporting real animal welfare ef
IPBio- Biodiversity Research Institute
0
IPBio is launching a 15-day, all-inclusive expedition that combines biological research and conservation volunteering with a truly immersive experience of Brazilian culture, history, and Amazonian traditions. By exploring the region through both scientific and cultural perspectives, participants gai
During your gap year, you won’t return home empty-handed. You’ll gain a wealth of insights for your mind, heart, and soul. So, what can you expect to gain from a gap year focused on working with animals?
Like any other gap year program, participating in an animal-focused gap year requires some careful research and preparation to ensure a successful and fulfilling experience.
Get answers to the questions travelers ask most
Gap year animal programs are structured experiences where participants work with wildlife or domesticated animals while traveling. These programs often involve conservation efforts, rehabilitation work, or farm-based experiences. They provide hands-on learning in settings like nature reserves, sanctuaries, or veterinary clinics, offering a meaningful way to gain experience and support animal welfare.
A gap year with animals allows you to contribute to conservation while gaining practical skills in animal care, research, or environmental protection. It’s a great way to explore career paths in zoology, veterinary medicine, or wildlife management. Additionally, these programs offer cultural immersion, outdoor adventure, and the chance to make a positive impact on ecosystems and communities.
Most animal gap year programs prioritize safety through proper training, supervision, and guidelines for working with animals. Programs in reputable sanctuaries and reserves ensure ethical interactions and participant security. However, it's essential to choose accredited organizations, follow local regulations, and take necessary health precautions, such as vaccinations, to minimize risks.
Countries like South Africa, Costa Rica, Australia, and Thailand are popular for animal gap year programs due to their rich biodiversity and established conservation efforts. These locations offer opportunities to work with wildlife, marine life, or rescue animals. Whether assisting in elephant sanctuaries, sea turtle conservation, or safari reserves, each destination provides unique experiences.
Paid opportunities in animal gap year programs are rare, but some offer stipends, free accommodation, or meals in exchange for work. Wildlife research projects, farm stays, or eco-tourism roles may provide compensation. Volunteering with organizations that cover living expenses can also help offset costs while gaining valuable hands-on experience in animal care or conservation.
Hear what past participants have to say about their experiences
Alumni and staff share what it's really like to go abroad

Luisa Rulfo
Baret Scholars
AlumniWhat inspired me to go abroad was a mix of restlessness and curiosity—a need to understand the world beyond my small orbit. I always sensed that life ...
Read Full Interview
Alisa Regassa
Tidelines Institute
AlumniI knew that Alaska was a place I'd wanted to visit—and visit meaningfully. I saw this opportunity, and it seemed like it was the perfect time and plac...
Read Full InterviewExplore the destinations and program types travelers search for most
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