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Gap Year Programs in Namibia

The word Namibia means “area where there is nothing,” but this African country defies its name in every sense. Located on Africa’s southwestern coast, the country boasts natural extremes, featuring the oldest desert, tallest sand dunes, and most iconic grass plains on the continent. It is the perfect place for first-time travelers to Africa. Spend a gap year off the beaten path, studying African tradition, getting involved in environmental conservation, or embracing your wild side. Every adventure awaits you during gap year programs in Namibia!
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7 Gap Year Programs in Namibia

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

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World’s #1 Namibia Volunteer Abroad Programs

International Volunteer HQ offers the world’s #1 rated volunteer abroad programs in Namibia - trusted by more than 130,000 volunteers since 2007. Volunteer with a renowned wildlife conservation organization in Namibia through IVHQ's Wildlife Conservation project. Your role involves providing a safe haven and a second chance for various African animals, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, antelope, warthogs, baboons, and more, with a focus on releasing them back into the wild when possible, and your contribution as a volunteer is crucial in sustaining the project's care for these animals. The program starts from only US$68 per day with year-round availability and you can volunteer anywhere between 2-24 weeks. When you choose a low-cost, high-value program through IVHQ, everything is organized for you, including your accommodation, meals, airport pickup, orientation, 24/7 in-country support, and more! You can also get a zero-risk refundable booking option along with unlimited free changes to your trip. Are you ready to immerse yourself in a new culture, join a social group of like-minded volunteers, and make a difference while you travel? Apply to volunteer with IVHQ today!

GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

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GoEco - Top Rated & Award Winning Volunteer Programs Abroad

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and medical initiatives. GoEco operates in over 50 countries, providing unique cultural immersive experiences that aim to make a positive impact on the environment and society. The organization also offers internships and academic programs for students. GoEco provides safe and meaningful experiences while promoting sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions.

African Horse Safaris

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Natural Horsemanship in Namibia

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Namibia, surrounded by stunning Appaloosa horses. Enhance your natural horsemanship skills whilst assisting with looking after over 40 stud horses, miniature ponies, alpacas, and rehabilitated equine rescues. This programme is designed to develop your communication with horses using methods such as liberty, trust exercises, clicker training, and bodywork to build a deep connection. Experience the freedom of riding with just a halter or neckrein, using your seat, legs and balance to guide your horse. You will have an 8 module Natural Horsemanship Programme run by an incredible team. You will be assisting with the training and backing of horses, working with members of the Namibian San tribe, as well as helping the children of the local community develop a connection with these beautiful equines. You'll also have time to relax, enjoy guided safari rides, and appreciate Namibia's stunning nature and wildlife. All riding abilities accepted.

Volunteer World

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Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller grassroots NGOs and local specialists in more than 80 countries. All these with just one click! Find projects in wildlife, teaching, community development, and several other areas. Simply choose your desired destination and desired travel date, and our search engine will compare the best volunteer abroad programs on your behalf. Whether you wish to gain experience at a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa or teach English at a monastery in Nepal, we've got you covered. Volunteer World guarantees a quick and easy application. We will guide you through this process, as well as help plan your next meaningful trip. We provide free access to quality-checked projects and flexible options. And if anything goes wrong, we've got your back with our qualified support team and our refund guarantee.

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Oyster Worldwide

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Gap Year Travel with Oyster Worldwide

Interested in taking a gap year? Do it with an organization well regarded for its responsible travel and gap year travel opportunities - Oyster Worldwide. Whether you are taking a break before pursuing higher education or taking time off from university, we have the perfect opportunity for you! Our programs and projects across 6 continents are open all year. Sign up for a program within a field that matches your skills and interests - animal welfare, child care, veterinary, medicine, conservation, etc. Go on a trekking holiday or volunteer on a project you are passionate about. No matter what you do, where you go and how long you stay, we guarantee amazing experiences you will treasure for a lifetime. UK-based Oyster Worldwide has been sending young people to take part in gap year experiences for more than 17 years. We offer over 60 volunteer and paid programs in over 20 countries around the world. We have been working with many host countries for years and have great relationships with them. Our aim is to provide happy, safe and fulfilling experiences, as well as to help participants to return home with a long-term affection for the country they have visited.

Carla's Au Pairs

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Live Abroad as an Au Pair – USA, Europe & Asia

Ready to travel the world, gain independence, and experience life like never before? With Carla’s Au Pairs, you can live with a host family in the USA, Europe, or Asia while caring for children, exploring new cultures, and growing into your future self. Our program places young South Africans and Namibians in exciting countries such as the USA, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Germany, Turkey, and China. You’ll receive a stipend, free accommodation, meals, and personal support from our experienced team - every step of the way. No experience abroad? No problem. We’re here to guide you with training, visa help, and prep. As proud IAPA members, we follow global standards to keep you safe and supported. This is more than a job. It’s a life-changing journey. Join our sisterhood of au pairs around the world and start writing your next chapter!

A Guide to Gap Year in Namibia

Popular Locations

Located along the Atlantic Ocean, Namibia features stunning landscapes of every kind, from the sandy dunes of Sossusvlei to the grassy plains of Kalahari, and from coastal cities to the Naukluft Mountains. Gap year travelers will also find that there is an ever-present German influence found in all of the big cities, creating a colonial vibe mixed with traditional Africa. 

Windhoek is Namibia’s capital city. Some say the city is too Western; after all, it is a modern, well-groomed metropolis with busy roads, a city skyline, and German castles (what?!). While it may not feel like iconic Africa, it is the perfect place to start or end your gap year in Namibia. Fly into Windhoek to ease into the African lifestyle, or take a break from the wild to get a taste of urban African buzz. 

Swakopmund is Namibia’s adventure capital. This seaside city still features German influence, architecture, and Gemütlichkeit (German hospitality), but it is also the best launching pad for wild African explorations. Make Swakopmund your home base, while you venture outside the city limits to discover the Skeleton Coast or the Namib Desert that gave the country its name. Visit the famous Moon Landscape, or chill out in town for a coastal holiday. 

Luderitz, located between the barren Namib Desert and the sunny south Atlantic coast, is one of the most bizarre places in Africa. The city is surreally German, radiating the culture through its art, architecture, Bavarian villages, and German bakeries with the most delicious streuselkuchen (streusel cake) you’ll find in Africa! While at times you may feel like you’re spending a gap year in a time warp, you’ll have plenty of time to see authentic Africa (think safaris at Sperrgebiet National Park!).

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Latest Program Reviews

Cheers To Carla’s Au Pairs

June 06, 2025by: Sello SebopelaProgram: Live Abroad as an Au Pair – USA, Europe & Asia
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Fellow compatriots, after I been declined by a few agencies, Carla’s Au Pairs stood out and welcomed me with warmth, from working with Hanlie which she guided me and helped me with application process and did daily check up on my progress and as well my leader Natashia, she check up on me sending messages of encouragement knowing soon I’ll be united with my future Host family, Future au pair’s if there is any agency that you like to help you approach your dreams with confidence, Carla’s Au Pairs is the Bus Stop, for everything is here and everyone is ready and willing to help out. Cheers To Carla’s Au Pairs

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