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Gap Year Programs in South Africa

Are you craving a big braai (barbeque) on soft sandy beaches? Or exploring caves with ancient human bones? Or diving 49 feet into a shark's den? Why not experience all three on your kief (cool) gap year in South Africa? With lush nature, thrilling safaris, and vibrant nightlife, what more could excite you? Start planning your epic South Africa adventure now!
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Seamester

Featured Provider of the Month

Discover who you are on the ultimate gap adventure! Sail the world!
with Seamester Study Abroad at Sea

girl kissing a giraffe
9.6837 reviews

GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization logo
GoEco - Top Rated & Award Winning Volunteer Programs Abroad

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with awa...

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Raleigh International
91 reviews

Raleigh International

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Volunteer in South Africa - Expeditions With Purpose

A Raleigh South Africa Expedition is your chance for Adventure. I...

AHS
102 reviews

African Horse Safaris

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Moolmanshoek Wildlife Working Holiday

Experience the excitement of life in the African Bush at Moolmans...

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South Africa
93 reviews

Impact Gap Year

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South Africa, France and Thailand Gap Year Exploration

Explore the dream destinations of South Africa, France, and Thail...

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penguins-south-africa-cape-town - IGS
93 reviews

Institute for Global Studies

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South Africa’s Favorite Internships: 44 Options

Combine practical experience and adventure in South Africa, an id...

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Semester at Sea students in South Africa
9.5435 reviews

Semester at Sea

Semester at Sea: Global Study Abroad on a Floating Campus

Join Semester at Sea on this global journey and make the world YO...

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girl holding a South African flag
9.8866 reviews

VACorps

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Gap Year Internship Program in Cape Town with VACorps

The VACorps Gap Year Program is a transformative experience that ...

IVHQ
9.54763 reviews

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 9...

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volunteering with monkeys in South Africa
00 reviews

Kaya Responsible Travel

Environmental & Community Gap Year Adventure, South Africa

Unsure about your academic or professional future? Take a breathe...

African Conservation Experience
9.789 reviews

African Conservation Experience

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The Ultimate Personalized Gap Year Experience

Are you looking for an epic adventure that will change your life ...

Seamester Study Abroad at Sea
9.7651 reviews

Seamester Study Abroad at Sea

Seamester Study Abroad and Gap Year Voyages

Seamester is the educational adventure of a lifetime! For more th...

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Oyster Worldwide
94 reviews

Oyster Worldwide

Gap Year Travel with Oyster Worldwide

Interested in taking a gap year? Do it with an organization well ...

Gapforce
102 reviews

Gapforce

Game Reserve Volunteering with Gapforce

A volunteering experience with bite! Relocate to the incredible s...

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Volunteer World
8.7512 reviews

Volunteer World

Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find ...

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Volunteer International Adventures
9.910 reviews

Volunteer International Adventures

Teach at Township Schools in South Africa

Teach at local community schools in Knysna, South Africa, in this...

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Frequently Asked Questions

Free programs are rare, but some offer food and lodging in exchange for volunteer work. Look into grassroots NGOs in areas like the Eastern Cape or KwaZulu-Natal for low-cost, skills-based placements.

Explore roles with wildlife reserves, youth outreach, marine projects, and cultural exchange programs in Cape Town, Durban, and Limpopo. Partner with local NGOs or gap year platforms for structured options.

Yes, with proper planning. Choose programs with strong local support, follow safety advice, and stay aware of your surroundings. Urban and rural areas vary, so research your destination and always prioritize your well-being.

Top experiences include wildlife conservation, community projects, cultural exchanges, and outdoor adventures like hiking or surfing. Balancing volunteer work with travel lets you experience South Africa’s diversity firsthand.

Factor in visa requirements, budget, and health precautions. Research program credibility and local customs to prepare for cultural differences. Building flexibility into your plans helps you adapt and make the most of your time.

Latest Program Reviews

What an amazing experience!

April 23, 2025by: Angelique Bezuidenhout - South AfricaProgram: 60-Day Field Guide Course in South Africa!
10

My time at Kukama was honestly just what I needed. Being surrounded by the bush, the quiet, and the simplicity of the space reminded me why I love this kind of lifestyle. The rooms are comfortable, the people are kind, and it's peaceful. I loved sitting on the patio with a coffee in hand, watching the sunrise, or just listening to the birds in the evenings. The main house has everything you need. It’s a place that feels real. Nothing fancy, just good energy, nature all around. I’ll definitely be back.

A Guide to Taking Gap Year in South Africa

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