Gap Year Programs in Zimbabwe

Okay, so now you want to gap year in Zimbabwe, but where??? Here are some of the top locations for Zimbabwe gap years:

Gweru. This beautiful, centrally located city is an ideal destination for your gap year in Zimbabwe. From sunny winters and rainy summers, Zimbabwe is often painted with purple jacarandas, red roses and poinsettias, and in the spring, orange glory before green summers. When nature paints itself, all you have to do is show up and appreciate it. Beyond the natural beauty, Gweru has several colleges and universities which is perfect for Zimbabwe gap years since it will be easier for you to meet other students! Making friends in new parts of the world is an incredible experience that you won’t want to miss out on. 

Harare. As the capital of Zimbabwe, Harare has access to both the cultural roots of Zimbabwe at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe as well as the wildlife and nature at Mukuvisi Woodlands, which has giraffes and zebras roaming, as well as bike paths for your leisure. Just imagine immersing yourself in both an internship and the amazing Zimbabwean culture, while having opportunities to mingle with the wildlife and wonderful residents of Zimbabwe. Harare is the most populous city, so you will have plenty of people (and animals) to meet and enjoy!

Victoria Falls. Need we say more? Well, if you want to hear it… As the largest waterfall in the world, you will experience life on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. So if you are looking for an awe-inspiring experience, Victoria Falls is for you (seriously, look it up—you won’t regret it!). You can find gap year programs in Zimbabwe that will take you on boat tours, river rafting, white water rafting, and tubing. Talk about exciting! Elephant sanctuaries and canopy tours will also be right at your fingertips. Victoria Falls is also only a drive away from Hwange National Park! You will have no time to be bored or uninspired during your gap year in Zimbabwe.

Adventure Travel. If you are looking for a year worth remembering, an adventure travel gap year in Zimbabwe will definitely leave you plenty to talk about for years to come, as well as reflect on and unpack. You will learn the most about yourself when you push yourself outside of your comfort zone, so this is a great opportunity for those looking for an adventure in Zimbabwe. We’re talking things with bungees, white rapids, and, you guessed it, ANIMALS!

Animals. What better place to learn about and work with animals than the African bush? You will have access to conservation efforts and also animals in their natural habitat. What more could you ask for? It’ll be a real world Lion King, helping you appreciate the circle of life. At Hwange National Park you will find large elephant herds, lions, and African wild dogs, all of which are special to experience in the wild at least once in your life if you have the opportunity (which you obvi will—through gap year programs in Zimbabwe!).

Internships. You will have plenty of opportunities for finding meaningful internships in Zimbabwe which will offer you work experience and opportunity to connect with coworkers and the community. This experience will only help you moving forward and may influence your path in life. An international internship in Zimbabwe will give you incredible life experiences and stories to tell, but also a unique leg up when you enter into the professional world.

Costs. Luckily for you, your Zimbabwe dreams will be made possible through the relatively cheaper cost of living. You will be able to spend wisely and make your dollar go far. Programs will vary depending on the length of your stay, so make sure to reach out to your provider to ask for more specific details. If you need help with funds to get yourself to Zimbabwe, we’ve got your back: Check out the crowd-funding site FundMyTravel to help you meet your financial needs!

Accommodations. Gap year programs in Zimbabwe will vary greatly in length, price, and accomodations. This means you have the flexibility to customize your experience to make it your own. Want to spend a week with a homestay? Or a year in an apartment? It’s all up to you! Dorms, guest houses, group living, and independent living are all options for your stay. Make sure you take time to evaluate which will be the best option for you! 

Visas. Make sure to check out the GoAbroad embassy directory to ensure that you are obtaining the correct visa for your gap year program in Zimbabwe. Since the lengths of these programs vary so much, it is best to contact your program provider and the embassy directly for the most up-to-date information. 

Safety. Zimbabwe is a generally safe and happy place to visit despite the political and economic situation. However, it is always important to be aware of where you are, who you’re with, and where you’re going. If given the chance, safari, safari, safari! You will not regret it. Just remember to not feed the animals! Overall, to make sure you stay safe in your own environment, pay attention and travel smartly and intentionally.

Keep in mind that you are a rockstar for even considering a gap year in Zimbabwe! But in order for your life to be changed by this experience you have to be open to the experience and get out there and do it. Just think about all of the lessons you will learn and memorable experiences you will have. This is just the beginning!

While in Zimbabwe there are plenty of national parks and landmarks for you to explore (like Hwange National Park!!), but if you are hoping to find a breathtaking experience, try bungee jumping or white water rafting! They will be sure to get your adrenaline rushing, which will encourage you to experience Zimbabwe in a new light (or heart rate).

All in all, we encourage you to take the chance and find the best Zimbabwe gap year program for you! There will be plenty of opportunities for growth, learning, and adventure. No doubt, a gap year in Zimbabwe will help prepare you to take on the world that lies before you. 

If you still aren’t convinced, keep reading! Check out this article on 10 Signs You Should Consider a Gap Year Volunteering.