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Intern Abroad in South Africa with African Impact

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2004Year established

Program Overview

Life in South Africa is full of contrasts—modern cities, rural villages, rugged coastlines, and some of the most breathtaking wildlife on earth. Through African Impact’s internship programs, you can step into this dynamic setting and contribute to projects that create lasting change. From the Western Cape to Limpopo, each placement is designed to offer real-world learning while supporting conservation and community needs.

Internships typically run from 2 to 12 weeks, with start dates available throughout the year. Depending on your chosen focus, you could be based near Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, or the bushveld regions close to Kruger National Park. Alongside project work, you’ll enjoy evenings and weekends free to explore the country’s rich cultural traditions, game reserves, and scenic coastlines. This balance of structured work and adventure makes interning in South Africa both meaningful and unforgettable.

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Program Highlights

Build practical skills through hands-on internships in fields like wildlife research, veterinary care, or marine conservation.
Connect with local communities and contribute to projects developed alongside South African partners.
Gain academic or career-relevant experience while receiving ongoing support from experienced staff.
Enjoy included housing, meals, and airport transfers so you can focus fully on your internship.
Take advantage of free time to go on safaris, explore beaches, hike mountains, or join cultural tours with fellow interns.

What's Included

Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Weekend Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
Airport Transfer (Drop-Off)
In-Country Transportation To & From Project
Required Equipment
On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
Pre-Departure Orientation
In-Country Orientation
Laundry
Academic Credit
Internship Placement

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Available Terms / Availability

  • Years Offered
  • Year Round

Eligible Nationalities

  • American
  • Australian
  • Austrian
  • Belgian
  • British
  • British Virgin Islander
  • Canadian
  • Caymanian
  • Channel Islander
  • Cypriot
  • Danish
  • Dutch
  • Emirati
  • English
  • European
  • Finnish
  • French
  • German
  • Greek
  • Hungarian
  • Irish
  • Israeli
  • Italian
  • Kiwi
  • Kuwaiti
  • Liechtenstein
  • Luxembourg
  • Monegasque
  • Norwegian
  • Polish
  • Portuguese
  • Qatari
  • Russian
  • Scottish
  • Spanish
  • Swedish
  • Swiss
  • Virgin Islander
  • Welsh
  • This Program is also open to Solo, Group

Education Levels & Language

  • Language
  • English
  • Education
  • University Sophomore (2nd Year)
  • University Junior (3rd Year)
  • University Senior (4th Year)
  • University 5th Year or More
  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Master’s degree

Accommodation Options

  • Other

Application Procedures

  • Online Application
  • Written Application
  • Other

Age Requirement

18-35

Duration

  • Summer
  • Short Term
  • Spring
  • 1-3 Months
  • Fall

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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to all the most common questions about African Impact.

What is included in South Africa internship program fees?

Program fees cover shared accommodation, three meals daily, airport transfers from the nearest airport, WiFi access at base, and project support from experienced staff. Fees exclude international flights, travel insurance, and optional weekend activities such as safaris, wine tours, or city excursions.

How do I apply for an internship in South Africa with African Impact?

The application is simple—select your internship project, complete the online application, and connect with a placement advisor for guidance. Once approved, you’ll receive pre-departure details and support in preparing for your trip. Programs run year-round, typically starting on Mondays either weekly or bi-weekly.

Are excursions or weekend activities available to interns?

Yes, interns have evenings and weekends free to explore. Options include wildlife safaris in Kruger, whale watching along the coast, wine tasting near Cape Town, or abseiling Table Mountain. While these are not included in the fee, project staff help arrange bookings so you can enjoy South Africa with fellow interns.

Who is eligible to apply for internships in South Africa?

Participants must be 18 years or older with a good command of English. No prior experience is required for most projects, though veterinary and research internships may prefer students or graduates in related fields. Applicants should be adaptable, open-minded, and ready for hands-on learning in diverse environments.

How long do South Africa internships last and what will I do?

Internships range from 2 to 12 weeks depending on your project. Responsibilities vary, from assisting with marine research and wildlife monitoring to supporting veterinary care or photography documentation. Each placement offers practical experience while contributing to conservation or community-focused initiatives in South Africa.

Recognitions & Awards

Awards and accreditations earned by this provider

GoAbroad Top Rated Provider 2024 - Volunteer Abroad
Top Rated Volunteer Abroad Organization 2022
Innovation in Sustainability 2020 Finalist
Top Rated Volunteer Abroad Organizations of 2020
Innovation in Marketing & Digital Media 2020 Finalist
Innovation in Sustainability 2020 Winner
Innovation in Marketing & Digital Media 2020 Winner
Top Rated Program 2019 - Volunteer Abroad
Top Rated Organization 2019 - Volunteer Abroad
GoAbroad Innovative New Program - Volunteer Abroad 2017
Global Youth Travel Awards 2017
GoAbroad Innovative New Program - Intern Abroad 2019
GoAbroad Innovation in Philanthropy 2019
GoAbroad Top Gap Year Program 2018
GoAbroad Top Volunteer Abroad Organization 2018
World Youth Student & Educational Travel Confederation

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