GoAbroad

African Mini Gap Year

by: Impact Gap Year

5 (1)Verified

Be part of an impactful gap year program, working in two gorgeous ecosystems in South Africa. Develop crucial skills in research, conservation methods, and animal monitoring while experiencing local cultures and contributing to marine and wildlife initiatives, fostering a lifelong commitment to caring for our environment. This initiative will open your eyes to learning how you can help conserve the marine and wildlife environments in South Africa. You'll have the opportunity to participate in protecting iconic species like lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffaloes. Moreover, you will educate yourself about responsible tourism initiatives to nurture our marine environment. You will also enjoy comfortable accommodation with scenic views and amenities, completing your South Africa experience. Dive into this fulfilling journey to leave a footprint on South Africa's conservation efforts.

Program Highlights

Indulge in local cuisines and cherish enduring memories of stunning landscapes and wildlife encounters.

Participate in restoring habitats for wildlife, contributing to the preservation of natural environments.

Join research initiatives involved in ongoing studies on marine ecosystem.

Stay in perfectly situated accommodations for an uninterrupted, fulfilling experience.

Work alongside experienced researchers on the preservation of lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffaloes.

Quick Details

Locations:
  • Cape Town, South Africa
Availability
Year(s) Offered: Year RoundDuration:
  • 3-6 Months
Age Requirement: 18-35
Types & Subjects
Causes:
  • Animal Welfare
  • Marine Conservation
  • Wildlife
Types:
  • Animals
  • Experiential Learning
  • Volunteering
Guidelines
Nationalities:
  • American
  • Australian
  • Austrian
  • Belgian
  • British
  • Canadian
  • Chinese
  • Czech
  • Danish
  • Dutch
  • English
  • European
  • Finnish
  • French
  • German
  • Greek
  • Greenlandic
  • Hawaiian
  • Hungarian
  • Icelandic
  • Italian
  • Japanese
  • Korean
  • Luxembourg
  • Manx
  • Marshallese
  • Mauritian
  • Micronesian
  • Norwegian
  • Polish
  • Portuguese
  • Russian
  • Saint Helenian
  • Saint Lucian
  • Saint Vincentian or Vincentian
  • Sammarinese
  • Scottish
  • Serbian; Montenegrin
  • Seychelles
  • Singaporean
  • St. Barts
  • Swedish
  • Swiss
  • The Vatican
  • Turkish
  • Virgin Islander
  • Welsh
  • Liechtenstein
  • Maltese
  • Mexican
  • Spanish
  • Statian
See all program details
Last Updated: Feb 11, 2026

Awards

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Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about the programs

Overall Rating

5

Total Reviews

1

I have met kinder individuals.

January 18, 2024by: Gabrielle R - United Kingdom
5

Going in I felt anxious on what to expect as I have never traveled on my own, however that was quickly taken away by the support and encouragement from all involved, I have never met kinder and more likeminded individuals! The time I shared will forever be cherished and I would gladly put myself forward to do it all over again.

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Cape Town, South Africa

Types and Subjects

  • Causes
  • Animal Welfare
  • Marine Conservation
  • Wildlife
  • Types
  • Animals
  • Experiential Learning
  • Volunteering

Availability

Years Offered: Year Round

Duration:
  • 3-6 Months
Gap Year Timing:
  • After College
  • Career Break / Mid-Career
  • During College
  • Post High School

Age Requirement

18-35

Guidelines

Nationalities:
  • American
  • Australian
  • Austrian
  • Belgian
  • British
  • Canadian
  • Chinese
  • Czech
  • Danish
  • Dutch
  • English
  • European
  • Finnish
  • French
  • German
  • Greek
  • Greenlandic
  • Hawaiian
  • Hungarian
  • Icelandic
  • Italian
  • Japanese
  • Korean
  • Luxembourg
  • Manx
  • Marshallese
  • Mauritian
  • Micronesian
  • Norwegian
  • Polish
  • Portuguese
  • Russian
  • Saint Helenian
  • Saint Lucian
  • Saint Vincentian or Vincentian
  • Sammarinese
  • Scottish
  • Serbian; Montenegrin
  • Seychelles
  • Singaporean
  • St. Barts
  • Swedish
  • Swiss
  • The Vatican
  • Turkish
  • Virgin Islander
  • Welsh
  • Liechtenstein
  • Maltese
  • Mexican
  • Spanish
  • Statian

This Program is also open to Solo, Group

Program Cost Includes

  • Airport Transfer (Drop-Off)
  • Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
  • Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
  • Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • Weekend Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • Emergency Support
  • Pre-Departure Orientation
  • On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
  • In-Country Orientation
  • Cultural Training / Program / Orientation
  • Required Equipment

Accommodation Options

  • Dormitory
  • Guest House
  • Other

Qualifications & Experience

    Language Skills Required

  • English

    Accepted Education Levels

  • High school graduate, diploma or the equivalent (for example: GED)
  • University Freshman (1st Year)
  • University Sophomore (2nd Year)
  • University Junior (3rd Year)
  • University Senior (4th Year)
  • University 5th Year or More
  • Some college credit, no degree
  • Trade/technical/vocational training
  • Associate degree
  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Master’s degree

Application Procedures

  • Online Application

Frequently Asked Questions

What tasks are involved in the African Gap Year Discovery program?

You can engage in marine conservation efforts at the local institute in False Bay, aiding oceanic research, contributing to conservation initiatives, and raising community awareness. In Kruger, you will work at a Big Five wildlife center, assisting in wildlife conservation and preservation efforts alongside local researchers.

Will I have the opportunity to witness the African Big 5?

Absolutely. You'll work alongside other volunteers, contributing to the conservation of lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo as a vital part of our conservation efforts.

What experience do I need to join the marine conservation project?

No professional background is necessary. However, an ideal candidate should possess a strong dedication to marine conservation and some familiarity with scientific research and data management. Tasks may include supporting biologists and research assistants during underwater dives, handling data from marine surveys, and contributing to community programs.

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