Top Things to Do on a Gap Year in South Africa
Taking time out from the daily routine is important. Gap years are a wonderful and necessary reward for our hard work, but sometimes a week away isn’t enough. The excitement of being in a new place is delicious; but all too soon it’s gone again and you’re back to work, college or university. South Africa is a diverse and colourful country and when visiting you can expect lots of backpackers, things to do, places to visit and amazing wildlife to see like lions and leopards.
After some adventure and wildlife packed into one destination? South Africa is for you! Home to the incredible Big Five, make sure you head on a safari to experience a real life game reserve. With a variety of trips, can help you volunteer with a local community, get hands on with endangered wildlife, or even monitor Great White Sharks (yes really!). In your spare time make sure you soak up the atmosphere in Cape Town, and of course don’t miss out on the jaw-dropping Garden Route.
South Africa Gap Year Ideas
Joining a program is a good way to experience the country in a different way, make a contribution to a worthwhile cause and also explore new destinations, usually you will have weekends free and South Africa has so many places you could visit. On most placements other than medical related projects you wont need any previous experience to apply, but you will need to be open minded to a new experience and also adaptable, flexible and okay living and working in rustic conditions. Prices can vary depenging on what you would like to do.
Are you interested in spending your gap year working in South Africa? You can find positions throughout the country. There are also a selection of media, journalism, medicine / healthcare, law and human rights placements. If you are looking for a unique career change consider booking a safari guide course.
Most programs will require you to be aged 18 and over, but there are also special trips for families and summer tasters for 16 and 17 year olds during summer. You will need to be from a country where you will be eligble for a tourist visa. Some companies and local organisations will require you to pay a fee to join. This usually includes placements, a donation, airport transfers, meals, accommodation and in-country support. These experiences are very organised and are perfect if you want to see the country in a safe and structured way.
