Gap Year Programs in Africa

Africa is a wonderfully diverse continent that often gets pigeon-holed as a place of war, poverty, and famine, or as the land of the Big 5. However, Africa has so much more to offer, and makes a great destination for those hoping to take a gap year somewhere unique. A continent of 54 countries, Africa is a blend of cultures and traditions crossing thousands of miles. Whether you’re interested in exploring nature, observing wildlife, or getting lost in its busy cities, Africa will not disappoint. During your gap year in Africa, hit the highlights but be sure to wander off the beaten track too!

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What an amazing experience!

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

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.

What an amazing experience!

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

Best in South Africa

April 23, 2025by: Christiaan Venter - South AfricaProgram: 60-Day Field Guide Course in South Africa!

This was a experience i wil remember for always. Great people great food and the educational purpose of this place is great. Lectures amd lecture room was something else. Night time around the camp fire kooking food and enjoying the group.Come visit its a must

A Guide to Gap Year Programs in Africa

Best Countries

With so many countries to choose from for Africa gap years, how can you possibly narrow it down? Rest assured, Africa has something for everyone.

South Africa. Called the Rainbow Nation, South Africa boasts stunning landscapes, incredible wildlife, and a complicated past. Watch a Springboks game, visit the Garden Route, camp under the stars, wander around Cape Town, or go on safari. Don’t forget to talk to the locals! They’ll be able to give you the inside scoop on the lesser-known places to visit or activities to do.

Rwanda. Nestled in the heart of East Africa, Rwanda is the place to be for those looking for an experience off the well-worn path. It is not only home to some of the world’s only remaining mountain gorillas, but also to the newly formalized 141 mile Congo-Nile Trail that runs along Lake Kivu. Hikers and bikers make their way down the trail through local villages and coffee farms.

Morocco. For those interested in exploring northern Africa and learning more about its fusion of African and Arab cultures, Morocco is a vibrant place that has it all: cities, mountains, deserts, the ocean. Be prepared to drink tea. Lots of delicious mint tea.

Popular Activities

Taking a gap year in Africa will provide you with a chance to fill your experience with a variety of unique activities, from travel and adventure, to volunteering and interning.

Intern. There is no shortage of internship opportunities in Africa for those looking to get more hands-on experience in the field of their interest, from media studies and entrepreneurship to public health and wildlife conservation. With gap year programs in Africa, you can give yourself the chance to gain valuable skills that will set you apart professionally once you return home.

Volunteer. There’s nothing quite like giving back while you’re abroad during a gap year in Africa. Not only do you get to develop your professional skills, but you get to live with and learn from a community that will welcome you warmly.

Language Immersion. Experience the blending of African, Arabic, and European cultures as you take language lessons, sample the cuisine, shop the artisan markets, and get to know the locals. You’ll even learn to cook some of the most popular traditional meals, and dance to local music with gap year programs in Africa.

What Else You Need to Know

There’s a lot to consider before committing to a gap year in Africa, so be sure to do your research on things like...

Cost. It’s common for gap year programs in Africa to charge a fee that includes lodging, food, basic training, and in-country support, but the fees don’t include flights, insurance, visa costs, or spending money. Be sure to budget, plan, and save. Crowdfund your experience with FundMyTravel.

Accommodations. Your options for housing will vary wildly during Africa gap years. With an organized program, you’ll likely stay in shared accommodation with other participants or a homestay with a local family. For when you’re traveling solo, consider camping, hostel stays, or organizing your own homestay!

Visas. Your visa ultimately depends on trip duration, location, and activity type. For example, South Africa has both a tourist and a volunteer visa option. Be diligent and contact your local embassy to find out which one is appropriate for you.

Safety. No matter where you go during gap year programs in Africa, you’ll need to be vigilant of your surroundings and play it smart. Traveling solo can be a fun and safe option but do your research first.

GoAbroad’s Inside Scoop

TIA—this is Africa. You’ll hear that a lot. Things will go wrong, but it is almost expected. Your train might not run on time (or at all), your meetings might start late (on Africa time), and descriptions of tours or activities won’t always be as advertised. However, that’s part of the experience—be flexible and roll with it!

Africa is rapidly changing. Africa is so much more than the media portrays. It is a continent of contrasts, from deserts to beaches, and rural villages to cosmopolitan cities. You’ll meet people who live traditional pastoral lifestyles and others who are burgeoning entrepreneurs living in the heart of their cities. Be open to challenging your assumptions of the continent and be sure to visit as many different destinations as you can to get a true sense of Africa’s diversity.

Taking a gap year in Africa isn’t for everyone, but it will surely set you apart when you’re ready to apply to college or to your first job. Gappers are by nature curious, globally-minded citizens, and by immersing yourself in other cultures, you’ll come away with a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of us all—a rare yet valuable quality in this ever-increasingly globalized world.

There’s a lot to consider when thinking about a gap year, like whether or not you’ll go at it alone or as part of some larger organized program. Unsure which path is best for you? Keep reading to learn more about their pros and cons!