Volunteer Programs in Africa

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Why volunteer in Africa?

Volunteering in Africa is life changing. Not only does it help break down stereotypes and misconceptions about the continent and its people, it also provides a cultural exchange that benefits both you and the local community. Unfortunately, many African countries have struggled with instability and poverty, causing widespread issues like gender inequality and limited access to education. But, as global citizens, it’s our responsibility to make a positive impact and create lasting change.

That’s where volunteering in Africa comes in. Whether you’re interested in conservation work or want to make a difference in a local community, our programs offer a unique and transformative experience. So, come and join us on an adventure that will leave a lasting impact on both you and the communities you serve!

A volunteer with a child in Zambia helping them with their school lessons

Choose your volunteer project focus

We believe in creating immersive and impactful experiences for our volunteers which is why we offer a range of conservation and community volunteer programs in Africa. Whichever type of program you choose you’ll have a unique and life-changing experience.

Community

Classroom in Zambia with a teaching volunteer and local child
Join us on a life-changing adventure as a teaching volunteer in Africa! Explore the rich cultures of South Africa, Zambia, or Zanzibar while making
Passionate about coaching and taking sports to children? Sports can be a fun and effective way to boost children’s health and teach important life
volunteer taking a blood pressure reading from a lady in the local community Zambia
Discover our dynamic healthcare volunteer projects in Africa and make a difference in the lives of those in need. Experience the thrill of providing
gender-equality-volunteering-zambia
Join us in Livingstone, Zambia, and become part of an inspiring program that provides girls and women with useful tools to reduce the prevailing

Conservation

male-lion-on-ground
You will get up close with iconic African wildlife and be fully engaged in wildlife conservation efforts to protect vulnerable and endangered animals in
Dolphin-Research-Marine-Conservation-Zanzibar
Are you looking for an ocean adventure with a purposeful twist? Fancy swimming with dolphins, mapping out colourful reefs, or studying great white sharks,
kruger-wildlife-photography-internship-african-impact
Our wildlife photography projects offer established and aspiring wildlife photographers the great wild plains of Africa as their playground to improve their skills and
young woman with two baby hippos in south africa
If you’re looking for a hands-on wildlife volunteering experience, check out our animal care volunteer projects in South Africa.
If you’re passionate about climate action, and you’d like to get your hands dirty for the cause, join one of our environmental volunteer programs

What to Expect When Volunteering in Africa

Culture & Lifestyle

From South Africa to Kenya, the cultural roots in Africa run deep. There’s an amazing amount to learn if you are open and respectful to these values and beliefs while volunteering. Additionally, life in many African countries moves at a slower pace, it’s a great chance to unwind and experience a different pace of life.

Maasai Mara in Kenya
adult english class in zanzibar

Language

African nations boast over 2000 different languages, each with its own local dialects. This can seem daunting, but it’s all part of the experience. Embrace the unfamiliar and challenge yourself to communicate in new ways. Who knows, you might even learn a new language or a few phrases!

Location

From its rolling hills and verdant forests to its sun-kissed beaches and crystal-clear waters, the continent is a feast for the eyes. A visit to Africa is a chance to experience nature at its finest. The breathtaking beauty of Africa’s landscape is sure to leave a lasting impression. Our volunteer projects in Africa will give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in traditional life and witness a side of Africa that few get to see.

volunteer watching the sunset in South africa
cape town beach with table mountain in the background

Weather & Climate

The weather patterns in Africa are diverse, from the hot and dry climate to the wet and humid equatorial regions. In coastal areas, the average temperatures remain warm throughout the year, while the interior experiences wide temperature variations, with hot summers and cool winters. The unique weather patterns and diverse landscapes of Africa offer something for every traveler.

Wildlife

The continent’s various ecosystems, ranging from savannas and deserts to wetlands and forests, provide habitats for a vast array of species, making it a prime destination for wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts. African wildlife is renowned for its incredible diversity and abundance of species. A visit to Africa promises unforgettable experiences and encounters with some of the most awe-inspiring animals on the planet.

elephants in africa
volutneers out enjoying the african bush

Free Time & Adventure Activities

You will work hard as a volunteer, but there will also be time to play hard. You will have your evenings and weekends free to explore all Africa has to offer and there’s no shortage of adventure on this continent! You might join a cultural tour, safari in nearby game reserves, visit historical landmarks, bungee jump over Victoria Falls, abseil down the side of Table Mountain or snorkel in Zanzibar’s coral reefs. Our project teams on the ground will help you book tours upon your arrival, so you can experience it all with your fellow volunteers. There’s so much to experience in Africa – and we can’t wait to share it with you!

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Volunteering Frequently Asked Questions

Many of us desire to have a positive impact on our world and this is your chance to do it! Volunteering abroad opens your eyes to the many subtleties of life in the various communities and enables you to see unique and beautiful parts of our planet. You help communities with your skills and knowledge, and learn how to be self-reliant, mature and take a huge step towards finding out who you are.

African Impact offers volunteer programs in the following locations and countries: 

  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Zanzibar
  • Livingstone, Zambia
  • Greater Kruger Area, South Africa
  • Mozambique
  • Zimbabwe
  • Kenya

These destinations are full of natural wonders and rich cultural heritage. In every African country we work in, we’ve identified the needs of the local communities and together we work towards supporting sustainable development and helping people overcome these challenges.

Whether you’d prefer to teach Englishcoach a sports team or work alongside healthcare professionals, as a community volunteer in Africa, the opportunities to change lives are endless. Or why not join one of our African conservation volunteer programs – it is one of the best ways to get involved in protecting Africa’s precious ecosystems. All wildlife conservation projects at African Impact are committed to making sustainable and long-term impacts on local communities and wildlife.

Volunteering and interning in Africa is what we do, it’s in our DNA. We’ve built our very own projects – hand-in-hand with local communities – since 2004 and have spent the last 16 years growing, monitoring and improving them. Aside from being the trusted specialist on volunteering and interning in Africa, our staff know the best places to go, as well as the hidden treasures and secret spots that take you beyond a regular tourist trip.