Volunteering In Africa for Your Gap Year
GAP year enthusiasts often take up volunteer positions throughout the globe. Many travel to North America or Asia to assist in community development in a wide variety of posts. In recent years volunteering in Africa has gained in popularity with a number of organisations flourishing throughout the continent.
Whether you are looking for community service work, wildlife conservation projects or something out of the ordinary there are volunteer opportunities and organisations to cater for every area. What better way to experience the huge diversity and cultures of the continent than by volunteering in Africa.
One of the most popular countries for volunteering on the continent is South Africa. South Africa may only have a population of 50 million but it is a very diverse country which boasts 11 official languages in its constitution. 2 of these languages Afrikaans and South African English have European origins. In everyday life English is commonly used but in the home it is actually only the 5th most common language in the country.
South Africa is also ethnically diverse. Just under 80% of the population have Black African ancestry but there are also significant communities of Europeans and Asians throughout the country. The diversity of the country does not stop there. Arid deserts and mountain ranges are complemented by stunning coastal regions and numerous wildlife reserves. South Africa offers something for everybody. Visit and discover why South Africa is the self-proclaimed Rainbow Nation of the World by joining an organisation for volunteering in Africa.
South Africa has a little bit of everything that makes South Africa great. Visitors to the country have the opportunity to see the big five in the areas many national parks. The country is also acclaimed as having the 3rd highest level of biodiversity in the world with the fynbos representing one of the worlds 6 floral kingdoms. South Africa also boasts 8 World Heritage sites. One of the major visitor attractions is Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. The superb coastline and moderate climate also make South Africa the best spot in the world for whale watching with wildlife enthusiasts flocking to the area.
Table Mountain in Cape Town is a finalist in the Seven New Wonders of the World competition. Its summit can be enjoyed courtesy of a cableway transporting visitors to the peak in under 10 minutes. There are a number of volunteer and intern-ship opportunities in South Africa including medical, sports coaching and teaching opportunities for volunteering in Africa. Those looking for a little more adventure can participate in the nearby white shark project with volunteer posts available.