Internships in South Africa

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Overview of Internship Programs in South Africa

The World Endeavors Intern in South Africa program is the perfect opportunity to explore an intriguing part of the world and experience a new culture, all while gaining necessary work experience. The country of South Africa boasts diverse ecosystems, dramatic coastlines, a fascinating blend of cultures and cuisine, and numerous activities for eager visitors. Whether you wish to sample South Africa’s famous Pinotage wine or go on an inland safari, this country is sure to deliver an unforgettably rich experience!

World Endeavors offers internships in a wide range of professional fields in South Africa, and our advisors are proud of their ability to find great opportunities in unique and highly specialized fields.

WHY DO AN INTERNSHIP IN SOUTH AFRICA

Internship in South Africa offers a transformative experience that combines professional development with cultural enrichment. Africa’s diverse and dynamic economy provides a wealth of internship opportunities across various industries, from finance and technology to conservation and social entrepreneurship. You’ll gain hands-on experience in a rapidly evolving business landscape while contributing to projects that address pressing global issues.

You’ll have the chance to engage with a blend of cultures, languages, and traditions that reflect the country’s unique history. Beyond your professional endeavors, you can embark on safaris to witness incredible wildlife, explore the vibrant city life of Johannesburg or Cape Town, and visit historical sites like Robben Island. Your interactions with locals and participation in community initiatives will foster cross-cultural communication skills and a deeper appreciation for social responsibility.

SOUTH AFRICA INTERNSHIP HIGHLIGHTS

Here are just a few of the best things about interning in South Africa:

An internship in South Africa allows you to gain hands-on experience in your field of interest while contributing to meaningful projects that address global challenges.
Interns engage with local communities, explore traditional art forms, and participate in cultural festivals to gain a deeper understanding of the country’s rich heritage and diverse society.
From the iconic Table Mountain to safaris in renowned national parks, you’ll have the chance to witness breathtaking landscapes and encounter magnificent wildlife.
Interacting with professionals and colleagues from different backgrounds in South Africa enhances your global network and cross-cultural communication skills.

Our South Africa Internship Programs

Browse all of our internship programs in South Africa below. If you can’t find a suitable internship, check out our main program finder to continue your search for internships beyond South Africa.

REFINE YOUR SEARCH HOW TO APPLY

Location

About Cape Town

Cape Town is the top destination in South Africa. The city is bustling, the atmosphere is exciting, and the entertainment is limitless. The juxtaposition of African culture and European influence offers a completely unique experience, from the historic European waterfront to the hip Woodstock district. Offices and shops provide the backdrop for bustling makeshift markets packed with venders selling their goods and snacks. Towering over the city of Cape Town is Table Mountain, one of the world’s oldest mountains. Visitors can either take a cableway or hike to the top for a breathtaking view of the city. In addition, the city’s coastal location offers ample opportunity to enjoy some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Dates & costs

Internships are available year-round, with flexible start dates and durations. Public holidays and seasonal work availability may impact certain start dates in some locations.

Please wait until after you are accepted into the program and you have received the confirmed arrival and departure dates before you book your flight.

Eligibility

World Endeavors interns should be 18 years or older and should have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the start of their program.
Keep in mind that all countries have different visa restrictions for varying types of passports.
It is recommended to have a background in your desired internship field, but not absolutely required. Internship placement opportunities increase with experience or relevant coursework.

Housing

World Endeavors interns in Cape Town live in shared accommodations with other international interns and students.

First Month: $3,490 | Each Additional Month: $1,490

Why Intern Abroad?

Embarking on an internship abroad is a transformative experience that blends professional growth with cultural immersion. It opens doors to a world of opportunities, offering a unique blend of personal development and global perspective.

Global Networking Opportunities

Interning abroad exposes you to an extensive network of professionals from diverse backgrounds and cultures. By working alongside international colleagues, you can forge valuable connections that extend beyond borders. This network not only enhances your career prospects but also opens doors to future collaborations and global opportunities.

Cross-Cultural Competence

Interning abroad nurtures cross-cultural competence, a skill highly valued in today’s interconnected world. By immersing yourself in a different cultural setting, you develop a heightened sensitivity to diverse perspectives, communication styles, and work practices. This adaptability and cultural intelligence enable you to thrive in multicultural work environments throughout your career.

Enhanced Language Proficiency

Interning abroad presents an ideal opportunity to improve your language skills. By working and interacting in a foreign language, you can sharpen your linguistic abilities and gain confidence in communicating effectively across language barriers. This increased language proficiency not only enhances your resume but also opens doors to international job opportunities.

Personal Growth and Independence

Interning abroad pushes you out of your comfort zone, encouraging personal growth and independence. By navigating new cities, customs, and challenges on your own, you develop resilience, self-reliance, and problem-solving skills. This transformative experience equips you with the confidence to adapt to new situations and take on future professional endeavors with a sense of fearlessness.

HEALTH & SAFETY

When you feel safe and respected abroad, you will flourish. World Endeavors participants are transformed through enriching, rewarding and safe experiences around the world. We meticulously monitor travel recommendations and will only facilitate programs where we can ensure our participants’ safety.

We take key steps to ensure our participants’ well-being, including providing a pre-trip success guide, 24/7 local support, in-country trained staff, pre and post-arrival orientation, comprehensive travel medical insurance, and Mental Health First Aid-certified staff. Please contact us if you have any specific questions or concerns.

WHAT TO DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME IN SOUTH AFRICA

When you have some free time in South Africa, you’ll find a variety of activities and experiences to try out. Here are a few suggestions:

Go on Safari: Embark on a thrilling safari adventure in world-renowned game reserves, like Kruger National Park, where you can spot the Big Five and other wildlife.
Visit Cape Town: Explore the vibrant city of Cape Town, ascending Table Mountain for breathtaking views, and exploring the picturesque Cape Peninsula.
Experience Cultural Heritage: Visit cultural villages to interact with locals or experience traditional music and dance performances.
Explore the Garden Route: Drive or take a tour along the stunning Garden Route, experiencing diverse landscapes, beautiful beaches, and charming towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay.

Available Internship Career Paths

Kick-start your career by selecting an internship that aligns with your professional goals. Don’t panic if you don’t see your preferred career path listed! Our advisors are proud of their ability to find great internships in interesting locations and will be able to match you to the best internship.

VIEW ALL CATEGORIES

ARTS & DESIGN

Whether you are an aspiring artist, designer, or curator, our curated internships provide a gateway to immersive experiences in various artistic disciplines on our Art & Design internships

BUSINESS & MANAGEMENT

From working with renowned companies to exploring entrepreneurial ventures, these internships provide invaluable opportunities to gain insight into various industries, sharpen your business acumen, and develop essential leadership skills.

COMMUNICATIONS & MEDIA

Get invaluable experience in communications and media on a global stage to expand your professional skills and propel your career.

EDUCATION & SOCIAL SCIENCES

Education and social science internships offer enriching opportunities for individuals interested in making a positive impact on society.

ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY

Engineering and technology internships offer invaluable hands-on experience in the ever-evolving fields of innovation.

ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY

From environmental conservation to sustainable development, our internships offer immersive experiences in the field of environmental sustainability.

HEALTH & LIFE SCIENCES

Whether you aspire to be a healthcare professional, researcher, or advocate, our carefully curated selection of internships offers immersive experiences in these vital fields.

POLICY & GOVERNMENT

Join one of our policy & government internship options for individuals interested in shaping policies and making a difference in the realm of government.

TOURISM & HOSPITALITY

Offering a diverse range of internship options tailored for those passionate about the dynamic world of tourism and hospitality.

How to choose the best Internship program

Choosing your internship program is easy when you evaluate your priorities. Follow these steps to guide you toward your ideal program.

Explore a New Career

Interning abroad offers a great opportunity to explore your professional and personal interests, and help define your career path. Peruse our internship fields and past examples to find the best fit.

Choose Your Dream Destination

Finding a meaningful way to combine interning and travel to your dream location is a big incentive. Carefully consider which destinations suit your interests and international internship goals.

Improve Language Skills

Immersing yourself in a language-rich environment is the ultimate method for developing fluency. If language-learning is your goal, favor destinations that use your language of choice.

Fit your budget

Explore scholarships and financial aid to determine if these may impact your destination options. Consider the overall cost of the program and cost of living in-country to identify the optimal match.

Try our program finder to filter based on your choices.

Academic Credit

Do you want to earn academic credit for your international internship? Nearly half of World Endeavors participants earn credit while interning abroad. Many students are required to participate in an internship to fulfill a requirement for their degree program. World Endeavors works closely with students and their academic advisors to ensure that our program meets those requirements. If you don’t fall into that category there is another exciting option for you. Through our collaboration with University of California Berkeley, students can earn UC Berkeley credit by taking one of two online courses while interning abroad.

INTERNSHIP CREDIT INFORMATION

Recent Testimonials

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TrentIntern in Australia
“I gained a stronger sense of independence. I have always been self-motivated but this program gave me the reassurance to take on new experiences.”

“
MeganIntern in Australia
“I’m now better prepared and excited for my upcoming classes because my internship provided me with relevant experiences. Being an international intern helped me step out of my comfort zone and gain self-knowledge, which was my goal.”

“
NidishIntern in Argentina
“I’m very happy with how the program went. It was such a great experience -
I want to go back.”

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BrittanyIntern in Czech Republic
“It was so empowering for me - a huge boost to my self esteem!”

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AltairIntern in Costa Rica
““It was way more than I ever expected. I wanted to do this because I’m applying to med school - It’s been life-changing and so worth my time. I feel like I got so lucky.”

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KristenIntern in Morocco
“It was amazing! Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone - the spontaneous adventures are gold!”

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WhitneyIntern in Costa Rica
“Absolutely amazing. I learned so many new things I had never learned before and I’m still in touch with my host family.”

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BridgetIntern in Czech Republic
“I went into it having high expectations and everything was completely fulfilled. I learned a lot - it was amazing.”

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CourtneyIntern in Ecuador
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South Africa FAQs

Where is South Africa in Africa?

South Africa is located at the southern tip of the continent of Africa. It is bordered by Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Swaziland, and Lesotho, and it has a long coastline along the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.

What are the Seasons Like in South Africa?

Winter in South Africa typically runs from June to August, when temperatures are more relaxed, and rainfall is more frequent. Summer usually falls between November and March – when the weather is warmest and the days are the longest.

What is South Africa Like?

South Africa is home to a wide variety of cultures, languages, and landscapes, from the bustling cities of Johannesburg and Cape Town to the wild wilderness of Kruger National Park and the dramatic coastline of the Garden Route, with its vibrant culture, cuisine, abundant wildlife, and stunning scenery. It is known for its beautiful beaches, wildlife reserves, fantastic mountain ranges, and the awe-inspiring Table Mountain.

What is South African Money Called?

The South African currency is called the Rand. It is represented by the symbol ZAR.

What Should I Pack for South Africa?

Depending on the season, region, and activities you plan on doing, you should bring clothing for both warm and cooler temperatures, comfortable shoes, rain gear, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a first-aid kit. You should also bring any necessary medications, such as anti-malarial drugs and insect repellent.

Is South Africa Safe?

South Africa is generally safe for tourists, though they should take the same precautions in other countries. Certain areas of the country are more dangerous than others, so travelers should research the area they plan to visit and take extra precautions, such as avoiding traveling to certain areas after dark and staying in well-lit and populated areas.

Is South Africa Cheap?

The cost of living in South Africa is generally lower than in many other countries, making it an attractive destination for travelers on a budget. Prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all relatively affordable.

What is the Most Spoken Language in South Africa?

South Africa has 11 official languages due to its diverse population and history. However, the most widely spoken language in South Africa is isiZulu, which is part of the Nguni language family. It’s said by a significant portion of the population, particularly in the KwaZulu-Natal province. English is also widely spoken, especially in urban areas and business and government contexts. Other considerable languages include isiXhosa, Afrikaans, and Setswana, among others.

View all FAQs

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Our Top Intern Abroad Destinations

World Endeavors volunteers support communities in several destinations in Africa, the Americas, Asia and Oceania. Our programs are located in a variety of sites, including urban and rural, economically developed and developing, and English-speaking and non-English speaking.

INTERN IN AUSTRALIA

Combine living in a world-class city with an immersive, one-of-a-kind professional internship in your career field, and you have the World Endeavors Intern in Australia program

INTERN IN ARGENTINA

Intern in Argentina Program is a great fit for those looking to make progress on their future careers while enhancing their Spanish language skills.

INTERN IN COSTA RICA

With a thriving economy and an international reputation as a premier eco-tourism destination, Costa Rica offers interns the best of many worlds.

INTERN IN CZECH REPUBLIC

The Czech Republic is an ideal destination for interns looking to experience Europe through an unconventional lens. Located in the heart of Europe, the Czech Republic has a long history of both Eastern and Western influence.

INTERN IN ECUADOR

Those seeking to experience a dynamic international internship while being immersed in a new culture and language need look no further to meet their professional and personal goals.

INTERN IN ENGLAND

Our Intern in England program is the perfect fit for those who want to experience life in the cultural, academic, artistic, and entertainment capital of the world – London!

INTERN IN FRANCE

For those with intermediate-level French language skills looking for a competitive edge in the European and global job market, as well as a chance to dive into the heart of European culture, interning in France is an unforgettable opportunity.

INTERN IN IRELAND

Our Intern in Ireland program is the perfect opportunity to gain valuable work experience while being immersed in this distinctive country and culture.

INTERN IN ITALY

Our Intern in Italy program is an excellent choice for anyone hoping to expand their knowledge of the Italian language and culture, all while gaining valuable work experience.

INTERN IN MOROCCO

Our Intern in Morocco program is ideal for those looking to gain work experience in a melting pot of culture from both Africa and Europe.

INTERN IN SOUTH AFRICA

Intern in South Africa program is the perfect opportunity to explore an intriguing part of the world and experience a new culture, all while gaining necessary work experience.

INTERN IN SPAIN

Our Intern in Spain program is perfect for those looking to truly discover Spanish culture—this will give participants the opportunity to learn the ropes of their future career while gaining a unique perspective of their field.

INTERN IN THAILAND

Intern in Thailand is the perfect opportunity to gain valuable work experience while being immersed in this distinctive country and culture.

How to apply for an Internship Abroad

You’ve decided to intern abroad – congratulations! Applying for your World Endeavors program is easy and stress-free. Get ready to PUT YOURSELF OUT THERE!

STEP 1
EXPLORE & ASK
Research and compare. If you can’t decide on a program, we can guide you toward the best fit.

STEP 2
SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION
Fill out our online application form to share all your relevant details with our team.

STEP 3
ENROLL & PREPARE
Receive your official acceptance and enroll. We’ll give you all the info you need to get ready!

STEP 4
START YOUR ADVENTURE!
You’ve researched, planned and saved. Now you’re ready to gain skills and grow your network abroad!

Intern in South Africa