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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.

Intern Abroad
South Africa

Occupational Therapy Internship in South Africa

As they work alongside occupational therapists in clinics and hospitals, Occupational Therapy interns in South Africa acquire a holistic understanding of patient care, as well as invaluable experience in various aspects of their field.

Occupational Therapy Internship in South Africa

As they work alongside occupational therapists in clinics and hospitals, Occupational Therapy interns in South Africa acquire a holistic understanding of patient care, as well as invaluable experience in various aspects of their field.

Intern Abroad
South Africa

Human Resources Internship in South Africa

Assisting professionals within HR departments, Human Resources interns based in South Africa provide essential aid in tasks including reporting, evaluations, interviews, orientations, record-keeping, and other administrative duties.

Human Resources Internship in South Africa

Assisting professionals within HR departments, Human Resources interns based in South Africa provide essential aid in tasks including reporting, evaluations, interviews, orientations, record-keeping, and other administrative duties.

Intern Abroad
South Africa

Social Work Internship in South Africa

South Africa's Social Work interns join forces with nonprofit or government organizations, offering support to individual clients and actively contributing to community outreach initiatives and public health and safety programs.

Social Work Internship in South Africa

South Africa’s Social Work interns join forces with nonprofit or government organizations, offering support to individual clients and actively contributing to community outreach initiatives and public health and safety programs.

Intern Abroad
South Africa

Public Relations Internship in South Africa

South African interns in the field of Public Relations often find placements in PR agencies or company PR departments. By participating in these internships, they gain valuable knowledge in strategic communication, brand management, and understanding market perceptions.

Public Relations Internship in South Africa

South African interns in the field of Public Relations often find placements in PR agencies or company PR departments. By participating in these internships, they gain valuable knowledge in strategic communication, brand management, and understanding market perceptions.

Intern Abroad
South Africa

Public Health Internship in South Africa

South African Public Health interns actively engage with public health officials in government agencies and nonprofit organizations. They contribute to projects that prioritize disease and injury prevention, community health assessment, environmental problem-solving, and the formulation of public policy.

Public Health Internship in South Africa

South African Public Health interns actively engage with public health officials in government agencies and nonprofit organizations. They contribute to projects that prioritize disease and injury prevention, community health assessment, environmental problem-solving, and the formulation of public policy.

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: $3,190 | Each Additional Month: $1,290

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.

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.

SEARCH

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

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.

BrittanyIntern in Czech Republic

It was so empowering for me - a huge boost to my self esteem!

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.

KristenIntern in Morocco

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

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.

BridgetIntern in Czech Republic

I went into it having high expectations and everything was completely fulfilled. I learned a lot - it was amazing.

CourtneyIntern in Ecuador

Oh my goodness, it was incredible! It was so cool! I got to travel and see and do much more than I was anticipating! My Spanish improved so much while I was there! I definitely got a lot of experience in OT, and was able to clock all of my shadowing hours for OT school.

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.

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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.

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!