Volunteering Opportunities Overseas
Stuck what to do in your GAP year? Volunteer opportunities are quickly gaining in popularity and are available worldwide. However, becoming an Africa volunteer opens you up to one of the most diverse continents on the planet with numerous opportunities in a variety of settings.
So why Africa? For many an Africa volunteer will be focussed on wildlife. After all, the African continent contains a multitude of national parks protecting wildlife including endangered species. The famous Antelope Park is one such opportunity where volunteers work to reintroduce lions into the wild.
Situated just a few miles from the town of Gweru in Zimbabwe Antelope Park is renowned worldwide for its conservation efforts. The Antelope Park boasts a world exclusive, enabling visitors to walk with lions. The 1 ½ hour lion walk features lion cubs from 6 to 18 months of age. If you are lucky enough to get a volunteer post at Antelope Park it is also a perfect base to visit Victoria Falls a few hours’ drive to the west.
Obviously lions are not the only endangered species on the African peninsula. There are Africa volunteer opportunities for a full range of animals including wild dogs, rhino and elephants. The list of opportunities across different countries is endless and Africa remains the number one destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
A great deal of Africa's tourist trade is based on its wildlife and the revenue it generates greatly assists in protecting millions of animals throughout the continent. However, Africa is much more than just a volunteer post for wildlife. Despite natural riches and beautiful landscapes many areas of Africa are amongst the poorest in the world. Numerous humanitarian crises have blighted the continent in recent history and a number of aid and development organisations welcome Africa volunteers.
There is continued need for all forms of humanitarian aid but what better contribution than to contribute your actual time. There are volunteer posts for medical assistance, teaching and development organisations aiming for sustainable development for some of the world’s poorest countries. Just a stones throw away from 5* resorts in destinations such as Zanzibar local children live uneducated and in poverty. Similarly South Africa with a facade of endless gold beaches and national parks hides a world of poverty where even the capital Cape Town has children living in glorified cardboard boxes. To be an Africa volunteer you do not need qualifications or a specific skill set. All you need is an enthusiasm to make a difference.