Whether you’re helping to protect legendary species at a wildlife sanctuary, sharing campfire stories with new friends under the star-filled night sky, or simply soaking up the vast African wilderness around you, our conservation projects offer a gap year experience like nowhere else.
This is your chance as a gap year volunteer to join world-class conservation crews, discover the amazing things you’re capable of, and fill your days with did-that-really-happen moments - all while helping to save Africa’s threatened wildlife.
I always had this idea of what conservation looks like and how it should be done. After this trip, I walked away knowing that there is no singular right way to do it. There are many people doing different things, and combined, they all work together towards a better life for the natural world.
Vet work in the African bush is a completely different experience to work in a European clinic. I have come home with new skills, incredible memories, and friends for life.
As an avid photographer, I loved being able to take so many incredible photos and fitting so many animals in one frame! The most unbelievable sighting of this project was a herd of over 100 elephants walking towards us as they were grazing.
My boyfriend and I went on a two-month experience with African Conservation Experience (ACE) and we had such an amazing trip! ACE were super easy to get in contact with during our experience and the team did such a good job at planning our trip and making us feel welcome throughout.
By volunteering with ACE, I’ve been able to build my confidence so much, and it’s given me a huge amount of knowledge to help me with my university studies.
I felt safe at every project and made friendships with staff members and other volunteers that have lasted until this day. I would highly recommend volunteering through ACE at these projects!
There was never a moment in my entire experience where I felt unsafe or unsure of what to do, I constantly had a guiding hand supporting me and helping me contribute to conservation.
Volunteers at the Vikela Kruger Conservation Experience
Gap year volunteer work in Africa
What to expect from a gap year volunteer program in Africa
Choosing Africa for your gap year volunteering experience means immersing yourself in epic landscapes, rare wildlife encounters, and learning about the day-to-day realities of protecting endangered species. Whether you're volunteering in a wildlife reserve or at an animal rehabilitation centre, you'll be part of something bigger and you'll feel the difference every day.
Beyond the work, they are about growth. You'll gain confidence, make lifelong friends, and expand your understanding of the world. For many, gap year conservation programs are a stepping stone into animal care, veterinary, ecology, or environmental sciences studies, with the experience boosting their careers by making them stand out from the crowd, offering them a chance to work side by side with leading conservationists. For others, it's a journey of self-discovery and a chance to get out of their comfort zones while doing something meaningful and unforgettable, connecting with other curious people from all over the world.
What to look out for in a gap year volunteer program with animals
Volunteering with animals on a gap year sounds amazing - and it is! But with us, it's not just about getting up close to the wildlife, it's about doing good the right way.
We only partner with wildlife research projects in Africa that either maintain fully self-sustaining animal populations or operate under a model we call "assisted sustainable", where minimal human support helps ensure long-term viability. Additionally, all of our partner animal rehabilitation centres strictly adhere to the animal welfare guidelines set by SATSA and ABTA. This commitment guarantees that animals live as naturally as possible while upholding the highest standards of care, conservation value, and ethical treatment. Our gap year volunteer projects align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and we are proud to be affiliated with leading global organisations like WWF and the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT).
Because of our commitment to animal welfare, when you travel with us and take a gap year volunteering with animals, you'll be at the heart of real conservation. Your gap year will matter, your work will matter - you will matter.
You'll work directly with Africa's most iconic and endangered species, with activities including rhino rehabilitation, lion tracking and elephant monitoring. Then, at the end of the day, you'll relax and share stories around the campfire with other volunteers, creating memories for life. You've stepped out of your classroom and into an adventure!
FAQs
Looking for what to do on a gap year?
It can be difficult to decide what to do on a gap year, but our volunteer conservation projects in Africa offer a gap year experience like nowhere else. Your days could involve tracking elusive wildlife or caring for rescued and injured animals - through this, you'll discover all of the amazing things you’re capable of. And there's time for rest, reflection and socialising, too.
It's full on - but that's exactly what makes gap year volunteering so rewarding.
What is a short or mini-gap?
Planning an extensive trip doesn’t work for everyone, but great things come in small packages, too. We can offer the same exciting gap year volunteering programs, but in short or mini-gap experiences. These start from as short as one week and work perfectly either as a standalone trip or part of a longer adventure. And don't worry - we know you want to make the most out of your gap year volunteer work in Africa, and that's why we'll work with you to create the perfect mini-gap. You may be short on time, but we'll make sure you have a big experience with an even bigger positive impact.
Where can I get involved with gap year conservation programs?
We provide gap year volunteering in southern Africa. You could be tracking elephants in Botswana or supporting rehabilitation at a rhino sanctuary in South Africa. From habitat restoration and anti-poaching work to animal husbandry and wildlife rescue, our gap year volunteering programs are ideal for anyone looking for an authentic experience.
What if my parents or guardians are worried?
It's natural. To put them at ease, we are one of the most trusted names in gap year Africa volunteer travel. The health and safety of our volunteers is our top priority. With the expertise of our team and our comprehensive safety protocols, we’ve enabled thousands to take part in gap year volunteer work in Africa with confidence and peace of mind.
We're ABTA-accredited, ATOL-bonded, and follow strict UK and international travel standards. That means complete protection, legally and financially, for your booking. We also have our own on-the-ground support team, available 24/7. You can find more information on how our volunteers travel with confidence at the dedicated page.
We’re also happy to chat with parents directly, answer their questions, and give them peace of mind.
What are the best wildlife conservation gap year programs?
The All-In Gap Year Experience is exactly that - all in. Across five weeks, you visit two animal care and wildlife rehabilitation centres, and two leading wildlife research and management projects. It gives you a holistic understanding of wildlife conservation in Africa, where you undertake real work experience, meet like-minded people, and connect with professional conservationists. If you don't have five weeks spare or you want to go for even longer than five weeks, that's okay! All of our gap year volunteering experiences can be customised to suit you.
How do I join a gap year volunteer program in Africa?
Take the first step on your adventure by simply submitting an enquiry form. We offer gap year conservation programs and opportunities based on your interests, goals, and experience. You can visit a Single wildlife project or even combine multiple volunteering projects to create an exciting Combined experience. You can find out more about how we take time to create a customised African Conservation Experience that’s just right for you here.
We can't wait to speak with you about what to do on a gap year in Africa!
