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The Cradle of Humankind, the Rainbow Nation, and one of the best internship destinations in Africa!

This is where Roots began, so we have our bias, but simply put, South Africa has it all. Sprawling cities thriving with vibrant and varied cultures, rolling expanses of savannah populated by rare, iconic wildlife, stunning coastlines, staggering mountains, a unique, important history, and, best of all, a whole host of exciting internship possibilities. 

This country is home to so many remarkable organizations doing vital work for worthwhile causes. Whether you’re passionate about female empowerment, community uplift, education, human rights, or eco-conservation, there is meaningful work to which you can contribute. What’s more, these organizations offer valuable opportunities for professional development.

Our South Africa internships place you with experts in their profession, grant you their mentorship, and allow you the chance to learn alongside them in the field. There aren’t many countries where the exchange between what an intern can gain and what they can give is as fruitful as in South Africa.

South Africa Highlights

A Unique and Significant History

At the end of Apartheid, the country was described as the Rainbow Nation; where people of all colors, backgrounds, and ways of life can come together concordantly. Whilst the nation is still striving to realize this vision, its history carries a powerful message of racial harmony.

Unbelievable Scenery

If you’re looking for city life, head to Cape Town. If you’re after beach life, visit Jeffrey’s Bay or Durban. Savannah and Safari? Kruger National Park. Remote, rural villages? Coffee Bay. Snow-capped mountains? Drakensberg. Deserts? The Karoo.

Incredible Experience Working for Important Causes

Being the birthplace of Roots, our network is expansive here so whatever cause inspires you, we can connect you with an organization in this field.

Browse All Internship Opportunities in South Africa

Open for applications

Bachelor’s Level Conservation Research Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Greater Kruger, South Africa
  • Wildlife Research, Ecosystem Conservation, Data Collection
Travel to South Africa’s largest wildlife sanctuary, Greater Kruger Park, and research ways to protect its wildlife.
Find out more

Open for applications

Master’s Level Conservation Research Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Greater Kruger, South Africa
  • Ecological Research, Wildlife Conservation, Data Projects
Live and work in Greater Kruger Park and conduct in-field ecological research on Africa’s most iconic wildlife.
Find out more
Breastfeeding education

Open for applications

Media and Marketing Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Pretoria, South Africa OR Remote
  • Content Creation, Marketing Strategy, Social Media, Online Fundraising
Step into impactful community development and help organize and develop programs related to nutrition, psychosocial support, and skills development
Find out more
Women with information signs about breastfeeding

Open for applications

Program Assistant Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Pretoria, South Africa OR Remote
  • Program Development, Coordination, Fundraising, Outreach, Reporting
Step into impactful community development and help organize and develop programs related to nutrition, psychosocial support, and skills development
Find out more
Breastfeeding workshop

Open for applications

Health and Nutrition Research Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Pretoria, South Africa OR Remote
  • Data Analysis, Literature Review, Reporting, Research, Writing
Explore the realms of nutrition education, breastfeeding practices, the food chain intricacies, and psychosocial support programs
Find out more
Raleigh Project Coordinator group out hiking

Open for applications

Project Coordinator

  • 12 weeks
  • Borneo, Costa Rica, OR South Africa
  • Group Leading, Coordination, Mentorship
Facilitate transformative volunteering experiences for young people to learn about global citizenship.
Find out more
Marine Science field research internship

Open for applications

Marine Science Field Research Internship

  • 2-4 weeks
  • Simon's Town, South Africa
  • Conservation Work, Research Dives, Data Collection
A comprehensive crash-course in Marine Science and Conservation
Find out more
Marine conservation program

Open for applications

Marine Conservation Program

  • 2-6 weeks
  • Simon's Town, South Africa
  • Community Outreach, Data Collection, Surveys, Reporting
Gain international experience in a marine conservation context
Find out more
Marine Research assistant

Open for applications

Marine Research Assistant Internship

  • 8-12 weeks
  • Simon's Town, South Africa
  • Research Dives, Data Collection, Mapping, Reporting
Make your first steps on a career path in Marine Science
Find out more
Program Management Internship

Open for applications

Program Management Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • Program Facilitation, Health Education, Monitoring & Evaluation
Gain field experience educating young men and women on Sexual Health and Reproductive Rights.
Find out more
NGO Management internship

Open for applications

NGO Management Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • Event Management, Fundraising, Digital Marketing
Advance this NGO's mission to end period poverty and destigmatize menstruation through a variety of activities.
Find out more
Penda photography internship

Open for applications

SEO Internship

  • Min. 10 weeks
  • Remote OR Travel Options
  • SEO, Website Management, Writing
Gain practical experience in SEO research and writing by joining the internal team at Roots Interns and working with an SEO specialist.
Find out more
Communications Internship

Open for applications

Communications Internship

  • Min. 10 weeks
  • Remote OR Travel Options
  • Writing, Digital Marketing, Social Media
Join our team at Roots and assist in running & developing our communication channels through various writing and research tasks.
Find out more
SEO Content Writing Internship in tourism

Open for applications

SEO Tourism Content Writing Internship

  • Min. 10 weeks
  • Remote OR Travel Options
  • Creative Writing, SEO, Blogging
Sharpen your writing skills and learn to write content that is creative and optimized for search engines.
Find out more
Raleigh volunteer sitting in a chair

Open for applications

Content Creator Internship

  • 12 weeks
  • Borneo, Costa Rica, OR South Africa
  • Digital Media Creation, Content Gathering, Editing
Accompany young volunteers on the trip of a lifetime and capture content from the most magical moments.
Find out more
group of volunteers for wellbeing coordinator internship

Open for applications

Wellbeing Coordinator

  • 12 weeks
  • Borneo, Costa Rica, OR South Africa
  • Mentoring, Program Leadership, Counseling
Guide young volunteers on an eye-opening expedition and support their wellbeing, health, and development.
Find out more
two Raleigh volunteers outside near a green vehicle

Open for applications

Photography Internship

  • 12 weeks
  • Borneo, Costa Rica, OR South Africa
  • Photography, Storytelling, Editing Media
Join transformative volunteer expeditions and document powerful stories through photography and film.
Find out more
women support ngo internship

Open for applications

Women’s Support NGO Internship

  • Min. 12 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Gender Studies, Advocacy, Management, Communications
Support a team dedicated to fighting gender based violence and providing services to victims.
Find out more
Bird conservation internship

Applications open July 2025

Marketing & Communications Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Bela-Bela, South Africa OR Remote
  • Fundraising, Reporting, Social Media, Content Creation
Make an impact in the development and sustainability of this project, protecting an endadgered species.
Find out more
Bird Research & Conservation Internship

Applications open July 2025

Bird Research & Conservation Internship

  • Min. 12 weeks
  • Bela-Bela, South Africa OR Remote
  • Field research, Mapping, Data collection, Education
Gain experience in field research, including data collection, mapping, and behavioral analysis in the African bush.
Find out more

Applications open July 2025

Conservation Education Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Bela-Bela, South Africa OR Remote
  • Education, monitoring, research, community outreach
Help spread important information on the ground hornbill in local communities.
Find out more
yoga internship Cape Town

Open for applications

Yoga Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Program Development, Yoga Teaching, Communications
Teach yoga to bring upliftment to both individuals and the larger community.
Find out more
Writing internship with GBV Project

Open for applications

Writing Internship

  • Min. 12 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Blogs, Impact Reporting, Grant Proposal Writing
Use your writing skills to contribute to the fight against gender-based violence in Cape Town.
Find out more
Gender Based violence research internship

Open for applications

Gender Based Violence Research Internship

  • Min. 12 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Research, Reporting, Monitoring
Research to provide support to victims of gender based violence in Cape Town.
Find out more
Fundraising & Marketing Strategy Internship

Open for applications

Youth Development Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • Teaching, Life Skills, Youth Support & Empowerment
Assist in a nonprofit's holistic mission of supporting and educating young people through dance and life skills training.
Find out more
Fundraising & Marketing Strategy Internship

Open for applications

Fundraising & Marketing Strategy Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • Strategy, Digital Marketing, Fundraising, Monitoring
Help develop the organization’s communications and fundraising strategies.
Find out more
NGO Event Coordination Internship Cape Town

Open for applications

NGO Event Coordinator Internship

  • February - April
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Event Management, Logistics, Budgeting, Communications
Use your event coordination and planning skills to help organize an environmental action summit.
Find out more
A young lion laying on grass, whilst another lion is closely behind.

Open for applications

Wildlife Research Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Greater Kruger, South Africa
  • Game Drives, Research, Fieldwork, Data Analysis, Reports
Journey to South Africa's largest wildlife reserve, the Greater Kruger National Park, and engage in groundbreaking research.
Find out more
Conservation and Photography Internship

Open for applications

Wildlife Photography Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Greater Kruger, South Africa
  • Photography, Conservation
Photograph lions, leopards, elephants, and many more animals, while sharpening your skills.
Find out more

Open for applications

Social Media Marketing Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Social Media, Content creation, Analytics, Community Management
Gain valuable digital marketing experience promoting real stories to make a last impact.
Find out more
Events Internship

Open for applications

NGO Event Management Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Event Management, Coordination, Planning
Gain practical work experience while managing events for community development projects.
Find out more
Youth social Work Internship

Open for applications

Youth Social Work Internship

  • Min. 4 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Youth Development, Social Work
Provide support and positive activities to children with troubled backgrounds.
Find out more
Psychology Internship

Open for applications

Psychology Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Psychology, Social Work, Counseling
Assist with a variety of counseling sessions and shadow qualified professionals in the field.
Find out more
Photography internship

Open for applications

Media & Design Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • Graphic Design, Photography, Videography
Design flyers, certificates, poster, and other graphics for an environmental NGO.
Find out more
creative writing internship

Open for applications

Creative Writing Internship

  • Min. 12 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • Content Writing, Digital Marketing, Creative Communication
Sharpen your writing skills and build a portfolio while being part of a green cause.
Find out more
Fundraising and Business Development Internship

Open for applications

Fundraising Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • Fundraising, Reporting, Research, Communications
Learn about strategic development in a nonprofit context and assist with fundraising activities.
Find out more
UH-Food Security Internship

Open for applications

Food Security Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Food Security, Urban Farming, Education
Participate in sustainable practices and community well-being, developing and managing food gardens and workshops at township schools.
Find out more
UH-Urban Farming Internship

Open for applications

Urban Farming Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Urban Greening, Fieldwork, Gardening
Get your hands dirty by developing and managing food gardens at schools in townships to show children the importance of urban greening and valuing nutrition.
Find out more
Communications Internship

Open for applications

Communications Internship with Refugee NGO

  • Min. 12 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Communications, social media, digital marketing, writing
Manage and develop communication channels for a refugee-focused nonprofit.
Find out more
Migrants and refugee charity internship

Open for applications

Migrants & Refugee Charity Internship

  • Min. 12 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Refugees and Migrants, Human Rights
Be part of the day-to-day running and development of programs that assist refugees.
Find out more
Refugee research internship

Open for applications

Refugee Research Internship

  • Min. 20 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Human Rights, Research, Refugees and Migrants
Research issues of the migratory phenomenon across Africa and gather valuable insights.
Find out more
Female Empowerment Internship

Open for applications

Female Empowerment Internship

  • Min. 5 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Business development, communication, coordination
Gain work experience while supporting female refugees through skill development workshops.
Find out more
Empowerment of Refugees Internship

Open for applications

Empowerment of Refugees Internship

  • Min. 5 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Refugees and Migrants, Skills Development, Social Welfare
Help migrants and refugees settle in South Africa socially and/or economically.
Find out more
Advocacy and Human Rights Internship

Open for applications

Advocacy & Human Rights Internship

  • Min. 5 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Human Rights, Refugee Law, Migration Issues
Gain valuable legal experience while offering refugees in Cape Town support and advice.
Find out more
human rights internships

Open for applications

English School Assistant

  • Min. 4 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • English teaching, coordination, administration
Gain practical teaching experience by teaching English to refugees in Cape Town.
Find out more

Why Choose Roots Internships in South Africa

Find out from our previous interns how internship positions in South Africa can boost your professional career and grow your interpersonal skills.

This internship has been unforgettable and has played a large role in my professional development. The people I worked with are passionate about supporting students and are driven to achieve the most positive outcomes for the beneficiaries of the project. I helped teach Digital Literacy training and prepare migrant/refugee students for specialized degree programs, along with assisting with employment access and professional development of students who have completed their degrees. I gained a lot of experience and knowledge from my internship in Cape Town, which is something I would not have learned from a classroom setting. I plan to continue... See More

Prajna, South African – George Washington University

Migrant & Refugee Charity Internship, South Africa

Going abroad for a couple months really changed my life. I learned so much about new cultures and it was really interesting to see how urban greening is applied in Cape Town and see different perspectives. Beyond my internship, I also had time to explore the beautiful city, discover all that it has to offer, and meet new people. I had a great time in Cape Town and would definitely intern here again.

Luco, Dutch – HAS University of Applied Sciences

Urban Greening Internship, South Africa

When I decided to travel to Cape Town, I didn't know what to expect - but I knew that a unique experience was waiting for me. I had the opportunity to get to know the culture, locals, nature, and daily life. After a short time, I knew that this place was my home because I felt so connected to nature and people. Every day brought magical moments of rainbows in the ocean waves, butterflies landing on me, waterfalls, nature sounds, powerful storms, laughing children, pure forests, breathtaking views, etc. Once I let myself accept that Cape Town is a place... See More

Leonie, German – Hochschule Coburg

Yoga Internship, South Africa

Important information about South Africa

Internship locations in South Africa

internships in South Africa

Internships in Kruger National Park

If you’re looking to experience one of the best safari destinations in the world, spot the big five, and work on the forefront of animal conservation causes, Kruger is the place to be. Roaming free in just just under 20,000 square kilometers of sweeping hills and grasslands, Kruger wildlife includes healthy populations of the big five, along with an impressive variety of birds, smaller mammals and reptiles. This incredible setting is the destination of some of our most remarkable wildlife photography programs, and some of the most exciting animal conservation internships in the world.

law internship Cape Town

Internships in Cape Town

The Mother City is truly a destination like no other in South Africa. The progressive, vibrant heart of South African culture, with the laidback lifestyle of a beach town and the stunning backdrops of Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, and the Twelve Apostles. What more could you ask for? The city has a thriving scene for literature, theater, and the arts, a bustling nightlife, and world-class restaurants serving every cuisine imaginable. As a travel destination, Cape Town ticks every box.

On top of this, Cape Town is a hub of social enterprises, entrepreneurship, and do-good efforts. There are so many great internships based in this city! You can take your pick; from social impact programs, humanitarian work, environmentalism, and forward-thinking, sustainable business ideas and in a host of different capacities too.

Accommodation Coffee Bay

Internships in Coffee Bay

We don’t offer many internships in this location, but it’s such a unique, special location that we had to mention it. Deep within the Transkei region, amidst the rolling mountain ranges and along the untouched coast are speckled a collection of rural villages and communities, one of which is Coffee Bay. Not for those who require the convenience and comforts of city-life, this remote destination offers an authentic experience of African tradition and off-the-grid life. Also, it’s a great location for surfer’s all levels, with some bays offering white-tipped waves for beginners, and others better suited to the more experienced surfer.

Large statue with open arms in front of a grand building, surrounded by greenery and people.

Internships in Pretoria

We’re excited to offer internships in Pretoria, a city known for its distinctive character and welcoming spirit. Famous for its streets lined with purple jacaranda blossoms in spring, Pretoria combines rich history, political significance, and authentic South African warmth. Unlike the rush of a big city, Pretoria has a laid-back pace that encourages you to soak in its historic landmarks, lively markets, and serene parks. It’s a setting where South Africa’s heritage and modern life intersect, providing interns with an experience that’s both enriching and truly local.

More South Africa Information

Weather and Climate

South Africa’s a big country, so weather varies depending on exact location. However, as a general rule of thumb, South Africa is a year-round destination. Winter lasts from May to September, Summer from September to May, but whenever you visit you can expect largely warm temperatures and dry weather. The best time to visit for safari and wildlife is in the cooler months, May to September. The best months for whale watching (along the Western Cape) are between July and November.

Safety and Support

Between visas, vaccinations, transport, and accommodation, there’s a lot that goes into planning an internship in South Africa, and the specifics will vary from location to location. Fortunately, we’re here to support you through all of it. We’ll make sure all the preparation and paperwork for your trip goes smoothly to make your experience as easy and comfortable as possible. We’ll also offer detailed guidance on how to stay safe during your trip and can assure you of a reliable support network if the worst should happen. Essentially, we’ll be here to sweat the small stuff, so you can focus on making the most of your time.

South Africa Travel Requirements

Fortunately, visitors from most countries are granted a free three-month visitor visa on arrival that is easily extended to six months, on which you are cleared to work on an unpaid internship basis. There are a couple advised vaccinations (Diphtheria and Hepatitis A) and a few more to consider (Hepatitis B, Rabies, Tetanus and Typhoid), but the only requirement for entry is an up-to-date Yellow Fever Certificate. Other than this, there are individual requirements for each internship, which will be discussed during the application process.

SOUTH AFRICA FAQS

Is it safe to do an internship in South Africa?

Yes! South Africa is often thought of as a dangerous place to visit and whilst there are problems with crime, you shouldn’t let this stop you from visiting. Any intern who exercises common sense, takes recommended precautions, and keeps their wits about them will absolutely be safe in South Africa. You’ll also have our full support and guidance to ensure that throughout your trip you feel safe and secure.

What type of internships can I do in South Africa?

We offer all kinds of internships across South Africa. It would be easier to say what internships we don’t have! The focuses of our internships include human rights, environmental issues, food security, women’s empowerment, wildlife conservation, tourism, education, animal welfare… the list goes on. Moreover, you can support these causes in all kinds of ways: research, photography, communications, marketing, fundraising, project management, creative writing, event planning, and more. If you feel unsure of which internship suits you best, just get in touch, and we’ll help match you with the right organization and role.

What are the living costs in South Africa?

On the whole, it’s a bit cheaper than most of Europe and North America. Obviously this depends somewhat on your trip and spending habits but most Westerners will find it affordable. Your greatest expense will be accommodation (which is included in the internship fee), but daily costs like food, coffee, and nights out are all relatively low. Of course, with Roots you’ll also benefit from our discounts on various excursions and activities.

When should I start planning my internship in South Africa?

It’s always best to start planning early and give yourself as much time as possible to get ready. The visa application process is not extensive, however there are some vaccinations you’ll need. Then, with flights and accommodation to book, and preparing for your actual internship, we recommend giving yourself at least four to six months to prepare. That said, we can work on shorter time frames, and find you something last minute if needed.

Recent Blogs About South Africa Internships

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September 24, 2024

Impact Made During a Photography Internship in Cape Town

"Experiences like these shape my perspective for my profession as an artist, and personally as a man, and I am eternally grateful for it". - Sam, Coventry University The impact…
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Lessons Learned During an Event Management Internship

Diego went on an exciting Event Management internship in South Africa and gained insight that he found useful in both his career and personal life.
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HOW TO APPLY

If you’re ready to apply for this internship, here’s what to do:

APPLY

Fill in the application form (it will show in a new screen) which includes sharing your CV to us.

GET STARTED

SPEAK WITH AN ADVISOR

We’ll set up a call with you to go through your application.

INTERNSHIP MATCHING

If we feel it’s a good match, we’ll set up a call between you and the supervisor for this internship.

PAYMENT

If everyone’s happy, we’ll provisionally confirm your placement! We’ll then send you the invoice for the deposit, getting started with the booking process and all the info you need.

CONFIRMATION

Only once we receive payment of the deposit your placement will be confirmed.

NEED TO MAKE AN ENQUIRY FIRST?

Or if you’d just like to ask us some questions about this internship first, just fill in the contact form below. We’ll be happy to assist!

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