Skip to main content

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

Marine Science field research internship

Open for applications

Marine Science Field Research Internship

  • 4 Weeks
  • Simon's Town, South Africa
  • Research dives, Data collection, Mapping, Reporting

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
NGO Management internship

New

NGO Management Internship

  • 8-26 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • Event Management, Fundraising, Digital Marketing

Help this NGO end period poverty and destigmatize menstruation.

Find out more
Penda photography internship

Open for applications

SEO internship

  • 2-6 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • SEO, writing, content creation

Gain practical experience in SEO within social businesses in Cape Town

Find out more
Refugee research internship

Open for applications

Refugee Research Internship

  • 5-6 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • migration, research, human rights

Research issues of the migratory phenomenon across Africa

Find out more
Forest Management Internship_feature

Applications open for Aug-Oct 2023!

Forest Management Internship

  • Aug-Oct 2023
  • Cape Town & Garden Route
  • Monitoring, Evaluation, Reporting, Data Analysis, Reforestation

Gain field experience in the impact assessment and sustainability of forest restoration programs.

Find out more
Bird conservation internship

Open for applications

Marketing & Development Internship

  • 8-26 weeks
  • Bela-Bela, South Africa OR Remote
  • Fundraising, Research, Reporting, Business Development

Help with the development and sustainability of this inspiring project working hard to protect the ground hornbill.

Find out more
NGO storytelling internship; Sustainable Coffee Bay

Open for applications

NGO Storytelling Internship

  • Min 8 weeks
  • Coffee Bay, South Africa
  • Social Media, Storytelling, Content creation, Fundraising, Writing

Gain experience in communications within the context of a social impact program

Find out more
Wildlife Conservation Communications Internship

Open for applications

Wildlife Conservation Communications Internship

  • 8-26 weeks
  • Bela-Bela, South Africa
  • Social Media, Writing, Digital Marketing, Fundraising 

Combine your love for storytelling and wildlife conservation.

Find out more
Conservation Education Internship

Open for applications

Conservation Education Internship

  • 8-26 weeks
  • Bela-Bela, South Africa
  • Education, monitoring, research, community outreach

Help spread important information on the ground hornbill in local communities

Find out more
digital marketing internship with animal rescue center

Open for applications

Digital Marketing Internship with Animal Rescue Center

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • Website Management, Fundraising, Marketing, Grant Writing, Research

Find yourself rewarded by doing impactful digital marketing, and surrounded by puppies!

Find out more
Communications internship in Cape Town - feature; Adonis Musati Project

Open for applications

Communications Internship

  • 8 - 26 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • Communications, Digital Marketing, Fundraising

Communications and digital marketing within a nonprofit context

Find out more
UN-Research and grant writing internship; Uniq Foundation

NEW

Research & Grant Writing Internship

  • 12-26 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • Research, fundraising, grant writing

Sharpen your research and writing skills, and explore the fundraising field.

Find out more
writing internship with dog charity

Open for applications

Writing & Communications Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • Creative writing, Communications, Content Creation

Gain experience in managing a variety of communication channels

Find out more
dog charity internship

Open for applications

Organizational Development Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • Fundraising, Monitoring. Reporting, Research

Assist with research, online fundraising campaigns, proposal writing, and impact monitoring.

Find out more
yoga internship Cape Town

Open for applications

Yoga Internship

  • 8-26 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • (Yoga) teaching, program development, communications

Teach yoga to bring upliftment to both individuals and the larger community.

Find out more
Writing internship with GBV Project

NEW

Writing Internship

  • Min. 12 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Blog writing, Report and 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

NEW

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
animal welfare puppy

Open for applications

Animal Charity Communications Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Remote
  • Communications, Writing, Fundraising,  Research

Help a new charity improve the lives of stray dogs and cats in Southern Africa

Find out more
Girl holding phone to show application

Open for applications

Gender Equality Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • Research, Communications, Fundraising, Program Development

Help develop structures to support victims, research gender based violence, and assist with digital marketing.

Find out more
NGO Event Coordination Internship Cape Town

Open for applications

NGO Event Coordinator Internship

  • Feb - April
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Event coordination, planning, logistics, budgeting

Use your event coordination and planning skills to help organize an environmental action summit.

Find out more
SEO Content Writing Internship in tourism

Open for applications

SEO Tourism Content Writing Internship

  • Min. 6 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • Creative writing, SEO, Social Media, Blogging

Sharpen your writing skills and learn to write content that is creative and optimized for search engines.

Find out more
Conservation and Photography Internship

Open for applications

Wildlife Photography Internship

  • 8 weeks
  • Greater Kruger, South Africa
  • Photography, Conservation

Photograph lions, leopards, elephants, and many more animals, while sharpening your skills.

Find out more
nonprofit photography internship

Open for applications

Nonprofit Photography Internship

  • 3-8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Photography

Sharpen your photography skills and contribute to important nonprofit initatives at the same time.

Find out more
Marketing Internship

Open for applications

Marketing Internship

  • 8-26 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Digital Marketing, SEO, Marketing Research

Bring your analytical and research skills to this varied internship with a social enterprise.

Find out more
Remote Marketing Internship

Open for applications

(Remote) Marketing Internship

  • Min. 4 weeks
  • Remote
  • Marketing, SEO, Product research

Gain a wealth of marketing experience as part of a South African based volunteer organisation.

Find out more
Urban greening internship

Open for applications

Urban Greening Internship

  • 8-26 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Facilitation, Research, Reporting, Monitoring, Education, Tree planting

Gain field experience as part of projects that provide greening and eco-education in townships.

Find out more
Content Writing Internship

Open for applications

Content Writing Internship

  • 8-26 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • Creative Writing, SEO, Social Media, Strategy, Blogging

Improve your creative writing skills, learn about SEO, and build a varied writing portfolio.

Find out more
Communications Internship

Last minute

Communications Internship

  • 8-26 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Communications, Social Media, Digital Marketing, Writing

Join our team at Roots and assist with managing and developing our communications channels.

Find out more
Events Internship

Open for applications

NGO Event Management Internship

  • 8-26 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Event Management, Coordination, Planning

Gain practical work experience while managing events for community development projects.

Find out more
Marketing and Communications Internship

Open for applications

Marketing & Communications Internship

  • 8-26 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Project Management, Communications, Marketing, Fundraising

Help develop and manage communication channels for a grassroots social impact program.

Find out more
Youth social Work Internship

Open for applications

Youth Social Work Internship

  • 4-26 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

  • 8-26 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Psychology, Social Work

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

  • 8-26 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Graphic design, photography, videography

Design flyers, certificates, poster, and other graphics for an environmental NGO.

Find out more
Digital Marketing Internship

Open for applications

Digital Marketing Internship

  • 12-26 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Social Media, PR, Digital Marketing

Gain a wealth of marketing experience while contributing to environmental programs.

Find out more
creative writing internship

Open for applications

Creative Writing Internship

  • 12-26 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Digital marketing, creative writing

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

  • 8-26 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • 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 & Urban Farming Internship

  • 8-12 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Food security, urban farming, education

Help develop and manage food gardens and host eco-workshops at schools in townships.

Find out more
Migrants and refugee charity internship

Open for applications

Migrants & Refugee Charity Internship

  • 12-26 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Refugees and migrants, all-round

Be part of the day to day running and development of programs that assist refugees.

Find out more
human rights internships

Open for applications

English School Assistant

  • 16-26 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • English teaching, coordination, administration

Gain practical teaching experience by teaching English to refugees in Cape Town.

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, monitoring, reporting, 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

  • 20-26 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Human rights, refugee law and migration issues

Gain valuable legal experience while offering refugees in Cape Town support and advice.

Find out more
Communications Internship

Open for applications

Communications Internship

  • 12-26 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Communications, social media, digital marketing, writing

Manage and develop communication channels for a refugee-focused nonprofit.

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
MB_Digital Marketing and Sales Internship

Open for applications

Marketing & Business Research Internship

  • 8-26 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Communications, Marketing, Business Development

Be part of a creative charity that offers skill development to women in townships.

Find out more
NGO Management Internship in Cape Town

Open for applications

NGO Management Internship

  • 8-26 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Reporting, Social Media, Marketing, PR, Events Coordination

Contribute to the development of an inspiring nonprofit, and gain valuable work experience.

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
Communications and Fundraising NGO Internship_feature

Open for applications

Communications & Fundraising Internship

  • 8-12 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Social Media, Writing, Fundraising, Events

Bring your communications skills to this varied internship with a film-focused charity.

Find out more
Nonprofit management internship

Open for applications

Nonprofit Management Internship

  • 4-52 weeks
  • Cape Town / Kruger (South Africa), Livingstone (Zambia
  • Marketing, Fundraising, Facilitation, Monitoring, NGO Management

Get a thorough insight into the nonprofit sector during this varied and hands-on internship.

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.

It would be very easy to say the whole experience was life changing but that might appear to be a cliche. As is always the case, whenever I go to Africa as a volunteer, I come away firmly believing that the country and its people have given me far more than I was able to give back. The Humanitarian Photography Programme was superb, the arrangements, the placements and the opportunities to take photographs in difficult situations was amazing. Anna is a fantastic teacher, she offers constructive criticism in a positive but gentle way and is equally enthusiastic when you produce images that meet her rather demanding standards. I can’t wait until the next opportunity.

John, Humanitarian Photography Project, South Africa

Moving to Africa was very scary for me but luckily through the internships Roots placed me with the transition was very easy. I worked in South Africa for three months in the GBV space and realized aiding survivors of GBV is something I am incredibly passionate about. After my time in South Africa I moved to Zambia to work in a school / community center. This internship in Zambia taught me a lot about all of the different aspects of running a non-profit as well as showing me different sectors I could potentially work in. Both of these internships have changed my life for the better and have helped me to figure out what I want my future career to look like.

Olivia, Gender-based violence research Internship, South Africa

The program was incredible. The first week was getting to know some of the organizations we would be photographing by meeting staff and learning of their history and mission. Week two and three we dove into the work and we’re busy everyday but had our weekends off to rest and recuperate. I learned a multitude of photography skills while photographing these environments.

Kat, Humanitarian photography project, 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.

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.

Blogs about South Africa

social work internship in AfricaPsychology and Social WorkSouth AfricaIntern experiences
November 30, 2022

What to expect from social work internships in South Africa

Read about one of our past intern's experiences and learn what to expect from social work internships in South Africa
internships in South AfricqSouth AfricaInternships in Africa
January 25, 2022

A Guide to Doing a Meaningful Internship in South Africa

Explore the option of doing an internship in South Africa! We're taking you through the basics of what to expect.
SEO Content Writing Internship in tourismSouth AfricaInternships in AfricaFinding your internship
April 20, 2021

5 Internships in South Africa that are worth your time

Here's some of the best internships in South Africa! These amazing internships are definitely worth your time - so check them out!

Other Destinations

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

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!