Internships in Africa

Internships in Africa

About Africa

Africa’s uniqueness lies in its rich cultural diversity, breathtaking landscapes, and rapidly growing industries, making it an exciting destination for an internship.  Africa is known for the many different cultures and traditions across the continent, making it an ideal place to gain hands-on experience, deepen your global perspective, and immerse yourself in Africa’s vibrant communities.

 Learn more about Africa’s rich cultures and its vibrant, diverse continent!

Why internships in Africa

Interning in Africa provides hands-on experience in fast-growing industries like healthcare, technology, and international development. The diverse cultures and emerging markets offer invaluable professional growth, helping interns develop adaptability, problem-solving skills, and a global perspective. These qualities can help set them apart in a competitive job market.

Beyond technical skills, an internship in Africa showcases resilience, initiative, and a commitment to meaningful work. Whether contributing to sustainable development, business innovation, or conservation efforts, interns gain leadership experience while immersing themselves in breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural traditions.

 

Where to look for internships in Africa 

When considering an internship in Africa, choosing the right location is key to maximizing your experience. Different regions of Africa offer unique opportunities depending on your professional and personal field of interests. Explore the following locations to find the perfect internship that aligns with your goals!

Internships in South Africa

• Thriving industries in business, finance, and technology
• Strong presence in multinational corporations and startups
• Excellent opportunities in public health, environmental conservation, and social development

 

Internships in Kenya

• A major hub for tech innovation and entrepreneurship
• Strong NGO presence for humanitarian work, wildlife conservation, and community development
• Growing in finance and renewable energy 

 

Internships in Tanzania

• Known for wildlife conservation and eco-tourism internships
• Opportunites in marine conservation, community development, and education
• Expanding healthcare and medical volunteer programs

 

Internships in Namibia

• Ideal for wildlife conservation and eco-tourism internships
• Opportunites in environmental science and renewable energy

 

Internships in Ethiopia 

• Strong in public health, agriculture, and social development
• Opportunites in international organizations
• Growing in business and tech 

 

Internships in Ghana

• Strong in business and finance 
• Expanding in media, journalism, and creative industries 

 

Internship Programs in Africa

There are many types of internships in Africa, and depending on your goals, it's a good idea to explore different options before making your choice. Each internship offers unique opportunities to gain experience in fields of interest. Explore and see which ones fit you!

NGO Internships	Interning with NGOs in Africa allows individuals to contribute to community development, human rights advocacy, and social work.  Interns may engage in tasks from program planning to direct community outreach
Medical Internships	Provide aspiring healthcare professionals with the opportunity to shadow doctors, participate in patient care, and understand diverse healthcare delivery.
Construction Internships	Work on infrastructure projects that are vital for community development. Assist in building schools, healthcare facilities, or housing. Gain practical experience in construction and sustainable building.
Education Internships	Interns may work as teaching assistants, curriculum developers, or program coordinators in schools and community centers.
Conservation Internships	Participants can engage in wildlife research, environmental education, and habitat preservation projects.

 

Internships Programs in Africa by RealStep

Nursing and Medical Internship in South Africa:

Gain international healthcare experience with a humanitarian nursing internship in Cape Town. Work alongside medical professionals, assist in emergency care, observe midwives, and participate in disease prevention programs while immersing yourself in South Africa’s diverse communities. This program offers a unique opportunity to apply your nursing studies in a real-world setting, earn university credits, and make a meaningful impact.

Learn more about our Nursing and Medical Internship in South Africa!

 

Medical and Nursing Internship in Namibia

Join a hands-on medical internship in Namibia, where you’ll work in a rural clinic supporting a local healthcare team. Assist in patient care, conduct basic medical exams, and contribute to community health programs while immersing yourself in the culture of the San and Herero peoples. Whether you're a student or a professional, this internship offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience, earn university credits, and make a meaningful impact on underserved communities.

Learn more about our Medical and Nursing internship in Namibia and apply today!

 

Veterinary Internship in South Africa

Join a hands-on veterinary internship in South Africa, where you'll work on wildlife reserves alongside experts to gain real-world experience. From monitoring and treating wildlife to assisting with livestock care and pet welfare, this program blends theory and practice in a meaningful way. Whether you're studying veterinary medicine, animal care, or sustainable development, this internship offers a unique opportunity to contribute to conservation efforts while earning university credits.

Explore more about our Veterinary Internship in South Africa!

 

 

Nature Reserve Internship in South Africa

Immerse yourself in wildlife conservation with an environmental internship in South Africa’s Limpopo Nature Reserve. Work hands-on with researchers and conservationists to track animal movements, monitor species, and contribute to habitat protection efforts. Through fieldwork and academic support, this program provides a unique opportunity to gain university credits, develop key research skills, and make a real impact on preserving Africa’s diverse ecosystem.

Discover our Nature Reserve Internship in South Africa and get started now!

 

 

RealStep offers many more internship opportunities in Africa! Some include medical and nursing internships, veterinary internships, marine conversation internships, nature guide training, photography courses, and more! 

Visit our internship programs and find the perfect internship for you!

 

FAQs

Can a foreigner get an internship in South Africa?

Yes, a foreigner can get an internship in South Africa, but there are requirements to consider. Most international interns need to apply for a South African visa, typically a Volunteer Visa or Short-Term Work Visa, depending on the duration and nature of the internship. As all organizations are different, talk to your program about their visa requirements. 

What are the costs of internships in Africa?

The costs of internships in Africa vary depending on the program, location, and duration. Some internships, especially with NGOs and wildlife conservation projects, require a program fee. Often time this program fee covers accommodation, transportation in the country, meals, or other amenities. For exact internship costs, talk to your organization to give you the best range or answer. 

When to look for an internship in Africa?

It’s best to start searching for an internship 3 to 6 months in advance to allow enough time for applications, visa processing, and travel arrangements. Many internships in Africa are available year-round, but some, like wildlife conservation programs, may have specific seasons. If you’re applying for university credit, check your school’s/organization's deadlines and internship requirements before committing to a program.

Do you need a visa for an internship in South Africa?

Yes, foreigners usually need a visa for an internship in South Africa. The type of visa depends on the internship:

• Unpaid internships (especially through NGOs) may require a Volunteer Visa or a Visitor Visa with special permission.
• Paid internships typically require a Work Visa or an Exchange Visa.
• Short-term internships (under 90 days) might be possible on a Tourist Visa, but it's essential to check with the South African Department of Home Affairs for official requirements.

 

What is the usual accommodation for interns in Africa? 

Intern accommodation varies depending on the location and program. Common options include:

• Shared volunteer houses or hostels, often included in program fees.
• Guesthouses or homestays providing a cultural experience with a local family.
• Private apartments or lodges, available for longer stays but at an extra cost.

Most accommodations provide basic amenities like electricity, running water, and internet, though conditions may vary in rural areas.