High School Outdoor Education Programs in South Africa

Meaningful service projects, thrilling adventures, and an abundance of wildlife come together on our South Africa program for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Our South Africa program mixes classic destinations like Cape Town and Kruger National Park with hidden gems off the beaten path to provide the ultimate experience! Our goal will be to get in touch with the heart of this amazing country by working with conservation experts and marine ecologists to learn more about South Africa’s natural beauty, wildlife, and conservation practices. During this program, we will discover everything South Africa has to offer while exploring the major cities, stunning countryside, and mind-blowing game reserves. For our service project, we work together to build a playground at a local school in one of the many villages in the area. The new playground will have a huge impact on the community and also demonstrate what a difference we can make! Your efforts will be rewarded with the meaningful friendships and connections you’ll form with the locals along the way and the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel when you have completed the project.

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and medical initiatives. GoEco operates in over 50 countries, providing unique cultural immersive experiences that aim to make a positive impact on the environment and society. The organization also offers internships and academic programs for students. GoEco provides safe and meaningful experiences while promoting sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions.

Join us for a wild photographic adventure in South Africa! You'll have close encounters with big cats, elephants, rhinos, and plenty more wildlife while exploring a stunning private game reserve in the Greater Kruger Area. You'll be accompanied by a professional wildlife photographer, who will offer tutoring – both in theory and practical sessions – throughout the workshop, so you can expect to end up with an impressive portfolio of wildlife images. This wildlife photography workshop is based in Timbavati, an exclusive collection of private game reserves, where game viewing is among the best on the African continent. We'll have the freedom to go off-road. With the guidance of expert guides and trackers, you're guaranteed to find animals such as leopards, lions, and buffalo. You can also observe and photograph them up close. We work in small groups (a maximum of 5 people), which means you'll enjoy personalized photographic tutoring and you can make sure to improve your skills along the way. It's a dream trip for any (aspiring) wildlife photographer!

GVI offers a variety of opportunities for young adults between the ages of 15 and 17 to gain first-hand experience in cultural immersion, marine and wildlife conservation and community development. This is a great way to become a global citizen with a better understanding of prevalent social and environmental issues. It’s also a gateway to improving your future education and employment opportunities, as you acquire soft and hard skills in your chosen GVI focus. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to dive in the oceans of Greece, visit the jungles of Costa Rica, or the rolling Incan valleys of Peru, all while contributing to sustainability, this is for you. This is an opportunity to connect with a network of people who share similar passions for sustainability, while also expanding your knowledge of different linguistic practices and cultural customs. Each project is aimed at reaching sustainable objectives that align with the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).

Set out on an exhilarating 20-day journey to South Africa, the “Rainbow Nation,” with our immersive summer program. Begin your adventure in Cape Town, where we explore vibrant markets and iconic landmarks like Table Mountain and Lion’s Head. Travel to the heart of the conservation efforts, where we assist in protecting the critically endangered white rhinoceros, and other native wildlife. Experience the stunning landscapes along the Garden Route; visit the poignant Robben Island Prison; watch ostrich, baboons, and African penguins at the Cape of Good Hope. This unique program for ages 16-19 combines hands-on wildlife conservation, cultural exploration, and personal growth, offering a rare opportunity to connect with South Africa’s natural beauty and rich heritage while earning community service hours. Join us for an unforgettable adventure that will inspire and transform your perspective.

South Africa's position at the southern tip of Africa has created a diversity of lifestyles and a diversity of environments, from the lofty Drakensberg Mountain range to the Cape Vineyards. South Africa is leading the way in African politics and is seen as an inspiration to other countries. With eleven national languages and a variety of religions, South Africa truly is the 'Rainbow Nation' Projects Abroad is based in the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town, located in the heart of the Western Cape. Volunteer programs are available in the areas of Teaching, Child Care, Equine Therapy, Conservation & Environment, Surfing, Farming, Creative & Performing Arts, Building, and Culture and Community. International internships are also available in the fields of Nutrition, Journalism, International Development, Veterinary Medicine, and Law & Human Rights. This is your chance to enhance your skills in a setting where volunteers can make a profound difference. Visit our website for more details!

Spend a life‑changing year in South Africa in Port Edward, KwaZulu-Natal, mastering English while living with a caring host family. Students receive 20 hours/week of CEFR‑aligned English, academic support (GED/IGCSE bridging), and curated cultural adventures. Students also choose a sport track—tennis, golf, horse riding, swimming, or squash—with two weekly coaching sessions included. Port Edward’s beaches, nature reserves, and local attractions create a safe and outdoor lifestyle that students love. We have been catering to international students for the last 5 years. Our guardianship model gives parents peace of mind, with services that include airport pickups, daily attendance, curfews, medical protocols, and weekly WhatsApp updates. The next intakes are in January and July—limited spots are available.