Internships
Help protect Cape Town’s spectacular yet fragile ecosystems
Conservation internships in Cape Town
Participate in a conservation internship in South Africa and join the battle to preserve Cape Town’s delicate ecosystem and its legendary natural beauty. There is a strong tradition of environmental advocacy in South Africa, and we will help you find an internship that aligns with your passion for conservation.
Conservation internships through VACorps
Wildlife research
Wildlife research: Contribute to critical field studies on threatened species migrations, breeding patterns, habitat loss and illegal poaching/trafficking crises to inform science-based policies.
Marine conservation
Assist conservation groups studying fragile underwater ecosystems, advocating for sustainable fishing policies, mounting coastal cleanup initiatives and patrolling shorelines actively removing harmful debris and protecting vulnerable seabirds and marine mammals.
Community engagement
Mobilize local residents – especially youth – in grassroots biodiversity initiatives through environmental education, tree planting drives, recycling programs and sustainable development partnerships cultivating greater ecological awareness.
A unique conservation internship experience
Cape Town is widely considered to be the world’s most beautiful city because its urban areas are enveloped by the majestic Table Mountain National Park, which is famous for its biodiversity. The reserves extend along a 1,000-square-kilometer coastline and mountain range, which will serve as the backdrop for your conservation internship in Cape Town.
Whether you are looking for an internship in wildlife conservation, marine conservation, or community awareness, Cape Town offers a diverse range of experiences.
Requirements for a conservation internship
Candidates for our marine and conservation internships in South Africa are expected to have a strong theoretical understanding of biology, research experience, and be comfortable working outdoors and/or out on the water.
Benefits of a conservation internship in Cape Town
Gain hands-on experience in conservation initiatives
Help protect the city’s world-renowned natural beauty
Experience Cape Town from a different perspective
Gain international experience and develop your professional resume
The time is now to explore, connect, and invest in yourself in Cape Town. Let us match you with an experience that counts.
Explore other internships
Biotechnology
Advance global health through research placements at renowned labs pioneering new medical technologies.
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Business and Finance
Gain emerging market finance experience at funds and startups leading Africa’s investment frontier.
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Clean Energy
Champion climate justice contributing skills to expand clean energy access for underserved communities.
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Counseling & Psychology
Address mental health needs with trauma specialists bringing care to overlooked communities.
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Education
Teach and inspire students gaining classroom skills at under-resourced schools, uplifting disadvantaged youth.
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Engineering
Innovate solutions by collaborating with firms tackling urgent infrastructure and development challenges.
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Gap Year
Preview future careers interning in your field of choice while enjoying life-expanding adventures.
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Human Rights
Advocate for the vulnerable assisting organizations protecting rights and services for marginalized groups.
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Journalism
Develop multimedia skills reporting on Cape Town’s dynamic political, social and cultural happenings.
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Law
Champion justice by researching landmark cases and conducting outreach alongside leading human rights firms.
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Marketing
Shape brands for good by managing campaigns empowering social enterprises and community programs.
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Media, Film & Photography
Launch your creative career on sets and in studios alongside Cape Town’s top film, TV and photography talent.
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Medical
Boost your clinical skills by shadowing doctors on the frontlines of South Africa’s pressing healthcare battles.
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Occupational Therapy
Master your occupational therapy craft with specialized mentors guiding pediatric, mental health and elder care.
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Physical Therapy
Gain hands-on experience working alongside leading physical therapy practitioners.
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Political Science
Inform policy researching legislation within parliamentary offices and progressive think tanks.
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Public Health
Protect the vulnerable by collecting data, assisting workshops and expanding community health access.
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Refugee Work
Empower asylum seekers to help refugees access housing, employment, healthcare, and legal aid.
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Social Work
Uplift the overlooked co-facilitating therapy and evaluating interventions for at-risk youth and families.
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Speech Pathology & Audiology
Help people find their voice by practising techniques guided by specialized clinical mentors.
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Sports Management
Gain industry expertise assisting in operations, marketing and events for national federations and clubs.
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Sustainability
Catalyze solutions directly supporting projects increasing environmental protections and food security.
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Technology
Build skills collaborating with pioneering startups leveraging innovations to drive financial inclusion.
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