We recommend arriving on one of the “Best Arrival Dates” listed below whenever possible. This means you can take part in your VAC orientation alongside other participants who are also settling into Cape Town, learning their way around the city and beginning their programmes.

There is something particularly valuable about experiencing those first few days together. Past participants often tell us that some of their closest friendships began soon after they arrived in Cape Town. People who choose VAC tend to share a sense of curiosity and a willingness to experience somewhere new, and orientation creates an easy opportunity to meet one another, explore the city together and start making plans for the weeks ahead.

You can still arrive outside of the Best Arrival Dates, and we will make sure you receive the orientation and practical preparation you need. However, depending on the time of year, your orientation group may be smaller and you may even be the only new participant arriving at that time. If your travel plans allow it, arriving on a Best Arrival Date gives you the best opportunity to begin your Cape Town experience alongside other new participants.

Program Session Dates + BEST Arrival Dates for 2026

Session 3 (2026): September – December

BEST Session 3 Arrival Dates: September 6th, September 27th, and October 11th.
*Please note that we do not accept program arrivals in December.

VAC “Fall” Gap Year Program dates: August 30th – November 14th. (Optional trip to Zimbabwe from October 30th – November 3rd)

Program Session Dates + BEST Arrival Dates for 2027

Session 1 (2027) January – April

BEST Session 1 Arrival Dates: January 17th, January 31st, February 14th, March 14th.

VAC “Winter/Spring” Gap Year Program dates: January 5th – March 5th. (Optional trip to Kruger Park from March 5th – March 10th)

VAC “Late Spring” Gap Year Program dates: March 14th – May 14th.

Session 2 (2027) May – August

BEST Session 2 Arrival Dates: May 16th, May 30th, June 13th, June 27th, July 11th, July 25th.

Optional trip to Zimbabwe & Botswana from June 25th – June 29th

Session 3 (2027) September – December

BEST Session 3 Arrival Dates: September 5th, September 19th, October 3rd, and October 17th.

VAC “Fall” Gap Year Program dates: August 29th – November 19th. (Optional trip to Zimbabwe & Botswana from October 29th – November 2nd)