Picture yourself as a volunteer in South Africa, a land famous for cosmopolitan cities, lush vineyards, magnificent wildlife and miles of coastline. South Africa comprises the southern tip of Africa. Wine and gold are its largest exports, and as a former Dutch colony, it offers an interesting mix of traditional South African and European culture and cuisine. South Africa’s difficult past gave birth to a great victory over apartheid, or the mistreatment of those of non-European origin. While South Africa’s strong economy, well-developed infrastructure and modern amenities make it unique among African countries, the nation is still working to recover. As a volunteer in South Africa, you play an important role supporting educational initiatives. Volunteering as a coach with at-risk youth or working in a child care center are just two of the ways you can help here.
United Planet also offers long-term (6 months and one year) volunteer programs and virtual volunteering and virtual internships in South Africa. See all of our volunteer abroad programs and virtual countries and projects in Africa.
Our South Africa Country Coordinator, Nick, shares how United Planet volunteer will get involved in a meaningful program working with children from less-advantaged backgrounds and building friendships on a common ground.
I think as expected in any year of your life, especially abroad, I grew a lot and developed and strengthened different aspects of my personality. I think the challenges are a means of growth and this year definitely presented me with various challenges but I always welcome personal growth which is why I would all in all regard this experience as very good. What would have made it excellent was if I was given a more accurate and honest job description.
United Planted has been an uplifting program and as given me the ability to unlock new aspects in my life. I have changed tremendously and have learned more about myself. I volunteered in hopes that my perspective may change with culture simulation and that I may bring my ideas to share with the community. I was given more than I could ask for.
My Quest in South Africa has completely changed me! I got to experience life in someone else’s shoes and indulge in a different culture. The people I met were the most caring and loving people I’ve ever met and have helped to show me what type of person I want to be. It was definitely one of the most amazing and life-changing experiences of my life!
United Planted has been an uplifting program and given me the ability to unlock new aspects in my life. I have changed tremendously and have learned more about myself. I volunteered in hopes that my perspective may change with culture simulation and that I may bring my ideas to share with the community. I was given more than I could ask for.
I’ve had the most amazing time volunteering in South Africa. The staff has been inspirational and the experiences you have will last a lifetime.
Volunteers will work under the guidance of our in-country team and be based in the townships and schools that skirt Port Elizabeth. You’ll have the chance to coach one of the following sports: cricket, hockey, netball, rugby, soccer or tennis. The emphasis is not on developing Africa’s next international star, but helping children from less-advantaged backgrounds and building friendships on a common ground.
Available Dates: Year-round, with specific start dates (see Quest Fees and Details below for dates)
Minimum Stay: 4 or 5 weeks, based on the start date
Requirements: At least 17 years old
Volunteers will work either at a child care center or a school in Port Elizabeth area. Possible experiences include playing with children, home work assistance for older kids, supporting and assisting local teachers in lessons and organizing other extracurricular activities.
Available Dates: Year-round, with specific start dates (see Quest Fees and Details below for dates)
Minimum Stay: 4 or 5 weeks, based on the start date
Requirements: At least 17 years old
South Africa Country Coordinator: Katie was a former United Through Sport volunteer herself, originally from England, who fell in love with South Africa and never left. She is a qualified child care worker and has a passion for working with children. She is also passionate about working with people from different cultures.
As a volunteer in South Africa, you’ll participate in at least two cultural activities or excursions during your stay. Examples include a visit to the Kragga Kama Game Reserve in Port Elizabeth, an authentic meal at the Bushcamp Boma in Port Elizabeth, a traditional dancing and drumming workshop, or a visit to Bloukrans – the world’s highest commercial bungee jump site.
United Planet South Africa volunteers live in shared volunteer houses in the Port Elizabeth area. You’ll be staying with anywhere from 8 to 40 volunteers at a time!
Spend a day at Port Elizabeth’s beaches: Port Elizabeth is known for having some of the best beaches in South Africa. If you have a day off from volunteering and are looking to relax, head over to one of these beautiful areas.
Go to an event at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium: Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth is home to multiple soccer and rugby clubs and regularly hosts matches. Check it out if you’re a sports fan!
Learn some history on the Donkin Heritage Trail: This historical trail is based around the Central district of Port Elizabeth and consists of a large collection of historic Victorian buildings and monuments that tell the story of the first British colonial settlers to arrive on the shores of Algoa Bay.
Try Potjiekos: make sure to try this delicious, slow-cooked meat and vegetable stew before you leave South Africa. Pojietkos literally means “small pot food,” due to the traditional method of cooking the stew over an open fire in a small Dutch oven.
Volunteers can choose to stay in South Africa for 4 weeks to 12 weeks.
The age requirement for South Africa Quest is at least 17 years old.
There is no language requirement to volunteer in South Africa.
We ask that volunteers enroll at least 60 days prior to their anticipated departure date. This gives us enough time to schedule volunteer placements, coordinate in-country activities, and provide sufficient pre-departure training. If you are interested in enrolling for a program starting in less than 60 days, please contact us directly.
United Planet Quests are designed to be immersive, authentic, comprehensive and provide you everything you’ll need to succeed. The program elements allow you to engage fully with a new culture, forge strong relationships, and challenge yourself. Most importantly, we partner with the community to ensure your experience will be important, relevant and helpful to the community you serve.
United Planet provides emergency travel and medical insurance for all volunteers. All South Africa staff members participate in extensive health and safety training, and are available at all times by 24-hour phone line. Upon enrollment, you will receive a full emergency contact list. In addition, we register all of our volunteers with US Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). We recommend booking a doctor’s appointment or visiting a travel health clinic a few months out to update your vaccinations. Read more about health and safety.
Due to varying airline prices, United Planet does not arrange or cover the cost of flights to and from South Africa. However, we arrange all ground transportation to and from the airport in South Africa and will ensure that you arrive safely at the volunteer house in Port Elizabeth. You will be able to walk to your volunteer project from your accommodations.
| 4 Weeks | 5 Weeks | 6 Weeks | 7 Weeks | 8 Weeks | 9 Weeks | 10 Weeks | 11 Weeks | 12 Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2,538 | $3,038 | $3,538 | $4,038 | $4,538 | $5,038 | $5,538 | $6,038 | $6,538 |
Your Quest Fee supports the resources and infrastructure needed to make your experience safe, meaningful, and impactful — for both you and the host community. As a nonprofit, every cost directly supports essential program elements, not extras.
This includes:
These components are carefully designed to ensure volunteers are prepared, supported, and able to contribute in a responsible and productive way.
We are a mission-driven organization, which means funds are used intentionally to create experiences that are valuable, ethical, and sustainable for everyone involved.
Payment Plan Details: A $300 deposit is required at enrollment to secure your program placement. After confirmation, you may pay the Quest Fee in full or through installments. The remaining balance is due 4 weeks before departure.
