8-Week Wilderness Gap Year Program in South Africa

What is the Wilderness Gap Year Program in South Africa all about?

This 8-week gap year program is the perfect opportunity to learn more about wildlife conservation, develop key life skills, make new friends and witness Africa’s most iconic animals up close. You will participate in conservation and advocacy work in the Greater Kruger area, including anti-poaching efforts, community education, research and data collection.  

This program is as much about immersing yourself in a new environment and culture as it is about self-discovery and personal development. Each part of the program has set learning objectives, aimed at building your confidence, independence and adaptability, in a supportive and engaging setting. 

If you are unsure of your next academic or professional step, and are looking for a unique gap year experience and the chance to truly reflect on your goals in life, then this is the program for you. 

Why choose this 8-week Gap Year Program in South Africa?

• Camp out in the African bush, experience close encounters with Africa’s big 5, and learn how to survive in the wild!
• Contribute to important conservation efforts, helping to preserve and protect vulnerable animals.
• Grow both personally and professionally, learning more about yourself, your capabilities and your passions.

The Wilderness Gap Year Program

The project is divided into 7 impact areas, and allows you to experience all the incredible beauty and magic that Kruger has to offer. 

1. WELCOME TO THE WILD– disconnect from the outside world by isolating with your group in the African bush. You will work on social skills, including teamwork, communication, social confidence and setting healthy boundaries. You will also go on game drives and spend your evenings by the campfire. 
2. THE OUTER EDGES– learn more about South African culture and your new environment, and how it differs from your home. The focus will be on reducing stress and anxiety, and improving your problem-solving skills.  
3. PURPOSE– Work alongside conservation experts, develop your advocacy and decision-making skills, and feed your passion for protecting wildlife. 
4. TRUST– strengthen your bond with your team by sharing exhilarating experiences such as zip lining through the treetops, engaging in healthy debates and working together on collaborative projects. You will improve your critical thinking and communication skills. 
5. INDEPENDENCE– Take the time to reflect on your sense of self and independence, whilst exploring your natural surroundings and working on a community project aimed at empowering locals to become self-sufficient. 
6. UBUNTU (meaning ‘humanity’)- You will work with your team on a survival course in the reserve, learning bush survival skills, whilst sleeping under the stars, connecting with nature and with each other. 
7. LOOKING FORWARD– The final part of your program is about reflecting on your journey, what you have gained and what you have learnt about yourself. And of course enjoying a final few days of wildlife spotting and taking in the beauty of the Kruger area. 

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