Frequently-asked questions about volunteer opportunities in Africa

Frequently-asked questions

Many questions arise during the planning stages of a gap year in Africa. The answers to the most frequently-asked questions below should help you as you plan for your volunteer opportunities in Africa.

Is there an age limit?

The minimum age limit for volunteer opportunities in Africa with TravelWorks is 18. A few projects in Africa have a minimum age limit of 20 years, but each country has opportunities for 18 and 19-year-olds. A maximum age of 40 is also in effect for some projects. However, most volunteering opportunities in Africa will welcome participants over age 18 as long as they are in good physical health.

Are citizens of my country eligible?

Absolutely! Citizens of almost any country are eligible to participate in TravelWorks’ volunteer programmes in Africa. If you can obtain an appropriate tourist visa in the country where you plan to volunteer, you are eligible to participate.

Will I need a visa before I depart?

It is often necessary or recommended to apply for a visa prior to your arrival in Africa. In some cases, you will be required to apply for a tourist visa when you arrive in the country (for example, South Africa) and in other cases you will need to apply at an embassy in your home country before you depart (Ghana, for example). TravelWorks will offer you more information about the visa requirements for the country you are visiting, and you should also inform yourself about the entry requirements at the embassy of your host country prior to your departure.

How far in advance should I apply?

You should apply for volunteering opportunities in Africa with TravelWorks at least 2 to 3 months prior to your desired starting date. In some cases it is possible to apply at shorter notice, but you will need to contact TravelWorks before you apply to make sure that this is okay.

Can I volunteer with someone else?

You are very welcome to apply for volunteering opportunities in Africa with a travel partner. As long as there are still two places left in the programme when you apply, you will be able to participate with a friend.

When are the starting dates?

There are many various starting dates for volunteering opportunities in Africa with TravelWorks. It is possible to start volunteering in Africa at any time of year. Please see the TravelWorks website for specific starting dates: www.travelworks.co.uk

How much money should I bring along?

We recommend that you bring along about £360 (US$ 600 / €400) for each month that you will be in Africa. This money should cover any extra expenses such as excursions, souvenirs, some meals, etc.

What extra expenses will I have to pay?

Please keep in mind that the following expenses are not included in the programme prices for volunteering opportunities in Africa:

  • Round-trip flight to Africa
  • Travel insurance
  • Vaccines (if required)
  • Daily transportation to your project site
  • Various personal expenses (excursions, souvenirs, etc.)

What language skills will I need to have?

In order to take part in most volunteering opportunities in Africa, you will need to have good English skills. However, some countries require knowledge of another language. For example, Burkina Faso is a French-speaking country, so you will need very good French skills in order to volunteer here. Portuguese is widely spoken in Mozambique, and Portuguese skills are a real advantage here, although not required.

Do I need any vaccinations?

You may need vaccinations in order to participate in volunteering opportunities in Africa. Especially if you will be working in wildlife conservation projects, you should consider having yourself vaccinated against rabies, Hepatitis A, and possibly tetanus. At least 6 weeks prior to your planned departure for Africa, you should visit a doctor to make sure that you receive the recommended vaccinations on time. You can find more vaccination information online on: http://www.masta-travel-health.com/

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes, you should definitely take out travel insurance to protect yourself abroad. Make sure that your travel insurance covers health care and lost or stolen luggage.

How do I apply?

You can book your chosen programme on the TravelWorks website, using the online or PDF booking form.