South Africa Volunteer Quests

Enjoy the beauty of South Africa while you engage in local culture and provide support

"I just returned from one of the most challenging and rewarding five weeks of my life volunteering as a kindergarden teacher. United Planet gave me the opportunity to live in Africa, working with some of the most amazing individuals in a community that thrives on tradition and culture."

   -- Kimberly Purdy, Quest Volunteer 2011


Facts

  • 20% of the world's gold is mined in South Africa
  • 4 of 5 fastest land animals live in South Africa

What makes a United Planet Short-term Quest unique?

United Planet’s Volunteer Abroad programs are 100% cultural immersion experiences. United Planet Quest programs run year-round and are available to individuals and groups of all ages, skill levels and nationalities. We have no doubt it will be life-changing and provide lasting memories.

All Quests include:

  • Flexible start dates and lengths of stay (5-12 weeks)
  • Personalized attention from Coordinators
  • On-site accommodations and meals
  • Exciting excursions, cultural activities and/or language lessons

Country Information
From world-famous vineyards to miles of coastline, bustling cosmopolitan cities, desert, mountains, wildlife parks and more, South Africa is a vast country with widely varying landscapes and an equally diverse population. A former Dutch colony, South Africa has 11 official languages, but English is the most commonly spoken language in commercial and public life.

Compared to its neighbors, South Africa enjoys a strong economy, a well-developed infrastructure and modern amenities. Wine and gold are the country’s biggest exports. While, domestically, South Africa is still healing the wounds of apartheid, the country is a major player in regional politics. Despite this, many South Africans still live below the poverty line. As with many sub-Saharan African countries, South Africa is also suffering from the AIDS pandemic. As a volunteer in South Africa, you can support health and education initiatives aimed at raising the local standard of living.


Volunteer Opportunities in South Africa: 5 - 12 weeks

United Planet currently offers volunteering opportunities in partnership with a local organization in Port Elizabeth, South Africa.

What's Included and Program Details

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South Africa Prices and Details

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Sample South Africa Itinerary

Highlights

  • Visit to Kragga Kama Game Reserve – Port Elizabeth
  • Authentic evening meal under the stars at the Bushcamp Boma – Port Elizabeth
  • Traditional dances and drumming performance and workshop
  • Living with volunteers from around the world

Quest Program Briefs

Sports Coaching Quest
Minimum Stay: 5 weeks
Volunteers Needed: Year round with specific start dates
Requirements: At least 17 years old

Volunteers play and coach sports for at-risk youth players who are passionate about football/soccer, cricket, rugby, hockey, netball, tennis, basketball, swimming and more. As part of the program's life-skills curriculum, volunteers promote good citizenship and health awareness.
volunteer in africa with united planet Social Quest

Minimum Stay: 5 weeks
Volunteers Needed: Year round with specific start dates
Requirements: At least 17 years old

Volunteers can work in a number of social projects including teaching, arts and crafts, or orphanage care work projects. Volunteers use creativity and compassion to broaden opportunities for sick, disabled or underprivileged children in the Port Elizabeth area.

Three Easy Steps to Apply

Questions about applying?

Call one of our friendly regional Quest coordinators today. We will walk you step-by-step through the application process and answer any questions you may have.

Step 1: Choose your Quest. Contact us at any time for help!  We'd love to talk to you. Email or call  1-800-292-2316.

Step 2: Enroll online. Please fill in the online application. At least 60 days before you depart, you will need to reserve your spot with a deposit.

Step 3: Meet your Quest coordinator and iron out the details. Once you've applied, someone from the United Planet Team will contact you, and arrange a time to talk about your Quest of interest. THANKS!

Fundraising

Special Discounts:

  • Refer someone who participates in a Short- or Long-term Quest and you will receive 10% off your total Short-term Quest program fee or  5% off your total Long-term Quest program fee.
  • Participate in 2 Quests and receive 10% off one of your Short-term Quest program fees.