PROJECT INTRODUCTION
Traveling through South Africa with multinational friends in a truck while camping is a fun trucking experienceEnjoy the adventure!
The unique feature of this trucking project compared to others is that instead of camping outdoors, you stay in lodges (accommodations built for outdoor activities, a mix of camping, huts, and guesthouses similar to our pensions) throughout the trip, so you can join without worrying about physical strain or age! Additionally, due to the nature of South Africa, you not only get to see wildlife in the African desert and safari but also interact with local tribes, enjoy trucking along the coast, and see marine animals like penguins and seals.
If you want to experience a challenge that you can’t forget in your lifetime on the continent of Africa, now is the time to go for African trucking! GOGO - !
1. The first African country to host the World Cup, South Africa, where you can experience both European and African cultures!
"20°C and over 200 sunny days a year, streets with a charming European atmosphere, sunny beaches filled with surfers, and endless vineyards in the desert"
Where Europe and Africa, sea and desert come together. And the biggest attraction of traveling to South Africa is that you can enjoy all this at a cost much lower than in Europe or the USA. Experience Africa's unique history, nature, and culture by visiting national parks, museums, and major cities during the trucking schedule!
2. Penguins in Africa? Enjoy a leisurely trekking experience along some of the world's most stunning beaches!
South Africa's coastline ranks among the world’s top 5 beaches! When the pure blue seawater, unlike anywhere else on Earth, rolls in like a giant and beautiful whale, it feels like washing away even the pain of past lives. That’s why people from around the world visit South Africa to enjoy various marine activities like surfing and to see diverse marine animals such as penguins, whales, and seals. Enjoy the unique eco-friendly travel experience of South Africa!
3. Trekking with style! From lodges with swimming pools to a romantic day in the jungle!
Think Africa is all about hardship and struggle? NONO! Let's enjoy trucking with both style and adventure! Staying in lodges (accommodations built for outdoor activities, a mix of camping, huts, and guesthouses) with individual bathtubs, swimming pools, and restaurants, you’ll have plenty of time to relax and heal while staying at your accommodation!
Moreover, enjoying a romantic night in the jungle away from civilization, you can even hear faint wild animal calls while having a meal at the accommodation, making it an extraordinary and magical experience in your lifetime.
4. Meet the tribes featured in MBC's <Tears of Africa>! A journey with various African tribes
Since the 17th century, South Africa has been a melting pot of cultures, where you can meet indigenous tribes maintaining traditional African lifestyles alongside descendants of European settlers. During the trip, you’ll visit the untouched natural beauty of the Hosi tribe, featured in documentaries, and also explore the early European settler regions.
Additionally, you'll experience game drives at Kruger National Park, South Africa's premier national park, larger and home to a more diverse range of wildlife than even the Serengeti National Park, known as the safari icon of Africa. So, let’s head to South Africa right now!
■ Growing with the project
Day 7 of the Project | Day 15 of the Project | Day 24 of the Project |
STUDY IT! |
EXPERIENCE IT! |
BREAKTHROUGH! |
1. South Africa’s culture, nature, and history
2. How to live with friends from diverse cultures |
1. Emotional healing provided by nature 2. The richness provided by a relaxed mind 3. Closeness and strong friendships with international friends |
1. Meeting diverse people and expanding your perspective and values through nature and cultures not seen in Korea 2. Survival skills and adaptability in any environment 3. High motivation and proactive attitude! 4. Enjoying your unique life leisurely! |
PROJECT ACTIVITIES
■ Project Activity
Travel through major tourist spots in South Africa by truck. Experience safaris, hiking, and city tours in national parks, museums, and more, where you can fully feel the nature, culture, and history of South Africa. (See detailed schedule)
- Duration : 18 days
- Location : South Africa
- Participation Availability : The African Trucking Project starts every Tuesday. Since it is a globally popular trucking project, it often fills up quickly. ( When applying, if you inquire about your desired schedule, we will check the availability of your participation. )
■ Activity Information
- This project starts at 6:30 AM in Johannesburg, South Africa, and ends in Cape Town in the morning. The end time may vary depending on local conditions.
- This project involves traveling with friends from various countries and different age groups. A team consists of a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 17 people.
- To participate safely, it is recommended to get malaria vaccinations before the project starts.
- Travel medical insurance that covers any medical emergencies, including COVID-19, is mandatory.
- Since the project takes place outdoors and in remote areas, plans may not always proceed as expected. Embracing these situations with an open mind will make your African truck trip even more enjoyable.
■ Living Guide Details
- Meals: 42 meals will be provided throughout the schedule. Meals during city exploration and free time are not included in the participation fee (refer to detailed schedule).
- Accommodation: All accommodations are at lodges.
- The project fee includes pickup (one-way) and lodge accommodation for 1 night before and after the project. (Single room)
To ensure a smooth start to the project, it is recommended to arrive in South Africa the day before the project begins. This includes airport pickup (arrival day) and 1 night of accommodation before the project starts. Similarly, to account for possible delays, 1 night of accommodation is provided on the project end date.
* If you do not wish to book additional accommodation before or after the project, please inquire before applying.
This is the official start of the project. Just as many brave explorers have before us, we will leave Johannesburg and move into the vast plains of Africa. After lunch in the historic gold mining town of Haneltsburg, we will descend into the majestic and lush Magobaskloof area, reaching our final destination for the day, Greater Kruger. Known for its conservation efforts and abundant wildlife, we will spend the night here.
- Dinner provided
- 1 night stay at a lodge within the nature reserve
- Drive to Lowveld region
Day 2: Bush Lodge
A day to learn about the customs and lifestyle of the Bushmen. Early in the morning, we will have a light breakfast and then embark on a game walk. This walk is not just a simple hike but an opportunity to observe wildlife and learn about the Bushmen’s way of life. With a professional guide and wildlife expert, the walk is safe. Before it gets too hot, we will return to our accommodation for brunch and relaxation. As the lodge is located within a national park, you can enjoy the wild environment and scenery while resting. In the afternoon, we will take a game drive to see fast-moving or nocturnal animals. We will drive until sunset and enjoy Sundowner, a traditional drink, while watching the sun set over the mountains. After dark, continue the game drive to spot nocturnal animals.
- Morning walk with a guide
- Afternoon and evening game drives
- Brunch and dinner provided
* Game Walk: An activity where you walk through forests or savannas to view wildlife up close. Due to the risks of the wild environment, it should always be done with a wildlife expert. * Game Drive: Exploring wildlife by driving through the savanna in a jeep. Wildlife rarely attacks first, and traveling in a jeep ensures a safe experience in the wild. |
Day 3: Panorama Route
After breakfast, we will visit the Blyde River Canyon, the second-largest canyon in Africa, located in northeastern South Africa along the beautiful Panorama Route. Enjoy the stunning views from the canyon’s viewpoints and visit the Bourke's Luck Potholes, known as "God’s Window." After lunch in the small, picturesque town of Graskop, we will spend the rest of the day relaxing in a cabin nestled in the forest near the Sabie River.
- Panorama Route
- Visit Three Rondavels
- Visit Pilgrim’s Rest
- Breakfast and dinner provided
- Optional: Canyon Swing
Day 4: Kruger National Park
We start early this day as we travel to Kruger National Park, the most popular national park and wildlife reserve in South Africa. Home to the "Big Five" (leopard, lion, buffalo, rhinoceros, elephant) as well as giraffes, hippos, cheetahs, hyenas, and over 1,000 species of animals and plants, Kruger offers a chance to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. Enjoy a game drive to explore animal habitats and movements, with explanations from a professional wildlife guide. In the afternoon, relax at your accommodation.
- Kruger National Park
- Game Drive
- Brunch and dinner provided
Day 5: Eswatini
After breakfast, we'll cross the border into Eswatini, enjoying beautiful landscapes along the way. Eswatini, surrounded by mountains, is known for its stunning scenery and is often called the Switzerland of Africa. Here, you'll experience traditional living areas surrounded by vast sugarcane fields. Our first stop is Sibebe Rock, the world's largest freestanding granite boulder and the second largest rock formation in the world, located along the Mdzimba Mountains. Don't miss out on the local guide’s fascinating stories about Sibebe and its history!
In the late afternoon, we'll pass through Mbabane, the capital of Eswatini, and reach our accommodation slightly outside the city. After dinner, you can relax and unwind.
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided
Days 6 - 7: St. Lucia
We'll cross the border into Zululand, known for its rich cultural heritage of the Zulu people, considered the most valiant warriors in South Africa. Our journey continues in St. Lucia, a coastal village known for its diverse wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species. We'll visit iSimangaliso Wetland Park, renowned for its stunning coastal and wetland scenery.
- Drive through Swaziland
- Visit iSimangaliso Wetland Park
- Breakfast and lunch provided on Days 6 and 7
- (Optional) Night drive in the wetlands
Days 8 - 9: Drakensberg
We'll fully explore the Drakensberg Mountains, renowned for their dragon-like ridges and stunning scenery. Despite the tranquil appearance of the rolling hills, this area has been the site of numerous historical battles. The Zulu, Boer (Dutch settlers), British, and other African tribes fought many wars here. You'll learn about history and nature simultaneously. In the Drakensberg’s “Cathedral Peak” area, you can enjoy a 4WD drive, hikes, and view the San rock paintings, a South African national heritage. Spend your days exploring local communities and end your day in a cozy cabin surrounded by beautiful nature.
- Drakensberg World Heritage Site
- Tugela Gorge hike
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided on Days 8 and 9
- (Optional) Horseback riding
Day 10: Southern Drakensberg
Today we’ll explore the southern part of the Drakensberg Mountains and head towards the Natal Midlands, renowned for its beautiful farmlands. Upon arrival in the afternoon, you'll learn about the farming culture and the history of the local buildings. For a more dynamic experience, you might participate in farm work either in the afternoon or the following morning.
- Drive through Southern Drakensberg
- Local farm stay
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided
Days 11 - 12: Wild Coast
Early in the morning, we’ll travel south along South Africa's coastal road. We’ll experience the breathtaking scenery of the Wild Coast, a region that was once an independent nation but has since become a popular tourist destination. Discover the unspoiled beauty of nature, endless grasslands, and traditional crafts of the Xhosa people. Hike along the coast, considered one of the best hiking trails in the country, with a local guide. You can also relax on a private beach in front of the lodge or swim near waterfalls.
- Wild Coast drive
- Private beach
- Waterfall walk
- Coastal hike
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner on Day 11 / Breakfast and dinner on Day 12
Day 13: Wild Coast - Cradock
We will leave the Wild Coast behind and travel to the less known eastern region of South Africa. This area, settled by early European immigrants in 1820, was also the site of numerous frontier wars. After exploring the area, we will spend the night in accommodation with a panoramic view of the town.
- Eastern Cape drive
- Visit the historic town of Cradock
- Historical tour
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided
Day 14: Mountain Zebra National Park, Addo Elephant National Park - Nelson Mandela Bay
Early in the morning, we will visit Mountain Zebra National Park, home to endangered mountain zebras as well as various antelopes, ostriches, cheetahs, buffaloes, rhinos, and a range of bird species. After a brief visit, we will depart Cradock and head to Addo Elephant National Park. Here, we will explore the park from north to south, observing wildlife from unique vantage points. In the late afternoon, we will head to our accommodation located right by the beautiful Nelson Mandela Bay. The hotel offers stunning views and the diverse and flavorful food available along the coast will surely delight your taste buds.
- Mountain Zebra National Park
- Addo Elephant National Park
- Nelson Mandela Bay
- Breakfast and lunch provided
Day 15: Garden Route
In the morning, you’ll have some free time to walk on the beach, swim in the Indian Ocean, or enjoy a leisurely cup of coffee. After breakfast, we will continue our journey into the heart of the Garden Route. Explore this majestic natural kingdom nestled between the ocean and towering mountains, enjoying its lush greenery and diverse wildlife. We will take breaks to appreciate the beauty of Tsitsikamma National Park and spend the afternoon in the vibrant town of Knysna, surrounded by ancient forests and lagoons. This charming town is like a gem of Eden. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample local dishes at the many small restaurants here!
- Tsitsikamma National Park
- Tsitsikamma coastal hike
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided
- Optional: Local dining experience
Day 16: Cape Agulhas - Southern Tip of Africa
We will depart Knysna and head towards Cape Agulhas, stopping at several small towns along the coast. This is the southernmost point of the African continent. Here, we will briefly walk along the beach where the cold Atlantic Ocean and warm Indian Ocean theoretically meet. Before heading back to Arniston, enjoy a picnic-style lunch with the sea breeze. In the afternoon, consider a walk to the impressive Waenhuiskrans Caves.
- Visit Cape Agulhas
- Visit Arniston and Waenhuiskrans Caves
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided
Days 17 - 18: Cape Town
A serene morning drive will take us through Hermanus along the 'Whale Route.' Known for its excellent whale watching, this area is a highlight. Afterward, a scenic drive around the mountains will lead us to Betty's Bay, where you can see a small colony of penguins.
In the afternoon, we will travel to Cape Town, known as the 'Mother City.' Our tour officially concludes on Day 18 after breakfast.
Cape Town is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the world, rich in culture, renowned for its delicious wine, world-class dining, and fashion. Visitors often wish to spend time in Cape Town, and we are delighted to be a part of this experience.
- Cape Town drive
- Coastal drive
- Breakfast provided on Day 17 and Day 18
- Optional activities: Table Mountain hike, parasailing, boat cruise, Robben Island visit
* To ensure a smooth start and end to the project, pickup (one-way) and one night of lodge accommodation before the start and after the end of the project are included (single room). It is recommended to arrive in South Africa the day before the project begins to start comfortably. Therefore, airport pickup (arrival day) and one night’s accommodation before the project starts are provided. Similarly, to accommodate any potential delays in the schedule, one night’s accommodation is provided after the project ends.
* If you do not wish to have additional accommodation before or after the project, please contact us prior to application.
■ English Proficiency ★★☆☆☆
Basic communication skills are required as you will be living with international friends of various ages.
■ Physical Requirement ★★☆☆☆ This project involves many outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and jeep tours in a tropical environment, so a level of physical fitness to handle these activities is required. It is also recommended for those who adapt well to these environments. |
The gap year planner highly recommends this! The intention behind the project, personally developed by the planner
If you want to experience Africa, start with South Africa!! South Africa is the most popular region in Africa, attracting global attention. If you are worried about safety or fitness, or if you want to see, hear, and experience all that South Africa’s history, culture, nature, and cities have to offer without a tight schedule, and enjoy a genuine African experience, this is highly recommended.
For a deeper experience of Africa, we recommend joining the South Africa Trucking project, which starts in Johannesburg and ends in Cape Town, or the Southern Africa Trucking project, which starts in Cape Town and travels through Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and returns to Johannesburg (▶︎ View the project). Safe and comfortable, with just a click to complete all preparations for South Africa Trucking! You can participate with greater peace of mind with Gap Year.
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* Detailed participant reviews can be found on Gap Year Story (Click).
* More participant reviews can be found at the bottom of the project under “Participant Reviews”.
SUPPORT
Local Orientation | Online Orientation | Online Consultation | Local Institution Completion Certificate |
KGY Certification | Pre-Departure Care | KGY Consultation | KGY Mission |
24hr Emergency Care | Flight Ticket Booking Assistance | Real-Time Consultation Service | KGY Note Book |
Project and Participation Costs | KGY Mission Scholarship | OT Documents | Project accommodation for the entire period |
Airport to accommodation pickup service | Some meals during the project | Experienced driver for Africa trucking trips | Foreign-language tour manager |
Accommodation before start and after end of the project | Dedicated truck for Africa tour | Entry fees and activities included in the itinerary |
Included Services
- Accommodation for the entire project period includes 17 nights in lodges (shared rooms) and 2 nights in lodges (single rooms) before the start and after the end of the project.
- Some meals during the project include 36 local African meals and 2 South African barbecues.
Exclusions
- Round-trip airfare
- Local expenses (meals not included in the itinerary, optional tours, etc.)
- Individual travel insurance and vaccination costs
INSTITUTION INTRODUCTION
[Note] FGASA
FGASA is an organization that trains professional guides to protect South Africa’s natural and cultural heritage. It maintains strict qualification standards regarding knowledge of South African nature and culture, basic knowledge of guiding professions, as well as understanding of field equipment, teamwork, and interpersonal skills required for travel.
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ACCOMMODATION INTRODUCTION
2 people in 1 room / Wifi provided |
* To ensure a smooth start and end to the project, pick-up (one-way), and one night’s accommodation at a lodge before the project starts and after it ends are included. (Single room)
* The photos provided are for reference only to help understand the program.
LOCATION INTRODUCTION
Location : Southern Africa
Southern Africa includes South Africa, Zambia, Namibia, Mozambique, Botswana, and Zimbabwe, with South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe being the most prominent countries. These four countries are known for their stunning landscapes, attracting photographers from around the world who come to capture wildlife and nature. Consequently, the tourism industry is well-developed, making it one of the safer and more comfortable regions within Africa.
From the European-influenced Cape Town in South Africa, to the Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe which is a favorite among Europeans, to the unique flora and fauna of Botswana’s true safari experience, and even the chance to meet the Little Prince and become the hero of your own adventure in South Africa! Discover the mysterious land of Africa and start your adventure today!
SCHEDULE AND PRICES
■ This project starts every Tuesday.
■ The minimum participation period for this project is 18 days.
■ Project Cost
18 days: 5,290,000 KRW
■ Sample Optional Activities
Activity | Location | Price (as of Dec 2018) |
Soweto Historical Tour | Johannesburg | From 590 ZAR |
Johannesburg City Tour | Johannesburg | From 590 ZAR |
Kayaking | Garden Route | From 100 ZAR |
Mountain Biking | Garden Route | From 1,250 ZAR |
* Detailed information and additional activity details will be provided individually upon confirmation of participation. For further inquiries, please contact Korea Gap Year.
Gap Year provides local pricing estimate to be about 5,330,000KRW!
However, Gap Year project participation can save up to 1,240,000 KRW !
* This cost is based on 24 days, including a maximum scholarship of 257,000 KRW from Gap Year Care Services and Gap Year Mission.
■ Gap Year Mission ( ▶ Learn More )
■ Installment Payment Information
If you are unable to pay the full amount, please make an advance payment of 500,000 KRW and settle the remaining amount within 2 weeks. The process for confirming your participation will begin from the date of the advance payment, and we will check availability and TO. It is important to secure your spot early to participate on your preferred date and period! (No refunds once participation is confirmed)
* However, if the start date is approaching, the schedule for the remaining payment may vary depending on the situation.
■ Early Bird Discount and Emergency Application Information
All Gap Year projects are recommended to apply at least 3 months before the project start date due to the normal processing procedures and preparation period. The principle is to apply no later than 2 months before the start date. However, if there is an urgent need to participate in the project, you can use the emergency application service to pay an additional fee for faster processing.
* While we will assist with the fastest possible processing, there is a basic amount of time required for communication with local agencies and for confirming participation. Since all procedures are the same as for regular participants, those using the emergency application service must actively cooperate with the Korea Gap Year operation team.
** Those who apply more than 180 days before the start date can receive an Early Bird discount.
*** Emergency application services can be applied for through the options above. For inquiries regarding emergency application services, please contact koreagapyear@gmail.com.
- What is Provided: Gap Year mission and notes auto-application / Full OT materials provided upon participation confirmation / Emergency additional staffing / Support for necessary documents, etc.
* If you have difficulty calculating dates, please refer to the Naver Date Calculator >> Naver Date Calculator
** Note: In the case of emergency applications, there may be no TO due to local circumstances, and the process will proceed according to the Gap Year refund policy. Additionally, any issues caused by participant non-cooperation are the responsibility of the participant.