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12.3 Week
Based on past participants’ experiences, we’ve organized the common themes of learning, reflection, and growth by time period.
Capturing the growth journeys
of our participants.
Grow
PROJECT INTRODUCTION
Here’s your chance to protect the beautiful ocean of South Africa with your own hands!
The stunning ocean along South Africa's southern coast is home to a variety of marine life including whales, seals, sharks, and rays. With such a rich ecosystem, many environmental organizations are working hard to preserve the marine environment.
Join efforts with those working to ensure that this beautiful ocean remains beautiful as you explore South Africa's coast. Your participation will make a significant difference.
* The period from February to April is the best time to visit South Africa, and applications tend to close quickly. If you wish to participate during this time, please apply as early as possible.
This project offers the opportunity to participate in various field activities as you move between mountains and the sea. You can collect whale data while at sea, climb high cliffs to observe marine ecosystems, study seals in river estuaries, collect trash from the shore, and sometimes rush to assist stranded whales and marine life.
Help protect the beautiful natural environment of South Africa’s coast. The effort you put in will lead to valuable changes.
The southern coast of South Africa is renowned as a whale habitat, offering fantastic sights for whale watchers. Depending on the season, you can see various species including Bryde's whales, southern right whales, humpback whales, orcas, and many more.
In addition to whales, the coast is teeming with sharks, seals, rays, and countless seabirds. By participating in this project, you’ll witness the beauty of the sea through a variety of marine life that is not easily found elsewhere.
Through your time in South Africa, prepare to protect the marine environment beautifully. It will be an opportunity to discover a new direction in your life and advance your career.
Experiencing the working methods of international environmental organizations and learning from international volunteers will broaden your perspective, allowing you to develop your own expertise. You may also make good friends who share the same goals and support each other. Set the stage for your dreams in South Africa!
South Africa’s southern coast captivates travelers worldwide with its beautiful scenery. During the hot summer, you’ll meet people who come to enjoy various water sports like surfing, wakeboarding, diving, and snorkeling in South Africa's waters.
Plan a time to interact with South Africa’s dazzling sea. As you navigate the vast ocean, you’ll feel closer to nature. You might even create joyful memories swimming with friendly seals who aren’t afraid of people!
SUPPORT
Detailed Support Information
■ Accommodation and Meals
■ Project Activities
■ Care Services
■ Certificates and Recommendations
* Certificates and recommendations from the local organization will be issued upon request after the project ends. The format and issuance may vary according to the local organization’s procedures.
* Certificates and recommendations will be issued after the successful completion of the project and submission of feedback.
Excluded Items
* Please book your airfare and transportation after final confirmation of your participation and departure schedule.
PROJECT ACTIVITIES
This project involves hands-on volunteer activities for marine conservation in a coastal town on the southern coast of South Africa. Please join us to help ensure that South Africa’s beautiful marine ecosystem lasts for a long time!
| Main Activities | |
| Marine Life Observation (Boat) | Board a whale/dolphin observation boat to observe various marine life and collect data. |
| Marine Life Observation (Cliff) | Climb cliffs to investigate climate conditions and observe marine life behavior. |
| Shark and Ray Egg Case Collection | After sharks and rays lay their eggs, the egg cases wash ashore. Assist in collecting, identifying, and measuring the egg cases. |
| Underwater Video Monitoring | Help install underwater video equipment and collect data on marine life captured by the cameras, such as sharks and rays. |
| Coastal Cleanup | Collect trash along the coast, as litter can be a deadly threat to marine life. |
| Local Kindergarten Garden Management | Manage and harvest vegetables in a local kindergarten’s garden. This helps promote sustainable living practices in the community. |
| Other Tasks | Assist with various on-site activities such as data entry and organization. |
* This project is highly weather-dependent. There may be changes depending on local conditions.
Additional Information
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English Proficiency ★★☆☆☆
Physical Fitness ★★★☆☆
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* Detailed reviews from participants can be found on Gap Year Story (Click).
* More participant reviews can be found at the bottom of the project page under “Participant Reviews”.
INSTITUTION INTRODUCTION
This organization was established to raise awareness of the marine conservation issues faced by South Africa. We operate by combining marine research, conservation, and comprehensive volunteer programs, working with numerous international volunteers. Volunteers of various ages and backgrounds are making significant contributions to preserving South Africa’s marine ecosystems. Additionally, we are making a substantial impact in raising local awareness about marine conservation.
Message from the Local Organization Representative
We are dedicated to marine conservation efforts in South Africa. The commitment and participation of volunteers from around the world, ready to dedicate themselves to a better future, will help make South Africa's seas even more beautiful.
ACCOMMODATION INTRODUCTION
| 2~4 Person Rooms / Wi-Fi / 3 Meals a Day on Weekdays / Shared Bathroom |
This is a shared accommodation where you will stay with international volunteers from around the world. Laundry facilities are available, and it is recommended to use them communally to conserve energy and water.
Three meals a day are provided on weekdays. Depending on the activities, you might need to prepare a packed lunch. Breakfast includes cereals, fruits, and yogurt, while lunch and dinner offer a variety of meals including vegetarian options.
There is a small shopping center within walking distance from the accommodation, which includes convenience stores, pharmacies, and various restaurants.
As this is a volunteer-only accommodation, there are basic regulations that must be followed. Participants should adhere to these rules to ensure stable and safe activities.
LOCATION INTRODUCTION
Location: George, South Africa
George, located at the southern tip of South Africa, is a small and quiet coastal town where you can fully experience a tranquil atmosphere. Enjoy the stunning coastal scenery! The beaches along the coast are bustling with people enjoying various water sports such as surfing, wakeboarding, and snorkeling.
(* The activity location is approximately 95km from George.)
Recommended Travel Destinations
01 Tsitsikamma National Park
Tsitsikamma National Park is renowned for its forests and beautiful trekking routes along the coast. Among its highlights is the world's highest bungee jump from the Bloukrans Bridge. Jumping from this 216-meter-high bridge will definitely be an exhilarating experience. Although it might be scary and nerve-wracking, it’s an opportunity to create unforgettable memories!
02 Robberg Nature Reserve
Robberg Nature Reserve is famous for its breathtaking scenery created by the sea and rocks, and is a popular hiking destination in South Africa. As you walk along the vast coastline, you might spot various whales depending on the season, and encounter numerous seabirds and land animals. Enjoy hiking and swimming with the beautiful ocean as your backdrop!
03 Cape Town
Cape Town is the most vibrant city in South Africa and one of the most popular tourist destinations. It is a port city located on the beautiful beaches and is the capital of South Africa. Here, you can experience a lively and dynamic city atmosphere along with stunning and rich natural landscapes. Attractions include Table Mountain, Cape of Good Hope, Seal Island, and Penguin Beach, offering a wide range of activities for you to enjoy.
SCHEDULE AND PRICES
■ This project starts every Monday.
■ The minimum participation period for this project is 2 weeks.
■ The cost of this project can be found at the top of this page, where detailed prices are provided by duration and option.
■ Eligibility and Requirements
■ 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.
