FAQ

Is South Africa safe?

In comparison to a lot of other countries South Africa is less safe. There is a lot of poverty and a huge difference between the rich and the poor which results in high crime rates.

Do I need a visa when I am volunteering?

Depending on your country of origin there are different procedures for visa applications for volunteers. If you are from any Schengen country you don’t need to apply for a visa before you leave if you stay shorter then 6 months. When you arrive in South Africa, you will get a visitors permit for 3 months at customs which you can extend if you want to stay longer.

What is the South African Climate like?

South Africa is located in the Southern hemisphere and the seasons are reversed as opposed to those in the northern hemisphere.

In summer (your winter) it is hot up north and in the east, hot and dry in the interior and sometimes tropically hot in the south. After a drought it can rain for long periods of time especially in areas along the coastline. There can be big thunderstorms, floods and rain, in particularly up north.

What vaccinations will I need before coming to South Africa?

South Africa is a very big country with a diversity of climates and circumstances. There are various diseases and illnesses present that are no longer common in Europe. Check with your doctor or other institutions to make sure you have the right vaccinations for volunteering at a specific volunteer project and make sure you have received all necessary shots before you leave.

Should I get travel insurance?

Because you will be away for a certain period, when you are here for a gap year or volunteering, of time you will have to check your insurance. It is best to contact your present insurance broker for advice and explain you are volunteering in South Africa. Check and compare different insurance possibilities to see what suits you best. Find out from the various insurance companies what the procedure will be if an emergency occurs in South Africa and you would need medical assistance. Make sure you bring this information and hand it over at the volunteer project so people always know what to do if something would happen.