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Internships in Cape Town

Cape Town tops many travel destination lists. For seven years in a row, it was voted the ‘best city in the world’ by readers of the Telegraph – and the city gets plenty more praise like this. And this is for good reason – Cape Town is a delight of a place. It’s uniquely versatile in its appeal; it has incredible natural beauty, a multicultural and cosmopolitan vibe, phenomenal surroundings, and a killer of a culinary scene. It’s also home to a wildly creative and innovative culture, which has created an inspiring environment.

It is in this setting that we offer you an opportunity to do an internship. All our internships in Cape Town are with nonprofit organisations – small but dedicated groups of people doing important social impact, environmental, or animal welfare work. As an intern, you’ll have a rewarding work experience – and the chance to live and work in this incredible setting for a while.

Find out more about Cape Town as an internship destination.

Or browse through all our internships in Cape Town below.

Marine Science field research internship

Open for applications

Marine Science Field Research Internship

  • Min. 2 weeks
  • Simon's Town, South Africa
  • Conservation Work, Research Dives, Data Collection
Dive into hands-on marine science research, studying marine life and ecosystems while contributing to the health of the ocean in South Africa.
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Marine conservation program

Open for applications

Marine Conservation Program

  • Min. 2 weeks
  • Simon's Town, South Africa
  • Community Outreach, Data Collection, Surveys, Reporting
Engage in hands-on fieldwork, contributing to the preservation of marine ecosystems while gaining valuable international conservation experience.
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Marine Research assistant

Open for applications

Marine Research Assistant Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Simon's Town, South Africa
  • Research Dives, Data Collection, Mapping, Reporting
Explore marine research, actively contributing to scientific exploration and conservation efforts to safeguard oceans and marine ecosystems.
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NGO Management internship

New

NGO Management Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • EVENT MANAGEMENT, FUNDRAISING, DIGITAL MARKETING
Actively engage in advancing the NGOs mission to combat period poverty and work towards dismantling societal taboos linked to menstruation.
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Penda photography internship

Open for applications

SEO Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • SEO, WEBSITE MANAGEMENT, WRITING
Aquire hands-on experience in SEO while collaborating with social businesses in Cape Town, contributing to their online visibility and impact.
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Refugee research internship

Open for applications

Refugee Research Internship

  • Min. 5 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • HUMAN RIGHTS, RESEARCH, REFUGEES AND MIGRANTS
Investigate challenges in the migratory phenomenon across Africa, focusing on refugees and displaced populations to shape impactful solutions.
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Forest Management Internship_feature

Applications open for Aug-Oct 2024

Forest Management Internship

  • 5 weeks
  • Cape Town & Garden Route
  • MONITORING, EVALUATION, REPORTING, DATA ANALYSIS, REFORESTATION
Engage in environmental and ecosystem conservation by assessing and sustaining forest restoration programs through hands-on fieldwork.
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digital marketing internship with animal rescue center

Open for applications

Digital Marketing Internship with Animal Rescue Center

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • WEBSITE MANAGEMENT, FUNDRAISING, MARKETING, GRANT WRITING, RESEARCH
Engage in impactful digital marketing efforts surrounded by playful puppies, as you contribute to promoting the welfare of rescued animals.
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UN-Research and grant writing internship; Uniq Foundation

NEW

Research & Grant Writing Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • RESEARCH, FUNDRAISING, GRANT WRITING
Develop strong research and writing skills while gaining practical experience in securing grants, conducting impactful research and projects.
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writing internship with dog charity

Open for applications

Writing & Communications Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • CREATIVE WRITING, COMMUNICATIONS, CONTENT CREATION
Craft impactful stories and messages, leveraging your writing and communication skills to inspire positive change and community connection.
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dog charity internship

Open for applications

Organizational Development Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • FUNDRAISING, MONITORING, REPORTING, RESEARCH
Empower underpriviledged youth through rescue dog training, contributing to online fundraising campaigns and fostering positive community impact.
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yoga internship Cape Town

Open for applications

Yoga Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • YOGA TEACHING, PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNICATIONS
Apply your yoga expertise to enhance physical and mental well-being, uplift individuals, and contribute to the broader health of the community.
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Writing internship with GBV Project

NEW

Writing Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • BLOG WRITING, REPORT AND PROPOSAL WRITING
Harness your writing skills to contribute meaningfully to the fight against gender-based violence, leaving an impact through your written voice.
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Gender Based violence research internship

NEW

Gender Based Violence Research Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • RESEARCH, REPORTING, MONITORING
Conduct research to offer comprehensive support to victims of gender-based violence in Cape Town, fostering empowerment and community awareness.
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animal welfare puppy

Open for applications

Animal Charity Communications Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Remote
  • COMMUNICATIONS, WRITING, FUNDRAISING, RESEARCH
Help a charity improve the lives of stray dogs and cats in Southern Africa, while refining your skills in effective communication and advocacy.
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Girl holding phone to show application

Open for applications

Gender Equality Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • RESEARCH, COMMUNICATIONS, FUNDRAISING, PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT
Play a key role in establishing victim support structures, researching gender-based violence, and participating in digital marketing initiatives.
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NGO Event Coordination Internship Cape Town

Open for applications

NGO Event Coordinator Internship

  • 2024 Full / 2025 Feb - April
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Event Management, Logistics, Budgeting, Communications
Leverage your event coordination skills to help organize an environmental action summit, contributing to the success of the NGO's mission.
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SEO Content Writing Internship in tourism

Open for applications

SEO Tourism Content Writing Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • CREATIVE WRITING, SEO, BLOGGING, DIGITAL MEDIA
Elevate your writing game with a unique blend of creativity and SEO expertise, producing compelling content that stands out in online searches.
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nonprofit photography internship

Open for applications

Nonprofit Photography Internship

  • Min. 3 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • PHOTOGRAPHY
Sharpen your photography skills and contribute to vital nonprofit initatives, capturing compelling visuals that amplify their impactful stories.
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Marketing Internship

Open for applications

Marketing Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • DIGITAL MARKETING, SEO, MARKETING RESEARCH
Enhance your marketing expertise while boosting the promotion and visibility of impactful photography initiatives within a social enterprise.
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Urban greening internship

Open for applications

Urban Greening Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • FACILITATION, RESEARCH, REPORTING, MONITORING, EDUCATION, TREE PLANTING
Embrace the vibrant world of urban greening in Cape Town, where your passion meets a committed mission to cultivate sustainable environments.
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Content Writing Internship

Open for applications

Content Writing Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
  • CREATIVE WRITING, SEO, SOCIAL MEDIA, STRATEGY, BLOGGING
Master the art of creating engaging and optimized content, while building a diverse writing portfolio to enhance your professional profile.
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Communications Internship

Last minute

Communications Internship

  • Min. 10 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • COMMUNICATIONS, SOCIAL MEDIA, DIGITAL MARKETING, WRITING
Join our team at Roots and assist with managing and developing our communication channels, playing a key role in enhancing outreach efforts.
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Events Internship

Open for applications

NGO Event Management Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • EVENT MANAGEMENT, COORDINATION, PLANNING
Gain practical event management for community development projects by coordinating logistics and fostering connections within the community.
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Marketing and Communications Internship

Open for applications

Marketing & Communications Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • PROJECT MANAGEMENT, COMMUNICATIONS, MARKETING, FUNDRAISING
Support the development of communication channels and fundraising initiatives for a grassroots social enterprise promoting the message of Ubuntu.
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Youth social Work Internship

Open for applications

Youth Social Work Internship

  • Min. 4 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • YOUTH DEVELOPMENT, SOCIAL WORK
Make a positive impact on young lives through meaningful activities, support programs, and community engagment initiatives in Cape Town.
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Psychology Internship

Open for applications

Psychology Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • PSYCHOLOGY, SOCIAL WORK
Participate in a range of counseling sessions and observe experienced professionals, acquiring valuable insights into the field of psychology.
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Photography internship

Open for applications

Media & Design Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • GRAPHIC DESIGN, PHOTOGRAPHY, VIDEOGRAPHY
Design visually compelling graphics for an environmental NGO, amplifying their mission through imaginative and impactful communication.
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Digital Marketing Internship

Open for applications

Digital Marketing Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • SOCIAL MEDIA, PR, DIGITAL MARKETING
Gain extensive marketing experience while contributing to environmental programs, fostering communication strategies for impactful outreach.
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creative writing internship

Open for applications

Creative Writing Internship

  • Min. 3 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • DIGITAL MARKETING, CREATIVE WRITING
Sharpen your writing prowess, build a compelling portfolio, and make a meaningful impact as you actively contribute to environmental advocacy.
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Fundraising and Business Development Internship

Open for applications

Fundraising Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Fundraising, Reporting, Research, Communications
Acquire insights into nonprofit strategic development, actively participating in fundraising activities to support environmental initiatives.
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UH-Food Security Internship

Open for applications

Food Security & Urban Farming Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • FOOD SECURITY, URBAN FARMING, EDUCATION
Participate in sustainable practices and community well-being, developing and managing food gardens and workshops at township schools.
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Migrants and refugee charity internship

Open for applications

Migrants & Refugee Charity Internship

  • Min. 12 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • REFUGEES AND MIGRANTS, HUMAN RIGHTS
Promote the welfare of migrants and refugees, fostering inclusivity in diverse communities and participating in the daily operations of programs.
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human rights internships

Open for applications

English School Assistant

  • Min. 4 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • ENGLISH TEACHING, COORDINATION, ADMINISTRATION
Acquire valuable teaching experience by teaching English to refugees, facilitating language acquisition, and promoting community integration.
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Empowerment of Refugees Internship

Open for applications

Empowerment of Refugees Internship

  • Min. 5 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • REFUGEES AND MIGRANTS, SKILL DEVELOPMENT, SOCIAL WELFARE
Empower migrants and refugees in South Africa to rebuild their lives and contribute to their new community through social and economic support.
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Advocacy and Human Rights Internship

Open for applications

Advocacy & Human Rights Internship

  • Min. 5 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • HUMAN RIGHTS, REFUGEE LAW AND MIGRATION ISSUES
Champion human rights and advocate for justice in the vibrant context of Cape Town, where your unwavering dedication makes a meaningful impact.
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Communications Internship

Open for applications

Communications Internship

  • Min. 12 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • COMMUNICATIONS, SOCIAL MEDIA, DIGITAL MARKETING, WRITING
Manage and enhance communication channels for a nonprofit supporting refugees, amplifying their voices, and encouraging community engagement.
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Female Empowerment Internship

Open for applications

Female Empowerment Internship

  • Min. 5 months
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, COMMUNICATION, COORDINATION
Acquire meaningful work experience as you empower female refugees through skill development workshops, enabling them to shape a brighter future.
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MB_Digital Marketing and Sales Internship

Open for applications

Marketing & Business Research Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • COMMUNICATIONS, MARKETING, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Join a dynamic charity committed to empowering women in townships through skill development, fostering creativity, and driving positive change.
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NGO Management Internship in Cape Town

Open for applications

NGO Management Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • REPORTING, SOCIAL MEDIA, MARKETING, PR, EVENTS COORDINATION
Support a filmmaking NGO focused on social impact by contributing to its operations and developing initiatives that use film for positive change.
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Open for applications

Social Media Marketing Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • SOCIAL MEDIA, CONTENT CREATION, ANALYTICS, COMMUNITY MANAGEMENT
Gain valuable digital marketing skills as you promote real stories that raise awareness, drive advocacy, and inspire positive social change.
Find out more
Communications and Fundraising NGO Internship_feature

Open for applications

Communications & Fundraising Internship

  • Min. 8 weeks
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • SOCIAL MEDIA, WRITING, FUNDRAISING, EVENTS
Explore your passion for communications as it sparks meaningful change, contributing to an impactful mission through the power of storytelling.
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Nonprofit management internship

Open for applications

NGO Management Internship

  • Min. 4 weeks
  • Cape Town / Kruger (South Africa), Livingstone (Zambia
  • MARKETING, FUNDRAISING, FACILITATION, MONITORING, NGO MANAGEMENT
Embrace transformative impact as your passion aligns with a noble mission, shaping the future of impactful organizations in the rainbow nation.
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Table Moutain-Lions Head

NATURAL BEAUTY

Cape Town’s natural setting is nothing short of spectacular. It’s framed by the imposing Table Mountain on one side, and a stunning coastline on the other; the views are pretty phenomenal, wherever you are in the city. Venturing onto the top of Table Mountain, and taking in the far-stretching view, is a must, and for the more adventurous, it’s also an option to hike up and down. And at the back of the mountain you’ll find Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, a stunning park that offers great walks, views, and picnic spots. The many stunning beaches offer a place to relax, enjoy sunsets, or surf.

Once you venture just outside of the city, nature doesn’t disappoint either. There’s several national parks that offer good hikes – or game drives, like Cape Point National Park, where you might come across zebras, ostriches, or different types of antelope. And then there’s the winelands; a collection of wonderful vineyards on rolling hills around Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. Just a short drive from Cape Town, this area allows you to taste wine, enjoy great food, and explore charming towns with historic interest. A real treat of a day out!

Bo-Kaap

URBAN EDGE

But Cape Town has much more to offer than its natural setting – it’s also a city with an exciting urban edge. One of the results of Cape Town’s turbulent history is its multicultural character. It’s a colorful hub of different traditions and stories, with an added layer of cosmopolitanism. There’s also a thriving creative scene, with edgy architecture, art, and interior design being a common thread across the city.

FAQs ON INTERNSHIPS IN SOUTH AFRICA

What type of internships can I do in Cape Town?

We offer a great variety of different internships in Cape Town. We have over 30 different internships with nonprofit organisations focused on urban greening, female empowerment, education, humanitarian photography, film making, refugee support, and social work. As an intern, you’ll have a focus that aligns with your academic background and interest, and the options include communications, fundraising, business development, project management, digital marketing, creative writing, photography and counseling. We also offer research internships, which are always customized. If you’re not sure which program suits you best, give us a shout, and we can help you find the best match.

What are the living expenses?

You can expect most things to cost a bit less than in Europe or North America, especially activities like eating out. But property is in demand, so rent isn’t cheap. If you’d like specific prices of things, let us know, and we’ll give you more detailed information.

What kind of accommodation can I expect?

We can offer you accommodation in shared apartments that are centrally located and in safe areas. You’ll be walking distance from shops, restaurants, and often from your office as well. You’ll share an apartment with other travelers – mostly interns – from around the world, so you won’t be short of companionship.

Is it safe to intern in Cape Town?

Yes, you can safely live in Cape Town. As in many places, there is crime, but as long as you stick to basic rules, you’ll have nothing to worry about. We’ll make sure to give you the information you need on staying safe, and we’ll set you up in a secure accommodation.

Why should I do a nonprofit internship in Cape Town?

Cape Town has a diverse and inspiring nonprofit sector; mostly small- to medium-sized organisations that are addressing issues related to food security, access to education, skill development, gender equality, animal welfare, and the environment. As an intern, you can be part of realising the vision of one of these nonprofits, which is an enriching experience on both a personal and professional level.

Will I have time off?

Absolutely! You’ll have weekends off, and generally, you’ll also be able to take some extra days off if you’d like to go on some trips to explore the city’s surroundings.

What type of weekend activities and trips are available?

As an intern in Cape Town, you’ll have a wealth of great activities to choose from during your days off. You can venture onto Table Mountain to enjoy the incredible views, drive or hike onto Lion’s Peak to watch the sunset, or explore the local flora and fauna in Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. In summer, it will be hard to stay away from the stunning beaches you’re surrounded by, a highlight of which is perhaps Boulder’s Beach, where a colony of penguins will be your company. And if you’re into surfing – or if you’re keen to learn, there’s plenty of waves to catch.

There’s plenty of options in the city itself, too, though. You might explore some of the many local markets, enjoy the rich culinary delights (Cape Town has some of the continent’s best restaurants), or visit the local museums. And when you have a bit more time, you might venture out to the winelands for a wine tasting trip, drive to the Cape of Good Hope, or take a road trip down the Garden Route.

Do I need a visa to intern in Cape Town?

Yes, you’ll need to apply for a South African visa. It should be a straightforward process and we’ll be here to assist you!