How do online gap year internships work?

We’re happy to offer a number of remote internships. As an online intern, you’ll still be part of an NGO in Africa, and you’ll be doing a lot of the same work that you would do on the ground. You’ll be in touch with your supervisor and other colleagues on a very regular basis, using a range of digital platforms. In a working world that is increasingly moving towards a distributed working model, gaining experience in working remotely can be a beneficial thing. Plus, you’ll gain international experience from the comfort of your own home.

Gap Year Internships - Roots Interns

Q: Where can I go for a gap year internship?

We offer gap year internships in nine different African countries; South Africa, Zambia, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Ghana. There’s a great variety of settings; you can be based in a buzzing city, in the middle of the African bush, in a rural village, or on an island in the Indian Ocean. Wherever you’ll be based, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful scenery, interesting cultures, and an abundance of travel opportunities.

Are you looking to do a gap year internship abroad? We’ve got you covered!

We strongly believe that doing a internship during your gap year is a wonderful idea; it allows you to gain a fresh perspective on your career plans and life goals, so that you can pursue those with purpose and motivation. It’s also a great opportunity to get some international experience under your belt, something that enhances your resume, broadens your horizons, and – not unimportantly – allows you to have an exciting adventure.

At Roots, we offer a wide range of gap year internships around the world. These are all with organizations that are addressing humanitarian, environmental, and animal welfare issues on a grassroots level. We also offer a number of online gap year internships, which allow you to still gain international exposure and valuable work experience even if you’re unable to travel.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR GAP YEAR INTERNSHIPS

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Beyond TEFL Course

6 month course access
Remote
TEFL Certification, Teaching Abroad

Get ready to become a great English teacher abroad with this Teaching English as Foreign Language (TEFL) official certification program.

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A lioness rests on a grassy landscape, surrounded by green vegetation in a natural habitat, with another lion resting in the background.

Open for applications

Wildlife Monitoring & Conservation Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Maasai Mara, Kenya
Wildlife Observation, Ecological Studies, Data Evaluation, Habitat Preservation

Take part in conservation projects focused on wildlife monitoring and sustainability, working to protect Kenya’s unique ecosystems and biodiversity.

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Two interns load aid and food boxes into a van as part of a volunteer project during their NGO internship.

Open for applications

NGO Management Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Lisbon, Portugal
Business Development, Strategy, Fundraising, Communications

Put your business skills to work by assisting nonprofits in their growth strategies to further their mission.

Find out more

Open for applications

Veterinary Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Croatia, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain
Digital Media, Strategic Marketing, Communication Channels

Extend the reach of dedicated nonprofits through digital marketing campaigns and refined communications strategies.

Find out more

Close-up of code on a computer screen, representing work in IT or software development.

Open for applications

IT & Web Management Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Italy OR Portugal
Website Management, Backend Development, Systems & Procedures

Apply your IT skills to web development projects with nonprofits that will help you build your portfolio as you expand their online presence.

Find out more

Open for applications

Communications Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Croatia, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain
Digital Media, Strategic Marketing, Communication Channels

Extend the reach of dedicated nonprofits through digital marketing campaigns and refined communications strategies.

Find out more

A group of interns jump in excitement on a beach at sunset, silhouetted against the sky, symbolizing teamwork and celebration.

Open for applications

Customized Internship in Europe

Min. 4 weeks
Croatia, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain
Social-Environmental Impact, Tailor-Made, Nonprofit Development

Design a tailor-made internship experience that aligns with your professional and personal goals while furthering the mission of a nonprofit in Europe.

Find out more

A group of people in Malawi stands under a large tree, attentively participating in an agroforestry demonstration. They wear vibrant clothing and are focused on the activity in their rural setting.

Open for applications

Agroecology Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Nkhata Bay, Malawi
Environmental Sustainability, Capacity Building, Organizational Development

Take an active role in empowering rural communities through workshops focused on food and water security, nutrition, and environmental sustainability.

Find out more

Open for applications

Sports Coaching Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Tacloban, Philippines
Sports Coaching, Youth Empowerment, Project Management

Build a versatile repertoire of sports coaching and youth development skills to uplift disadvantaged communities.

Find out more

students working in a wooden library with bookshelves and trophies

Open for applications

Teaching & Youth Development Internship

Min. 12 weeks
Tacloban, Philippines
Mentoring, Academic Guidance, Safe Play

Develop well-rounded teaching and education experience as you uplift the indigent communities of Tacloban City.

Find out more

Fundraising and digital marketing internship

Open for applications

Fundraising & Digital Marketing Internship

Min. 8 weeks (in-person) / 12 weeks (remote)
Tacloban, Philippines OR Remote
Digital Media, Campaign Management, Strategic Marketing

Help raise awareness and funds for an organization uplifting impoverished communities through education.

Find out more

Open for applications

Business Development Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Tacloban, Philippines
Research, Data Analysis, M&E, Strategic Development

Build diverse business skills and experience supporting an impactful education and community uplift nonprofit.

Find out more

Open for applications

NGO Management Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Siem Reap, Cambodia OR Remote
Communications, Fundraising, M&E, Daily Operations

Engage in broad skill-building opportunities, varied workloads, and a chance to make a tangible impact for impoverished communities.

Find out more

group of children sitting on the ground, listening to a woman speaking in front

Open for applications

Education Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Teaching, Curriculum Development, Lesson Planning

Help to run educational programs and vocational training for impoverished communities of Siem Reap.

Find out more

Volunteers working on a construction project in a rural village setting

Open for applications

Construction Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Building, Product Design, Planning & Research

Build skills and experience in construction by building homes and sanitation systems for impoverished neighborhoods.

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25 May - 6 June

Sustainable Development Micro-Internship

2 Weeks
Turrialba & Tirimbina, Costa Rica
Sustainable Development, Environmental Management, Case Studies

Gain insight into resource management, sustainable business practices, and innovation in the context of a tropical rainforest.

Find out more

March 2025 start dates

Remote Computer Science Internship

Min. 12 weeks
Remote
Coding, Systems Design, Programming

Apply your coding skills in the real-world by helping an innovative tech startup develop an exciting multi-app search engine.

Find out more

Open for applications

Bachelor’s Level Conservation Research Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Greater Kruger, South Africa
Wildlife Research, Ecosystem Conservation, Data Collection

Travel to South Africa’s largest wildlife sanctuary, Greater Kruger Park, and research ways to protect its wildlife.

Find out more

Open for applications

Master’s Level Conservation Research Internship

Min. 3 months
Greater Kruger, South Africa
Ecological Research, Wildlife Conservation, Data Projects

Live and work in Greater Kruger Park and conduct in-field ecological research on Africa’s most iconic wildlife.

Find out more

a volunteer holding a printed hamburger in front of the room in Tacloban City

Open for applications

Nutrition Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Tacloban, Philippines
Program Development, Nutrition Research, Seminar Leading

Empower communities by promoting healthy living and addressing nutritional disparities through hands-on engagement, research, and educational outreach.

Find out more

Open for applications

NGO Management Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Puerto Inca, Peru
Monitoring & Evaluation, Impact Reporting, Project Interaction

Embark on a journey of diverse skill development in NGO management while contributing to the protection of the Amazon Rainforest.

Find out more

Open for applications

Social Welfare Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Tacloban, Philippines
Counseling, Workshops, Mentorship, Empowerment

Support vulnerable populations, empower individuals, and foster community growth through hands-on involvement in social welfare initiatives in the Philippines.

Find out more

volunteers giving school supplies to students in Tacloban City

Open for applications

Special Education Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Tacloban, Philippines
Teaching, Developing Learning Plans, Individualized Support

Collaborate with seasoned mentors to craft and deliver captivating lessons to students, igniting positive transformations in the lives of children with special needs.

Find out more

volunteers with a group of kids from Tacloban

Open for applications

Communications and Fundraising Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Tacloban, Philippines OR Remote
Content Creation, Fundraising, Communications

Seize the chance to make a meaningful difference, gaining hands-on experience in communications, fundraising, and development initiatives.

Find out more

Open for applications

Wildlife Conservation Program

Min. 8 weeks
Recinto La Esperie, Ecuador
Research, Education, Conservation

Enhance your fieldwork skills and support habitat restoration in the Cloud Forest of Ecuador.

Find out more

New

Media and Marketing Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Pretoria, South Africa OR Remote
Content Creation, Marketing Strategy, Social Media, Online Fundraising

Step into impactful community development and help organize and develop programs related to nutrition, psychosocial support, and skills development

Find out more

Women with information signs about breastfeeding

Open for applications

Program Assistant Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Pretoria, South Africa OR Remote
Program Development, Coordination, Fundraising, Outreach, Reporting

Step into impactful community development and help organize and develop programs related to nutrition, psychosocial support, and skills development

Find out more

Open for applications

Health and Nutrition Research Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Pretoria, South Africa OR Remote
Data Analysis, Literature Review, Reporting, Research, Writing

Explore the realms of nutrition education, breastfeeding practices, the food chain intricacies, and psychosocial support programs

Find out more

Open for applications

Impact and Water Waste Research Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Berlin, Germany OR Remote
Research, Data Analysis, Reporting, Presentations

Build valuable research skills whilst contributing to an often overlooked cause in the climate crisis

Find out more

Panel discussions with in clothing store setting

Open for applications

Communications & PR Internship

Min. 12 weeks
Berlin, Germany OR Remote
Writing, Strategy, Social Media, PR

Raise awareness for an often overlooked aspect of the climate crisis and build a varied skill set in communications and PR

Find out more

Lady giving presentation about fashion for water

Open for Applications

Graphic Design Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Berlin, Germany OR Remote
Graphic design for visuals, presentations, reports, socials

Build a busting graphic design portfolio addressing an often overlooked aspect of the climate crisis

Find out more

migrants posing for a photo in front of a shelter

Open for applications

Shelter & Support For Migrants Internship in Spain

Min. 12 weeks
Barcelona, Spain
Internships, Summer internships, Gap year internships

Make an impact helping offer activities designed to support and uplift young migrants

Find out more

Open for applications

Marketing Internship in Spain

Min. 6 months
Barcelona, Spain
Social Media, SEO, Content Creation, Writing

Kick-start your career in the world of marketing by learning the ropes in content creation, advertising, and search engine optimization.

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Available from Oct 2025

Business Analyst Internship

Min. 12 weeks
Barcelona, Spain
Internships, Summer internships, Gap year internships

Begin an exciting journey to uncover the insights of business growth and development.

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a dentist checking a young girl's teeth in an outdoor medical mission

Open for applications

Medical Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Arequipa, Peru
Medical Examinations, Health Campaigns, Community Medicine

Expand your medical skills and help improve the health and nutrition of this Peruvian community to ensure an active and healthy life.

Find out more

Children around table in class room painting

Open for applications

Education Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Arequipa, Peru
Internships, Summer internships, Gap year internships

Work closely with expert mentors to plan and deliver engaging lessons that transform the lives of children, teenagers, and adults.

Find out more

A group of children sitting at tables in a classroom

Open for applications

Social Work Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Arequipa, Peru
Youth Development, Social Work

Embark on a deeply fulfilling mission to assist children and young individuals facing disabilities and vulnerability in Arequipa.

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Open for applications

Psychology Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Arequipa, Peru
Reporting, Psychological Evaluation, Program Development, Education

Make a profound difference in the lives of children, adolescents, women, and older adults facing significant challenges.

Find out more

Open for applications

Education Internship

Min. 12 weeks
Tomepampa, Peru
Internships, Summer internships, Gap year internships

Earn international teaching experience in a rural school while connecting with the local community.

Find out more

A woman with a face mask and children at a table

Open for applications

NGO Management Internship

Min. 12 weeks
Arequipa, Peru
Fundraising, Impact Assessment, Communications, Volunteer Coordination

Live and work in Peru while you learn how to manage a small NGO.

Find out more

Open for applications

Marine Conservation Internship

Min. 2 months
Zanzibar, Tanzania
Education, Data Collection, Turtle Conservation, Monitoring

Travel to a breathtaking island and gain extensive experience in marine conservation work.

Find out more

Open for applications

Environmental Education Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Santarém, Portugal
Education, Facilitation, Curriculum Development, Monitoring

Help spread awareness of animal mistreatment and environmental issues to inspire change.

Find out more

Open for applications

Media Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Santarém, Portugal
Content Creation, Videography, Editing, TV

Make exciting, powerful content to inspire audiences to get behind vital conservation work.

Find out more

Open for applications

Sea Turtle Conservation Internship

Min. 6 weeks
Carate, Costa Rica
Data Collection, Marine Conservation, Education, Research

Contribute to the preservation of sea turtles and their natural habitats, while engaging in environmental conservation efforts in Costa Rica.

Find out more

Open for applications

Conservation Marketing Internship

6-12 weeks
Carate, Costa Rica
Digital Marketing, Fundraising, Content Creation

Digital marketing working at the forefront of sea turtle conservation

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Open for applications

Project Coordinator

12 weeks
Borneo, Costa Rica, OR South Africa
Group Leading, Coordination, Mentorship

Facilitate transformative volunteering experiences for young people to learn about global citizenship.

Find out more

Open for applications

Marketing and Fundraising Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Santarém, Portugal
Content Creation, Fundraising, Monitoring & Evaluation, Funding Research

Help raise vital funds for vulnerable animals in Portugal while developing a diverse portfolio of work.

Find out more

Open for applications

Veterinary Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Santarém, Portugal
Animal Care, Veterinary Assistance, Treatment

Get first hand veterinary experience by caring for vulnerable animals in a sanctuary surrounded by forest.

Find out more

Open for applications

Reforestation and Biodiversity Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Santarém, Portugal
Animal Care, Research, Data Capture, Conservation

Be part of an exciting reforestation program, helping to build a thriving natural environment for Portugal’s native animal and plant species.

Find out more

Open for applications

Wildlife Husbandry Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica
Animal Care, Camera Traps, Training, Feeding

Gain hands-on experience caring for sick, injured and orphaned wildlife of Costa Rica.

Find out more

Open for applications

Orphan Care Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica
Animal Care, Nursery Assistance, Animal Research

Immerse yourself in nurturing and rehabilitating orphaned wildlife, contributing directly to their conservation in the heart of the biodiverse Puntarenas province.

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Open for applications

Veterinary Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica
Veterinary Assistance, Reporting, Animal Care

Work on the frontline of wildlife conservation in a wildlife sanctuary in Costa Rica.

Find out more

Open for applications

Mental and Physical Health Development Internship

Min. 12 weeks
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Program Enhancement, Educational Material Creation, Training, Reporting

An exciting opportunity to independently develop mental or physical care programs.

Find out more

Open for applications

Technical Support Internship

Min. 12 weeks
Siem Reap, Cambodia
CRM, Data Analysis, Monitoring & Evaluation, Reporting, Training

Travel to Cambodia and help a social impact nonprofit to better utilize software and digital tools in their work.

Find out more

Open for applications

Communications and Marketing Internship

Min. 12 weeks
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Digital Marketing, Content Creation, Social Media, Reporting

Build communications and marketing skills whilst helping to lift children and their families out of poverty.

Find out more

Open for applications

Education Program Development Internship

Min. 12 weeks
Siem Reap, Cambodia OR Remote
Curriculum and Program Development, Education Methodology

Help devise educational programs to lift children and their families out of poverty.

Find out more

Open for applications

Conservation Research Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Manzanillo, Costa Rica
Data Capture, Permaculture, Conservation, Education, Monitoring, Research

Specialize in Marine or Land Ecology, or get a taste of both with this versatile Conservation Internship.

Find out more

Open for applications

Conservation Marketing and Fundraising Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Manzanillo, Costa Rica
Digital Marketing, Content Creation, Fundraising, Outreach

Travel to Costa Rica and help raise funds and awareness for the important conservation work being done there.

Find out more

Open for applications

Remote NGO Management Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Remote
Digital Marketing. Communications, Fundraising

Make a valuable contribution to the fight to improve mental health support in Brazil.

Find out more

Open for applications

Rainforest Conservation Research Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Serra do Brigadeiro State Park, Brazil
Research, Data Analysis, Community Outreach, Conservation, Reporting

Travel to Brazil and study the flora and fauna of the Atlantic Rainforest.

Find out more

a picture of a group of volunteers outside

Open for applications

Project Assistant Internship

Min. 3 months
Recinto La Esperie, Ecuador
Coordination, Fundraising, Communications

Gain multifaceted working experience doing vital work to protect the Cloud Forest

Find out more

Open for applications

Wildlife Research Internship

Min. 3 months
Recinto La Esperie, Ecuador
Education, Data Capture & Analysis, Community Projects

Gain valuable scientific research experience by studying endemic species of plants and animals, contributing to the preservation of biodiversity.

Find out more

Open for applications

Public Health and WASH Engineering Internship

Min. 3 months
Shandia, Ecuador
Education, Research, Operations, Construction, Engineering, Public Health

Help a rural community develop systems for clean water, sanitation, and hygiene

Find out more

Open for applications

Sustainability & Ecotourism Internship

Min. 3 months
Shandia, Ecuador
Business Development, Marketing, Sustainable Tourism, Education

Help to establish an ecotourism center in the Amazonian Rainforest region of Ecuador

Find out more

Open for applications

Education & Youth Development Internship

Min. 3 months
Shandia, Ecuador
Teaching, Community Outreach, Content creation, Operations

Become an advocate for social change working with a community in the Amazon Rainforest

Find out more

a woman smiling while feeding a tortoise

Open for applications

Galapagos Conservation Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Galapagos, Ecuador
Internships, Summer internships, Gap year internships

Undertake a unique journey of conservation and transformation, working closely with experts to maintain Galapagos’ ecosystem.

Find out more

Open for applications

Urban Agriculture and Sustainable Farming Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Galapagos, Ecuador
Business Development, Data and Soil Analysis, Farming

Become an essential part of the farm workforce, using eco-friendly practices and contributing to food sovereignty.

Find out more

A woman smiles while holding a young girl in Ecuador

Open for applications

Galapagos Development Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Galapagos, Ecuador
Internships, Summer internships, Gap year internships

Dive into a transformative journey at the heart of Isabela Island where you will be actively contributing in making a meaningful impact on the island's community.

Find out more

Open for applications

Marine Science Field Research Internship

2-4 weeks
Simon's Town, South Africa
Conservation Work, Research Dives, Data Collection

A comprehensive crash-course in Marine Science and Conservation

Find out more

Open for applications

Marine Conservation Program

2-6 weeks
Simon's Town, South Africa
Community Outreach, Data Collection, Surveys, Reporting

Gain international experience in a marine conservation context

Find out more

Open for applications

Marine Research Assistant Internship

8-12 weeks
Simon's Town, South Africa
Research Dives, Data Collection, Mapping, Reporting

Make your first steps on a career path in Marine Science

Find out more

Open for applications

Community Healthcare Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Puerto Inca, Peru
Medical, Healthcare, Community Outreach

Offer medical support and assistance at a local health center in the Peruvian Amazon

Find out more

Open for applications

Medical Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Limuru, Kenya
Medical Assistance, Examinations, Patient Rounds

Gain practical experience in the medical field at health centers and hospitals in a Kenyan community.

Find out more

Open for applications

Healthcare Internship

Min. 3 weeks
Cape Town, South Africa
Hospice support, Therapeutic Support, Healthcare assistance

Travel and contribute to meaningful work in the public healthcare system in South Africa.

Find out more

teachers and kids smiling in a classroom

Open for applications

Teaching Internship

Min. 3 months
Puerto Inca, Peru
Curriculum Development, Workshops, Education

Teach children the skills they need to become the next generation of conservation leaders

Find out more

Open for applications

Biology Research Internship

Min. 4 weeks
Puerto Inca, Peru
Data Capture, Reporting, Surveys, Camera Traps

Work alongside experts documenting and studying flora and fauna of the Peruvian Amazon

Find out more

Open for applications

Biodiversity Conservation Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Serra do Brigadeiro State Park, Brazil
Research, Reforestation, Conservation, Monitoring

Help reverse the climate crisis by restoring the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest.

Find out more

Open for applications

Event Management Internship in the Netherlands

Min. 6 months
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Event Coordination, Planning, Communications

Develop event management skills whilst experiencing life in the bustling, colorful city of Amsterdam.

Find out more

Open for applications

Marine Research Assistant Internship

4 weeks
Bulak, Dauin, Philippines
Data analysis, Research, Reporting, Education

Assist with the furtherment of Marine Science studying coral reefs in one of the most biodiverse marine regions in the world

Find out more

Open for applications

Marine Research Fellow Internship

3 months
Bulak, Dauin, Philippines
Data analysis, (Lab) Research, Reporting, Mentoring, Education

Transform global marine ecosystems through locally-led community based conservation strategies

Find out more

Open for applications

Research Assistant and Divemaster Internship

3 months
Bulak, Dauin, Philippines
Data analysis, Monitoring, Research, Reporting, Education

Conducts critical research on marine ecosystems in the Coral Triangle

Find out more

Open for applications

Volunteer Coordinator

Min. 3 months
Bahia, Brazil
Coordination, Facilitation, Hospitality, Program Development

Empower a new generation of conservation leaders through a range of educational programs.

Find out more

Open for applications

Marketing and Fundraising Internship

Min. 3 months
Bahia, Brazil
Digital Marketing, Content Creation, Strategy, Fundraising

Build a well-rounded marketing skill set promoting vital work done in a seaside community.

Find out more

Open for applications

Research and Nature Conservation Internship

Min. 3 months
Bahia, Brazil
Research, Monitoring, Data Analysis, Reporting, Education

Gain practical research experience protecting biodiversity and creating sustainable change through a mangrove reforestation project.

Find out more

Open for applications

NGO Management Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Cape Town, South Africa OR Remote
Event Management, Fundraising, Digital Marketing

Advance this NGO's mission to end period poverty and destigmatize menstruation through a variety of activities.

Find out more

Open for applications

SEO Internship

Min. 10 weeks
Remote OR Travel Options
SEO, Website Management, Writing

Gain practical experience in SEO research and writing by joining the internal team at Roots Interns and working with an SEO specialist.

Find out more

Open for applications

Communications Internship

Min. 10 weeks
Remote OR Travel Options
Writing, Digital Marketing, Social Media

Join our team at Roots and assist in running & developing our communication channels through various writing and research tasks.

Find out more

SEO Content Writing Internship in tourism

Open for applications

SEO Tourism Content Writing Internship

Min. 10 weeks
Remote OR Travel Options
Creative Writing, SEO, Blogging

Sharpen your writing skills and learn to write content that is creative and optimized for search engines.

Find out more

Open for applications

Content Creator Internship

12 weeks
Borneo, Costa Rica, OR South Africa
Digital Media Creation, Content Gathering, Editing

Accompany young volunteers on the trip of a lifetime and capture content from the most magical moments.

Find out more

Open for applications

Wellbeing Coordinator

12 weeks
Borneo, Costa Rica, OR South Africa
Mentoring, Program Leadership, Counseling

Guide young volunteers on an eye-opening expedition and support their wellbeing, health, and development.

Find out more

two Raleigh volunteers outside near a green vehicle

Open for applications

Photography Internship

12 weeks
Borneo, Costa Rica, OR South Africa
Photography, Storytelling, Editing Media

Join transformative volunteer expeditions and document powerful stories through photography and film.

Find out more

Group of Raleigh volunteers sitting around the table planning

Open for applications

Deputy Operations Coordinator

12 weeks
Borneo, Costa Rica, OR South Africa
Project Management, Facilitator, Mentoring

Build project management and leadership skills as you act as a role model for young volunteers on a transformative expedition.

Find out more

Open for applications

Expedition Medic Internship

12 weeks
Borneo, Costa Rica, OR South Africa
First Aid, Medical Support, Emergency Responder

Provide aid to those in need and develop your paramedic skills accompanying young volunteers on the trip of a lifetime.

Find out more

Open for applications

Women’s Support NGO Internship

Min. 12 weeks
Cape Town, South Africa
Gender Studies, Advocacy, Management, Communications

Support a team dedicated to fighting gender based violence and providing services to victims.

Find out more

Open for applications

Wildlife Veterinary Internship

2-12 weeks
Lilongwe, Malawi
Veterinary work, Animal care, Integrations, Observations

A hands-on wildlife veterinary internship at a rescue and rehabilitation center

Find out more

Open for applications

Social Entrepreneurship Internship

Min. 12 weeks
Nkhata Bay, Malawi OR Remote
Marketing, Fundraising, Program Development, Research, Operations

Help with the development and management of an inspiring social business

Find out more

Open for applications

Marketing & Communications Internship in South Africa

Min. 8 weeks
Bela-Bela, South Africa OR Remote
Fundraising, Reporting, Social Media, Content Creation

Make an impact in the development and sustainability of this project, protecting an endadgered species.

Find out more

Open for applications

NGO Management and Finance Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Nkhata Bay, Malawi
Accounting, Reporting, Fundraising, Social Business Development

Gain finance management and income generation experience

Find out more

Open for applications

Media and Marketing Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Nkhata Bay, Malawi or REMOTE
Communications, PR, Digital Marketing, Writing

Help an inspiring social enterprise reach a wider audience.

Find out more

Applications open May 2025

Remote Agroforestry Research Internship

Min. 8 weeks
Remote
Research, Agroecology, Data Analysis, Reporting

Research, analyze, develop reports, and gain insights into sustainable land management in Ghana.

Find out more

Reasons for doing a gap year internship abroad

We firmly believe in the merit of gap years. Taking a break before heading to university and pursuing a career is a great chance to step back and reflect. By traveling, volunteering, or interning, you can build confidence, adaptability, and a sense of purpose. And it doesn’t need to interfere with your academic or career achievements – on the contrary; research shows that people who’ve taken a gap year end up being more engaged when they get to university, and perform better academically.

One great benefit of taking a gap year is the opportunity to sample different careers. Instead of just guessing that a certain sector or job will suit and fulfil you, you can do a gap year internship to actually experience what a certain career would look like on a daily basis. And needless to say, it will also look good on your resume to build up some practical work experience.

At Roots, we offer gap year internships with nonprofits globally. Apart from offering practical work experience, these internships also allow you to be part of an inspiring cause, and live and work in a foreign culture. You’ll be able to use and explore your talents, find your strengths, grow in adaptability, and make a tangible impact on a grassroots level.

Frequently Asked Questions about Gap Year Internships

What can I expect to learn on a gap year internship with a nonprofit organization?

The internship tasks vary hugely across the different programs we offer. Depending on the type of internship you’ll sign up for, you can get practical work experience in areas such as communications, marketing, project management, content writing, fundraising, and business development. Most internships are quite flexible and offer you to dabble in a variety of tasks, so that you can explore your skills.

Regardless of your specific focus, you’ll gain an understanding of the nonprofit sector in the context of a developing country, as you’ll be part of a charitable organization. More specifically, you might be working on environmental, human rights, education, wildlife conservation, or animal welfare projects.

Through your gap year internship abroad, you can expect to explore your unique talents, do some valuable experiential learning, and develop a range of skills. You’ll also make a difference on the ground, to a cause you feel passionate about.

Do I qualify for one of your gap year internships?

Just send us your motivation and resume, and we’ll find you the right opportunity! Some internships require a certain amount of skills and/or experience, but for most of them, you just need to be motivated and excited to learn. We offer a wide range of gap year internships, all with different focus areas, and we’re confident we can find something suitable for you.

Where can I go for a gap year internship?

We offer gap year internships in countries around the world! There’s a great variety of settings; you can be based in a buzzing city, in the middle of the African bush, in a rural village, or on an island in the Indian Ocean. Wherever you’ll be based, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful scenery, interesting cultures, and an abundance of travel opportunities.

Will I need a visa and vaccinations?

Yes, you will. The requirements are different for each country, and we’ll give you all the information you need to get fully prepared for the experience. We’ll be here every step of the way.

Is it safe to do a gap year internship abroad?

Yes, absolutely. It’s always important to be aware of your surroundings, educate yourself on recommended precautions, and use good common sense. It’s always good to be vigilant and well-informed – and we’ll assist you with this. Our Roots team will make sure you have all the information you need for a safe experience during your internship.

How long can I intern for?

Most of our gap year internships have a minimum length of eight weeks, and you can usually stay for as long as you wish. Or you can do multiple internships. Each internship listing has information on the specific requirements, but if anything is unclear, do let us know!

How can I raise funds for a gap year internship abroad?

There are costs involved in international travel, and since our nonprofit internships are unpaid, we understand that this can be an obstacle. But there are ways to fundraise for the experience, and you might find that people are willing to help you make it happen, especially since you’ll be working for a good cause. On our fundraising page, we list some ideas of how to go about this.

And, if spending time abroad really isn’t an option for you, but you’d still like to have the work experience, you can opt to do one of our online gap year internships. (Or a combination of the two, if that works for you.) Which segways nicely to the next question.

How do virtual gap year internships work?

We’re happy to offer a number of remote internships. As an online intern, you’ll join a nonprofit or startup and you’ll be doing a lot of the same work that you would do on the ground. You’ll be in touch with your supervisor and other colleagues on a regular basis, using a range of digital platforms. In a working world that is increasingly moving towards a distributed working model, gaining experience in working remotely can be a beneficial thing. Plus, you’ll gain international experience from the comfort of your own home.

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