Participating in a well organised gap year program, ‘gappers’ are given the opportunity to meet new people, experience a new culture and learn more about themselves especially when their time is spent volunteering abroad. For lots of people this is a great first experience of fending for themselves, dealing with day to day issues, their finances and their activities. Unfortunately gap years can be a serious financial burden for many especiallyif you are participating in any volunteer opportunities abroad.

Your Budget

Money unfortunately will be the deciding factor on what it is you want to do for your gap year, whether you decide to volunteer in Tanzania or volunteer elsewhere on the continent. The good thing about the projects is that by the time you reach the airport your flight, project including all your transport, food and accommodation will already be paid for which is one less thing for you to worry about. Before you travel it is also very important they you have some idea of how much it is you want to spend on your trip. Most volunteer companies will include food, accommodation and transport in with the cost. Those who get placements abroad that are already paid for are able to plan their costing’s on their income.

Before You Travel:

• Ensure that another member of your family has your credit and debit card details in case of an emergency.
• Ensure you make copies of important documents including passports & visas.
• Invest in a money belt so you are able to conceal money on you underneath your belt. Leave the rest of your money in a safe deposit box.
• Make sure you have comprehensive insurance cover for your trip

While You Are Travelling:

• Give your friends and family your itinerary.
• Always keep an eye on your luggage and ensure you never carry anything for anyone else.
• Make sure nobody ever see’s your pin at an ATM Machine.

A common phrase used these days is ”it’s a small world” and in some senses that is the case. Travel to many parts of the world is much easier than it was in the times of Livingstone and the rest of the explorers. Flights to Africa these days are a lot more accessible than they once were. Even once you land in Africa now the transport on the ground has vastly improved. You need to ask yourself if volunteering in Africa for a gap year abroad is really for you?

There are a wide range of placements to get involved with as a volunteer. You can even volunteer your services as a budding photographer taking pictures of wildlife and this isn’t just on safari but is for conservation purposes. Many gamer reserves need pictures taken of various animals to monitor their progress.

How would you feel about walking through the bush with a pride of lions? This is not a safari park but you are able to become involved in an active breeding program which enables you to work with these beasts. These are some of the activities you are able to participate in if you volunteer in Zimbabwe

The wildlife of Africa are not the only species who rely on the assistance of volunteers. Many of the local also depend on their help working with them on community projects and initiatives. Volunteers have the opportunity to work as a teacher, teaching English or work with HIV/AIDS orphans and even work in the local hospital as an assistant. If coaching sports is your interest then rest assured you will be able to participate in many projects across the continent working with budding young athletes who have a hungry passion and desire to learn new activities. There are so many volunteer opportunities overseas

Volunteering in a far off destination does not solely consist of work though. You have plenty of free time to yourself where you are able to go off and explore the country you are in. You will be able to participate in extreme sports activities such as Bungee Jumping or White Water rafting. Maybe extreme sports isn’t your thing. Why not spend a couple of weeks lounging on one of many beautiful beaches topping up that tan before you have to return home.