- Home
- About Us
About Us
- About Go With Khaya
Why Choose Go With Khaya?
- Locally based in South Africa and Tanzania
- Established since 2005
- Long-term community partnerships
- Personal support before and during your stay
- Flexible start dates year-round
- Beachfront volunteer accommodation in Gqeberha
- Ethical and responsible volunteering approach
- Smaller, more personal organisation
- Programs for gap years, students and meaningful travel
Projects that support real community, education, wildlife and healthcare needs.
Ethical, culturally respectful volunteer experiences in Africa that benefit local partners.
On-the-ground staff in every country for guidance, mentorship and safety.
Our Partners
Our Mission
At Go With Khaya, we provide carefully selected volunteer and internship opportunities for international travellers seeking meaningful and affordable experiences with high quality service and support. Our goal is to introduce participants to a side of Africa beyond traditional tourism — one shaped by exploring cultures, interacting with local communities and seeing extraordinary wildlife destinations.
Through our gap year programs in South Africa, Tanzania and Malawi, participants work alongside local partners in ways that benefit both the visitor and the projects involved. We focus on long-term collaboration, ensuring that every placement supports community needs while creating genuine learning experiences. Our approach aims to create a fair and transparent partnership where volunteers, local organisations and communities all benefit sustainably.
Our story began with a simple question: what if gap year travel to Africa could be more than just visiting new places? From that idea, Go With Khaya was created to offer meaningful travel experiences built on authentic connection, comfort and responsible impact. We design gap year experiences in South Africa and Tanzania that are personal, purposeful and memorable, where travellers engage with local communities and environments in a respectful and lasting way. Every experience aims to leave a positive impact — not only on the traveller, but also on the people and projects we support.
Our History
Go With Khaya was founded in 2005 to create meaningful volunteer and gap year experiences supported by strong local partnerships. Based in South Africa and working closely with projects in Tanzania and Zanzibar, we focus on responsible volunteer placements that benefit both participants and the communities involved.
Why Travel With a Local Organisation?
At Go With Khaya, we are not just another large international booking platform operating remotely from overseas. We are based in South Africa and work directly with our partner projects and volunteers every day.
This local involvement allows us to:
- personally support volunteers on the ground
- build long-term relationships with projects
- respond quickly when support is needed
- create more personal and flexible experiences
- ensure programs remain ethical and community-focused
Many participants arrive alone and quickly become part of a shared volunteer community. From project work and shared meals to weekend safaris, beach days and cultural experiences, the journey often becomes just as meaningful as the volunteer placement itself.
Go With Khaya (formally Khaya Volunteer Projects) is an independent South African volunteer and gap year travel organisation established in 2005 and is not affiliated with Kaya Responsible Travel.
Our programs span child care and community development, education, healthcare, conservation and wildlife projects, offering participants an authentic way to live, learn and contribute while experiencing everyday life beyond traditional tourism.
FROM OUR FOUNDER
Martijn Van Der Put
“After more than 20 years working directly with volunteer and community projects in Southern Africa, I’ve seen how meaningful travel experiences can create genuine connection — not only for travellers, but also for the communities and conservation initiatives involved. Go With Khaya was built around long-term local partnerships, personal support, and creating experiences that feel authentic, responsible and impactful”.
- Client Reviews
What Our Volunteers Say
Real stories from volunteers who joined our volunteer abroad programs and experienced meaningful connections and unforgettable moments.
Netherlands
There wasn’t just one highlight — I truly enjoyed every moment of my stay in South Africa. The project, the work we did, and the weekends away exploring were all amazing. It was an unforgettable experience from start to finish.
Germany
I really valued the opportunity to experience daily life in the townships and gain a deeper understanding of different communities. Spending time with the children, helping out and having fun together was incredibly rewarding. I also really enjoyed visiting Addo, the shared meals and the amazing wildlife.
Spain
Feeding the penguins was definitely the highlight of my experience! I never expected daily routines to be so much fun — all thanks to these adorable penguins. They do bite sometimes, but it’s easy to forgive them. The support from Go With Khaya was excellent, from the booking process through to the service provided while in Port Elizabeth.
France
I spent an amazing month volunteering at SANCCOB Port Elizabeth working with African penguins. I learned so much about conservation and animal care while improving my English every day. The SANCCOB team was incredibly supportive, and I felt warmly welcomed from the start. I quickly connected with the other volunteers, which made the experience even more rewarding. It was truly an unforgettable adventure that I would highly recommend.
Canada
I spent two weeks volunteering at the Vervet Monkey Rescue in June–July 2022, and it was an amazing experience. The people there were incredibly kind, and we had plenty of time working with the monkeys. The daily tasks were simple but truly helpful for their care and wellbeing. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I will always remember my beautiful monkeys there! 🐒💖🐒💖
Netherlands
I really enjoyed the weekend outings and tours organised with the other volunteers. Everything was well arranged, and it was a great way to explore the area together. I also met so many wonderful people, which made the experience even more special.
FAQ
Is South Africa safe?
South Africa is a rewarding and welcoming country to visit, but like many travel destinations, it requires awareness and sensible precautions. Our programs are based in carefully selected locations, stay in safe and secure accommodation and volunteers receive personal guidance before and during their stay.
Go With Khaya supports you with airport pickup, local orientation, safe accommodation, project guidance and ongoing support from our local team. We also advise you on transport, sightseeing, areas to avoid and everyday safety habits.
Most volunteers enjoy their time in South Africa without any problems. The key is to stay aware, follow local advice and make use of the support available to you.
Is there a dress code at my volunteer placement?
Yes, most volunteer placements require modest and respectful clothing. You should dress as you would for a casual work environment.
For community, childcare, school or healthcare placements, avoid very short shorts, revealing tops or beachwear. Conservation and wildlife projects usually require practical outdoor clothing, closed shoes and sun protection.
Your coordinator will give you specific guidance before you start your placement.
What languages are spoken in SOUTH AFRICA?
South Africa has 11 official languages, with English widely used in travel, education, business and most volunteer placements. Depending on your location, you may also hear Afrikaans, isiXhosa, isiZulu or other local languages.
You do not need to speak a local language to volunteer, but learning a few greetings is always appreciated and helps you connect with people.
What should I do if I have a medical emergency?
Medical assistance in South Africa can be compared to European standards if you can afford it – and as an international visitor, the exchange rate is favourable for you. You will have compulsory medical insurance which will cover any medical needs you might have.
Our coordinators will of course assist you to have access to any information or services needed.
All projects have emergency plans available for volunteers’ medical needs, and you will be assisted to a doctor or hospital as soon as possible.
Usually, you have to pay in advance for medical assistance or settle the bill immediately afterwards. You can claim this back from insurance. Do not wait until you’re back home again but send all documents to your family or friends who can submit the claim on your behalf straight away. Make sure you are aware of the procedures and conditions concerning your insurance, should you find yourself in a situation where medical assistance is needed.
Do I Need a Visa to Volunteer in South Africa?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality and the length of your stay in South Africa.
Many nationalities can enter South Africa on a visitor permit for stays of up to 90 days. In most cases, this permit is issued on arrival at immigration. Before travelling, always check the latest visa requirements with the South African embassy or consulate in your country.
If required, Go With Khaya can provide supporting documentation confirming your volunteer placement and accommodation arrangements.
If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, travel for a gap year, or combine multiple programs, you may need to apply for a longer-term visa before departure. Our team can assist you with the documents needed for your application process.
Health & Medical Support
South Africa has modern private healthcare facilities in all major cities and towns, and medical support is available throughout your stay if needed.
Before travelling, we recommend visiting your doctor or travel clinic for personal advice regarding vaccinations, medication and travel health precautions relevant to your destination and activities.
For most volunteers, standard travel vaccinations are recommended, particularly when working with children, animals or in rural environments.
The Eastern Cape, where many of our programs are based, is malaria-free. If you plan to travel to regions such as Kruger National Park or parts of northern KwaZulu-Natal before or after your program, speak to your doctor about malaria prevention.
All volunteers must have valid travel and medical insurance for the duration of their stay.
Our local coordinators are available to assist volunteers in accessing medical care, pharmacies or emergency support if required during their program.
