Hospitality & Tourism internship in South Africa
Work in hotels, lodges and tourism companies in South Africa.
What you'll do
Your day-to-day
As a Hospitality & Tourism intern in South Africa, you might:
- Help with guest services and the front desk.
- Help plan tours and activities for guests.
- Work on marketing and social media campaigns.
- Research travel trends for new tour packages.
- Help with events and group bookings.
You'll build guest service, communication and marketing skills that transfer to any hospitality job.
Local know-how
What to know before you go
Hospitality and tourism in South Africa
South Africa's tourism sector serves two kinds of travelers. According to the government news agency SAnews, most international visitors come from other African countries, so hotels and tour companies serve regional travelers as well as long-haul tourists. Cape Town is busiest in the southern summer, around December, so a placement then feels very different from one in the quieter months. Bookings and staffing change with the season, and seeing that is a good way to learn. Programs start on any date, so you can pick the season you want to see.
The sector is broad. The Tourism Grading Council of South Africa awards stars to hotels, guest houses, backpackers, game and nature lodges and venues. In a market like this, you might see guest services, tour operations and event bookings, as well as the marketing and social media work behind them.
Job roles
Hospitality Coordinator Intern
Work with hotel or lodge staff to look after guests.
Tours Intern
Help plan and run tours and activities.
Marketing Intern
Help with campaigns and social media.
Event Planning Intern
Help organize events, from small groups to conferences.
Research Intern
Study travel trends and guest feedback.
Sustainability Intern
Help with greener practices that protect nature and wildlife.
Your exact tasks depend on your host company, and all our host companies in South Africa work in English.
The industry
The Hospitality & Tourism industry in South Africa
Economic impact
Tourism is a big employer in South Africa, with visitors coming for safaris, Cape Town and the wine regions.
Technology
Online booking, reviews and social media drive much of the daily work in hotels and tour companies.
Career opportunities
Hotel operations, tours, events and eco-tourism are all open to you, and your internship helps you see which path fits.
Prices
How much it costs
Asia Internship Program prices depend on your program and how long you stay. See the destination page for the full price table.
FAQ
Questions interns ask
Do I need a hospitality degree for a tourism internship in South Africa?
No. We welcome students, graduates and career changers, with or without a degree. An interest in guests and good English matter most.
When is the busiest time for tourism internships in South Africa?
Cape Town is busiest around December. Programs can start on any date, so you can choose a busy season for more action or a quieter one for more time with your supervisor.
Can I do a tourism internship in Cape Town or Johannesburg?
Our programs in South Africa run in both cities. Tell your career advisor which you prefer on your free call.
Applications open all year
Your field, somewhere new.
It's free to apply, and you only pay a deposit once you're accepted.