If you're planning to volunteer abroad you may be spoilt for choice over where in the world to go. But, if you've always wanted to enjoy a safari or get close to tribal communities, then Africa could be the destination for you.

By becoming a volunteer in Africa you'll have a range of options available to you, with regards to where in the continent you head to and what type of project you take part in.

At i-to-i, there is a wide selection of voluntary programmes in Africa that might interest you, from helping children to read in South Africa to working closely with lions.

Whether your interests lie in wildlife, conservation or community work, there will be something you enjoy doing in this continent that will really help the people and environment there.

All about volunteering in Africa

With so many different voluntary projects to choose from in Africa, one of your hardest decisions could be picking where to go.

You might want to help with wildlife research in South Africa or on building projects in Kenya, or you could assisting in teaching kids English.

Projects last between one and 12 weeks, giving you the opportunity to offer your assistance to underprivileged communities if you are on a whistle-stop tour of the world. However, if you're planning on taking a gap trip in Africa, then you'll have plenty of time to get involved with one or more of these community projects. And you may even have time to see the positive effects of your help!

Choosing Africa as the destination where you volunteer will give you the chance to have a wealth of different experiences. You'll be able to work closely with tribes, see native creatures – such as lions, giraffes and hippos – and visit some of the most beautiful coastal locations in the world.

With such diversity between the different projects, you might find that you pick one that you love so much you decide to continue working in a similar field when you return home, whether it's developing your teaching skills or helping to protect wildlife around the world.

Indeed, spending time tracking lions every day in 30,000 hectares of African savannah will give you an idea if you're keen to work with animals, while helping kids aged between five and 12 to read will tell you if you've got what it takes to become a teacher.

Volunteer in Africa with i-to-i

If you're thinking of volunteering in Africa but don't know how to start your plans, our team of experts will be able to help you choose a project that suits you best.

Having been backpacking and volunteering around the world ourselves, we can advise you on what programmes will enable you to make the most out of the experience.

And with so many initiatives to choose from, we're sure you'll find one that is just right for you.

We are part of the Year Out Group, as well as the Know Before You Go initiative – a scheme set up by the Foreign & Commonwealth Office – so we really understand what we're talking about when it comes to travelling around the world and gap trips abroad.

And over the last 17 years, we've helped more than 20,000 people fulfil their ambitions and volunteer in another country, giving support to communities who need it most.

So, if you're between 18 and 80 and looking for something rewarding to do, call us on 0113 205 4620 or visit our website and we'll send you a brochure of our projects.