Veterinary internship on a reserve in Malawi
Veterinary internship on a reserve in Malawi
Veterinary internship on a reserve in Malawi

Useful information

Go to Malawi and do your veterinary internship in the heart of Africa. You will assist the caretakers in a shelter and participate in the treatment and care of the centre’s professionals.

In addition to animal rescue and care, the African veterinary internship also includes educating locals about sustainable development and protecting the region’s ecosystems. This placement is in collaboration with the local communities, and is a real professional experience in an NGO.

Bac pro CGEA
Bachelor in scienes
Biology studies
Studies in animal care
Studies in animal behaviour
Veterinary school
Bachelor's/Master's degree in solidarity and sustainable development
Studies in the field of health

IN SHORT

Lilongwe
From
4
To
12
weeks

Intermediate English

CONTACT US
Description

Program description

Our animal shelter in Malawi is dedicated to providing veterinary care nationwide through the Wildlife Emergency Response Unit. The program manager is the only veterinarian authorised to capture animals in Malawi. She is assisted by two veterinarians with foreign degrees, so students and interns join an experienced and competent team during this veterinary internship Africa.

Like all of our animal internship programs abroad, this project in Malawi allows you to gain university credits while contributing to the conservation of the region’s wildlife.

The work of the African veterinary internship

Students will assist the shelter’s veterinary department in their daily routine: emergency exams and surgeries, medical check-ups or routine diagnostics. Depending on the personnel available, a number of theoretical and practical training courses can be offered.

The work at the sanctuary varies from the day-to-day life of a pet clinic. The program is therefore perfect for those looking to gain hands-on experience in wilderness rehabilitation.

By splitting your time between the sanctuary and local communities, you can learn new care techniques and contribute to an important part of animal welfare in Malawi. The current phase of the project includes outreach to veterinarians in the villages surrounding the reserve.

Profile of the students in animal training

– Veterinary studies.

– Studies in plant and animal biology.

– Studies in health sciences or animal sciences.

– Qualified veterinarians.

– Veterinary assistants and nurses.

– Previous work on a similar project or field experience is recommended.

Internship students: please include any requirements from your curriculum with your application so that we can schedule your veterinary internship evaluation appropriately.

Read more

veterinary internship in Africa

The work of the African veterinary internship

Students will assist the shelter's veterinary department in their daily routine: emergency exams and surgeries, medical check-ups or routine diagnostics. Depending on the personnel available, a number of theoretical and practical training courses can be offered.

The work at the sanctuary varies from the day-to-day life of a pet clinic. The program is therefore perfect for those looking to gain hands-on experience in wilderness rehabilitation.

By splitting your time between the sanctuary and local communities, you can learn new care techniques and contribute to an important part of animal welfare in Malawi. The current phase of the project includes outreach to veterinarians in the villages surrounding the reserve.

Profile of the students in animal training

- Veterinary studies.

- Studies in plant and animal biology.

- Studies in health sciences or animal sciences.

- Qualified veterinarians.

- Veterinary assistants and nurses.

- Previous work on a similar project or field experience is recommended.

Internship students: please include any requirements from your curriculum with your application so that we can schedule your veterinary internship evaluation appropriately.

Host organization

This animal shelter provides care nationwide by professionals who are passionate about the animal cause and the protection of species.

They also fight against the scourges of poaching and train/mentor students from around the world all year round.

Financing: Private funds, donations, fundraising.

Read more

They also fight against the scourges of poaching and train/mentor students from around the world all year round.

Financing: Private funds, donations, fundraising.

Strong points

Contribute to the protection of wildlife
Learn from professionals
Raise community awareness
Train within an international team

Included

Round trip airport transfers
Accommodation in shared rooms
All meals except Sunday
Orientation and training
Trainee Coordinator
Admin fees

Not included

Airline tickets
Visa (50 USD)
Travel and repatriation insurance

Program description

This program is available all year round

Available durations

This program is available for up to 24 weeks, Please contact us for rates and availability.

4 weeks : 3368 €
5 weeks : 3858 €
6 weeks : 4292 €
7 weeks : 4712 €
8 weeks : 5078 €
9 weeks : 5450 €
10 weeks : 5768 €
11 weeks : 6074 €
12 weeks : 6350 €












Duration Fees to be paid upon registration​
4 Weeks3168€
5 Weeks3648€
6 Weeks4092€
8 Weeks4878€
10 Weeks5568€
12 Weeks6150€
I'm interested :

Conditions

- Age 18+
- Intermediate level of English
- Copy of passport
- Student in the animal care sector
Age 18+
Intermediate level of English
Copy of passport
Student in the animal care sector

Your accommodation

Housing is allocated by local NGOs, not by Freepackers - the descriptions are there to give you an idea of the type of accommodation, as it is very likely that conditions will vary on site depending on the number of volunteers, weather conditions, availability, etc. Each volunteer will be accommodated according to the stated conditions, but it is possible that the accommodation may not match the description or images shown on this site word for word, for example, in the case of annexed housing, renovations, relocations, etc.

The refuge is located in a 200 hectare reserve, which is home to wild animals such as antelope, crocodile, small carnivores and hyena and over 100 species of birds. There are 4 km of hiking trails through the forest and along the river, with a bar and café at the visitor centre. The city and its restaurants, shops and markets are only 10 minutes away, so you are never too far from "civilization".

Brand new housing facilities were developed in early 2022 to accommodate the volunteers. The new building can accommodate up to 18 people at a time in six rooms. It also includes a living room, kitchen, indoor and outdoor dining areas, two bathrooms, laundry room, outdoor terrace and garden. The building is located in the middle of our nature reserve, which means that you will experience the magic of life in the bush after a hard day's work - spending evenings by the fire listening to the sounds of the forest.

 

Meals​

Meals are prepared by our local chef every day except Sunday. The menu is vegetarian with a mix of international and local dishes. Let us know if you have any other special dietary requirements, and volunteers are welcome to purchase other products or meat if they wish.

Once there

Working hours and free time

Interns will work from 8am to 5pm, and depending on the workload, meals may be scheduled outside of these hours, so there may be occasional long days or even night shifts.

All staff and volunteers are entitled to one day off per week and one long weekend each month for excursions or safaris.

Organise your trip

Visa​

Please contact the embassy or immigration website of the country you wish to enter.

Vaccines

You can find all ressources on the World Organization Website, in the Travel Advice section A vaccine vial.

Travel, repatriation and civil liability insurance

For all international projects, Realstep requires participants to take out travel insurance covering accidents, illness, and repatriation, as well as civil liability for professional activities abroad.

For complete protection while studying or interning abroad, you can take out Cap Student insurance online by following this link Student insurance abroad | Chapka Assurances, which will give you a 5% discount.

If you take out another insurance policy, we will ask you to send us a copy of your certificate in English.

Online language courses

Achieve the language level required for your international project with tailored support. The Clic-campus method Free Packers X Clic Campus foreign language training courses combines videoconference lessons and an innovative e-learning platform, offering complete flexibility from the comfort of your own home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hello, I am an FAQ

A gap year is a period (often 6 to 12 months) during which you temporarily pause your studies or work to have a meaningful, structured experience: travel, volunteering, internship, job, personal project

It can be done at any time, for the duration you choose, and in the field you want. The goal is to help you explore new possibilities for your personal and/or professional path.

Real Step offers a wide range of gap year programs abroad in various fields.

Anyone! A gap year can be taken at any age and is not limited to 18–25-year-olds. It can be done at any stage of life—whether for a career change, a lifestyle change, to explore different options, or to refine a professional project.

A gap year allows you to:

  • Gain maturity
  • Improve your language skills
  • Discover a country, its culture, and its people
  • Develop transferable skills (soft skills, independence, organization)
  • Clarify your academic, professional, or personal goals

It depends on the country and your project. Make sure to budget for:

  • Flights
  • Health and repatriation insurance
  • Visa and administrative fees
  • Accommodation and food (depending on what’s included)
  • Local transport + activities
  • An emergency buffer (very important)

Internships during a gap year are varied, and you have a wide choice of fields:

  • Environmental protection
  • Animal welfare and conservation
  • Humanitarian internships
  • Internships in the medical sector
  • Communication and marketing (business)
  • Engineering internships
  • Hospitality and catering

Interns are accommodated in shared houses, hostels, or sometimes with local host families. You will have access to all essential amenities and are often close to shops so you can easily find what you need.

Departure dates are flexible; it is possible to leave every week. Please contact us to find out about program availability.

This depends on the missions. Local coordinators are on site to facilitate communication, but a minimum B1 level is often recommended to communicate locally. Some technical or research placements may require a higher level.

You can take language classes before you leave for your project.
The participation requirements are listed on each program page.

Yes, you will have a local coordinator on site as your main point of contact to answer your questions, ensure your safety, and support you if needed. You will always have an orientation upon arrival, including: an introduction to the project, the local team, your missions, and the rules to follow. The team also explains safety guidelines (recommended behavior, areas to avoid).

Local emergency assistance is available 24/7. We remain reachable throughout the entire project.

In addition, the projects we offer are carefully selected with reliable partners and in suitable destinations.

Internship schedules may vary depending on your program. In general, you will work between 30 and 40 hours per week. We specify these conditions on the program pages or in the downloadable brochures.

Yes, absolutely! Real Step internships are open to solo travelers, pairs, or groups. Many schools and students even organize group departures through our programs.

There are many diverse destinations: Asia, Europe, Africa, and Latin America—all around the world!

  • Valid passport and visa.
  • Proof of health insurance and liability insurance.
  • A planned budget (meals, transport, activities).
  • Professional clothing suitable for the country’s climate and the field conditions.
  • Personal equipment: laptop, notebook, technical clothing depending on the project.
  • Learn about the missions you will carry out on site.

By joining a project with us, you are supported at every step.

  1. Reach out to us and tell us about your expectations and goals (call, email, WhatsApp).
  2. We will share a selection of programs that match your criteria.
  3. Once the project is confirmed, we send you all the logistical information to help you prepare for your departure.
  4. Head into the field and enjoy a unique experience, supervised by our local partners.
  5. We are available at any time if you need us.
  6. Share your feedback with us so we can improve our support.

You can contact us to explain your situation. If you have valid reasons to request a new placement, we will send you a request form. You will be informed as soon as a spot becomes available. You will then be able to change location, subject to availability.

There are different ways to finance part of your project. We have several resources to help you find funding support, whether through student mobility scholarships, Erasmus+ funding for projects in Europe, or regional grants. Some volunteers have also organized group fundraising initiatives.

For young people aged 18 to 30, it is possible to go abroad with a Working Holiday Visa (WHV) and work on site to finance part of the project.

Even without financial aid, a well-prepared project can be made accessible through a mix of “savings + fundraising + a job on site”.

Find all the information on funding your internship in this article.

The price covers accommodation, supervision, part of the local organization (meals, orientation), Freepackers’ expertise, and support for the projects. Part of the project fee is used to help develop the project on site. Our teams visit the projects to ensure they are safe, useful, and reliable.

Yes, you will have free time and you can go out, visit places, and travel, especially on weekends. You just need to respect the program’s organization (schedule, mission days) and follow the safety guidelines given by the local team. In some destinations, the team can also recommend places to explore.

Here are the essential mandatory steps to complete:

  • An internship agreement signed between your school, the host organization, and you.
  • Liability insurance covering the duration of your stay.
  • Depending on the country you choose, a student or internship visa and health coverage may be required.

 

Other steps may be necessary depending on the type of internship, the country, or other factors.

Our team will provide you with all the information you need.

No, most of the internships we offer are unpaid, but this can vary depending on the host organization, the duration, and the country.

Yes, many students have validated their internship through Real Step projects. Our placements meet schools’ academic requirements.

A wide range of internships is available, and our programs are suitable for many engineering fields, such as:

 

Feel free to contact us to learn about all our internship opportunities.

See our Ultimate Guide to Succeeding in Your Engineering Internship.

This can vary depending on your school and your year of study, but in general you can go for 4 to 16 weeks.

Three months is often the duration required by schools to help you develop skills. To learn more about 3-month engineering internships.

Your missions can vary greatly depending on your specialty and your level of study and commitment, but overall you will be asked to take part in:

  • Carrying out a specific project (construction, sustainable development, IT, etc.)
  • Providing technical support to a team
  • Conducting field studies

 

The goal is to encourage the practical application of the knowledge you have gained during your studies—skills you will be able to highlight later on.

Yes, many students have validated their internship through Real Step projects. Our placements meet schools’ academic requirements.

We offer many internships in a wide range of areas, such as:

  • Nursing
  • Medicine
  • Allied health
  • Physiotherapy
  • Physical therapy

Even though some details vary depending on the country, here are the main steps:

  • Check your eligibility
  • Create an online account on the destination country’s official portal
  • Prepare the required documents (passport, insurance, CV, etc.)
  • Pay the visa fees
  • Wait for confirmation or the lottery draw
  • Receive your visa

 

To understand the exact process, we recommend reading this article in detail.

You can go on a WHV to the following destinations:

  • Canada
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • South Korea
  • Japan
  • Argentina

 

Check our website to make sure you don’t miss a program—or contact us!

The budget needed for a WHV depends on the country you choose, your lifestyle, and the length of your stay.

Expenses to plan for:

  • Visa fees
  • International flights
  • Accommodation
  • Daily expenses
  • Health insurance

Yes. You can take English or Spanish courses before you leave, or even during your project.

Course schedules are flexible depending on your goal. You can choose to take a few hours per week, or fully focus on your language courses over a longer period to prepare for a project such as a WHV or a job abroad.

View our language courses.

Les Français n’ont pas besoin de visa pour aller au Japon pour des séjours de moins de 3 mois, le passeport suffit. En revanche, un business visa ou un visa vacances travail (working holiday visa) sont indispensables pour rester plus de 3 mois, par exemple si vous prévoyez de travailler ou de faire un stage au Japon. Il faut alors faire la démarche à la section consulaire de l’Ambassade.

Il est de votre responsabilité de choisir le bon visa pour votre projet.

Les conditions de visa peuvent changer et le visa dépend de la nature de votre projet. Veuillez toujours vérifier sur France Diplomatie avant de réserver votre billet et de partir pour un programme et de vous y prendre en avance.

Traditionally, Japanese dress codes are formal: a dark suit, white shirt, and dark tie. However, foreign businesspeople can dress as they normally would in their home country. It is also often customary to remove your shoes (at home, in some restaurants, etc.).

The yen is Japan’s official currency.

The cost of living in Japan is 2.6% higher than in France.

When traveling, plan for an on-site budget of at least €80 per day per person (¥11,595 per day).

Most dietary requirements (kosher, vegetarian, halal, etc.) can be accommodated, provided you request it well in advance.

Our local partners in Tokyo arrange airport pick-up at the international airport every Friday. For students enrolled in internships outside the city, instructions for reaching the final destinations will be provided in advance or upon arrival.

Either in the main residence in Tokyo, at the internship location when it is remote (natural reserves, for example), or with a host family. This sea turtle conservation internship in Japan includes accommodation. Japan’s housing shortage has triggered an unprecedented surge in prices, so it is strongly recommended to have accommodation arranged in advance for at least the first month of your stay.

Working holiday and internship programs include free time every weekend so participants can explore the surrounding area. Project coordinators and local organizations are always happy to share advice on places to visit and the excursions available on weekends.

It depends on the program you choose. For those who want to stay for 1 year on a Working Holiday Visa on projects involving a paid job like this one, it is strongly recommended to take Japanese classes upon arrival (4 weeks of intensive courses) to broaden your job search options.

In fact, most jobs in retail, services, or the hospitality industry require an intermediate level of Japanese. For 3-month internships, these can be done in tourism organizations that only require English. Farm work does not require a high level of Japanese either.

To travel to Japan, spring—especially April/May—is the recommended period. Summer in Japan is the rainy season. June and July are particularly wet, and the heat starts to build. Temperatures range between 25°C and 30°C.

Currently, people who are allowed to travel to Japan are not required to be vaccinated. For real-time updates, we invite you to consult the Institut Pasteur website.

The local partner provides 24/7 assistance. Participants receive the coordinators’ contact details in advance, as well as an emergency number to call. The coordinators are available at all times, during the week and on weekends.

Look into official channels to find opportunities. It is also important to adapt your application to the country’s norms (the CV and cover letter are different).

Finally, Real Step offers internships in Japan in various fields that may interest you! In ecology or even IT, communication, marketing, etc.

It depends on the company and the length of the internship. In Japan, working conditions are different, so it’s important to focus above all on learning and cultural immersion.

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