SANParks is inviting unemployed graduates to apply for its 12-month Graduate Internship Programme 2026, offering paid workplace experience at the Garden Route National Park.
South African National Parks (SANParks) Graduate Internships 2026
South African National Parks (SANParks) is South Africa’s leading conservation authority, responsible for managing over 3.7 million hectares of protected land across 20 national parks. Operating under the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act (Act 57 of 2003), SANParks plays a critical role in biodiversity conservation, environmental protection, and sustainable tourism.
SANParks has officially opened applications for its Graduate Internship Programme 2026, targeting unemployed graduates who are seeking practical workplace exposure within a nationally respected conservation institution.
Internship Programme Overview
The SANParks Internship Programme is a structured development initiative aimed at equipping graduates with real-world experience while contributing to conservation and national park operations.
Programme Name: SANParks Internship Placement Programme
Duration: 12 months
Monthly Stipend: R6 355.69
Internship Location: Garden Route National Park
Closing Date: 10 February 2026
Please note that SANParks is under no obligation to offer permanent employment upon completion of the internship.
Internship Location
- Garden Route National Park
- Applicants must reside within the Eastern Cape Province
Candidates applying from outside the immediate area must arrange their own accommodation and transport if selected.
Who Qualifies to Apply?
To be considered for the SANParks Graduate Internship Programme, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- Be an unemployed graduate aged between 18 and 35 years
- Be a South African citizen
- Hold a Bachelor’s Degree or National Diploma (NQF Level 6 or 7)
- Qualification must be obtained from a South African public Higher Education Institution (HEI)
- Must not have previously participated in any internship or placement programme
- Must be a resident of the Eastern Cape Province
Applicants who do not meet all requirements may be disqualified.
Stipend and Employment Equity
- Monthly stipend: R6 355.69
SANParks is committed to Employment Equity and transformation. Preference will be given to Previously Disadvantaged Individuals (PDI) / Historically Disadvantaged South Africans (HDSA) in line with organisational equity targets.
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Important Conditions to Note
Applicants should take note of the following before applying:
- Applications must be submitted online and via email
- Manual or hand-delivered applications will not be accepted
- Incomplete applications will not be considered
- Foreign qualifications must be evaluated by SAQA
- All appointments are subject to pre-screening and verification
- SANParks reserves the right not to make an appointment
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
- If no response is received within 14 days after the closing date, the application should be regarded as unsuccessful
How to Apply
Step 1: Complete the Online Application
Applicants must complete the official SANParks internship application form using the approved online platform.
Step 2: Submit Supporting Documents by Email
All required documents must be emailed to the SANParks contact person.
Email Address: nomonde.bembe@sanparks.org
Reference Number (mandatory): TNP09
Applications without the correct reference number may be rejected.
Documents Required
Applicants must submit clear, certified copies of the following:
- Recent Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copy of Matric / Grade 12 certificate
- Certified copies of academic qualifications
- Full academic transcripts (academic record)
Ensure all documents are legible and properly certified.
Enquiries
For further information regarding the internship programme, contact:
Ms Nomonde Bembe
Telephone: 042 281 1557
Closing Date
10 February 2026
Late applications will not be accepted.
Conclusion
The SANParks Graduate Internship Programme 2026 offers a valuable opportunity for unemployed graduates to gain hands-on experience within South Africa’s conservation sector. With a structured 12-month placement, a monthly stipend, and exposure to national park operations, this programme provides a strong foundation for careers in environmental management, conservation, and tourism.
Graduates who meet the eligibility requirements and are passionate about conservation are encouraged to apply early and ensure their applications are complete before the closing date.
