SANParks: CATHSSETA Internship Programme 2026
South African National Parks (SANParks), in partnership with CATHSSETA, is inviting unemployed South African graduates to apply for their 2026 Internship Programme. This initiative is aimed at providing work-integrated learning and professional experience within the conservation and tourism sectors.
1. Quick Overview
| Detail | Information |
| Employer | SANParks (in partnership with CATHSSETA) |
| Duration | 12 Months |
| Stipend | Monthly stipend provided (as per CATHSSETA rates) |
| Locations | Various National Parks (Kruger, Table Mountain, Garden Route, etc.) |
| Closing Date | 14 March 2026 |
2. Available Fields & Qualifications
SANParks is looking for graduates with N6, National Diplomas, or Degrees in the following areas:
Tourism & Hospitality: Tourism Management, Hospitality Management, Eco-Tourism.
Conservation: Nature Conservation, Environmental Management, Game Ranch Management.
Support Services: Human Resources, Finance, Supply Chain Management, Logistics.
Technical: Maintenance, Fleet Management, Horticulture.
Communications: Marketing, Public Relations, Graphic Design.
3. Minimum Requirements
To qualify for the 2026 intake, you must:
Be an unemployed South African citizen aged 18 to 35 years.
Have completed a relevant qualification (N6/Diploma/Degree) from a recognized tertiary institution.
Have never participated in an internship or Graduate Programme before.
Have a clean criminal record (Security vetting is part of the process).
Be passionate about nature, conservation, and the tourism industry.
4. How to Apply
Applicants must apply online. Manual submissions will not be accepted.
Groenkloof National Park and SANBI Pretoria
Closing Date: 06 March 2026
Apply here.
SANParks CATHSSETA Internship Programme (Cape Region)
Closing Date: 09 March 2026
Apply here.
Regional Submission: SANParks often categorizes applications by region (e.g., Kruger National Park, Cape Region, Arid Region). Ensure you send your application to the correct regional contact listed in the official advert.
5. Important Advice
Location Flexibility: SANParks operates in remote areas. Indicate if you are willing to stay in staff accommodation within the parks (though this is not always guaranteed).
CATHSSETA Alignment: Since this is a CATHSSETA-funded program, ensuring your qualification is directly related to Culture, Art, Tourism, Hospitality, or Sport will significantly boost your chances.
Certification: Ensure your certified documents are not older than 6 months.
Shortlisting: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you don't hear back within 21 days of the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.
Tip: In your cover letter, emphasize your commitment to Environmental Sustainability. SANParks values individuals who understand the importance of balancing tourism with the protection of South Africa’s natural heritage!
