The South Africa Journey is a balanced travel experience based on the following elements:
- A Mission of Service
The South Africa Journey includes a 5-day community service experience in the Cape Town region. Volunteer at local schools for disadvantaged children during the day and take part in community enhancement projects during the afternoon. Our service programming is organized in partnership with African Impact.
- Building Bridges with Local Jewish Teens
South Africa is home to a thriving Jewish community with a fascinating history and rich traditions. As part of our experience, we spend a memorable Shabbat with Jewish teens from Cape Town. It is a wonderful opportunity to make connections with fellow teens at the other end of the world.
- An Authentic African Adventure
Explore a whole new world of natural beauty and wildlife in South Africa. Look out on the Cape of Good Hope from atop Table Mountain National Park. Visit a Great White Shark research and conservation project. Observe penguins and seals in their natural habitat. Try your hand at “Sand Boarding” down massive sand dunes. Confront the “Big-5” (i.e. lions, elephants, buffalos, rhions and leopards) in a game reserve near Kruger National Park.
- Reflecting on a Story of Struggle & Reconciliation
Learn about South Africa’s history of apartheid and the non-violence movement that rose up to overturn it. At the District Six Museum, we learn about the history of the apartheid movement and the legacy of “resettlement” policy. At Robben Island, we tour the infamous prison where Nelson Mandela and many others were incarcerated on account of their civil rights protests. Finally, learn about South Africa’s Truth & Reconciliation Commission – and how it ushered in a new era of equal rights, forgiveness, and healing.
Why South Africa?
Rich in natural beauty and colorful cultural traditions, South Africa is an ideal destination for Jewish teen travel. The South Africa Journey is based at hotels and country lodges set in some of the most beautiful scenery you can imagine. Although our itinerary is designed with safety and security as a primary consideration, we travel with a guard/medic at all times for additional support. This experience is perfect for anyone with a spirit for adventure, a passion for service and cross-cultural bridge building.
BBYO Passport's South African Journey is operated locally in partnership with Kuchanga Travel.