An elective in Africa is an amazing opportunity to see things that others have never seen, not even seasoned travellers.
Africa is a large continent in every sense, and we have some incredible countries from which you can choose for your elective in Africa.
World travel is one of the most valuable experiences a person can have. Living, working, and experiencing another country and culture delivers a perspective that no other experience offers.
Typically, Work the World healthcare placements in Africa run Monday to Friday (however if you want to experience weekend shifts, this is certainly something we can organise for you). Therefore, outside of placement, you’ll have plenty of time in the evenings and weekends to explore your chosen destination, whether it's an elective in Tanzania or an elective in Ghana.
So, how do you choose which country to pick for your electives in Africa? Get to know our Work the World African programmes, including medical electives, nursing placements, and other healthcare placements across Africa.
electives and medical electives in Ghana
Ghana is located in West Africa along the Gulf of Guinea and the Atlantic Ocean. We are based in the city of Takoradi (our longest-running Work the World programme) – about a 4-hour drive along the coast from the capital city of Accra. If you’ve not been to Africa before, Ghana is perfect for that first visit for your elective in Africa. Outside of your placement, take advantage of the stunning coastline, lush jungles, and lively Ghanaian culture.
The Gold Coast
Our big blue house in Takoradi has a private swimming pool and is in a quiet residential area, close to some great Ghanaian markets, bars and, of course, the beach! Ghana is about a 6-hour flight from the UK; conveniently, there is only a +1-hour time difference. Whether you're looking for a Ghanaian elective or another healthcare placement in Africa, each country offers a unique and enriching experience.
Ghanaian Fishing Boats
best places to visit and things to do in Ghana:
- Kakum National Park - Trek through the forest canopy, spot wildlife from treetops, and if you’re brave enough you can even spend the night in a treehouse
- Cape Coast Castle - Take a guided tour through the 17th-century slave forts and find out more about the dark, but fascinating history of the slave trade
- Mole National Park - Located further North, from here you can go on safari to spot elephants, lions and baboons
- The Gold Coast - Sun-soaked sandy shores, beach resorts are a-plenty with Axim Beach being a favourite with our students
Mole National Park
Kakum National Park
electives and medical electives in Tanzania
Tanzania is an East African country on the Indian Ocean. Dar es Salaam is where our elective in Africa programme is based; a cosmopolitan, bustling city and the perfect jumping-off point to explore this incredible country. Outside of placement, you’ll be spoilt for choice in terms of once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences. From picture-postcard white-sand beaches to some of the most incredible safari parks in the world.
Spot one of the Big 5
Our house in Dar es Salaam offers its own private pool and is just a stone’s throw from the Indian Ocean. You can visit traditional Maasai craft markets, discover laid-back bars, and enjoy boat trips for whale-watching and snorkelling. As part of our Tanzania electives, this location also provides a fantastic opportunity for nursing in Africa and medical electives in Africa. A direct flight to Dar es Salaam from the UK takes less than 12 hours, and our house is conveniently located close to the airport. The time difference is +2 hours, so no jet lag!
The beautiful island of Zanzibar
best places to visit and things to do in tanzania:
- Zanzibar - Just an hour from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar’s stunning beaches and turquoise waters are a mecca for divers, backpackers and party-goers
- Safari - Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Lake Manyara and Mikumi - what a choice! All members of the ‘Big 5’ can be found at these various parks and reserves. You’ll also get the opportunity to spot huge herds of wildebeest as they traverse its plains during their annual migration
- Mount Kilimanjaro - The highest mountain in Africa. A guided trek to the summit will take between 4-7 days. If you’ve the time to add this onto the beginning or end of your trip, this is an experience not to be missed
Mount Kilimanjaro
Maasai Tribe
Our Elective Consultants will be able to talk you through all our programmes in more detail, if you would like them to get in touch, please fill out the short form. To see our full range of destinations click here.
Read our latest blog about our placements in Asia here.
