South African National Parks is offering a 12-month Mega Living Landscapes Internship in Cape Town. Graduates in Environmental Sciences or Nature Conservation can gain experience in biodiversity stewardship, GIS mapping, and landscape conservation. Apply by 26 March 2026.
Mega Living Landscapes Internship Opportunity at SANParks
South African National Parks has announced an exciting opportunity for graduates interested in environmental conservation through its Mega Living Landscapes Internship Programme. This 12-month fixed-term internship will be based in Cape Town and forms part of the organization’s broader mission to strengthen biodiversity conservation across South Africa.
The internship is designed for young professionals who want to gain hands-on experience in landscape-scale conservation, biodiversity stewardship, and protected area expansion. By working within the Park Planning and Development Unit, the successful candidate will play a supporting role in implementing conservation projects within the Cape and Garden Route regions, two areas known for their ecological importance and biodiversity richness.
Understanding the Mega Living Landscapes Initiative
The Mega Living Landscapes (MLL) initiative represents a progressive and inclusive approach to conservation. Instead of focusing only on isolated protected areas, the initiative promotes large-scale landscape conservation that integrates biodiversity protection with climate resilience and community well-being.
This model recognizes that conservation efforts must extend beyond national park boundaries and involve collaboration with landowners, communities, government institutions, and conservation partners. Through these partnerships, SANParks aims to protect ecosystems, expand protected areas, and strengthen sustainable land management practices.
The Mega Living Landscapes Intern will contribute to these goals by supporting projects that promote stewardship agreements, facilitate conservation awareness, and strengthen capacity within landscapes that are critical for biodiversity protection.
Internship Overview
The intern will work closely with SANParks professionals involved in planning, project implementation, and stakeholder engagement. The role provides exposure to several key aspects of conservation work, including:
- Biodiversity stewardship programmes
- Cross-sectoral conservation initiatives
- Landowner and stakeholder engagement
- Protected area expansion and contract national parks
- Landscape-level conservation planning
These experiences offer valuable insights into how conservation projects are developed, implemented, and managed within a national conservation agency.
Key Responsibilities
The Mega Living Landscapes Intern will assist with a variety of operational and technical tasks. Core responsibilities include:
- Supporting the implementation of biodiversity stewardship and cross-sectoral activities in priority landscapes.
- Assisting with the planning and execution of Mega Living Landscapes projects within the SANParks network.
- Using Geographic Information System (GIS) tools to assist with mapping and spatial analysis.
- Coordinating technical assistance initiatives that support stewardship sites and conservation partners.
- Assisting with capacity-building and awareness initiatives aimed at strengthening conservation efforts among stakeholders.
- Supporting project management and administration tasks, including monitoring progress and preparing reports.
Through these responsibilities, the intern will gain a practical understanding of landscape conservation strategies and the operational processes involved in implementing environmental projects.
Minimum Requirements
To be considered for the internship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- National Diploma (NQF Level 6) in Nature Conservation, Environmental Management, Environmental Sciences, or a related field.
- A Code 08 driver’s licence, which is essential for the role.
- Computer literacy, particularly in Microsoft Office applications.
- Working knowledge of GIS software.
- Exposure to assisting with conservation projects.
- 1–2 years of working experience in the Cape Floristic Region.
- Strong report writing and presentation skills.
- High levels of responsibility and accountability.
- Willingness to travel when required.
Additional advantages include knowledge of protected area expansion mechanisms, experience in landscape-scale conservation practices, and strong project management and interpersonal skills.
Internship Stipend and Benefits
The internship offers a monthly stipend of R8,750, providing financial support while interns gain valuable field experience and professional development within one of South Africa’s leading conservation organizations.
Participants will also benefit from exposure to a network of environmental professionals and conservation initiatives across the country.
Application Process
Interested candidates must complete the mandatory online application form before submitting their supporting documents. Applications that only include a CV without the completed form will not be considered.
Applicants should submit the following documents:
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of qualifications
- Copy of South African ID
Applications must be submitted via the online form and emailed to [email protected].
SANParks notes that if applicants do not receive feedback within 21 days after the closing date, they should consider their applications unsuccessful.
Closing Date
The deadline to apply for the Mega Living Landscapes Internship is 26 March 2026.
Why This Internship Matters
The Mega Living Landscapes Internship at South African National Parks offers young conservation professionals a unique opportunity to contribute to large-scale biodiversity protection and sustainable land management. By working directly with experienced conservation practitioners, interns will gain practical knowledge, develop professional networks, and play a meaningful role in protecting South Africa’s natural heritage.
For graduates passionate about environmental conservation and landscape-scale sustainability, this internship serves as an excellent starting point for a career in biodiversity management, conservation planning, and environmental stewardship.
Download Application Form
