Shift: 14:30 to 19:30 (ish)
Let’s be real — you’re not Gordon Ramsay, and we’re not the Ritz. But we are a hungry bunch of backpackers who appreciate a good home-cooked meal. Your job? Keep us fed, happy, and maybe even a little impressed.
Before You Even Think About Chopping:
- Start prepping around 2 PM (official shift at 14:30)
- Manage the dinner shopping list
- Cook dinner — always include a side or dessert
- Use leftovers creatively
- Prioritize existing and aging ingredients
- Stay flexible — Oliver brings back mystery produce
- Use Google or ChatGPT for ideas if stuck
Bread & Rusks — Your Morning Legacy:
- Bake fresh bread daily for breakfast
- Be creative: sourdough, buns, croissants, etc.
- Bake rusks once a week (recipe provided)
Dinner Timing:
- Normal dinner: 7 PM
- Night safari dinner: 6:30 PM
- Sundowners at 5 PM — prep in advance
- No micromanagement — just don’t serve dinner at midnight
Sides & Desserts:
- At least one side or dessert per dinner
- Simple sides: salads, roasted veggies, potato salad
- Desserts: cheap and loved, aim for 3 per week
- Braai nights (Fridays): no dessert needed
Breakfast Prep (for the next morning):
- Bake bread
- Prepare rusks and coffee for early tours
- Set up the breakfast counter
- Make something unique once a week
During Your Shift:
Kitchen & Cleaning
- Wash, dry, and store dishes
- Clean stove and counters
- Empty and clean compost bin
- Sweep and mop if needed
- Deep clean storerooms weekly
Guest Vibes
- Be social — talk to guests
- Encourage games or social dinners
- Upload photos/videos to shared Google Drive
- Tag hostel on Instagram and TikTok
Things to Keep an Eye On:
- Dirty cups, dishes, and bottles
- Sofa pillows looking chaotic
- Kitchen and reception counters — spotless
- Switch off unused lights, A/C, fans
- Salt, pepper, and napkins centered on tables
- Refill and reset the ice machine post load-shedding
- Floors swept and clean
- Chill areas and game zone neat and guest-ready
Safari Days & Days Off:
- Check the schedule daily
- Make sure coffee and rusks are ready before your tour
One Last Thing...
If you use the kitchen — clean it. Wash your dishes, wipe the stove, and leave no trace behind.
Also, we’ve got two amazing local women training with us: Trudy (21) and Happiness (25). They're learning to become guides and managers. They’re a bit shy and practicing their English, so please include them, talk to them, and make them feel like part of the team.