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Welcome to the Kruger Park Hostel Volunteer Program

Volunteer at Kruger Park Hostel

Welcome to the bush! You're about to join a one-of-a-kind crew right on the edge of Kruger National Park. Here’s what to expect while volunteering with us.

Where You'll Sleep

Free shared dorm accommodation with 2–4 volunteers. We provide bedding and essentials. Simple, comfy, and surrounded by the sounds of nature.

What You'll Eat

Volunteers contribute R250/day for all meals. We shop in bulk and eat together like family.

  • Breakfast: DIY style – toast, cereal, spreads, and eggs
  • Lunch: Leftovers or sandwiches
  • Dinner: Buffet-style with volunteer help – includes main dish + side or dessert

Work Schedule

5 days a week, 5 hours a day (mostly afternoons/evenings). Mornings are free for you to explore, relax, or go on safari.

Volunteer Tasks

  • Help prep and serve dinner
  • Set up and maintain breakfast
  • Light housekeeping and cleaning common areas
  • Refill bar fridge and pantry
  • Social media content creation
  • Join the Monkey Security Team!

Perks of Volunteering

  • 20% off drinks at the bar
  • Free tours (you cover park entrance fees)
  • Discounts on camping safaris to Kruger or Mozambique
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Supportive team and lifelong friendships

Free Tour Info

  • Kruger Safari (half-day): ~R535 entrance fee (or get a Wild Card)
  • Panorama Route: ~R215
  • Eswatini Tour: ~R250
  • Lionspruit Drive: Free

Note: Night and sunset drives by external companies not included.

Details on safaris: krugerparkhostel.com/Camping-Safaris

Getting Here

From O.R. Tambo Airport: Stay at Backpackers Connection if arriving late.

By JSL Transport: Easiest option from Joburg or Pretoria. Book: www.jsltransport.co.za

Confirm direct drop-off with the driver. If not, contact Rene (+27 76 463 9573) or Mayra (+55 11 96426 5196) for pickup.

Health & Safety

Marloth Park is a low-risk malaria area with wildlife encounters daily. Be mindful of animals and avoid walking outside the hostel at night.

  • Check shoes and bedding for scorpions or snakes
  • Local clinic is 1 km away
  • Health insurance is recommended

Hostel Overview

Opened in Feb 2023, Kruger Park Hostel is small and family-run. Mayra and Rene manage operations; Oliver and Marion are the bush-loving founders. Annie, Happiness, Trudy (in training), Robert (our ranger), and Alfred, Shippo & Kelvin (maintenance) make up our awesome team.

We’re not big, and that’s the charm — we live like a family and treat guests the same way.

Living in a Game Reserve

Marloth Park offers a peaceful setting where wildlife roams freely. You’ll be living in nature, near Kruger, surrounded by culture and conservation.