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Volunteer Opportunity

Come join our quirky little bush crew 🌿

Family‑run hostel on the edge of Kruger National Park. Real teamwork, shared meals, wildlife moments, and bush life you won’t forget.

5h/day5 days/week2 days offR250/day meals
Apply via WorldpackersRead FAQ
Quick Facts
  • Start time: 14:00
  • Work window: Afternoons & evenings
  • Dorm: 4 beds
  • Wi‑Fi: Fast (by bush standards)

How to Apply

Applications are only accepted via Worldpackers.

  • Clear expectations
  • Secure messaging
  • Verified profiles
Volunteer Cook 🍳
Apply for Cook
Kitchen Hand 🥣
Apply for Kitchen Help

Volunteer Reviews

Why Kruger Park Hostel Is Different

Volunteering at Kruger Park Hostel is not about ticking a box, padding a CV, or filling time between destinations. It’s about becoming part of a small, real, working bush household — with all the responsibility, laughter, challenges, and rewards that come with it.

We are a family‑run hostel on the edge of a wildlife reserve, not a chain, lodge, or volunteer factory. There is no script, no rotating cast of short‑term helpers, and no “guest vs staff” divide. Volunteers are part of the daily rhythm: cooking meals together, welcoming travelers from all over the world, solving practical problems, and adapting to bush life as it unfolds.

  • 🦓 Wildlife at your doorstep, not behind fences or schedules
  • 🔥 Genuine responsibility, not busywork or token tasks
  • 🍲 Communal living, sharing space, food, and effort
  • 🌿 A slower, deeper experience, not rushed volunteering
  • 🛠️ Learning by doing, adapting to real situations
  • 🌍 Real human connection, not transactional travel

The first week is about settling in — learning how the kitchen flows, how guests move through the space, how to stay wildlife‑aware, and how to live comfortably in a communal environment. By weeks two and three, most volunteers find their rhythm. They take ownership, make decisions confidently, and become an essential part of the team rather than a visitor.

That’s why we ask for a one‑month commitment. Not because we need free labour — but because the real value of this experience only appears once you’re fully integrated. Short stays barely scratch the surface. Longer stays allow you to grow skills, form real connections, and experience the bush not as a tourist, but as part of daily life.

People who thrive here are curious, adaptable, comfortable with shared spaces, and open to learning by doing. If you’re looking for luxury, privacy, or a hands‑off experience, this won’t be the right fit. But if you want something honest, grounding, and genuinely memorable — this place tends to stay with you long after you leave.

FAQ (Because you’re smart and you ask good questions)

This FAQ answers the most common questions about volunteering at Kruger Park Hostel, including work schedules, accommodation, meals, safety, wildlife, days off, and joining safaris or tours. It’s designed to help potential volunteers clearly understand what life is like in Marloth Park, what is included in the volunteer program, and how to apply through Worldpackers with confidence.

Yes — two days off per week. On work days you still have personal time, especially in the mornings.

The R250/day contribution covers meals (breakfast, lunch basics, and dinner). Bar items are separate.

Around 5 hours per day, 5 days per week, usually starting around 14:00.

Often yes — when there’s space on a tour with paying guests. You’ll usually cover park entry fees (e.g. Kruger).

A separate volunteer dorm (4 beds) with bedding included, near staff rooms, plus a separate ablution block.

We can usually accommodate vegetarians and often guests who are vegan or lactose‑intolerant. Communication helps us plan well.

Often yes — depending on space and role availability. Apply via Worldpackers and explain your situation.

Marloth Park is a wildlife area. You’ll see animals and insects. We provide clear safety rules — no walking at night, no feeding wildlife, and always ask if unsure.

Camera/phone, sun protection, light clothes, hiking shoes, swimsuit, and closed shoes for evenings.

Laundry is available. Wi‑Fi covers most areas. eSIMs are easiest; Vodacom has good local coverage.

Yes — extensions are often possible if space allows. Just communicate early.