• Reclaim indigenous forest and build a nature trail with the Rastafarians
• Go on forest hikes and beach clean ups with street kids
• Identify and research tidal pool and wetland birdlife and animals
• Take part in marine species surveys along the beautiful white beaches of Knysna
• Learn to identify forest mammals through tracks and signs in the Ancient Tsitsikama forest
• Get to experience all outdoor aspects of the infamous Garden Route, South Africa

The Garden Route is well known for its truly magnificent ecological surroundings. It is extremely rich in coastal and mountain forests, hills and valleys of fynbos, interlocked freshwater systems, salt marshes, turquoise estuaries and expansive, pristine white beaches. Volunteers work with various programs in the area either initiated by the community, such as the Rastafarian Eco-Project, with the street kids at the Sinethemba Youth Centre in bringing them to a greater awareness of the importance of conservation, or on long term research projects run by South African National Parks and independent researchers.

Apart from a positive, open minded enthusiasm... not much! Being moderately physically fit will ensure you enjoy a project to the fullest as there is often manual labour involved. Applicants should have an interest in new cultures & the environment as well as working with communities in a third world country.

Useful Skills: We realize that each volunteer that joins us has different skills and varying specialties to offer. Should you feel that you can contribute beyond our itinerary, please inform us so we can use your skills accordingly.

You will be contributing first hand to the long-term conservation of the Garden Route eco-system in all aspects necessary for the successful preservation of this diverse biome. There is no conservation without the cooperation of the community and there is no conservation without education. Volunteers learn about the diverse and fascinating eco-systems that the Garden Route has to offer, and this includes the following projects:

• Lagoon Habitat Quality Research
• Coastal Birdlife
• Wetland Monitoring
• Mammal Tracking in the Forest

Knysna is known as the Heart of the Garden Route. It is situated on the coast approximately 550 km north of Cape Town in the Western Cape. The projects are in and around the Knysna area on the beaches and wetlands and in the forests, and in Kayelethu which is about a five minute drive from Knysna. Kayelethu is an informal township - alive with African culture!

We place volunteers in fantastic backpackers quite literally on the beach! Buffalo Bay Backpackers is located next to a marine reserve and close to Buffalo Bay Beach which is the most popular surfing beach in the area.

There is the option of a single room at a slightly higher cost for those who want a little more privacy; otherwise volunteers are placed in simple, clean, dorm style accommodation. All meals will be provided, they also have a fully equipped bar and DVD room. The owners and staff are extremely friendly and accommodating and will do what they can to make your stay more than comfortable. There is a small shop by the Buffalo Bay beach where you can buy toiletries and snacks.

• Buffalo Bay Backpackers has a fully equipped kitchen facility. However, all meals are provided, except at weekends when meals will be organised by BBB.
• Breakfast - Cereals, fruit, yoghurt, fruit juice coffee and tea.
• Lunch - Sandwiches/rolls in a packed lunch.
• Dinner - A cooked meal delivered to BBB.

If you have special dietary needs, please advise us.

Coastal and Forest Wildlife Monitoring

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