• Experience a colourful, positively cheerful Rastafarian community and make friends for life!
• Work closely with passionate Rastas to rehabilitate township land back to its indigenous state
• Work in the Rastafarian crèche in your free time
• Live in a backpackers right on the pristine white beach of Buffalo Bay

In conjunction with the South Africa National Parks , the largest Rasta community in South Africa has established a nature trail that meanders along the Kayalethu River basin (adjacent to the community). Previously this was a piece of land covered with overgrown alien vegetation and a polluted river. The Rasta's initiated the rehabilitation of this eco-system, turning it into a sustainable community project.

They are creating walkways, removing the alien invasive species and planting indigenous species- attracting back all the indigenous wildlife. This really is a unique and successful project which deserves our support!

Apart from a positive, open minded enthusiasm.not much! You should be prepared for manual labour as there alien invasive removal duties can be hard work. Of course this is not all you will be doing and as long as you have an interest in new cultures & the environment you will find this project highly rewarding.

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.

Volunteers will assist Maxie and his team rehabilitate the Kayalethu river trail through:

• Removaing alien invasive trees and plants
• Planting indigenous species
• Mending paths and walkways
• Clearing river debris
• Helping the guides with tourists from abroad, and the surrounding communities
• And assisting with duties at the Judah Square Crèche at every opportunity

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. Knysna is South Africa's favourite holiday town and this can be contributed to the breathtaking surroundings which include forest, lagoon and beach environments.

Judah Square, home of the Rastas is 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.

Reforestation with the Rastas

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