• Experience the magnificent Garden Route through the eyes of underprivileged kids
• Assist in conservation workshops for kids from the ages of 4 to 18 and learn about South Africa's indigenous plant and animal species in the process
• Make a real contribution to conservation in Africa as you spark a love and understanding of nature in the township kids
• Teach English and help the kids practice their English skills as you work through daily tasks
• Live and work in Knysna- South Africa's favourite coastal town!

The future of this incredibly rich and diverse biome lies in the hands of our future generations and no gift is greater than the gift of a love and respect for the natural world.

The satisfaction that comes with being involved with this project is enormous. Positively influencing underprivileged kids while working in a beautiful area is truly rewarding. In no way are our workshops like classroom lessons, instead we work with small groups of children between the ages of 6 and 18 to create an enthusiasm and a love for nature by introducing them to concepts outside of their curriculum.

This includes bush survival, wildlife tracking, identifying insects and birds, hikes through the forest, on the beaches and canoe trips along the river.

You do not need to have any previous conservation-related background or any knowledge of South African conservation- everything you need to know is provided in your briefing sessions! 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.

A team leader will run the workshop and each volunteer assists by covering a list of activities with groups of between 5-10 kids. This is very informal and the emphasis is on nature appreciation and biodiversity awareness. The kids love the interaction with volunteers in a relaxed and fun environment. The kids come from varying backgrounds. Workshops are either held in classrooms, or outdoors e.g. on the beach or in the forest.
Topics include:

• Wetland birds
• Forest animals
• Tracking wildlife
• Tidal pools
• Fish in the River
• Predators
• Recycle & Reuse

This project is situated in and around the town of Knysna, considered to be the "heart of the Garden Route" because of its naturally beautiful surroundings - indigenous forests, mountains, pristine beaches, and of course, the lagoon. Knysna is approximately 550 km north of Cape Town and 400 km south of Port Elizabeth, on the coast.

There will be very little 'roughing it' on this project. 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.

Workshops with Local Kids

REQUEST A BROCHURE