Help in a nature reserve in beautiful mountain country of Waterval Boven, South Africa

Availability

  2024 

 Min stay requested: 1 month or more

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Details

  • Description

    Description

    Step into a world where the rugged beauty of Mpumalanga, South Africa, meets a vision of sustainability and harmony with nature. In 2015, an extraordinary opportunity unfolded – the birth of our off-grid camp, a sanctuary nestled in the heart of breathtaking landscapes.

    What began as a dream has transformed into a thriving project, rising from abandoned mountain huts to an ambitious wildlife sanctuary. Our mission goes beyond mere existence; it's about fostering a self-sufficient way of life and rewriting the narrative of community conservation.

    What makes us truly exceptional is our commitment to sustainability. Embracing the power of the sun, we operate entirely off-grid with solar energy fuelling our endeavors. Our water source is a pristine mountain spring, our food comes from the earth beneath our feet, and our ongoing expansion of the garden aims for complete self-reliance. Every action is a deliberate step towards minimizing our environmental impact through waste reduction and relentless recycling.

    Now, we extend an invitation to those yearning for a profound connection with nature and a meaningful sense of purpose. Join us on an extraordinary journey where your spirit and hard work become the foundation of a legacy – one of environmental stewardship and community empowerment. Together, let's build a future where sustainability and symbiosis are not just ideals but a living, breathing reality.

  • Types of help and learning opportunities

    Types of help and learning opportunities

    Charity Work
    Art Projects
    Help with Eco Projects
    Gardening
    DIY and building projects
    Animal Care
    Farmstay help
    Creating/ Cooking family meals
    Help around the house
    Hospitality/Tourism
    General Maintenance
    Help with Computers/ Internet
  • UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve

    UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve

    UN goals
    No poverty
    Zero hunger
    Good health and well-being
    Quality education
    Gender equality
    Clean water and sanitation
    Affordable and clean energy
    Decent work and economic growth
    Industries, innovation and infrastructure
    Reduce inequality
    Sustainable cities and communities
    Responsible consumption and production
    Climate action
    Life below water
    Life on land
    Peace, justice and strong institutions
    Partnerships for the goals
  • Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

    Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

    Embark on an immersive cultural exchange that goes beyond the surface, offering travelers a unique opportunity to engage deeply with diverse facets of our project. Here's a curated list of activities that volunteers can participate in, providing not just hands-on experiences but invaluable learning moments:

    1. Construction Mastery:
    Engage in the application of our innovative building technique for crafting affordable, re-deployable housing and furnishings.

    2. Nature Immersion:
    Explore the enchanting beauty of our pristine indigenous forest, unveiling hidden waterfalls and unlocking the secrets of biodiversity.

    3. Water Wisdom:
    Acquire skills in tapping springs, harvesting rain, and river pumping within an integrated circuit, mastering the art of sustainable water management.

    4. Solar Power Proficiency:
    Dive into the world of off-grid living by learning the design and installation of solar power systems, harnessing the sun's energy for sustainable living.

    5. Gardening Harmony:
    Cultivate plants using design methodologies that harmonize with nature, fostering an understanding of sustainable gardening practices.

    6. Wildlife Stewardship:
    Delve into wildlife administration, collaborating with local vets and game farmers to care for orphaned wildlife, contributing to the preservation of indigenous species.

    7. Waste Revolution:
    Witness firsthand a lifestyle without waste, managing all aspects of waste on-site and gaining insights into sustainable waste management practices.

    8. Volunteer Coordination:
    Develop organizational skills by coordinating volunteers, ensuring meaningful engagement, managing food preparation, and maintaining overall camp cleanliness.

    9. Creative Design and Expression:
    Unleash creativity by grasping the basics of photography, contributing to website design, and exploring interior design projects within the camp.

    10. Empowering Outreach:
    Contribute to bridging communities by helping rural Africans connect to the global market; specifically, support the online sale of their clothing products, fostering economic empowerment.

    In essence, this cultural exchange transcends typical volunteer experiences, offering an educational journey that not only involves practical skills but also fosters a deep appreciation for sustainability, community, and the interconnectedness of our global society.

  • Help

    Help

    To prepare the way for a wildlife sanctuary and sustainable living for people and animals there is always something for us to do. So with the rather lofty goal of setting up a wildlife sanctuary, we also are interested in partnering with volunteers on projects that produce revenue for the growing sanctuary.

    We all commit to the basic set of daily, weekly, monthly work including:

    a. Daily
    • Cooking – preparing daily vegan meals.
    • Cleaning up after meals
    • Animal Care: tending and feeding the animals. Our family also includes two dogs and a cat.
    • Greenhouse, nursery and garden - composting, mulching, planting, weeding, fertilising, harvesting

    b. Weekly
    • Cleaning - vacuuming, sweeping, wiping down kitchen, ablutions, cabins
    • Firewood – wheelbarrow, chainsaw, axe
    • Maintenance - painting, fences, roads, trails, wood stack, recycling
    • Shopping - stocktaking and purchasing food
    • Construction - Wooden cabins, furniture, upgrades to current structures

    c. Monthly
    • Trail Blazing – explore, cut and clear, stones
    • Arts and crafts - Murals, signs, general beautification all round camp, feel free to get creative!
    • Road Leveling - clear, dig, level
    • Assistance with house and pet sitting

  • Languages spoken

    English: Fluent

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation

    Firstly, there are the communal cabins. With a somewhat rustic charm, is offers the basic comforts. There are two cabins available, each with space for two volunteers to share in each.

    Volunteers are encouraged to build their own private cabin using a unique, modular housing system. Designed and developed for easy assembly (like a large tent) and yet offer the comfort of a wooden cabin (see the picture of the wooden cabin among the photos)

  • What else ...

    What else ...

    Welcome to our off-grid haven, where every volunteer is granted access to essential amenities and unique experiences:

    1.Water: Indulge in the pure, mountain spring water for all your hydration needs.
    2.Ablutions: Enjoy facilities, including septic toilets, hot showers, and basin.
    3.Shower Options: Immerse yourself in a hot water gas geyser shower or experience the ‘Solar Rocket’ shower as a backup.
    4.Cooking Facilities: Utilize our equipped kitchen with a gas stove and induction stove.
    5.Accommodation: Choose between a communal cabin or a private cabin for your stay.
    6.Power: Illuminate your cabin and charge your devices with solar power from our array.
    7.Food: A budget is available for a diverse vegan menu.
    8.Yoga: Practice yoga on our outdoor deck, surrounded by nature.
    9.Internet Access: Climb a tree for the best signal in camp.

    THINGS TO PONDER

    Ethical Fashion Outreach:
    Support an incredible outreach initiative, where volunteers contribute to empowering women in Africa. Each item purchased comes with a label sharing the story of fair pay, respect, and dignity in the fashion supply chain, setting a new global standard for ethical fashion.

    Ancient Stone Circles:
    Uncover the mysteries of ancient stone circles surrounding our property, hinting at an astonishing history of humanity. From an enormous complex on-site to the renowned 'Adams Calendar' nearby in Kaapsehoop, these circles tell a story of an ancient village complex within a stone temple multiplex, all concealed by the indigenous forest.

    Butterflies and Botanical Diversity:
    Experience the enchanting mid-summer sight of butterflies streaming through the forest in immense volumes. The natural enclosure of the canyon walls has preserved diverse flora and fauna, creating an unforgettable encounter with nature.

    Kruger Millions and Historical Richness:
    Explore the historical legacy of the Boer war and President Paul Kruger's mysterious 'Kruger Millions' hidden in the area. Delve into the fascinating history of this region, marked by its intriguing mysteries.

    Abundant Wildlife:
    Nourished by the Joubert Spruit tributary, our Nature Reserve is home to a rich variety of fauna, including Bushbuck, Baboon, Leopard, and more. Explore the diverse birdlife and encounter the shy male Hippopotamus in this ecologically contained paradise.

    Adventure Awaits in the Area:
    Situated in a mountain canyon, our location offers top-tier rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, and walking trails. Beyond our sanctuary, explore the wonders of the Kruger Park, Blyde River Canyon's God's Window, Swaziland, and the pristine Archipelagos of Mozambique.

  • A little more information

    A little more information

    • Internet access

    • Limited internet access

      Limited internet access

    • We have pets

    • We are smokers

    • Can host families

  • How many Workawayers can stay?

    How many Workawayers can stay?

    More than two

  • ...

    Hours expected

    Maximum 4-5 hours a day, 5 days a week

Host ref number: 951852798799

Feedback (8)



Photos

Feedback

These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.

Accuracy of profile: (5.0)

Cultural exchange: (5.0)

Communication: (5.0)










Join me and help with conservation projects and building a wilderness camp in Sodwana Bay, South Africa
Come and help us with small projects and enjoy nature in Ixopo, South Africa