Profile information
Host rating
100 %
Last replied
17 Apr 2024
Reply rate
100.0 %
Usually responds within 2 days
Feedback
5
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Details
Description
We have a small plot in Matebeleng village in Botswana. It is situated 30km from the capital, Gaborone. We have over 50 indigenous fruit trees, plus many exotic fruit trees too - a miniature jungle - which needs some daily maintenance, plus we have quite a few rescued resident animals that need some love and attention: 12 cats, 5 dogs, chickens and fish.
There are a few other wild creatures that live here, such as mongeese, monitor lizards, terrapins, and other small mammals, plus a few snakes, scorpions, frogs and spiders. We love our insects and try not to use any pesticides, and guests would have to be comfortable with that sort of 'jungly' environment.
It is very easy to access public transport from our plot, as we are a couple of hundred metres from the main T junction into the village where combis pass daily. We will pick you up from Gaborone, and some days we travel to the city where you'd be welcome to catch a lift with us.
Volunteers are only expected to work four-five hour days, with the weekends free to adventure about. Basic food supplies are available. It would only be suitable for vegan, vegetarian or pescatarians.
Weather can be very extreme here, in Summer it is blazing, sometimes up to and over 40 degrees, whereas in Winter it can be freezing. The best time to visit in our opinion is April May, but every month is different.
We are very nature-oriented - living in our wilderness means treating all creatures kindly, including the plants. As the conditions are quite rustic this would only suit those able to entertain themselves, and those not scared of a few wild animals.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Help with Eco Projects
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Animal Care
Help around the house
General Maintenance
UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
The village is located in the Kgatleng district, there is plenty to see and learn from local villagers. Volunteers can also learn about the amazing Indigenous food plants and medicinal plants that grow in this area if they are interested.
Help
Watering plants - when it gets very hot we need some extra irrigation done, plus filling up fish ponds
Feeding and caring for our animals - feeding chickens, cats, dogs and fish and cleaning their areas
General upgrading of our yard is always happening, so any building, fencing, or other skills are welcome
Harvesting fruits when in season
Languages
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Spanish: Fluent
French: Fluent
Setswana: Fluent
German: Beginner
Northern Ndebele: Beginner
Portuguese: Beginner
Shona: BeginnerThis host offers a language exchange
This host has indicated that they are interested in sharing their own language or learning a new language.
You can contact them directly for more information.
Accommodation
Currently in a very rustic room, with a bucket shower and private toilet. Volunteers would need to share, or they can camp nearby if they choose - a tent can be provided. Tents come with a blow-up mattress. Cooking is done in a communal kitchen.
What else ...
There are a few spectacular wildlife game reserves nearby - Khutse Game Reserve; Central Kalahari Game Reserve - here you can see Lion, Leopard, occasionally Elephants, lots of different antelope, and incredible scenery, The stars at night are absolutely incredible. A visit to Gaborone the Capital city which is only a half hour drive from the plot. Laze about in hammocks and read books, and swim in our miniature plunge pool.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Can host digital nomads
There is a decent wifi connection
How many Workawayers can stay?
Two
Hours expected
Maximum 4-5 hours a day, 5 days a week
Feedback (2)
Isaac and Sarah shared their place with me for roughly 3 weeks, and I really enjoyed the… read more
Feedback
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(5.0)
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(5.0)
Isaac and Sarah shared their place with me for roughly 3 weeks, and I really enjoyed the… read more
