Volunteer

Peace of Eden hosts a number of volunteer projects, some of which are based in and around the small holding in Knysna and others that take place further away.  All of the volunteer programs are facilitated by a passionate and trained team who are dedicated to making a difference in their chosen field.  Below are some of the projects taking place, however Peace of Eden can also tailor make and facilitate programs to suit the travel plans and interests of the volunteers. Anything from a week to a year can be considered. The programs are ideal for gap year students, post graduates and individuals looking for meaningful experiences with local people abroad.

ECO ORGANIC TOURISM: On a beautiful property next to the indigenous forest of the Garden Route is an eco-lodge and backpackers.  Volunteers assist with the large organic permaculture garden, guest farm management duties, sustainable initiatives, forest rehabilitation, horse care, environmental education with the resident nature guide, outreach workshops in the local communities and informative township tourism.

MUSICAL OUTREACH INTERNSHIP: On a beautiful property next to the indigenous forest of the Garden Route is a working music and recording studio. Volunteers learn the ins and outs of the business whilst assisting with various musical projects. Some of these include facilitating workshops with township musicians, musical therapy with underprivileged children, empowering young artists to make their own instruments and creative enterprising within the industry.  All of these projects will be filmed and recorded in the music studio by the volunteers themselves, providing an audio visual reference and DVD ‘show reel’ of their volunteer experience to take home with them. These documentations can also be used for CV purposes, propagation of the projects and so on.

LIFE SKILL CAMPS:  In a similar format to the Summer Camp program, volunteers will provide children with a variety of skills and experiences through courses and camps that will leave them feeling empowered and inspired.  Volunteers will be trained as camp leaders, to give guidance, friendship and education to children from the ages of 6 to 16 on holiday and outreach orientated camps in the Garden Route and Western Cape of South Africa.  

A detailed breakdown of the individual volunteer programs can be provided upon request. Prices vary according to the length of the projects and requirements of the volunteer. Meals and lodging are generally included, however volunteers looking to stay elsewhere or pay less for the program can also source their own accommodation.  As part of the program a week or two of guided ‘free time’ travel (namely to the homeland regions of the Transkei and on safari to the Addo Nature Reserve) can be included. This is a fun and safe way to end a volunteer experience by connecting with your team and seeing some of South Africa’s most beautiful regions.

Rough Price Guide (not including flights)

All Inclusive (program, 2 meals a day, accommodation): R2000 ($250/£200) per person per week

Program and accommodation: R1500 ($180/£150) per person per week

Program only (own transport must be provided): R1000 ($125/£100) per person per week