Local Township Experience
Coordinator | Kevin
Coordinator | Kevin
Book with Flex Option!
Choose new departure dates or change to a different volunteer program at no extra costs.
Volunteers get to immerse themselves in the day-to-day lifestyle of locals living in a South African township - a true cultural experience!
This volunteer program is especially suitable for:
Age 18+
Singles
Couples
Groups
50+
South African "townships" are best known for their vibrant atmosphere! Immersing yourself in the township life is the best way to get a taste of true African hospitality in its truest form! While the bigger cities in South Africa become more and more westernized, the townships have remained unchanged for decades.
While unemployment in these communities remains a massive problem, the resilient locals somehow find ways to survive through working together and looking out for one another. It is in these areas that you find and experience the spirit of "Ubuntu" (local expression that refers to behaving well towards others or acting in ways that benefit the community). Local and foreign visitors are always welcomed with open arms and unforgettable smiles!
This township, named Kayamandi (Xhosa name meaning "nice home"), is located on the outskirts of Stellenbosch - a university town in the heart of the famous Cape Winelands. It was formed in the 1950's, during the Apartheid era of segregation, to house the majority of black farm workers in the area. Volunteers placed here will experience the tastes, sounds, and colors of true South African culture.
Typical day
Volunteers here will have the chance to work either at an informal creche/kindergarten and working hours are typically from 07:30 - 14:00. Activities include:
- Feeding, teaching and playing with children
- Meal preparation
- Making educational toys and learning aids
Afternoons can be spent mingling with the locals in the township or in the nearby university town of Stellenbosch, which has a shopping mall, various little cafes and coffee shops as well as many local markets and museums.
Free-time activities
Cape Town is one of Africa’s most popular tourist destinations for a reason. Its beaches, such as Camp’s Bay, are world renown, and Cape Town’s beachfront and downtown areas are lively at any time. During the day it is easy to find artisans selling their crafts or outdoor cafes to enjoy the Mediterranean climate. At night, there are many excellent bars, clubs and restaurants where locals and foreigners can relax and socialize.
There are numerous cultural sites to visit, including the Bo-Kaap neighborhood and the Castle of Good Hope. They reflect Cape Town’s long history and help explain why the city is one of the most multicultural in the word. Robben Island, the infamous prison where political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela, were held during apartheid is a difficult but necessary stop. For outdoor lovers, Cape Town has a wide mix of opportunities. Table Mountain is a breathtaking spot to visit, and there are many nearby hills, mountains and trails that make for great biking, climbing and hiking. Many, like Lion’s Head Mountain, also offer stunning views over the city and ocean below. Join in on tours down the Garden Route and a Game Drive to spot the Big 5!
Concert/
Music
Music
Sightseeing
Shopping/
Souvenirs
Souvenirs
Climbing
Safari/
Zoo
Zoo
Hiking
Museum/
Opera
Opera
Sports
Requirements
In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.
You need to speak English (basic level)
required
General at High School level
CV and Police Clearance
No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.
- passion for children
- readiness to interact with locals and an adventurous nature to experience new foods, languages, cultures, religions, etc.
- readiness to interact with locals and an adventurous nature to experience new foods, languages, cultures, religions, etc.
Your helping hand will be required on
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday
from
07:30
- 14:00
What's Included
Placement in a suitable project and volunteer hostel/host family - Placement inventory information prior to arrival in South Africa - Transfer from the airport to the STAY AFRICA house - Transfer to STAY AFRICA office for Orientation - Orientation program, including welcome session and Orientation Session - Meals and accommodation at volunteer house -
At additional cost: Access to email, internet and mail holding facility at the STAY AFRICA House; Transportation from the accommodation to the project site and back.
Volunteers will be collected at Cape Town International Airport on the Set Arrival Date. A representative from the shuttle company will have a signboard with STAY AFRICA VOLUNTEERS on it to meet you. If you are unable to see anyone, please make your way to the information desk in the main terminal as the driver will page for you.
Volunteers placed at community projects will reside in a homestay within walking distance from their project or where transportation will be provided. The township is approximately 1 hour outside Cape Town. At the homestay, 3 meals a day, 7 days per week are provided and volunteers are responsible for their own laundry. Internet is a luxury and cannot be guaranteed. Volunteers will share a room with fellow volunteers. The home is an average 3-bedroom home with running (hot) water, electricity and provides a comfortable stay.
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner is provided everyday at the homestay. Vegetarians can be catered for. Breakfast is self help and normally includes coffee, tea with bread and cereal. Lunch consist of a packed sandwich to our project and Dinner includes a wide variety of dishes featuring food such as chicken or beef with beans, pasta, vegetable or rice. Dinner may also include a salad or soup.
Limited access at the project site
Visa, flights, travel insurance or vaccinations are NOT included in the program fees.
The nearest airport is Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town. We assist you to find cheap flights to South Africa.
Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for South Africa provides security and is a plus to have.
If you are intending to volunteer in South Africa you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for South Africa.
Dates & Fees
NO CREDIT CARD FEES
Details on arrival
The Volunteer South Africa Programmes has set arrival dates and the programme begins on a Sunday and ends on a Saturday.
- 03, 10 & 24 June
- 01, 08, 15 & 22 July
-05, 12, 19 & 26 August
-02, 09 & 16 September
-07, 14 & 28 October
-04 & 18 November
We understand that flights may be expensive and you may not always be able to secure a flight to arrive on set arrival dates, we are therefore happy to accommodate last minute bookings even participants who are only able to arrive on a day where they are able to secure an affordable flight.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
4 - 12 weeks
Program fees
4 weeks
(min. stay)
$889
5 weeks
$1,079
6 weeks
$1,299
7 weeks
$1,510
8 weeks
$1,679
9 weeks
$1,799
10 weeks
$1,999
11 weeks
$2,050
12 weeks
(max. stay)
$2,099
Average fees
$199
/week
Please note that the above shown program fees are estimated.
Stay Africa Volunteers
will let you know about the final price during your application process.
The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.
Your final payment will be agreed with Stay Africa Volunteers during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.
Why book with Volunteer World
Volunteer World is the world's leading comparison platform for international volunteer opportunities. We guide you through a safe and easy
application process
- including all necessary payments. Planning your next meaningful trip with Volunteer World gives you free access to our:
Quality Assurance
High ethical standards & transparent social impact
Flex Option
Change your reservation at no extra costs
Refund Guarantee
We refund your fees if Stay Africa Volunteers cancels your trip
Support & Mediation
We cover your back no matter what happens
Our services are free of charge!
All program fees are charged directly by Stay Africa Volunteers.
What are people saying about Volunteer World?
Local Township Experience
Volunteers get to immerse themselves in the day-to-day lifestyle of locals living in a South African township - a true cultural experience!
$199/week
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