Overview

We offer a couple of different volunteer programs in and around South Africa and Namibia. Volunteers can participate for anything from 2 weeks to a year and should be at least 17 years old and fluent in English.

South Africa is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, but there is much more to this fascinating country than what the average tourist sees. There are large social inequalities and the growing population is putting more and more pressure on nature. Countless NGOs and other projects, in addition to government programs, work hard to help people in great need and to protect animals and their habitats. Their work would not be possible without local and international volunteers.

Who We Are & What We Do

Good Hope Volunteers is an offspring from Good Hope Studies, an English language school in Cape Town, providing English lessons for foreign tourists since 1995. 

In 2009, we started offering volunteering, first through a partner, but soon we’ve organized our own volunteer programs. Over the years our programs grew and we decided to let it flow under its own brand. 

Our passion really is in intercultural exchange programs. We strongly believe that South Africa is one of the best places around the world to go and spend some extra time. Be it to learn English or to gain as a person from getting involved in social or conservation programs on a voluntary basis. 

We are a service company, bringing volunteers together with programs who depend on volunteers. Supplying the right people to the right programs is one of the core things we do. We are very service focused, believing that volunteers need a lot of support in order for their involvement becoming a success. 

We are based in Newlands, Cape Town, South Africa. We also operate a volunteer house in Rondebosch, Cape Town and a residence in the student area of Observatory, Cape Town. Some of the most interesting programs are also located in and around Cape Town. However we offer programs throughout South Africa and in Namibia.

We at Good Hope Volunteers are dedicated to providing real and sustainable experiences. Our programs have been researched, visited and evaluated to make sure they meet our vision. Feel free to ask us anything you want to know - we have a policy of being transparent and open.

Don’t hold back on experiencing everything you can: EAT, PLAY and ENJOY. Whether it’s sticking your hand in an elephant’s mouth or dancing with a big group of Xhosa kids – embrace every moment and give it your everything. Volunteering in South Africa will give you memories for life. South Africa has an abundance of cultures, adventure sports and beautiful wildlife. Jump off the highest bungee jump in the world, take a sunset safari drive, eat boerewors and pap at a braai or climb Table Mountain - submerge yourself in everything this rainbow nation has to offer. Remember that life starts when you step out of your comfort zone. Yes, you will be nervous at first and everything will be different and not what you are used to, but rock it! Make new friends -, savor the moment where you and people of all these different cultures come together. 

Why Pay for Volunteering?

The fee you pay covers the costs incurred by the program, the administrative costs incurred by Good Hope Volunteers, and, in some cases, a donation to the program. Though it varies from program to program, the fee may go towards the costs of accommodation, food, clothes, transport and excursions as well as volunteer training, preparation and supervision.

Your Personal Safety

Southern Africa is an area of infinite diversity - rich cultures, spectacular natural beauty and an untamed wilderness that lends itself very well to the young international traveller. When traveling in South Africa, however, like any other major developing nation, there are a number of key things to remember with regards to personal safety. 

During the application process you will be given our Volunteer Handbook which not only gives information regarding your program but also informs you on what to expect when you arrive and some tips on health, safety and welfare in Southern Africa. Our helpful volunteer coordinators will also be on hand to make sure all the information you and your family need is comprehensive and easy to understand.