Volunteer at a mountain eco-lodge, true off-grid escape in South Africa

Simonskloof Mountain Retreat is a remote, off-grid eco-lodge nestled in the Cape Fold Mountains, about 50 km west of Montagu in South Africa’s Western Cape. Established in 1999, it offers a peaceful escape from city life – perfect for a digital detox and soul recharge. Volunteers can take part in various tasks, including building or renovating a guest cottage, maintaining hiking trails, stacking wood, light cleaning, helping in the kitchen, or working in the permaculture garden. The 2000-hectare retreat is surrounded by rockpools, mountain trails, and rich biodiversity at the meeting point of the Succulent Karoo and Mountain Fynbos. It’s also a space for outdoor adventure and wellness workshops. Simonskloof invites volunteers looking for a grounded, nature-based experience far off the beaten path.

About the free volunteer program

Simonskloof Mountain Retreat is a remote, off-grid eco-lodge nestled in the Cape Fold Mountains, about 50 km west of Montagu in South Africa’s Western Cape. Established in 1999, it offers a peaceful escape from modern life and a chance to immerse yourself in sustainable, off-grid living. Volunteers join a long-standing work exchange program, helping maintain this 2000-hectare wilderness retreat while enjoying a digital detox and connection to nature.

Requirements

• Able to commit to a minimum of 2 weeks.
• Comfortable with basic, rustic living conditions (solar-powered, no mobile reception).
• Physically prepared for hot summers (up to +40 °C) and cold winters (down to –5 °C).
• Open-minded, adaptable, and ready to help where needed.
• No special skills are required, but practical experience and a love for the outdoors are a plus.

Your Responsibilities

• Fieldwork: renovating or building guest cottages, trail maintenance, stacking firewood.
• Light duties: cleaning guest cottages, helping in the kitchen, tending the permaculture garden.
• Meal prep and cleanup are shared responsibilities, with hearty vegetarian meals cooked together using local and homegrown ingredients.

Expect to work around 5–6 hours a day, 5–6 days a week. Tasks are varied and depend on the season and ongoing projects.

What’s in it for You?

• Free accommodation in a caravan or safari-style dome tent (depending on availability).
• Three nutritious vegetarian meals a day.
• Time to explore 60 km of hiking trails, swim in rock pools, or take part in optional guided activities like abseiling, climbing, or mountain biking.

It’s a rare opportunity to live simply, learn new skills, and reconnect with nature in a truly peaceful setting.

Please plan ahead—transport from Montagu is only available once a week, so all arrivals must be arranged in advance. Volunteers must have valid travel insurance, appropriate gear, and a suitable visa if required. Only 1–4 volunteers are accepted at a time, so spots fill up quickly.

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