FAQs - My Kaya Your Kaya - Siyafuna Volunteers

Questions?

How to Book

For our volunteer experiences, we do not accept direct bookings. Instead, we work with trusted partners to whom we can refer you.

For internships, FGASA mentorships, and researcher internships, please email mike@siyafundaconservation.com to discuss the details. CVs are required.

For safaris, please email mike@siyafundaconservation.com to discuss how we can tailor-make your experience.

How to Get to Siyafunda

Siyafunda and My Kaya are located within the Greater Makalali Nature Reserve, approximately 500 km northeast of Johannesburg. Both Siyafunda and My Kaya operate independently of the Makalali Lodge.

By Car

From Johannesburg or Pretoria, travel to Emalahleni (Witbank), then continue via Belfast, Dullstroom, Mashishing (Lydenburg), and Ohrigstad.
Take the Abel Erasmus Pass through the Strydom Tunnel into the Lowveld.
Once you’re down the mountain pass, take the first road (R36) towards Tzaneen.
Travel 10 km and pass the road to Phalaborwa. After 800 meters, take the dirt road to Gravelotte.
Continue for 9 km, and you’ll reach the Makalali Main Gate.
We will meet you at the gate and escort you to the camp.

By Air

Fly from Johannesburg O.R. Tambo International Airport to Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport.
There are two daily flights operated by Cemair (www.flycemair.co.za) or Airlink (www.flyairlink.com).

By Shuttle

You can also arrange a shuttle with Safarilink Transfers (www.safarilinksa.com) or Swift Kruger Shuttles (www.swiftkrugershuttles.com).
Shuttles depart from O.R. Tambo Airport at 06:45 and arrive in Hoedspruit around 13:00-13:30. You can arrange to be dropped off at Eastgate Airport.

Weather

Siyafunda Wildlife & Conservation is located in the Limpopo Province, known for its very hot summers. Temperatures can exceed 40ºC in February, so lightweight, neutral-colored clothing and comfortable footwear are recommended.

The cooler months are May to August, with nighttime and early morning temperatures as low as 5-6ºC. Daytime temperatures average around 20ºC. It can be cold, especially on the back of the safari vehicle during these months.

For up-to-date weather information, visit: www.southafricanweather.co.za.

Is the water safe to drink ?

Fresh, drinkable water is available from the taps and absolutely safe to drink – we have our own borehole. If you prefer you can bring your own bottled water.

Should I take precautions against Malaria ?
Malaria is endemic throughout the Kruger National Park and surrounding private reserves including the Greater Makalali Nature Reserve, but please note: We are in a Malaria Low Risk Area . Peak transmission occurs between November to May, with little between June to October. Please consult your doctor with regards to a good, suitable malarial prophylactic. Best of all is to minimize your contact with mosquitoes by using repellent lotions, sticks or sprays such as 'Tabard' or 'Peaceful Sleep' You can find more information about malaria on the internet: www.malaria.org

What should I pack ?

The days are pleasant enough to wear shorts. In addition, the following items are essential:

Hat/Cap
Sunscreen/Sun block
Sunglasses
Water Bottle
Binoculars
Insect / tic repellent (DEET)
Torch/Flashlight
Backpack (for walks)
First Aid Kit (if you have one)
Raincoat (if you're coming during summer: Nov-March)
Warm jackets, Scarf and gloves (if you're coming during winter: June-Aug)
Converter/Adapter
Batteries and/or charger for cameras

What is the time difference ?

The South African Standard Time is 2 hours ahead of the Greenwich Mean Time.

What about electricity ?

There is electricity at Siyafunda Main Research camp and My Kaya lodge. South African electricity is 220/230 volts AC at 50 cycles a second, plug outlets are 15 amps, three-pin (round). There are NO 2-point outlets for shavers.

There is no electricity at Siyafunda's Endangered Species Camp. It does have solar to charge phones and camera's via USB.

Cell phone reception :

Your cell phone will automatically switch on to the South African Vodacom or MTN-service if you have international roaming activated, before you leave home. Alternatively you can purchase a South African SIM for your mobile phone or an international calling card.

Will I have internet access during my stay ?

If you require internet access at all the projects, you can arrange this for a small cost with the camp-manager. On your weekly or bi-weekly town trip you will also have the opportunities for internet access at the internet café in town to check your emails and do bookings.

Money / Credit Cards :
The South African currency is the Rand. For up to date currency conversions, visit www.xe.com . It is helpful to carry a small amount South African Rand (e.g. ZAR 500) with you; you will find a currency exchange bureau at the international airport or in Hoedspruit. In town you have also the opportunity to access ATMs with your credit card and purchase items with your savings card.

Security :

There is no concern about safety at our Siyafunda Projects and My Kaya Your Kaya, our game reserve is guarded / fenced. But like everywhere in the world security is everybody's responsibility.

VISA :

Most visitors to South Africa receive a 90 day tourist/travel visa. However check with the South African embassy before you leave your country. An international list of South African Embassies and their contact information can be found here

Do I need a work permit ?

No, as a volunteer you are not taking paid work.

Will I need insurance ?

It is always a good idea to have travel and/or medical insurance and we recommend you organise this before your departure. All our projects make this compulsory for all applicants.

Laundry :

You can do laundry at all of our camps.

Can I join more than one project ?

Yes, many people choose to join a mixture of projects over the course of their stay.

Do I need to know another language ?

While South Africa has 11 official languages, English is spoken mostly and used all over the country