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Reception/Front office

4.5
(6 reviews)6

The experience

Join our front office team at Green Elephant Backpackers in Cape Town. We’re looking for volunteers with previous hostel reception experience to help welcome guests, manage check-ins and reservations, answer questions, and support daily front desk operations. This is a hands-on role in a social, international backpackers environment, perfect for confident volunteers who enjoy guest interaction and teamwork.

What you offer

25 hours of help per week

Administration: Help with booking systems and payments.

Reception: Help with check-ins, check-outs and guest assistance.

Bartending: Make and serve drinks and help maintain the beverages inventory.

What you get

2 days off per week

Shared Dorm: You will have a bed in a shared room, which means you will share the same room with other travelers.

Discounts on Drinks: Get discounts for drinks and beverages from our bar.

Discounts on Accommodation: Get discounts for your stay in other hostels.

Free Laundry: You can use our laundry room freely.

Use our equipped kitchen: Feel free to use our kitchen and make your own delicious food.

Fast Internet Access: High-speed internet for you to work remotely

Dedicated Workspace: Specific space for you to work remotely

Requirements

Fluent English

Between 24 and 35 years old

Only hosts solo volunteers (doesn’t accept couples or partners)

Academy Course How to become an outstanding Worldpacker

Be from outside South Africa

European Union Passport

United States visa or citizenship

Travel insurance

What's not included

Flights, Travel Insurance, Internal Transportation and Visa

Program Details

In exchange for 5 hours per day, 5 days per week, we offer shared accommodation in a dorm (female-only or mixed, depending on your preference). You’ll have access to a fully equipped kitchen, free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, a swimming pool, common lounge areas, and a social backpackers environment. You’ll also have plenty of free time to explore Cape Town, including Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, beaches, the V&A Waterfront, local markets, hikes, and day trips around the city.

Activities & Shift

Welcome guests and assist with check-ins and check-outs

Manage reservations and update booking systems

Answer guest questions in person, by phone, and WhatsApp

Provide local tips and help guests plan their stay in Cape Town

Handle basic front office admin and cash procedures

Communicate with housekeeping and operations teams

Keep the reception area tidy, organised, and welcoming

Follow front office procedures, safety rules, and house policies

Rules

Rules & Values

At Green Elephant, we value a safe, respectful, and well-run environment. All Worldpackers are expected to live these values:

Respect – Treat guests, staff, and fellow volunteers with kindness and professionalism

Accountability – Arrive on time, complete assigned tasks, and take responsibility for your shift

Service Mindset – Be friendly, helpful, and guest-focused at all times

Teamwork – Support the team and communicate clearly with staff and other volunteers

Integrity – Be honest, trustworthy, and follow house rules and procedures

Cleanliness & Care – Respect shared spaces, keep your dorm tidy, and look after the property

Learning & Growth – Be open to feedback and willing to learn how we operate

Important House Rules

No drugs on the property

No guests allowed in volunteer sleeping areas

Follow shift schedules and notify management in advance if you are unwell or delayed

Alcohol is allowed only in designated areas and in moderation

All safety, security, and front office procedures must be followed

Trial Period

All Worldpackers start with a short trial period. This allows both you and Green Elephant to confirm that the role, responsibilities, and working style are a good fit. If expectations are not met, the placement may be ended during or after the trial period.

We welcome volunteers who are responsible, respectful, and excited to be part of our community.