Jollyboys Backpackers, Livingstone – Zambia

Volunteering & Adventure in Livingstone: My Time at Jollyboys Backpackers

From December 18th, 2024 to January 6th, 2025, I had the incredible chance to volunteer at Jollyboys Backpackers in Livingstone, Zambia.What started as a volunteering opportunity quickly turned into one of the most inspiring journeys I’ve ever taken.

Life at Jollyboys – My Home in Livingstone

Jollyboys isn’t just a hostel—it’s a vibrant meeting place for travelers from all over the world. My days began helping out with hostel tasks: welcoming guests, keeping things running smoothly, and sharing insider tips for local adventures.

The team was amazing—warm, funny, and welcoming. We bonded like old friends, sharing dinners and late-night conversations under the stars. Highlights at the hostel included:

• Bring-Your-Food Dinner, where everyone’s ingredients came together on the grill while the staff cooked and stories flowed.

• Lively beer pong tournaments that turned strangers into friends.

• Comfortable corners to relax, plan trips, or simply watch the day unfold.

It felt less like work and more like living in a community of travelers and locals, full of laughter and connection.

Adventures Beyond the Hostel

Livingstone is pure magic for anyone who loves nature and culture. During my stay, every day offered something new and unforgettable.

The Mighty Zambezi & Victoria Falls

From sunset cruises where hippos surfaced nearby and birds danced across the water, to white-water rafting on wild rapids, the Zambezi River stole my heart. Standing at Victoria Falls, with mist rising like smoke, was breathtaking beyond words.

One Sunday, I joined local friends for a trip to the rapids — a peaceful afternoon of exploring hidden spots and soaking in endless river views as the sun set.

Safari & Wildlife

A day trip to Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park brought me face-to-face with rhinos and zebras. Later, I crossed the border for a camping safari in Botswana, and even spent one night in a beautiful lodge surrounded by nature’s soundtrack.

Culture & Encounters

Some of my most memorable moments came from cultural visits.

• At Mukuni Village, I was welcomed into David’s family home, where I saw how they live and cook—an experience full of warmth and humility. We even met the village king, an unforgettable honor that gave us insight into centuries-old traditions.

• The Livingstone market was a sensory feast. I had colorful fabric made into a New Year’s outfit and watched craftsmen build beds and furniture right in front of us.

I also enjoyed relaxed mornings with breakfast at Radisson Blu and Royal Livingstone Hotel, where the Zambezi sunset painted the sky in brilliant orange and purple.

Every encounter—whether with locals, fellow travelers, or wildlife—left me inspired and grateful.

Why Jollyboys Stands Out

What makes Jollyboys special isn’t just its great facilities and perfect location, but the atmosphere of openness and adventure. It’s a place where you can arrive solo and quickly feel at home, where laughter echoes from the bar and friendships are born over shared meals.

My Takeaway

Volunteering at Jollyboys was so much more than a trip.It was a journey of connection—to people, culture, and wild landscapes. From rafting the Zambezi to meeting a village king, from sunset safaris to late-night hostel chats, every moment was a story in itself.

Whether you’re a solo traveler or exploring with friends, Jollyboys Backpackers is the perfect base to discover the soul of Livingstone and beyond.

👉 Discover Jollyboys Backpackers and start your own adventure. 🌍✨