Humble Beginnings

This is the story of how Barberton FarmStay was born. It began with a simple but radical dream: to turn a normal South African home into an international homestay where absolute strangers become family.

From 2006 until 2019, our doors were wide open. We had the immense privilege of hosting over 450 young people from all corners of the world. Together, we built gardens, shared meals, crossed cultural boundaries, and made a permanent impact on the lives of the youth who stayed with us. We watched young travellers enter as guests and leave as lifelong family members. Then, in 2019, Covid-19 forced us to close our doors. The world paused, and our vibrant global hub went quiet. But while the doors were shut, the dream never died. We never forgot the laughter, the hard work, and the profound transformations we witnessed in the young people who called this farm home.

Today, we salute every single one of our 450 volunteers who kept our dream alive in their hearts. Because of you, we are ready to open our doors once again.

Barberton FarmStay is rising from its humble beginnings. We are calling on a new generation of international volunteers, changemakers, and travellers who want to make a real difference. If you want to experience the authentic heart of South Africa, mentor young people, and help us rebuild this global sanctuary, your hands and heart belong here.

Come help us write the next chapter