Volunteer in Tanzania

A Tanzania volunteer experience is a truly unforgettable way to explore the rich and diverse local culture as well as travelling with a difference. Whether volunteering abroad for the first time or as a returning VolSol alumnus, we can help kickstart your volunteering journey in Tanzania today! If you’re looking to make a lasting impact on our volunteer programs in Tanzania and truly become a global citizen, our teams are ready for you to get in touch and help find the perfect volunteering opportunity for you. 

The ‘how’ in how to volunteer abroad in Tanzania is a pretty simple process that our team can guide you through. The hard part is choosing a program that you want to get involved in! Our Tanzania volunteer programs offer a breadth of opportunities to work with those in need of the support and contributions you can offer. We have three different locations, each offering something new and unique!

Volunteering with children in Tanzania is a very popular choice and we have a great selection of programs for you to choose from! If you want to volunteer in Arusha, our Childcare Volunteer program could be the one for you! You’ll have the chance to make a positive impact on the lives of underprivileged children. You will support the children through education, sports, and creative play! 

If you are an aspiring teacher looking to put your skills to the test, you can volunteer as a teacher! We have teaching projects in both Arusha and Zanzibar, so both destinations are available to you. You’ll be able to make lesson plans for English teaching, as well as potentially teaching science, maths and geography! 

Another option for working with children would be the Special Needs Care volunteer program. Our volunteer organisations need volunteers to help support the work they are doing there. You can be involved in construction work, but a lot of it is supporting the overworked staff in the vital work they do! You’ll be playing and teaching children all day, and supporting their development and enrichment. 

The programs in Arusha don’t stop there! You can also join our Women Empowerment program. You will be helping disenfranchised women gain back their autonomy and be able to support themselves and their family! This is key to helping a flourishing and stable community. 

We also have a 2-week special in Arusha, to allow you to experience the best of what Tanzania has to offer! You will volunteer during the week, and take an amazing trip over the weekend to go on safari! 

For any budding medics or nurses, both Arusha and Zanzibar have medical programs to get involved in! You’ll be able to understand healthcare under a new context, as well as giving back to the community and making a difference! There is even a chance to get involved in more hands-on procedures depending on your experience! 

Ecological and marine conservation is also on the cards when travelling to Tanzania! We have two programs in Mtwara, focusing on coral reef restoration and sea turtle conservation. You’ll be working with local teams to ensure turtle hatching spots remain undisturbed and a safe place, as well as educating the locals on safe fishing practices to avoid damaging the marine ecosystem! On our Coral Restoration and Sea Turtle Conservation program, you even have the chance to go scuba diving! In fact, this is part of your daily routine! 

Have we piqued your interest? Good! Are you ready to get started? Even better! Volunteering in Tanzania is only a few clicks away; choose your program, click ‘Apply Now’, complete the registration process, and let us take care of the rest. Get in touch with us today for more information on how we can make your volunteering experience in Tanzania unforgettable. 

Volunteering Solutions offers a wide range of programs in over 25 destinations worldwide. In the last 17 years, we have placed over 21,000 international volunteers across various projects and internships, helping them grow personally and professionally while making a difference to the world at large. We’ve hosted teen volunteering groups as well as gap year travellers, youth volunteers as well as family volunteering groups across various destinations.

Not only do we have our experience, but we have many accreditations that attest to our excellence in the field as well as our legitimacy as a volunteering experience coordinator. We are approved by WYSE Work Abroad, Go Overseas, and many other accreditors for volunteering abroad organisations. 

We have a dedicated team that ensures that volunteers have a smooth and memorable experience, learning from their peers along the way. From the moment you inquire, through the process of clearing doubts, filling out the application, making payments, accessing the Pre-Departure Guidebook, and reaching the volunteering location followed by Program Orientation – our team supports you every step of the way. We have in-country coordinators and representatives to assist you at the project sites.

Additionally, Volunteering Solutions offers various support services, including:

• Medical and travel insurance at a nominal extra cost
• Fundraising assistance for volunteers facing financial challenges
• Weekend excursions and hikes in Tanzania
• Local transportation and airport drop-offs for a minimal extra cost

Upon completing your project, you’ll receive a Certificate of Completion, which will significantly enhance your career prospects. This experience will boost your CV/resume and expand your social network. It’s a journey you’ll cherish forever.

Volunteering Solutions also provides tailor-made projects for group volunteering (students, colleagues, or families) where people can work together and explore Tanzania most uniquely.

We have three different locations for you to pick from in Tanzania! Here’s what each location offers.

Arusha: Known as the gateway to Tanzania's northern safari circuit, Arusha is a vibrant city situated near some of the country’s most famous national parks, including Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. The city boasts a lively market scene, cultural experiences, and stunning views of Mount Meru. Visitors can explore local art galleries, museums, and enjoy diverse dining options, making it an ideal starting point for adventure seekers.

Mtwara: Located on the southern coast of Tanzania, Mtwara offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to the bustling tourist hubs. Known for its beautiful beaches and rich history, Mtwara is less frequented by tourists, providing a more authentic experience. The area is famous for its cashew nut plantations and traditional fishing communities. Visitors can enjoy pristine beaches, explore local markets, and discover the nearby Mikindani, a historic town with charming architecture and cultural significance.

Zanzibar: This idyllic archipelago off the coast of Tanzania is famous for its stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant cultural heritage. Zanzibar City, with its historic Stone Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring narrow winding streets, bustling markets, and rich Swahili culture. Visitors can indulge in water sports, spice tours, and explore the rich history of the islands. The beaches of Nungwi and Kendwa are perfect for relaxation and snorkelling, while the interior offers lush plantations and unique wildlife.

Each of these locations offers a distinct experience, from Arusha’s adventurous spirit to Mtwara’s tranquil charm and Zanzibar’s exotic allure, making them integral parts of any Tanzanian journey.

We have a plethora of programs available in Tanzania for you to choose from! Here’s what’s available: 

• Special Needs Care Volunteer Program, Arusha
• Tanzania 2-Week Special, Arusha
• Women Empowerment, Arusha
• Teaching Program, Arusha
• Childcare Program, Arusha
• Healthcare Medical Program, Arusha
• Protect the Sea Turtles in South Tanzania, Mtwara
• Coral Restoration & Sea Turtle Conservation by Scuba Diving, Mtwara
• Teaching English Program, Zanzibar
• Medical Volunteering, Zanzibar

Think you could be a great addition to our team? Let us know if you fulfil the following requirements! 

• Be at least 17 years or older at the time of joining the project.

• Have an open mind and flexible attitude for working in a new and different environment.

• Should also be proactive and can take initiative.

• Should bring energy and enthusiasm to make a difference.

• Should be open to learning, and be friendly with everyone.

Apart from that, a Criminal Background Check Report is essential for volunteers who are joining Childcare, or Teaching programs. And you should be empathic towards the animals if you want to volunteer for wildlife conservation programs.

With our projects starting from as low as £277 in Tanzania, we are sure you will find a project that suits you. Here’s what our price includes:

• 24 hrs Assistance and support from Staff
• Comprehensive Pre- Departure Information
• Airport Pickup at Kilimanjaro Airport or Bus station in Arusha
• Orientation
• Food 
• Accommodation at Volunteer House
• Assistance in booking weekend safari trips and other tours
• Travel & Medical Insurance (Available at an extra cost)
• Certificate Of Completion 

Like everywhere else around the world, volunteering in Tanzania comes for a minimal fee, which also covers your airport pickup, accommodation, and pre-departure booklet that contains all the information to get you started on your volunteering journey! Other than that, you'll also be provided with meals, pick up and drop from the project site to your accommodation, and most importantly, there will be 24/7 in-country support.

However, you can always fundraise to pay for your meaningful volunteer trip and experience the goodness of travelling abroad to make a difference.

Since our inception in 2007, we have sent over 21,000 volunteers to over 25 destinations across the world! We have much experience in providing unforgettable volunteering experiences across the world, and our excellence in the field is a testament to that!

We know what volunteers look for regarding safety and security during their stay. All of our accommodation is located in safe areas, with 24/7 support from VolSol staff. You will be provided with a full orientation about the country, the city, and the local area to ensure you are as best informed as you can be! 

Our pre-departure booklet provides comprehensive information about the do’s and don’ts of the area, and how best to respect the cultures and traditions of your destination of choice! 

Whilst our projects are based around towns and cities, you may find it difficult to get all of the items you may need when you are there! Here’s some essentials we suggest bringing with you:

• Microfibre towels. Towels are not provided, and microfibre towels are a great space-saving alternative to regular towels. They also dry super quickly, making them useful for beach days as well as regular use.
• A small bum bag to keep your valuables nearby and handy when on the project and in your free time! Nothing worse than having to hold your phone the whole time.
• A mosquito net! Tanzania has made great progress in controlling mosquito-borne disease, but being bitten all over still isn’t any fun! Bring strong insect repellent with DEET as well. 

The best time to visit Tanzania typically falls during the dry seasons, which run from late June to October and from late December to February. During the peak safari season from June to October, dry weather makes wildlife easier to spot as animals gather around water sources. This period is especially ideal for witnessing the Great Migration in the Serengeti. Similarly, from December to February, visitors can enjoy warm weather and the sight of young animals, though occasional rains may occur. 

The months of March to May constitute the rainy season, with heavier rains usually seen in April and May. While the landscapes are lush and beautiful during this time, wildlife viewing can be more challenging due to dense vegetation and muddy conditions. November can serve as a transitional month with short rains, making it a quieter time for those seeking to avoid crowds. Overall, the dry months are best for most activities, including safaris and trekking on Mount Kilimanjaro.

We welcome volunteers from all over the world and different walks of life! We firmly believe that diversity and inclusion can only make the world a better place. We want to champion global citizens with an international vision and a deep commitment to the betterment of our society. Our volunteers should be compassionate, enthusiastic about change, diligent, and open-minded. 

Our projects cater to group volunteering in Tanzania, as well as family volunteering groups, student volunteering, gap year travellers, as well as teenage travellers looking to expand their horizons. 

You can easily apply to volunteer in Tanzania and be a part of our mission trips by following a few simple steps. Once you have decided which program you wish to join, and in which destination, you can go ahead and fill out the application form here.

You will receive a welcome email from the team, acknowledging your application. We will then send your Booking Confirmation in 7-10 working days. Once you receive your Booking Confirmation you can log into your account to view your trip details and make your final payments.

If you can’t decide which program to join, or where to travel, you can always write to us at [email protected] - and our Program Advisors will assist you.

Before travelling to Tanzania, please ensure that you meet the following general requirements: 

• Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your expected return date.
• Ensure your passport has at least two blank pages for your visa and other necessary stamps upon arrival and departure.

You can obtain a Visa on arrival in the airport. You can also apply for one online. You will also need a work permit, but our local teams help you obtain one when you arrive on the project. 

We have fantastic opportunities to take on a medical mission in Tanzania! Both our Arusha and Zanzibar projects are fantastic opportunities to experience medical care under a new context and different system to your home country. Your knowledge complemented by the learning you will gain from this program will make you an unrivalled candidate for medical programs, as well as progressing your current career. 

To join, you must be 18 years of age, as well as an open mind and flexible attitude for working in a new and different environment. Medical interns must provide a clean criminal background check report, CV, passport copy as well as other documents and credentials pertaining to their qualifications prior to joining the program. Pre Med, Medical, Nursing students and CNA’s can join the program!

You can expect to rotate around different departments in an observational role, these departments include:

• The maternity ward
• The eye clinic
• Dental department
• Women, children and men wards for general health issues
• Gynaecology Department
• Theatre for surgeries
• Physiotherapy 
• First Aid department
• Laboratory and research
• X-ray facilities

There is also a possibility to shadow in the emergency department! In your application, you will be able to state your preferences for which department you would like to join. The number of rotations you do and for how long you stay in each department will depend on the duration of your volunteer project. 

Volunteering Solutions offers many different short-term volunteering opportunities in Tanzania! If you only have one or two weeks to dedicate to volunteering projects in Arusha or Zanzibar, we can provide you with a once-in-a-lifetime trip around Tanzania. 

Our one and two-week specials allow you to truly become a global citizen and immerse yourself wholly in the culture and traditions of Tanzania. You are able to make an impact locally to those who depend on the NGOs we work with, as well as see the treasures and monuments that earmark each era of Tanzanian history. 

Our 2-Week special allows you to get involved in local projects and give back to the local community, as well as experiencing the majesty of the Tanzanian savannah! You’ll spend your first week settling in, and getting to know the area and the teams you’re working with, and over the weekend you have the chance to go on a camping safari in the wilderness! You’ll get the chance to spot the Big 5 out in the wild, undisturbed by human life. 

You can also join our programs for one week if you have less time than 2 weeks!

If you're looking to volunteer for more than 2 weeks, you are more than welcome to! We can cater stays up to 24 weeks, so you can spend the best part of the year with us in Tanzania! A popular choice for many volunteers is to begin with a 2-week special, and extend your stay with us on the project of your choice.

Worried that you’ll find yourself bored after a while? We can assure you that there is no way this will happen, especially not in such a vibrant and vital country as Tanzania! We’ve many exciting weekend trips for you to join in on! Our safari trips are a once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience the glory of the African savannah in person.

Want to know more about what trips are available to you? Just email [email protected] for more information on this! 

Of course, when you are travelling to a new country, it’s obvious that you’d want to explore and experience the area, making the most of your journey. 

Tanzania is a breathtaking destination brimming with unforgettable experiences. Start your adventure with a thrilling safari in Serengeti National Park, renowned for the Great Migration, where you can witness thousands of wildebeest and zebras traversing the plains. For those seeking a challenge, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak, offers stunning vistas and a sense of accomplishment. Don’t miss the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where diverse wildlife and dramatic landscapes create a spectacular setting for exploration.

After your adventures on land, unwind on the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar, where white sands and crystal-clear waters invite relaxation. Explore the rich history of Stone Town, a UNESCO site filled with captivating architecture and culture. For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, consider a visit to the Selous Game Reserve, where you can embark on walking and boat safaris to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.

Lake Victoria, Africa's largest lake, offers opportunities for fishing and cultural encounters with local communities. For an immersive cultural experience, engage with local tribes like the Maasai and Hadzabe to learn about their traditions and way of life. Don’t forget to explore Tarangire National Park, famous for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees, providing a unique safari experience away from the crowds. Finally, indulge in the local cuisine, sampling dishes like ugali and fresh seafood, while visiting vibrant markets that showcase the rich flavours and culture of Tanzania. This incredible country promises a journey filled with adventure, beauty, and unforgettable memories!