Volunteering in Tanzania is the best way to discover its hidden treasures! Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, connect with the friendly locals, and make a meaningful impact. Tanzania perfectly embodies the charm of Africa, with its vast national parks teeming with majestic wildlife and the iconic Maasai tribe. But don't just observe: join our volunteer program and discover a world of hidden wonders. From breathtaking peaks to awe-inspiring encounters, Tanzania offers a variety of experiences that will leave you breathless. Get off the beaten track and experience the extraordinary as a volunteer in Tanzania!
1. Volunteering opportunities in Tanzania
You got it: Tanzania is THE destination that offers numerous types of volunteering programs. Conquer the majestic heights of Mount Kilimanjaro 🌄, unwind on the captivating beaches 🏖️ of Zanzibar, explore the vibrant city of Arusha, and embrace the bustling energy of Dar Es Salaam. This remarkable journey allows you to experience the diverse landscapes and rich culture of Tanzania while positively impacting local communities.
Here are the fields that need your help the most:
Education 🎓 (e.g. Teaching English 🇬🇧 or Primary Schools 📚)
Animal Conservation 🦒 🐯 🦏
Did you find the program you're looking for? If so, please remember to start your application on time! 🚀
We understand that this process may seem overwhelming, so we recommend you look into the different programs and options available to you and contact us if you have any questions. And also check the reviews from previous volunteers, their comments and experiences will give you a closer glimpse of the program.
We look forward to having you join the volunteerism movement, and to having you be part of our over 3 million travelers from all over the world who have been and are doing amazing work abroad.
2. Tips for volunteering in Tanzania
2.1. Is it Safe to Volunteer in Tanzania?
In Tanzania and across Africa, safety standards greatly vary compared to Western countries. To stay safe, follow these tips:
Walk away from the road and face oncoming traffic to minimize the risk of bag snatching by passing vehicles and motorbikes.
Avoid carrying excessive cash and valuable items. Store important documents, money, and jewelry in the hotel safe.
Use only licensed taxis for transportation and assess their safety before getting in.
2.2. Health advises
To reduce the risk of illness while volunteering abroad, consider the following health advice:
Ensure that your routine vaccinations (MMR, Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis, Chickenpox, and Polio) are up to date.
Consult with your doctor to determine which additional vaccinations, such as Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Rabies, and Yellow Fever, are recommended for travelers according to the CDC.
Familiarize yourself with the local medical facilities and ensure you have adequate health insurance coverage.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites by using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing, as Tanzania is at risk for Zika, Malaria, and Yellow Fever.
When visiting national parks and remote areas, utilize authorized camping sites to facilitate emergency access and evacuation.
When hiking or climbing, go prepared for low temperatures and be aware of the risks of altitude sickness, particularly on Mount Kilimanjaro.
2.3. Packing Tips
To tailor your packing list for volunteer work, consider the nature of your tasks. Here are the essential items you should bring:
Carry copies of your passport and crucial documents instead of the originals.
Pack sun protection, a sun hat, and potent insect repellent.
If your work involves outdoor activities or leisure trekking, bring sturdy and comfortable walking shoes.
Remember to bring any necessary medical supplements you may require.
2.4. Budget to volunteer in Tanzania
The suggested daily budget for volunteers in Tanzania is between $20 and $30. This is an estimate made considering the average price of some of the goods and services you may need during your time abroad. It gives you a general overview of how much things cost so you can prepare and save the money you’ll need.
You will need a Visa or MasterCard for accessing money from ATMs and paying entry fees at national parks. For hotel payments, credit cards are usually not accepted or are charged with high fees.
Additional costs you should consider as a volunteer in Tanzania:
program fees
flight tickets (find cheap flights to Tanzania)
travel insurance (find your travel insurance)
fees for your visa
personal expenses
2.5. Visa best practice
The information provided is based on best practices established in collaboration with multiple volunteer organizations. It is crucial to consult your project coordinator at Volunteer World regarding visa requirements. In case of uncertainty, we advise contacting the Tanzanian embassy or consulate in your country.
Check out the following sections below to find more details on travel and visa regulations for Tanzania:
General Immigration Information
General Immigration Information
Upon arrival in Tanzania, please meet the following requirements:
Verify that your passport remains valid for at least six months from the arrival date.
Ensure that your passport contains a minimum of two blank visa pages as per Tanzania's regulations.
Verify if a transit visa is necessary for any connecting flights.
Possess a valid return ticket for your departure.
👉 Short-Term stay
👉 Short-Term stay
For volunteering in Tanzania for up to 90 days, obtain a Visa on Arrival at the airport upon arrival. It costs approximately US$50 to US$100. Contact the nearest Tanzanian Embassy or Consulate to determine if a work permit is required.
👉 Long-Term stay
👉 Long-Term stay
For volunteering in Tanzania over 90 days, obtain a Visa on Arrival as mentioned earlier. After arrival, apply for a long-term Residence Permit "C" at the Immigration Bureau in Dar Es Salaam or Arusha. Please be aware that fees for the permit vary and are subject to change. Prior to your trip, gather information on the current fees to plan accordingly.
Disclaimer: There are no liability claims against Volunteer World if entry is not possible due to individual visa requirements.