Location
  • Tanzania
    • Arusha
    • Zanzibar
Length
1 to 16 weeks

Program Details

Language
English
Timeframe
Short Term Spring Break Summer Winter Year Round
Housing
Guesthouse Host Family
Groups
Small Group (1-15) Medium Group (16-30) Large Group (31+)
Travel Type
Budget Family Older Travelers Solo Women

Pricing

Starting Price
295
Price Details
Fully hosted experience from only $295 for 1 week - this includes airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support.
What's Included
Accommodation Some Activities Airport Transfers Meals Wifi
What's Not Included
Airfare Travel Insurance Visa
May 01, 2024
Jul 16, 2024
90 travelers are looking at this program

About Program

Trusted by 136,000+ volunteers, IVHQ offers the world's #1 rated volunteer programs in Tanzania and 50+ destinations worldwide.

For 6 years, we've won the "Top Volunteer Abroad Provider Award" from GoOverseas, so you can trust that you're in the safest hands with IVHQ in Tanzania.

Our affordable projects start from $24/day for your accommodation, meals, airport pick-up, project placement and local support. Projects run year-round, with durations from 1-16 weeks. Choose from 8 projects, ranging from Animal Welfare, Sustainable Agriculture and Childcare in Arusha, a small city near Mt Kilimanjaro to the Maasai Immersion based at a village in Maasailand. Plus, you’ll stay with other like-minded, impact-focused travelers from around the world (private room options available).

With IVHQ’s superior pre-departure support services, you’ll gain exclusive access to your own Volunteer Travel Specialist, comprehensive preparation tools and volunteer training before you leave home.

Video and Photos

Program Highlights

  • Cheapest volunteer programs from $24/day for your accommodation, meals, airport pick-up, project placement & local support.
  • Volunteer for 1-16 weeks, year round start dates most Mondays
  • 15+ years experience & only B Corp certified volunteer travel organization
  • Get free changes up to 14 days before you start with our flexible booking policy
  • Affordable way to earn college credit - gain 5 credits for only US$500!

Popular Programs

IVHQ Zanzibar Turtle Conservation

Support a local Marine Turtle Sanctuary in Nungwi - a coastal village home to Zanzibar’s finest beaches. As a Turtle Conservation volunteer, you’ll have the opportunity to get involved in helping boost wild turtle populations and assist with treating and releasing injured turtles.

Volunteer with children in Tanzania with IVHQ

Do you love working with children and want to provide invaluable support within childcare centers across Tanzania? Work alongside local caregivers as a Childcare Volunteer, creating fun and educational environments to support the development of local children.

Medical Volunteering with IVHQ

Enhance your global perspective of medicine by shadowing and assisting medical professionals in clinics and hospitals around Arusha. This project is open to students in at least their third year of medical or nursing school, or fully qualified professionals. Paramedics, EMTs and CNAs are also welcome.

Maasai Immersion Project

Live like the Maasai people on this truly unique cultural immersion experience. Help in the village with farming, teaching, bead making or building to support the learning and development of local people.

Teach children in Tanzania with IVHQ

Collaborate with local teachers in Tanzania and lead classes of up to 80 students across a wide range of subjects. This is an opportunity to play a hands-on role in delivering more focused education to students within schools of limited resources.

Volunteer with women in Tanzania with IVHQ

Support with the education of local Tanzanian women who come from challenging backgrounds, giving them a chance to upskill and earn a sustainable income.

Volunteer with animals with IVHQ

Volunteer alongside a local vet in Tanzania, delivering mobile care to farm and domestic animals around Arusha. This project is perfect for all volunteers who love working with animals and have a passion for animal welfare.

IVHQ Zanzibar Rainforest and Coastal Conservation

Work within the local community to support the conservation of the Jozani Forest - the largest area of indigenous forest on the island of Zanzibar. You'll assist with environmental education efforts through various activities, including helping at a small reptile sanctuary, working at a farm co-op and assisting with mangrove tree planting.

Program Reviews

4.97 Rating
based on 120 reviews
  • 5 rating 96.67%
  • 4 rating 3.33%
  • 3 rating 0%
  • 2 rating 0%
  • 1 rating 0%
  • Impact 4.8
  • Support 4.95
  • Fun 4.9
  • Value 4.75
  • Safety 4.85
Showing 1 - 8 of 120 reviews
Default avatar
Luciana
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Incredible from beginning to end.

The experience was truly incredible from beginning to end. Throughout the entire process, I felt accompanied and secure, with assistance available at all times. The company consistently prioritizes your well-being and safety, ensuring that you feel comfortable and happy, just like at home. Their commitment to providing exceptional service and support is evident in every interaction. The dedication and effort of everyone involved are truly magnificent, making the entire experience seamless and enjoyable.

What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?
The most surprising thing I saw was how resourceful and adaptive caregivers in regions of Africa are when it comes to changing diapers. Due to financial constraints, they often can't afford traditional disposable diapers. Instead, they ingeniously use a cloth, such as a blanket, wrapped around the baby, with a plastic bag placed over it to prevent leaks. This practice not only underscores their creativity and resilience but also highlights the urgent need for better access to essential childcare products.
Pros
  • Cultural Immersion
  • Personal Growth
Cons
  • Language Barriers
1 person found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Shirley
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

My trip with IVHQ

My trip to Arusha, Tanzania, with IVHQ to support women’s development was truly transformative. From the moment I arrived, the local team was incredibly supportive, ensuring that every volunteer felt welcomed and well-prepared for the work ahead. Their guidance and dedication were instrumental in making our contributions meaningful and impactful.

The work we did focused on empowering women through various educational and vocational training programs. Witnessing the immediate and positive impact on the community was immensely rewarding. We helped women gain skills that would enable them to achieve financial independence and improve their quality of life. Seeing the confidence and pride in the eyes of the women we worked with was one of the most fulfilling aspects of the trip.

Beyond the volunteering, the local experiences in Arusha were unforgettable. We had the opportunity to visit a Maasai village, where we learned about their unique culture, traditions, and way of life. The Maasai tribe’s warm hospitality and vibrant traditions left a lasting impression on all of us.

Since that trip, I have been on two other trips with IVHQ, and each one has been an amazing experience. The organization’s commitment to making a genuine difference in communities around the world, combined with the support of local teams, has made each journey impactful and memorable. If you’re considering a volunteer trip, I highly recommend IVHQ.

What was your funniest moment?
Being the ‘bride’ in a Maasai wedding ceremony such a fun and inviting experience!
Pros
  • Local community
  • Volunteer impact
  • Cost
3 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Izzy
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

10/10

I highly reccomend ivhq to anyone, it’s a particularly great company to go through if your under 18 and looking to volunteer. I have just got back from being in Tanzania, i went on my own and am 16 years old, the whole process of communication has been excellent and has been carried through while at the location aswell. I have met friends for life and totally fell in love with the culture and the children at my daycare who i miss so much already! the coordinators are amazing at what they do, particularly Dani who is the loveliest person ever and really helped me when i needed a bit of extra support, all coordinators do everything they can to make your experience as best as possible. if your thinking about booking through ivhq… DO IT! i will definitely be back 💗

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
I suffer with extreme emetephobia so knew this would be a huge challenge when going to a new country where it is common to get ill and the food is totally different. However i totally immersed myself into the culture and lifestyle and lived in the moment, i loved everything so much and overcame many milestones.
Pros
  • Amazing coordinators
  • Made friends for life
  • It was eye opening
4 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Josh
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Unforgettable Experience

An absolutely unforgettable experience in Arusha, Tanzania. From the moment of arrival the local team were absolutely fantastic in providing us with everything that we needed. Transport was quick, easy and simple to organise with a range of local approved drivers provided by the team. They were in regular contact to make sure our programmes were running smoothly and that ensured we were settled in well. I will most definitely be returning to the continent and would recommend no other company than IVHQ if you are looking into volunteering!

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Make the most of your time in Tanzania, there is so much to do aside from your volunteer work!
Pros
  • Built people skills
  • Built confidence
  • Tried new things
Cons
  • Limited food choice
  • Very warm
  • Very sad to see certain things
5 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Isabelle
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Volunteer trip in Tanzania

I had such an amazing time in Tanzania! I felt so welcomed, and it quickly felt like home. The staff was all so amazing, and they were very helpful with every need and question. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who is thinking about going. It is truly a life changing experience. I was in the medical program, and I learned so much at the hospital I was placed in. Learning the culture in Tanzania was something I wasn’t expecting, but it was one of my highlights. If you are thinking about going, I would say do it because you will never regret it.

If you did this all over again, what's one thing you would change?
I would go for longer! I went for 3 weeks and it did not feel like enough time.
Pros
  • Lots of support
  • Good placements
9 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Isla
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

My experience countering in Tanzania for 2 months with IVHQ

My experience in Tanzania through IVHQ has been completely life changing. The way that I had the privileged to help so many people out there and teach my gorgeous school over the past 2 months made me have a whole other appreciation of life. I also raised money to be able to paint the inside of my school to make the classrooms brighter and more engaging for the children which was such a privilege to be able to do for my wonderful teacher and see the difference it made.

The local team over there were so accommodating and made me feel safe and welcomed in every sense which I cannot thank enough. I am already missing my volunteer house so much and it’s only been 24 hours since i left!

IVHQ - you are utterly incredible.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
My advice to anyone thinking about doing a volunteer abroad programme through IVHQ is just do it!! You will not regret anything as it’s the most life changing experience you will have. It might be a bit overwhelming at first as the culture differences can be a lot but after a day you will lean into the lifestyle of wherever you are and fall totally in love with volunteering.
Pros
  • The incredible local team
  • Meeting the most wonderful friends for life
  • Getting to teach my incredible kiddies for 2 months and paint their school!
12 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Deborah
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

discovering my passion

My IVHQ experience in Tanzania last year (2023) was truly the best adventure I've ever had. At 17 years old, it was a bit daunting to be in a foreign country without my parents or friends, but the local team made me feel right at home. The coordinators were incredibly supportive and helped me with any issues that arose.

One standout moment was when my credit card got swallowed by an ATM, and thanks to the prompt assistance from the coordinator, I was able to retrieve it from the main bank. This experience highlighted the dedication and reliability of the local support team.

My placement involved working with the sweetest kids, and I had a blast interacting with them every day. Despite occasional delays due to transportation issues with the drivers form the local team of the programm assigned to us (other 16 and 17-year-olds), which occasionally made us late for our placements, it was a minor inconvenience given the overall positive experience.

One of the most memorable aspects of my IVHQ trip was the friendships I formed with people from all corners of the globe. The bonds we forged and the adventures we embarked on together are cherished memories that I will always hold dear.

Additionally, the excursions offered were truly spectacular. From visiting hot springs and waterfalls to enjoying sunset hikes and safaris, each experience was mesmerizing and breathtaking. These outings added a special touch to my time in Tanzania.

The local cuisine was delicious, although different from what I was accustomed to, which occasionally led to stomach issues. However, this was easily remedied with some medication.

This experience has been incredibly enlightening, revealing my passion for working with children. Whether it's through education, psychology, social work, or another field, I'm eager to explore avenues that allow me to positively impact the lives of children and contribute to their growth and well-being.

Overall, my IVHQ experience in Tanzania surpassed all expectations, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking a meaningful and impactful volunteer opportunity abroad. It's an adventure of a lifetime that I will forever treasure.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Embrace the Unknown: Traveling to new destinations is like embarking on a thrilling adventure into the unknown. It's okay to feel a bit nervous or uncertain, but don't let those feelings hold you back. Embrace the excitement of discovering new cultures, tasting unfamiliar foods, and exploring uncharted territories. Allow yourself to be swept up in the magic of the journey, and you'll find that some of the most unforgettable moments happen when you step outside your comfort zone. So, embrace the uncertainty with an open heart and an adventurous spirit, and let the journey unfold before you in all its wonder and beauty.
Pros
  • finding my passion
  • new friends
  • learning new things
Cons
  • That I couldn't stay any longer
  • That i had stomach issues
30 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Evan
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Great Experience with IVHQ

In February 2024, I embarked on my first ever solo travel adventure - Volunteering in Tanzania for a month with IVHQ. I loved every minute of my time in Africa, the local team and coordinators were very kind and incredibly helpful! The accommodation was good, and the all of the staff, especially the "Mamas" at the house were incredibly friendly and very welcoming. There were lots of extra activities to do in the evening and the 4 day safari in the Serengeti is an experience I will never forget!
I can't wait for my next adventure with IVHQ and would highly recommend them to anyone thinking of volunteering abroad.

If you did this all over again, what's one thing you would change?
If I did this programme again I would book to stay for longer! A month was a good amount of time for my first solo adventure, but I really do wish I could've stayed for longer - it was amazing!
38 people found this review helpful.

Questions & Answers

So for me to get from Calgary, Alberta, Canada to the Kilimanjaro airport in Tanzania, it cost about $2800 Canadian dollars through KLM.

Hi Eesha, As long as you travel with a parent, guardian or family member who is 18 years or over, you are eligible to participate on one of our programs! When you apply, it is important that you include the name of your family member on your application, so that our local team can ensure you are placed with your sister. Jordan IVHQ Community Manager

Hi Sarah! Children volunteering as part of a group with adult minders, or with a parent, guardian or family member who is 18 years or over, are eligible to participate on an IVHQ program. When a volunteer under the age of 18 applies to volunteer with IVHQ, it is important that the name of their minder is noted on their application, so we know that they are eligible to volunteer and our local team...