Location
  • Uganda
    • Kampala

Program Details

Language
English
Age Min.
18
Timeframe
Spring Break Summer Winter Year Round
Housing
Guesthouse Lodge
Groups
Small Group (1-15) Medium Group (16-30) Large Group (31+)

Pricing

Starting Price
280
Price Details
Uganda Program Fee includes airport pick-up, orientation, program supervision, accommodation and meals during volunteer program period, in-country 24/7 volunteer support and in-country administration costs.
What's Included
Accommodation Airport Transfers Meals Wifi
What's Not Included
Airfare Travel Insurance Visa
May 01, 2024
Sep 25, 2019
30 travelers are looking at this program

About Program

Trusted by 136,000+ volunteers, IVHQ offers the most popular volunteer programs in Uganda and 50+ other destinations around the world.

You can choose from 7 volunteer project options in Uganda and give back for periods ranging from 1 week to 24 weeks. Your Program Fee includes airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support. You’ll be accommodated in a volunteer house, with other like-minded, impact-focused travelers from around the world.

IVHQ is trusted to support the meaningful adventures of thousands of volunteers every year, so before you even depart for Uganda, you’ll receive outstanding personalized service from your expert Volunteer Program Manager and exclusive access to superior pre-departure volunteer training.

With IVHQ, you can expect to establish real connections within the local community while supporting projects that make a genuine difference.

This program is no longer offered. View more programs from International Volunteer HQ - IVHQ.

Video and Photos

Program Highlights

  • IVHQ’s Uganda program is available year-round, starting on the first and third Monday of every month
  • Highly affordable program fees starting from $270 - IVHQ provides the most affordable and top-rated programs
  • You’ll be joining between 5 and 15 other IVHQ volunteers who start in Uganda each month
  • You’ll be traveling with IVHQ, the volunteer travel experts, and joining a network of 110,000+ volunteers. Our outstanding safety systems and track record set us apart, we are the world’s safest organization
  • Your efforts will have a positive impact because our programs are community-driven with a focus on supporting long-term local needs

Program Reviews

4.74 Rating
based on 39 reviews
  • 5 rating 84.62%
  • 4 rating 10.26%
  • 3 rating 2.56%
  • 2 rating 0%
  • 1 rating 2.56%
  • Impact 4.6
  • Support 4.8
  • Fun 4.65
  • Value 4.7
  • Safety 4.85
Showing 1 - 8 of 39 reviews
Default avatar
Ross
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Uganda IVHQ review

The trip was brilliantly organised and the staff, both prior to arrival and the placement staff, were more than willing to help and answer queries/questions. The trip itself was incredibly involved and great fun, however it should be made known to volunteers going to Uganda that there are now 2 placement houses (we weren't told until arrival). Teaching facilities were basic but the people at the placement and in the general public were very friendly and welcoming. The food was surprising and different to local food in Scotland and meals were prepared at the house by a member of staff. Weekends were spent exploring the capital city and other small towns, as well as going on a safari (and seeing 2 lions right beside the vehicle). Overall the trip was fantastic and I would recommend IVHQ to first time volunteers.

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?
Ugale, which I had never heard of prior to the trip. It consisted of flour and water mashed together.
120 people found this review helpful.
Response from International Volunteer HQ - IVHQ

Hi Ross, Thanks for your review on the Uganda program. I'm glad to hear that you had a rewarding and enjoyable experience on your project. The effort you put in is appreciated by the community. We look forward to having you volunteer with IVHQ again soon. ^ Claire - IVHQ Uganda Program Manager

Default avatar
Anastasiya
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

How can I just write a review on IVHQ...

How can I just write a review on IVHQ when this program gave me the best experience of my life? I went to Uganda for medical program for a week. The week is all I could take from work. But during this week I got so many emotions, that one can live a whole life and never get so many. Everything from the application process through the last day was very easy and smooth. Throughout the program we had people available to help us at all times. The house that we lived at was so clean. Juli who cooked and cleaned for us did such an amazing job. I am privileged to meet the people of Uganda and work at the clinic besides some of them. I would definitely recommend this program to everyone who wants to make their time on earth count...
I enjoyed the time with other volunteers. Listen their life stories and how the cake to volunteering.

What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?
People of Uganda are happy so little that they have...
129 people found this review helpful.
Response from International Volunteer HQ - IVHQ

Hi Anastasiya, Thanks for your review on the Uganda program. I'm glad to hear that you have a rewarding and enjoyable experience on your project. The effort you put in is appreciated by the community. We look forward to having you volunteer with IVHQ again soon. ^ Claire - IVHQ Uganda Program Manager

Default avatar
Alyssa
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Best Program!

I absolutely loved my experience with IVHQ for both my medical in Uganda program and sports development program in South Africa!
I loved it so much that I booked a trip back to South Africa 13 days after being home!
I loved being in Uganda because it was an experience that I could not fully prepare myself for and that was the best because I really got an in-depth exposure to the culture there. The locals are some of thee nicest people I’ve ever met! The kids are always giving hugs! ❤️ I can’t wait to go back but for longer time!
South Africa was incredible. There’s SO much history and culture involved and the local volunteer program that IVHQ works with really helped us get in-depth exposure and knowledge to it which really helped understanding our placements and population ❤️
I 100% recommend IVHQ!
Thank you for all that you do IVHQ!

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Go in with an open mind and always embrace everything that comes your way.
Engage with other volunteers, they’ll be your best support system and life long friends :)
129 people found this review helpful.
Response from International Volunteer HQ - IVHQ

Hi Alyssa, I am so happy to hear that you had such an incredible experience on IVHQ's Uganda South Africa program's. We are really looking forward to having you return to South Africa and volunteering with us again! Acacia - IVHQ Program Manager.

Default avatar
Yvonne
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Teaching at Hebron Junior School, Entebbe, Uganda

My daughter and I had the most thrilling, rewarding and truly memorable experience on the teaching programme. The staff and children at the school could not have been more excited to see us every morning and our efforts were truly appreciated. The staff taking care of us, with Volunteer to Uganda, were wonderful in every way, taking care of us, ensuring, not only our placements were successful but also our time off provided opportunities to experience something of the beauty of the country. I would totally recommend IVHQ and the teaching placement in Uganda - it has changed our lives for the better!

What would you improve about this program?
A long-term English scheme of work for volunteers to pick up from one another and provide continuity is something I am working towards. The impact would be evaluated and rolled out to other schools if successful in raising levels of pupil progress. In terms of volunteer programme, I cannot think of anything to improve the experience as our project workers were incredible.
132 people found this review helpful.
Response from International Volunteer HQ - IVHQ

Thanks for sharing your experience with others. I'm glad to hear that you and your daughter enjoyed every aspect of your time in Uganda and I'm sure you guys would have created lifelong memories and friendships. I wish you all the best and thanks for being a great IVHQ volunteer. ^William - IVHQ Zambia Program Manager

Default avatar
Ashley
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

The Opportunity of a Lifetime in Uganda

Getting the opportunity to volunteer through IVHQ in Uganda for 3 weeks was the absolute experience of a lifetime. I had taken out so much more than I had ever expected. Getting to work in the HIV awareness program, Monday through Friday I was so blessed to get to go from village to village educating people of what HIV is, how it is spread and providing support and counseling to the individuals who tested positive. On top of that we were able to test communities to let them know what their results were to take the necessary steps immediately after. When we were not volunteering we really had the opportunity to immerse ourself in the bright and loving Ugandan culture. We went to numerous soccer games, safaris, boda boda tours through the capital, white water rafting and sunset boat cruises on the Nile. Personally the most important and life changing part I experienced was the relationships I made. Living, volunteering, eating and exploring with the other volunteers for almost a month gave me some of my best friends. These are people that I still communicate with regularly now being home and are planning our next trip back to Uganda with IVHQ. The individuals at placement were some of the most loving and informational people I had ever met. The people that the volunteers and I had the strongest connections with was the staff. We were so blessed to have the most loving, caring and protective staff. From the full time security, cook, grounds keeper, drivers and activity coordinators, they were all exceptional. We truly got to create friendships with them and learn so much about the depths of Uganda and its people. Learning their stories and sharing ours creating such an open and devoting environment in our volunteer house. Volunteering with IVHQ in Uganda was the best decision I have ever made and am so grateful to now be able to call that place and people a new home away from home.

135 people found this review helpful.
Response from International Volunteer HQ - IVHQ

Thanks for sharing your awesome experience. It's great to hear that you have made friendships which will last a lifetime and that this experience was the best decision you have ever made. Ugandan people are some of the most caring and friendliest people and I'm glad to experience this first hand. Thanks again for going above and beyond during your time in Uganda :) ^Will - IVHQ Uganda Program Manager

Default avatar
Maria
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

AMAZING EXPERIENCE IN UGANDA

I would definitely do this experience again. I am so happy to have chosen IVHQ, I felt in good hands since the beginning. I've appreciated the quick reply to my emails and the total availability of the staff. everyone was extremely friendly. Food was delicious and freshly prepared. Projects were organized properly and safely. I've been provided training before my departure, which I've found extremely useful.
Honestly I've loved every single moment of my volunteer experience, which is absolutely unforgettable. I would suggest everyone to volunteer with IVHQ!

What would you improve about this program?
Everything was perfect to me!
131 people found this review helpful.
Response from International Volunteer HQ - IVHQ

Hi Maria - I'm glad you enjoyed your program and it's exciting to hear you would participate again! Thank you so much for the amazing work you did, and we hope to have you join us again in the future. ^Will - IVHQ Uganda Program Manager

Default avatar
Jane
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

IVHQ Uganda /Childcare program

Get ready for the experience of a lifetime! I did a lot of research before starting the program to make sure the IVHQ volunteer program was really making an impact in the community, was transparent with fees and had locally driven goals. IVHQ met all of these expectations and more. With so many options it can be overwhelming, but the IVHQ website and staff made it easy to navigate through the process. One thing I also appreciate is the several programs to choose from in the country you decide to volunteer. This means they want people with specific skills for each project. Having this kind of programming is great because you actually add value to your community and leave them with skills and assistance they need for the future. Building Capacity, not dependency!
My Program (Child Care In Uganda)-This program is incredible! Depending on the month you attend you can teach lessons, read to them and have fun activities. Also participate in the care of their daily living, things such as bathing and feeding. I still can’t really describe the joy you feel when they come running towards you with open arms excited to see you. It is a beautiful experience, but it also takes hard work. It is also important to remember each volunteer can put as much effort as they want into the childcare center. Examples (Work in the garden they have, clean and maintain the center, think of long-term sustainably for the center).Really put your time to good use. Think about how your specific skills can benefit the center long term.

143 people found this review helpful.
Response from International Volunteer HQ - IVHQ

Hi Jane, Thanks for your insightful review. It sounds like you had an awesome time during your 2 weeks on the program and I can tell you put a lot of effort into your childcare placement. I'm glad that IVHQ could be a part of your amazing experience and hopefully you will be joining us again in the near future. Thanks again for being an awesome volunteer. ^Will - IVHQ Uganda Program Manager

Read my full story
Laura
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

HIV/AIDS Awareness Project, Uganda

My first mistake with volunteering in Uganda was not staying for longer. I absolutely loved living in the volunteer staff with the other volunteers and amazing local staff. I made instant friends and was able to explore and experience the local culture and tourist attractions.

The HIV/AIDS Awareness program was one of my favourite volunteer programs I have been apart of. We were lucky enough to do a variety of projects with the local community, including home visits, school educational awareness, HIV testing in remote villages and working at the local medical clinic.

Booking this volunteer trip was one of the best decisions of my life. I went to Uganda with an open mind and heart and they were instantly filled with great memories and adventures.

I documented my trip daily on my instagram page @laurapaigephotography for more details.

What would you improve about this program?
No suggestions.
138 people found this review helpful.
Response from International Volunteer HQ - IVHQ

Hi Laura, It's awesome to hear that you enjoyed your experience with IVHQ in Uganda! I love the culture in Uganda and I'm glad you were able to experience a few of the amazing things Uganda has to offer. The HIV/AIDS Support project is definitely an awesome project and as a result of the assistance the placements have received from volunteers, it has allowed them to set up amazing outreach campaigns which benefit a wider group of people. I'm glad to hear that your mind, heart and camera are filled with memories and hopefully you can add to these on your next trip to Uganda :) Thanks again for volunteering with IVHQ! ^Willie - IVHQ Uganda Program Manager

Questions & Answers

I originally googled 'volunteer trips in Africa' and IVHQ was by far the cheapest. It's around $150 per week which includes food, accommodation and transfers to placement.