My 2 weeks in Zambia was incredible - a chance to give to a community in an area of personal and professional experience, contributing every day to small improvements in the lives of older people. I went on my own as a mid-50s woman and felt confident, safe and included among the diverse group of IVHQ volunteers and local volunteers. The tourist components were absolutely amazing and our local taxi drivers a highlight. I feel I got to see some of the 'real' Zambia, not just highlights on a tour. Would love to go again!

Volunteering in Zambia was an adventure from start to finish — and one I’d happily sign up for all over again! From the moment I arrived, everything was fairly well organised and the team made me feel instantly welcome. The medical placement itself was fantastic: I got to roll up my sleeves, help out wherever I could, and even sit in on counselling sessions. Observing doctors and technicians in action was eye-opening, and I loved the chance to share ideas and swap knowledge — especially since I went in with an open mind and zero expectations of “matching” EU or other so-called developed country healthcare standards.

I travelled solo, but it didn’t take long before I was surrounded by great company. I met some truly lovely people, including one of the practice manager, who even joined our group for a safari (because in Zambia, wildlife comes as part of the volunteer perks).

When I wasn’t in placement, I made the most of my free time — exploring the country, diving into local activities, and enjoying plenty of fun with my fellow volunteers. This was my third time volunteering with IVHQ, and yet again, it didn’t disappoint. Zambia, you’ve been wonderful — until next time!

I had the life-changing experience of volunteering with IVHQ in Zambia, Africa. In the months leading up to our trip, the IVHQ team sent us a comprehensive to-do list that included everything we needed to ensure our trip was a success and that all documents were in order. When we had questions, they always responded in a timely manner.

We were connected with a local team in Zambia, who were wonderful! They made sure that our stay was comfortable. They also offered excellent advice on tours, taxi drivers, shopping, and sightseeing. We always felt safe and cared for. I now consider them as lifelong friends.

Our team did volunteer teaching in a local school, and the children were charming and attentive. We were amazed by their musical talents! On our last day, they performed a cultural show for us.

The entire experience of traveling with a purpose is much more meaningful than just being a tourist! I am in my late sixties and I thoroughly enjoyed hanging out with the younger volunteers in our lovely guest house. Mealtimes had a family atmosphere where everyone shared their volunteer experiences, such as nursing, childcare, and elder care. I miss them all already!

I highly recommend IVHQ. You will be able to share your talents in a meaningful way, and you will have a true immersive experience.

Ever since I graduated, I’ve always wanted to volunteer and was very torn while choosing the best organisation, and I couldn’t be happier with my choice. IVHQ was a very pleasant surprise, their support, helpful tips, fast communication, and the local organisations they partner with made everything perfect. The local team was so welcoming, I felt like home since day one, the whole experience was much more fun and rich than I had ever expected it to be. I will definitely be joining IVHQ for other volunteering experiences. Thank you so much.

Everything was great when volunteering with IVHQ. The organization prior to the trip and communication was fantastic. When in Zambia, the local team was great, they were very kind, open-minded and organized. The local team knew everything, helped us with transport and organizing all of the activies me and the volunteers were interested in doing. Furthermore, I want to highlight the availability of staff 24/7. Teaching in Zambia was a heart warming experience. People in Zambia are very welcoming which makes you be more empathic. I am willing to repeat it in the future together with IVHQ.

Both the online team and the local team were friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. It was my first solo trip, and their guidance made it as easy as possible, when I did have an issue, they could help give advice and sort it out.

The accommodation was lovely, with brilliant staff and delicious local food. The other volunteers were wonderful, all like-minded people of all ages from around the world.

All excursions could be organized through the local team, who gave us a good price and sorted everything, normally with pick up and drop off to our accommodation.

I volunteered in Livingstone, Zambia with IVHQ, and I truly loved every moment of it. The volunteer community there was wonderful and made my experience even better. We did so many fun activities together — safaris, bungee jumping, and visiting Victoria Falls.

The local team was super helpful and kind. The food was tasty and more than enough, and the accommodation was good. There are also some new buildings that were just recently completed, and there’s a good chance you’ll be placed in one of them.

It takes a bit of time to find your rhythm at your placement, and in my opinion, you really need to figure out on your own how to make an impact. The teachers were very friendly and supportive, and they let you focus on the areas you’re best at. There was no pressure at all, which made the whole experience even more enjoyable.

We heard about IVHQ from a friend who had recently been overseas on a teaching experience. We were so moved by her story and we had always wanted to volunteer abroad that her positive testimony encouraged us to give it a go.

Three members of our family signed up- mum, dad and youngest daughter of 18.
We chose to go away for 1 month, this was a perfect time frame to get to know and connect with the community where you volunteer, local staff and to make a difference.

We asked to go to the school where our friend had been, so we could build on the good work she had completed.
She was also able to tell us what the school needed next.
That happened to be a library… building and books.
We collected donated reading books of appropriate information and stories for the age and ethnicity of where we were being placed.
Three suitcases full!
We also fundraised… locally which meant that our community at home have been walking this journey too.
We set up a What’s App so they too could see the progress being made.

The children and staff soon became our family… we were so very humbled and privileged to become part of their community and share in their vision for the school.
We ended up building two classrooms, a library, kitchen space and toilet block… whilst we were there (albeit basic).

We uncovered many things the school needed support with… and every time we offered to assist… our hearts grew… as did their gratitude.
We are committed to an ongoing relationship with this school…

It has changed and enriched our lives for the better.
IVHQ was instrumental in making this happen.
They are thorough… organised… safe… approachable… and cater for all ages.
Highly recommended.
The staff where we stayed on our placement could not be more helpful.
The volunteers… young and old all had a wonderful commonality of care and empathy.… so it was so very easy to connect with everyone.

It is all planned out, so you feel in control and supported by both the IVHQ team and your placement staff.

I recommend finding out what might be helpful in your place of service before arriving… and having a purpose or plan for your visit.

We chose a country in Africa, so we were also able to experience the amazing wildlife and scenery as well as the friendly people.

Our lives have been enriched by this experience, we are now set on a new pathway to continue ongoing support with the school and it’s community.

Thank you IVHQ for providing the platform to make these volunteer services abroad affordable and achievable.

The hardest part is choosing where to go and then at the end of the trip… saying goodbye to everyone… The memories you create will be cherished forever.