Zambia Volunteer Programs from $27/day | Most Affordable & Trusted
Zambia Volunteer Programs from $27/day | Most Affordable & Trusted
Location
  • Zambia
    • Livingstone
Length
1 to 16 weeks

Program Details

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

Pricing

$440
Price Details
Fully hosted experience from only $440 for 1 week - this includes accommodation, meals, airport pick-up, orientation and 24/7 in-country support.
What's Included
Accommodation Some Activities Airport Transfers Meals
What's Not Included
Airfare Travel Insurance Visa
Sep 19, 2026
24 travelers are looking at this program

Frequently asked questions

Get answers to help you plan with confidence.

About Program

Choose from 6 meaningful projects based in Livingstone, a hub for travelers visiting the majestic Victoria Falls.

Trusted by 160,000+ volunteers, IVHQ offers the world's #1 rated volunteer programs in Zambia and 50+ destinations worldwide.
For the past 7 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 Zambia.

Our affordable projects start from $27/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 6 projects, ranging from Elderly Care to Childcare in Livingstone. 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.

COMMUNITY REVIEWS SUMMARY

Volunteering in Zambia offers a supportive, well-organized experience with friendly locals and diverse placements, especially teaching.

Program Highlights

  • Cheapest volunteer programs from $27/day for your accommodation, meals, airport pick-up, project placement & local support.
  • Projects based in Livingstone, near the majestic Victoria Falls.
  • 15+ years experience & B Corp certified volunteer travel organization.
  • Exclusive tours and experiences such as the 'Bungee Jump Victoria Falls' and 2 day 'Chobe Camping Safari'.
  • Affordable way to earn college credit - gain 5 credits for only US$500!

Want to WIN $329* FREE IVHQ credit?!

Video and Photos

Popular Programs

Childcare in Zambia with IVHQ

If you’re looking for a teaching project in Africa that goes beyond the ordinary, then the Rural Teaching project in Zambia is exactly what you’re after. This is an immersive volunteer experience where you’ll be based in a Zambian village, getting a unique insight into African life while making a real difference in the education of children.

Medical volunteering in Zambia with IVHQ

Shadow local medical professionals and gain an understanding of Zambia's healthcare system. Placements are dependent on your skillset, and could include laboratory testing, pharmacy, maternity, gynecology and family planning, optometry, HIV/AIDS, nutrition and pediatrics.

Volunteer in Zambia with IVHQ

Help local builders with hands-on work to build and improve community centers, toilet facilities and schools in poor communities where labor is often hard to find. If you are someone who enjoys being outdoors and has a good level of fitness and a willingness to learn, this is the perfect project for you.

Program Reviews

4.98 Rating
based on 54 reviews
  • 5 rating 98.15%
  • 4 rating 1.85%
  • 3 rating 0%
  • 2 rating 0%
  • 1 rating 0%
  • Impact 4.85
  • Support 5
  • Fun 4.85
  • Value 4.8
  • Safety 4.95
Showing 1 - 8 of 54 reviews
Helen
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

My solo volunteer teaching in Zambia

This was such an amazing experience. Zambia is such a beautiful, safe and friendly country with plenty to see including the fabulous Victoria Falls, Safaris, cruises up the Zambezi and much more. My time teaching was so rewarding. The children were so eager to learn and a pleasure to teach.
I had plenty of support before, during and after the program which put my mind at ease and allowed for a smoothly operated time. Organisers at IVHQ and my hosts and staff at the volunteer house were faultless and so helpful.
Even though I was volunteer working, it did not feel like work at any time. There was plenty of time for sight seeing and socialising with the other volunteers, who were all fantastic. I had so much fun.
The program was really good value for money, it would have been even more so if I had stayed longer.
I felt safe at all times in Zambia.
I had the best time and will have memories that will last a lifetime.
I want to do it all again next year!

30 people found this review helpful.
Holly
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Before Arriving

One thing I wish I had known before my trip was that the extra activities and add-ons do not have to be booked in advance. I booked several activities beforehand because I thought they would sell out or that I needed to plan them ahead of time. Once I arrived, I learned that many of them could also be booked while I was there. Knowing this would have made planning a little easier, especially since I had to convince some people in my group to join activities I had already booked.

I also didn’t know where I would be volunteering until I arrived. While this wasn’t a major issue and everything worked out great, it would have been nice to have that information beforehand so I could have a better idea of what to expect. Similarly, knowing approximately how many other volunteers would be there during my stay could help ease some of the anxiety of traveling to a new country and meeting a new group of people.

That being said, the team on the ground was absolutely wonderful. Everyone was welcoming, helpful, and easy to talk to, and I always felt supported once I arrived. They did a great job making us feel comfortable and helping us adjust to a new environment. Any questions or concerns I had were handled quickly, and it was clear that they genuinely cared about making sure we had a positive experience.

Overall, these are just a few things I think would be helpful to know ahead of time, but they did not take away from my experience. I had an amazing time, felt very well taken care of, and would absolutely recommend IVHQ to anyone considering volunteering abroad.

What was your funniest moment?
Honestly, some of my funniest moments were just hanging out and playing UNO with Joseph, one of the local guys who helped around the house. We would play, joke around, and talk about anything and everything. He was absolutely hilarious to be around and made even the most ordinary moments so much fun. I definitely wasn’t expecting a few games of UNO to be one of the highlights of my trip!
Pros
  • Lovely accommodation – The accommodations were comfortable, clean, and made me feel safe and at home throughout my stay.
  • Helpful and welcoming staff – The staff were incredibly kind, supportive, and always willing to help with questions or anything I needed.
  • Meaningful volunteering experience – I had a really cool opportunity to volunteer in a new country, meet local people, and experience a different culture firsthand.
What other participants should know
  • Not knowing what to expect beforehand – I think having a little more information about the volunteer group size, placement, and what the social experience might look like before arriving would have helped me feel more prepared.
  • Transportation costs – The taxi drivers recommended through the program were significantly more expensive than using Yango. I wish the recommended transportation options were closer in price to what was available through the app.
  • Volunteer group dynamics – I arrived when there were only five volunteers, and I didn’t connect with the other volunteers as much as I had hoped. I was also especially interested in going on safaris and excursions, while the others weren’t as interested,
31 people found this review helpful.
Lucy
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Once in a lifetime experience

From start to finish IVHQ made my once in a lifetime trip smooth sailing and truly one to remember. I couldn’t thank all of the staff enough at sunbird in Zambia they made me feel safe , reassured and was a true home from home feeling. I would recommend IVHQ to everyone.

From sitting outside in the communal area playing card games with people who started of as complete strangers who are now lifelong friends .

This trip changed my perspective on life and I am so happy I took the leap and went all in my own .

What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?
Me and a girl who I met (who is now one of my best friends) did the zip line from Zambia to Zimbabwe and it was amazing. We actually saw a rainbow under the bridge .
Pros
  • Making friends for life
  • Experience the local culture
  • Doing something new everyday
What other participants should know
  • Didn’t stay longer
42 people found this review helpful.
Claudia
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Elder care in Zambia makes a genuine difference

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!

If you did this all over again, what's one thing you would change?
I'd go longer than 2 weeks!
Pros
  • Working with the committed local volunteers
  • Know that you make a small difference to a bigger goal
What other participants should know
  • Having to leave the warmth and generosity of Zambian people
114 people found this review helpful.
Salimata
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Medical Volunteering in Zambia

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!

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Check the weather before you pack! It's still very chilly at night in early August!
Stock up on all types of mosquito repellent!!
Pros
  • Meeting new people - personal growth
  • Increase volunteering and medical experience
  • Friendly, clean environment and amazing scenery
What other participants should know
  • Food - not varied (nice restaurants and coffee shops in the country though)
117 people found this review helpful.
Maribeth
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

IVHQ is Meaningful and Immersive

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.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Don' t let age stop you if you are an active senior. All of the age groups represented learned from each other.
Pros
  • Immersive
  • New Friends
  • Share talents in a unique way
What other participants should know
  • power outages
121 people found this review helpful.
Nour
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

So happy with my choice

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.

What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?
How friendly and safe the whole experience was. I made friends for life during this trip.
Pros
  • Everything
What other participants should know
  • Nothing to be honest
126 people found this review helpful.
Alonso
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Fantastic Experience

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.

127 people found this review helpful.

Community Questions