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Volunteer work in Tanzania
Are you considering volunteering in Tanzania? The vibrant city of Arusha offers a wide range of rewarding opportunities with Maasai Land Explorers and discover the incredible volunteer opportunities in Arusha, Tanzania with A Broader View. Learn about the local culture, customs, and how to make the most of your experience.
Maasai Land Explorers inspires people to travel, volunteer and learn. Our volunteer programs open the mind of our travelers, deepens their understanding of the world around them and introduce them to a new culture.
Some of Tanzania’s ecologically significant wildlife parks include the famous Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti National Park in the north, and Selous Game Reserve and Mikumi National Park in the south. Gombe National Park in the west is known as the site of Dr. Jane Goodall’s studies of chimpanzee behavior. In addition to its stunning landscape, Tanzania is home to approximately 120 tribal groups. Tribal diversity is respected and far from being a source of separation, Tanzanians place a high value on their country’s multicultural heritage.
Maasailand Explorers organizes volunteer work stays in Tanzania in collaboration with local NGOs. Intern ships are also possible. Volunteering in Tanzania is a unique way to explore yourself, discover a country, its culture and people while doing a meaningful job.You must be at least 18 years old, independent, outgoing and have a sincere desire to do volunteer work.
You should expect the unexpected, be adaptable, flexible and enthusiastic. These are probably the qualities that made you contact Maasai Land Explorers in the first place. This is not a holiday or a guided tour. It is a unique experience to learn, make new friends and also make a difference with your volunteer work.
Safety and Security
The safety of our volunteers is paramount for Maasai Land Explorers Volunteers.The majority of MLE Volunteers travel and serve without major incident. However, programs are based in some of the least developed countries and in some of the most remote areas in the world, health, safety, and security risks are an unavoidable part of life and international service. To address these concerns and to safeguard the well-being of our program participants, Maasai Land Explorers has safety protocols and security procedures for all programs:
Intern ships are also possible in Tanzania.
Programs start every 1st and 3rd Monday of each month, with arrival Sunday prior to the program start at Kilimanjaro International Airport. Upon arrival you will be picked up at the airport and driven to your accommodation. During the first 1-3 days, you will get an orientation in town and some Swahili lessons, while the coordinator organizes your work permit.
*Volunteers need a Tourist Visa to enter Tanzania (US$100) as of 2016 you can get it at the Tanzania airport. *Once in the country all volunteers must apply for a “Volunteer Permit” is US$250. All participants in the Tanzania program must secure a permit to volunteer.
Start With us?
Top 6 Tours and Attractions in Arusha
- Arusha National Park
- Mount Meru
- Cultural Heritage Centre
- Meserani Snake Park
- Lake Duluti
- Olduvai Gorge
Savor the Flavors: Top 6 Tanzanian Meals
- Ugali
- Nyama Choma
- Chapati
- Pilau
- Mandazi
- Wali na Maharage
Packing Essentials for Your Arusha Adventure
- Lightweight clothing for warm weather
- Insect repellent
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Reusable water bottle
- Rain jacket or umbrella
- Universal power adapter
Weather and Local Customs
Arusha has a mild tropical climate with two distinct rainy seasons. Temperatures usually range from 55°F to 75°F throughout the year. Get acquainted with local customs and etiquette.
Arrival and Application Process
To volunteer in Arusha, you’ll need to fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Learn about the application process and how to apply here
Celebrating Tanzanian Culture: 10 Local Holidays
- New Year’s Day (January 1)
- Zanzibar Revolution Day (January 12)
- Nyerere Day (February 5)
- Good Friday and Easter Monday (March or April)
- Union Day (April 26)
- Workers’ Day (May 1)
- Saba Saba Day (July 7)
- Nane Nane Day (August 8)
- Independence Day (December 9)
- Christmas Day (December 25)
Speak Like a Local: 10 Tanzanian Slang Words and Phrases
- Mambo – Hello
- Poa – Cool, fine
- Asante – Thank you
- Karibu – Welcome
- Ndiyo – Yes
- Hapana – No
- Pole pole – Slowly, take it easy
- Rafiki – Friend
- Hakuna matata – No worries
- Tutaonana – See you later
Food and accommodation during volunteering
Most volunteers prefer to stay at the “House for Volunteers” in Arusha with: TV-room, showers and sanitary facilities. There’s a guard and a cook who prepares 3 meals a day. Here it is possible to have more of a social life with other volunteers. The coordinator – who also arranges Safari Trips – has his office in the house. From here, you will be picked up and transported to and from work.
If you prefer more authentic surroundings, you can chose to live with a local host family instead, where you also will have 3 meals a day. Here you will share all facilities with the family members, of whom at least one speaks English.
Tanzanian food includes a little meat, chicken or fish with rice and some fruit. Showers do no not always have hot water. Don’t expect luxury!
Below you will find descriptions of the voluntary work places. Tasks and working hours differ from place to place.
Other Programs .
Our Happy Clients!
Our Tanzania trip was fabulous. Spotting the Tree-climbing lions and Black Rhino was unforgettable. Thanks for fulfilling our dreams. We’ll be back soon!
Clara Smith
Thank you, Maasai Land Wonders Team, for your exceptional care during my 3 Months Volunteering program. A thousand thanks for an unforgettable experience.
Shelly Barns
Thank you, Edwin and your team, for an amazing 7-day trip. Your personal care and dedication made it unforgettable. 1000 thanks!