This guide includes; reasons that you should volunteer in Tanzania, some popular volunteer projects available, what to expect when volunteering, Do’s and don’t in Tanzania, and most frequently asked questions from volunteers.

1. Travellers Quest
Volunteer in
Tanzania
The Ultimate Guide to Volunteering in Tanzania

2. Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Getting started - volunteer in Tanzania
Welcome to Tanzania
Why you should volunteer in Tanzania
What are some popular volunteer projects available in Tanzania?
Where are some popular places to volunteer in Tanzania?
Which is the best season to volunteer in Tanzania?
3
4
5
6
7
Chapter 2: Choosing your Tanzania volunteer program
Which organizations offer the best volunteer opportunities in Tanzania?
How you can select the best organization to volunteer with
8
10
Chapter 3: Getting ready to volunteer in Tanzania
Visa, passport
Vaccinations
Air ticket
Raising funds
Suggested books to read
Packing advice and tips
Gifts for projects
12
12
13
13
13
14
14
Chapter 4: Information you must know about the project
Project details
What to expect when volunteering in Tanzania
Learn about your host family
Local support
Make the final call
15
15
16
16
16
Chapter 5: Arriving and Volunteering in Tanzania
How to make your volunteer in Tanzania experience rewarding
Safety while volunteering in Tanzania
Do’s and don’t in Tanzania
Culture shock
Things to do in Tanzania
17
18
18
19
19
Chapter 6: Completion of project & follow up
21
Chapter 7: Most frequently asked questions from volunteers
22

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CHAPTER 1: Getting Started - Volunteer in Tanzania
Welcome to Tanzania
Tanzania is a breathtakingly beautiful country
to volunteer in. From the peaks of Mount Kili-
manjaro to the animal kingdom with its zebras,
wildebeests, elephants and hippopotamus, vol-
unteering in Tanzania will be an enriching and
wonderful experience.
Volunteer work in Tanzania is available in vari-
ous fields. Whether you would like to teach
English, or an arty subject like drama, singing,
or dance, work on HIV/AIDS prevention educa-
tion programs, put your heart into working with
children in an orphanage, help the elderly and
disabled, get your hands dirty doing manual
labor, support local women’s organizations, or
work in a medical setting, you will have lot of
volunteer opportunities in Tanzania.
As with any responsible volunteerism, if you en-
ter into this experience with an open heart and
mind, and are ready to give your all, you are
bound to have a unique and rewarding place-
ment.

4. www.travellersquest.com 4
Photo Credit: vwmin.org
Why You Should Volunteer in Tanzania
Amidst its vast natural and cultural beauty
Tanzania struggles with the very real problem
of poverty, particularly in rural areas. While you
devote yourself completely to your Tanzania vol-
unteering project you’ll be rewarded with the
chance to meet peaceful and friendly people,
opportunities to see exotic animals in the wild
and lots of gorgeous landscapes.
Here are a few of the top reasons to volunteer
in Tanzania.
Tanzanian culture: This East African country
has a population of nearly 48,000 ethnically,
religiously, and linguistically diverse people. The
population is dispersed unevenly, with the ma-
jority of Tanzania’s inhabitants populating the
northern border and eastern coast. The rest of
the country is very rural and scarcely populated.
There are at least 125 ethnic groups represent-
ed in Tanzania, with the vast majority being of
African descent. The remainder have European,
Arab and Asian origins. Some of the largest eth-
nic groups in Tanzania are Sukuma, Nyamwezi,
Chagga and Haya.
Wherever you choose to go you will be im-
mersed in a culture rich in diversity.
Wildlife: When it comes to the animal kingdom
Tanzania offers so many spectacular sights to be
seen. Volunteering in Tanzania is a great oppor-
tunity to see many famous wildlife species.
Hiking and trekking: If you are looking for a
serious physical challenge and some adventure,
Mount Kilimanjaro is ready to offer it. In Tanza-
nia, you can take part in the once in a lifetime
hiking and trekking opportunities on offer, and
enjoy the profound sense of accomplishment
and breathtaking views that rewards those who
make it to the top.
Support and experience ecotourism: There
are lots of nonprofit organizations and projects
which can offer you an incredible experience in
the natural world, while simultaneously using
their and betterment profits for the conserva-

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tion of the environment for local people. As
a volunteer in Tanzania you can support their
programs and missions.
Make a difference in the lives of children: In
certain regions of the country, there are many
orphanages in need of volunteer help. Sadly, be-
cause the rates of HIV/AIDS are high in Tanzania
there are a lot of children who have lost their
parents.
You can help them with homework, teach Eng-
lish, or assist with general facility upkeep.
Whichever area you choose your time and skills
will be put to good use.
Learn about and help grow sustainable farm-
ing: There are a growing number of ecotourism
projects in Tanzania. If you have knowledge of
sustainable farming practices and don’t mind
getting your hands dirty you could be helping
to conserve the unique natural beauty of this
country.
Experience profound personal growth: Tanza-
nia is a country unlike any place you have ever
visited. Volunteer work in Tanzania takes your
experience of foreign travel to another level -
opening your eyes to new customs, religions,
sights, smells and human connections that are
truly special. You will leave your placement
feeling not only rewarded, but changed.
What are some popular volunteer projects
available in Tanzania?
Every potential volunteer has something special
to offer, and your skills and time will definitely
be put to good use on one of the many volun-
teer projects available in Tanzania.
Some of the most popular programs feature
children - supporting them in either the educa-
tion or orphanage systems, medical projects,
and those which help support women to achieve
social and economic independence.
Here is some more information on these pro-
grams.
Teaching:
Tanzania has a real need for teachers in various
subjects. Due to the vast linguistic differences,
English language teachers are highly sought af-
ter on many projects.
If you have expertise in an art based activity you
can share your skills and creativity, while health
and wellness experts or professionals can volun-
teer by teaching community health workshops.
Orphanages:
Due to the very high rates of HIV/AIDS in Tanza-
nia, (about 1.4 million inhabitants are infected),
there are many orphanages in the country which
offer support and care for children who have
lost one or both parents.
As a volunteer on orphanage projects in Tan-
zania you will either work in a caregiver role
with younger children, organizing activities and
Photo Credit: volunteerworld.com

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games, or assist older children with homework
and tutoring.
Medical:
Poor healthcare and extreme poverty create a
great need for community healthcare and edu-
cation. On this type of project volunteers help
with everything from basic hygiene education to
medical consultations.
If you are a healthcare professional, (a doctor,
nurse, midwife, or student in a healthcare pro-
fession), your medical volunteer experience in
Tanzania may well include more direct contact
with patients, such as conducting examinations
and delivering treatment.
Women’s Initiatives:
Women’s projects in Tanzania have multiple
goals, but the primarily focus is on bettering
the socioeconomic status of women by provid-
ing job training, and helping single mothers care
for their children while trying to improve their
lives.
Depending on your expertise and experience,
as a volunteer you could be leading workshops
on hygiene and sanitation, helping with micro-
finance projects and facilitating employment
training.
Where are some popular places to volun-
teer in TANZANIA?
Into mountains, nature or beaches? Prefer busy
cities, small towns or rural living? However you
like your landscape there’s a region of Tanzania
that can deliver it.
Here’s the lowdown on some of the most popu-
lar locations volunteers in Tanzania opt for.
Northern Tanzania:
Here, you will find Mount Kilimanjaro and the
Serengeti, two of Tanzania’s most famous and
alluring destinations. This region is the best
place to join an African safari and spot wildlife
in a natural environment rather than in pic-
tures, or climb Africa’s highest peak.
Common volunteer projects here include teach-
ing and sustainable farming.
Dar es Salaam:
This city in Tanzania was once a quaint fishing
village, but has now transformed into a large ur-
ban metropolis, housing approximately 4 million
people. You will find everything a vibrant city
could have to offer, along with a dynamic web
of richly diverse cultures.
Common volunteer opportunities include Teach-
ing, Construction and Childcare Projects.
Zanzibar Archipelago:
In Zanzibar, you will find picturesque white sand

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beaches that could have come straight from the
pages of a glossy travel magazine. You will feel
as if you’ve stepped back in time to ancient Per-
sia as you explore the winding streets of a city
peppered with Swahili and Islamic influences.
If you are interested in marine life and conser-
vation this is the perfect destination for you.
Common volunteer projects include marine
conservation and research, community outreach
and education.
Moshi:
This is the capitol city of the Kilimanjaro re-
gion, and it offers respite to those looking for
some rest and relaxation. You can find great
restaurants and hotels, not to mention excellent
coffee, as it is located in the heart of Tanzania’s
coffee producing region.
Common volunteer opportunities include Educa-
tion, Public Health and Women Empowerment.
Pemba Island:
Unlike some other destinations in Tanzania,
Pemba is still quite remote and largely undis-
covered by tourists. It is known for its intricate
coral reefs and abundance of sea life, which
makes it a popular diving destination. The land-
scape of Pemba is lined with fruit trees and the
entire area is rich in agricultural produce.
While you won’t have as wide a variety of pro-
grams to choose from here, you can get involved
in environmental and health projects, HIV/AIDS
education, and teaching.
Which is the best season to volunteer in
Tanzania?
The dry season in Tanzania runs June to Octo-
ber, which is also the best time to see animals
if you choose to go on a safari tour. The famous
Serengeti wildebeest migration generally hap-
pens during the months of June and July. The
best season to volunteer in Tanzania depends
upon personal interest.

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CHAPTER 2 : Choosing Your Tanzania Volunteer Program
Photo Credit: Ifrevolunteers.org
Choosing which volunteer placement in Tanzania
is the best fit for you can seem challenging, but
with some research you’ll be able to find the
organization that both meets your needs and
best utilizes your skills, leading to an amazing
and satisfying experience during your Tanzania
volunteer project.
Which organizations offer the best volun-
teer opportunities in Tanzania?
There’s no need to spend days researching what
hundreds of volunteer organizations offer to
prospective volunteers in Tanzania when you can
look at this list instead.
We’ve done the hard work for you; gathering
the details of some top companies who offer a
variety of reliable, ethical and affordable volun-
teer programs across Tanzania.
RCDP Volunteer Abroad (Nepal)
RCDP Volunteer Abroad prides itself on being
the most affordable of all the volunteer place-
ment organizations. Based out of Nepal, they
have sent 12,000 volunteers abroad since 1998.
RCDP runs community based volunteer programs
in multiple countries in Africa, Asia and Latin
America, and focus specifically on orphanages
and underfunded schools.
You can work on orphanage, teaching and
healthcare projects in Moshi, as well as HIV/
AIDS programs in Arusha and Moshi.

9. www.travellersquest.com 9
IFRE Volunteers (USA)
IFRE Volunteers is a USA based nonprofit organi-
zation that has been connecting volunteers with
projects around the world since 2006. They of-
fer over 200 programs lasting from 1-12 weeks,
in 20 countries across the globe.
In Tanzania, IFRE Volunteers offer placements in
various areas, including: healthcare in Arusha,
Moshi and Boma, orphanage work in Arusha, and
English teaching in Arusha and Moshi, along with
several others. Prices range between $450-$475
for one week, and $600-$650 for two weeks.
Global Crossroad (USA)
Global Crossroad has been organizing volunteer
abroad programs since 2003, and has sent over
18,000 volunteers to 18 countries throughout
Asia, Africa and Latin America. This organiza-
tion offers projects of various lengths, including
mini-ventures, adventure travel, teach abroad,
and other customized individual and group pro-
grams.
In Tanzania, you have the opportunity to work
in orphanages, teach, or join healthcare, HIV/
AIDS, and women’s’ empowerment programs in
Moshi.
Original Volunteers (UK)
Original Volunteers is based in the UK, from
where staff manage a range of volunteer place-
ment options in 18 countries worldwide. Partici-
pation fees are low, and some projects are free
(except for accommodation).
In Tanzania you can get involved with Iringa
based placements in teaching, sports, construc-
tion, orphanages and other NGO work.
Help2kids (Switzerland)
Help2kids is a nonprofit organization based in
Switzerland but focused on volunteer projects in
Africa. It was started in 2009 by a married cou-
ple who had taken a vacation to Tanzania.
After witnessing the poverty and challenges fac-
ing this region of the world they created pro-
jects to help children in Tanzania and Malawi,
focusing particularly on meeting basic needs
such as education, food and healthcare and im-
proving family dynamics.
All volunteer opportunities are located in Dar es
Salaam, and you can work in the areas of child-
care, education, sports and health.
International Volunteer HQ (New Zealand)
International Volunteer HQ connects thousands
of volunteers with development focused place-
ments in 30 different countries around the
world. In Tanzania you can work in Arusha, on
teaching, childcare or HIV/AIDS and medical
projects.
Photo Credit: globalcrossroad.com

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Agape Volunteers (UK)
Agape Volunteers provide volunteer opportuni-
ties in various countries, and while they offer
placements in a range of fields for every skill set
they also offer specialty placements for medical
students in Africa.
This organization prides itself in making a real
difference in the local communities in which
they work and serve, and promises to provide a
volunteer experience where you feel truly use-
ful.
With Agape Volunteers you have the chance to
work in Arusha - either teaching English, work-
ing in an orphanage, teaching sports, conducting
vocational training, or on health projects.
Real Gap Experience (UK)
Real Gap Experience focuses on placing current
and gap year students into meaningful volunteer
placements. This organization has sent over
50,000 people on volunteer adventures across
the globe, and they offer a huge variety of pro-
jects and types of trips.
In Tanzania you could be a volunteer community
worker in Dar es Salaam or a teacher in Zanzi-
bar.
i-to-i (UK)
I-to-i is an organization which offers both vol-
unteer placements in various countries, and an
English teaching (TEFL) certification. They have
sent over 50,000 volunteers abroad, and work
primarily in the fields of wildlife conservation,
teaching and community projects.
Their volunteer placements in Tanzania include
opportunities to teach young children in Zanzi-
bar, help at community projects in Moshi, teach
English in Zanzibar.
How you can select the best organization
to volunteer with
Signing up to volunteer in a country you’ve nev-
er been to can be nerve wracking, but choosing
the right organization for your volunteer experi-
ence in Tanzania can make the experience both
smooth and rewarding.
As there are a lot of competing organizations
out there it is vital to know what to look for
when choosing the best one for you.
Here are some important points to consider
when making your decision:
Check their website, blog and social media
sites: While not all organizations will have Face-
book and other social media outreach, (particu-
larly if they are a smaller project), at the very
least the website and/or blog should appear
professional and current.
Are their projects well explained? Do you get
a clear picture of what you would be working
on as a volunteer? Make sure all information is
Photo Credit: realgap.co.uk

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explained clearly.
Is the cost reasonable? Bearing in mind what is
included in the fee, are the costs of a particu-
lar program you are researching reasonable in
comparison to other projects? What percentage
of the fee is passed on to the project and local
community?
Will you stay with a host family and eat local
food they provide? How much do host families
get paid? Answers to these questions will help
you understand both what you can expect and
where your money will go.
Read reviews from past volunteers: While
there will always be some volunteers who didn’t
give rave reviews, the majority of organizations’
reviews should be positive. If past volunteers
are going out of their way to give good reviews
this is a good sign and should be taken seriously.
Do check out how an organization responds to
any negative reviews you might come across. Do
they seem to be apologetic and open to making
changes?
Ideally, you can get contact information and
communicate personally with previous volun-
teers to hear firsthand about their experience.
Communication: Once you initiate contact with
the organization they should be (relatively)
quick and consistent in their communication.
They should be open and willing to provide
answers to all of your questions, and nothing
should seem unprofessional or hidden.
Research how the project is helping the lo-
cal community: The main goal of any organi-
zation that accepts volunteers should always
be to serve the local community, so do a little
research on current and past projects to see if
your organization measures up. In general you
need to feel they are not focused on profit over
helping project participants.
Photo Credit: Help2kids.org

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CHAPTER 3 : Getting ready to volunteer in Tanzania
Photo Credit: volunteerhq.org
Once you have been accepted on your volunteer
placement in Tanzania your main focus should
be on getting the paperwork in order, and any
other preparation you need to do to have the
best experience possible.
Here are some important tips to help you:
Visa: As with any country, Tanzania’s visa re-
quirements vary depending on your national-
ity. The rules for securing a volunteers visa are
often changed so make sure you check with your
chosen organization for the most up to date
information.
It’s best to leave plenty of time for this and be
prepared to budget a few hundred dollars (or
equiv).
Passport: All volunteers and tourists are re-
quired to have a passport with at least 6 months
validity. You also must show an onward travel
ticket dated to prove that you will be leaving
the country within 3 months.
If you are considering staying longer than this
check with your volunteer placement for advice.
It is usually possible to extend your visa for 3
more months at the immigration office in Dar el
Salaam.
Vaccinations: On top of the routine shots which
are recommended for general travel, such as
measles-mumps-rubella, diphtheria-tetanus-
pertussis, varicela (chicken pox), polio, and a flu
shot. Travelers to Tanzania are advised to have
typhoid and hepatitis A vaccinations too.
Stay aware of any current health concerns and
advice by checking the CDC (Center for Disease

13. www.travellersquest.com 13
Control) website, which you can visit here.
Flight: Whether you are a seasoned travel or
rarely go near an airport it’s always a challenge
to find a great flight deal. Here are some tips to
help you get the best priced flight possible:
▪▪ There are many airports in Tanzania! The
biggest are found in Dar es Salaam, Kiliman-
jaro, Kisauni, Mwanza, and Mtwara. When
searching be sure to check multiple locations
in case one is much cheaper, (depending of
course on where your volunteer place in Tan-
zania is located.)
▪▪ If you decide to use a travel agent make sure
they will alert you if any deals come up, so
you can take advantage. Similarly, subscribe
to cheap flight websites such as Travelocity.
com or Expedia.com for flights to Tanzania.
Great deals appear suddenly so you need to
keep an eye on your email and be ready to
buy at the right price.
▪▪ The more flexible you are with your travel
dates, the better. If it is much cheaper to
go early you could use that time to do some
sightseeing, and get familiar with Tanzania
before jumping straight into your volunteer
project.
Fundraising: If you need some support to fund
your volunteering in Tanzania plans there are
several ways you can raise some cash to cover
costs. Chances are your family, friends, and
friends of friends will be happy to support you.
Promise your supporters that you will update
them with regular newsletters or photos, and let
them know how their money is making a dif-
ference. Your fundraising efforts could include
creating an online page (with gofundme.com,
for example), setting up a fundraiser event, or
starting a blog. Get creative!
Suggested Reading: As a volunteer abroad to
serve it is important to have at least a basic
understanding of your destination country’s his-
tory. A travel guide is a good thing to take with
you too. Some great reads on Tanzania are:
1. Serengeti Story by Anthony Sinclair
2. Wildlife of East Africa by Martin Withers
3. Rough Guide to Tanzania and Zanzibar
Packing Advice: It’s best to ask the staff at the
organization you have booked your volunteer in
Tanzania placement through for packing advice,
as the weather does vary between regions, and
your project may have a dress code.
Decide if you’ll be more comfortable with a
suitcase or backpack. Are you thinking of travel-
ling in the region before or afterwards? Or will
you feel more settled with a suitcase if you are
just going to be in one place? Will you be in a
place where you can purchase anything you may
have left at home?
Here are some tips on the key items to pack,
so you go to Tanzania fully prepared:
▪▪ Clothing needs to be appropriate for the
region you are visiting. The coastal areas are
the hottest, while higher altitude regions are
much colder. Research the regular weather
conditions for your destination location,
but also check with volunteer agency staff
before you set off, in case of any unusual
weather conditions.
▪▪ You might want to bring a mosquito net,
depending on where you are going. Again,
double check with your organization.
▪▪ Mosquito repellent.
▪▪ Sunscreen, a hat and lightweight clothes to
protect yourself from the sun, (particularly
in coastal regions).
▪▪ Find out if you need to bring the basics like
laundry soap, shampoo, and so on, or if you
can easily purchase these items in country.
▪▪ Books and a journal.
It is important to research what the cultural and
religious dress codes are for the particular re-
gion you have chosen. Some are more conserva-
tive than others, so check with your volunteer
organization in Tanzania or travel forums to get
the most accurate information.

14. www.travellersquest.com 14
Gifts for Projects and/or Families: If you are
staying with a host family, you might want to
bring a gift. If not, you might still want to con-
sider bringing a gift for your project, (although
it is not absolutely necessary).
▪▪ Monetary gifts are not generally appropri-
ate, but a small gift from your hometown, or
something useful for your family or project
would be a very nice gesture.
▪▪ If you are working with children you could
bring some toys and/or games. If you are
living with a host family perhaps bring some-
thing your host mother could use in the
kitchen, or something decorative for the
house such as a clock or picture frame.
▪▪ Your volunteer organization should be able to
provide information about what is and is not
appropriate and/or expected.

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CHAPTER 4 : Information You Must Know About the Project
Photo Credit: volunteerforever.com
By this point you will be pretty much set to
leave for your volunteer project in Tanzania,
but to help make sure everything runs smoothly
from the start take a little time now to double
check you have all the information you need.
Here is a handy checklist of important things
to ask about (if you haven’t already):
Project Details: First and foremost get all the
key information about the project that you
need. This includes the name and street ad-
dress, contact information of someone reliable
and connected to the placement, and key de-
tails on things like airport pick-ups and the date
you’ll start work.
What to expect when volunteering in Tanzania:
The best way to get some insight into what lays
ahead is to direct your questions to your vol-
unteer placement organization. They should be
happy to answer all of your inquiries, so that
you have a good idea of exactly what you will be
doing.
Additionally, be sure to read past volunteer
reviews and speak personally via email or phone
with past or present volunteers, as sometimes
they have a firsthand take on things that the
project organizers might not be able to provide.
Investing in a good travel guide is also worth
your while.
Learn about your host family: If you have an
opportunity to stay with a host family put in the
time to learn about them before arriving. This
can be as simple as learning their names and

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their children’s’ ages, (also useful if you want to
bring appropriate small gifts), and ask your vol-
unteer agency about any linguistic religious and
cultural norms you may need to adapt to.
Local Support: To put your (and your families’)
minds at rest, get the contact information of
local support in and around your volunteer
placement in Tanzania. This could be a coordi-
nator/support worker connected directly to your
organization, and/or your local embassy.
Get in touch with this person before you travel
to establish a connection, and know how to get
a hold of them if you have any general ques-
tions, need support or have an emergency.
Make a final call before leaving: No matter
how many times you might have connected and
communicated with your volunteer organization
in Tanzania, you should make one final call, just
to be absolutely sure that all details are con-
firmed.
If someone is picking you up at the airport,
(which is typical), double check they have your
correct flight information, and ask who will be
picking you up at the airport and how to rec-
ognize them. This will make your arrival much
smoother and less stressful!

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CHAPTER 5 : Arriving and Volunteering in Tanzania
Photo Credit: Yearoutgroup.org
As a volunteer in Tanzania you will be looking to
make a difference in the lives of individuals and
communities in need, while also having a fun,
and rewarding time.
There’s little doubt that both these things are
more than possible, but it is wise to be pre-
pared for a few bumps in the road too, espe-
cially when you first arrive.
Whether you have extensive travel experience
in developing countries and are prepared for
what you might see, or this type of adventure is
entirely new to you, it’s rarely easy to be ex-
posed to the inequality and injustice that exists
in the world, and find yourself staring straight
into the face of a very different kind of poverty.
Preparing yourself as best you can will help ease
this transition.
How to make your volunteer Tanzania experi-
ence rewarding:
Embrace the culture: There will inevitably be
moments of challenge and frustration which
may leave you feeling well out of your comfort
zone, but you will truly get the most out of your
volunteer experience in Tanzania by accepting
things are going to be very different and truly
immersing yourself in the culture.
Learn at least some basics of the language, ask
questions about why things are done in the way
that they are, and share customs and traditions
from your own country. Overall, accept every-
thing you are faced with as an opportunity for
growth.
Be sure your main goal is the volunteer work:
Anytime we are abroad there are so many new

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experiences and adventures to be had. Set aside
part of your trip to allow yourself this time,
but always bear in mind that your main focus
of energy should be on the volunteer project in
Tanzania you are about to start, and the people
you are there to serve. Make everything else
secondary.
Stay positive: When you are in an unfamiliar
country and culture for a certain amount of
time it’s possible that you will begin to feel a
little irritated by constantly bumping up against
cultural differences, language barriers, and
other frustrations that can come up.
If you go into your volunteer adventure abroad
experience having done some research about
what to expect you are more likely to see the
lighter side of things, or at least use them as
learning opportunities.
Safety while volunteering in Tanzania:
While Tanzania has a kind and generally hospi-
table culture there are always risks and dangers
when traveling abroad, just as there are in your
own country. When a country has a high level of
poverty it’s inevitable that crime rates for theft
of money or valuable items are higher than av-
erage.
You can keep yourself safer by being street
smart, being aware of your surroundings and us-
ing these general safety tips during your volun-
teer placement in Tanzania.
▪▪ Keep valuables on you at all times when
traveling. They could be in a money belt or
safely secured in a small purse worn in front
of your person. Never put important docu-
ments, money or valuable items in a back-
pack or suitcase that is out of your sight.
▪▪ Once at your volunteer placement inquire as
to whether a safe is available for your use.
Place cash, traveler’s checks, and passport/
important documents in the safe for the du-
ration of your stay.
▪▪ Research and purchase travel insurance. This
should at the very least include evacuation
insurance. These policies are not typically
very expensive, and well worth it.
▪▪ Carry a photocopy of your passport and visa
with you at all times instead of the original
documents.
▪▪ Register with your countries’ embassy in
Tanzania.
▪▪ Dress appropriately, according to cultural
and religious norms.
Here is the US Department of State travel warn-
ing website. http://travel.state.gov/content/
passports/english/alertswarnings.html
Do’s and don’ts in Tanzania:
DO:
▪▪ Travel in a group or with one other person
▪▪ Be conservative in dress and behavior
▪▪ Use common sense/street smarts
▪▪ Be aware of your surroundings
▪▪ Call for help from local police, your volun-
teer placement contact/coordinator, or the
embassy for your country, if you need it.
▪▪ Respect the local culture and traditions
▪▪ Travel
▪▪ Spend time with your host family and local
people
▪▪ Greet everyone in a room, or that you pass
on a corridor in your workplace – even if you
don’t know them
DON’T:
▪▪ Drink alcohol excessively
▪▪ Walk alone at night
▪▪ Walk alone in a very remote or rural area
▪▪ Drink tap water or eat street food, (or be
prepared to suffer the consequences)
▪▪ Kiss, hold hands with or hug people on the
streets
▪▪ Criticize anyone in public, this is thought to
be seriously bad manners
▪▪ Forget to wash your hands before and after
eating

19. www.travellersquest.com 19
Culture Shock: how to overcome it
For most people culture shock is an inevitable
part of spending time overseas, especially when
in a country where the way of life is quite dif-
ferent from the one you grew up in. It may be
unavoidable, but culture shock doesn’t have to
dominate your time abroad.
Here are a few tips on ways to either lessen or
learn to deal with culture shock:
Expect the Unexpected: You’ll get the most out
of your Tanzanian adventure if you can get com-
fortable with being surprised, or maybe even
challenged by some things you’ll experience.
No amount of prior research can fully prepare
you, so learning to roll with things will make for
a richer experience in the long term, and leave
you with lots of stories to tell.
Be grateful: Constantly remind yourself that
serving abroad is a privilege. You have the re-
sources and opportunity to travel the world, see
and explore new cultures, and help out in com-
munities less fortunate than your own, which
many people around the world will never be
able to do.
Don’t expect the same ethics, norms or forms
of communication in the workplace that you
are used to: Whether we realize it or not, every
country has very culturally specific workplace
norms. In our birth culture we rarely consider
such things, simply accepting them as standard.
Since you are embarking on your volunteer trip
to Tanzania to work you are likely to be faced
with different interpretations of the terms
punctuality, direct communication and efficien-
cy.
This may be challenging, but being prepared for
such differences will help you adapt much more
easily.
Focus on befriending local people: This is es-
pecially important if you are planning a longer
term volunteer experience in Tanzania. Focusing
your energies on making friends and connections
with local people is beneficial, as short term
volunteers come and go quite often.
While connections with other foreigners are
important, especially when emotional support
is needed in your own language, spending qual-
ity time with locals will help you to feel more
rooted and part of the community where you
are working, and help you to understand and
adapt to cultural differences much faster.
Don’t feel bad about negative emotions: It’s
natural to experience a range of emotions as
you undertake this volunteer journey. These
might include feelings of judgment, loneliness,
frustration, guilt, injustice, privilege and power.
It can be difficult to acknowledge these feelings
but they are natural and part of the personal
growth process volunteers go through. Be honest
with yourself about whatever it is you’re feel-
ing, and what triggered them.
Find someone in your host country or at home
that you can talk to openly, and perhaps seek
advice and guidance from if you need to.
Things to do in Tanzania:
One of the perks of volunteering in Tanzania is
the opportunity to explore this wonderful coun-
try. From day trips and weekend breaks to ex-
tended periods of travel – there’s an abundance
of places to see and things to do.
Here are some of the most popular places to
visit:
Climb Kilimanjaro: Africa’s highest peak, Mt.
Kilimanjaro has 3 peaks, which vary in level of
difficulty so there are various options to choose
from, depending on the level of climb/trek
you’re looking for.

20. www.travellersquest.com 20
Additionally, the area surrounding the mountain
is an UNESCO wildlife reserve, so if you prefer
not to hike and just to enjoy the beauty this is
also a great option.
Serengeti National Park: There are several
ways to enjoy the wonders of this national park,
which is famous for the annual wildebeest mi-
gration and home to zebras, gazelles and many
other exotic animals. Why not take a balloon
ride over the park? Don’t worry if you have no
head for heights as you can drive through it too.
Ngorongo Crater: This is a truly spectacular
destination. Created by a volcanic explosion
between 2-3 million years ago, this crater has
become home to lions, zebras, rhinos, wilde-
beests and more. There are plenty of tour com-
panies that offer different options to see this
wildlife and natural beauty, and it definitely is a
must-see.
Zanzibar Beaches: These picturesque white
sand beaches are ideal for rest and relaxation.
On this gorgeous island, you can decide if you
want a more rustic/less touristy experience, or
a slightly more popular and developed beach
getaway. The east coast of the island offers
incredible coral reefs, while northwest beaches
are better for swimming.
Stone Town, Zanzibar: If you feel like venturing
from the beach visiting Stone Town on the island
of Zanzibar is a great option. This historic site
is a Swahili coastal trading town, famous for ex-
otic spices and historic architecture. This is also
a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which means its
historic relics are protected by a local NGO.
Mafia Island: An island predominantly populated
by fisherman, this coastal destination is famous
for scuba diving - with options for both begin-
ners and more experienced divers. Mafia Island
is also known for its amazing coral reefs and
marine life.
Selous Game Reserve: This protected reserve
covers 5% of Tanzania’s land mass, and can be
seen by boat safari down the Rufiji River. The
Selous game reserve is home to an impressive
array of animals, including elephants, leopards,
buffalos, wild dogs, wildebeests, hippos and
tons of bird life.
Maasai tribe: For a unique Tanzanian culture
experience consider taking a cultural tour of the
Maasai tribe. This community is world famous
for their beautiful dress and traditions, and is
located near to the game reserve.
You can even do a homestay with them. This
is an amazing, one in a lifetime opportunity to
live with the 2,000 year old tribe, and learn
firsthand about their daily life and customs.

21. www.travellersquest.com 21
CHAPTER 6 : Completion of Project and Follow-Up
Photo Credit: abroaderview.org
Although some people decide to stay on in coun-
try, perhaps choosing another project to help
on, or even finding a regular job, most volun-
teers have to face the end of their placement,
and leave Tanzania.
This can be a difficult experience both for your-
self and the people you have served, and you
will probably experience a range of emotions.
However you feel, it is helpful to your organi-
zation and to future volunteers if you can give
honest feedback about your experience. Such
feedbacks help other aspiring volunteers dedi-
cate themselves into the noble cause.
One way to ease this transition is to continue
supporting your organization, perhaps by organ-
izing an event where you can share stories from
your time abroad, and maybe even recruit oth-
ers interested in volunteering.
This could be in the form of say a slideshow and
presentation with typical Tanzanian food and
drinks for your friends and family. Here, you
would have the chance to share with them the
amazing work your organization does and the
role you played.
If you feel comfortable with the idea you could
make this event into a fundraiser for the or-
ganization as well. Your passion and support for
your volunteer organization in Tanzania does not
have to end upon your arrival home.

22. www.travellersquest.com 22
CHAPTER 7 : Most Frequently Asked Questions From Volunteers
How will I get from the airport to my host family/volunteer house?
Your Tanzanian volunteer organization should arrange for someone to meet you at the airport and
take you to wherever you will be staying. Be sure to confirm this with the organization before leav-
ing.
Will there be support from local staff in Tanzania?
Yes, there will be at least one support staff member available to help you on the ground in Tanza-
nia. Be sure to get this person(s) contact information before arriving, and verify that they will be
available.
How many other volunteers will be participating with me?
This completely depends on the project. Some only have the capacity for a small number of volun-
teers, (especially those run by small organizations), while some might be hosting many volunteers
at once.
Check with your volunteer organization to see how many volunteers will be joining you, and wheth-
er or not you will have a roommate if using a homestay.
Will my host family be able to speak English?
Swahili and English are the two official languages of Tanzania but in daily life there are many other
native languages spoken. It’s best to check with your volunteer placement in Tanzania to confirm
the most popular languages spoken at your destination.
Can I travel to other cities on my days off?
Definitely! As long as you are completing your expected hours and tasks with your organization you
should take advantage of your time abroad to see the many sights of Tanzania.
Do I have to bring my own bedding and mosquito nets?
If you stay with a local family bedding will be provided. Depending on the time of year you go and
the season, mosquito nets are recommended. They help to protect you from disease carrying mos-
quitoes and to sleep peacefully at night. Ear plugs might not be a bad idea, as well.
What if I don’t speak the native language?
As English is one of Tanzania’s official languages you should be able to get by, even if most people
are not fluent speakers. Don’t let this deter you from making an effort to learn the local language
though.
Go prepared with a phrase book and/or dictionary, and perhaps even a smartphone app that does

23. www.travellersquest.com 23
not require an internet connection.
How will I get to my project every day?
This depends on the project and where you are staying. With some placements, you might be living
right there on the premises, or with a host family within walking distance. If not, you will need to
ask someone at your organization if you need to take public transportation, or if they will provide
rides back and forth.
Can I speak with a volunteer who has completed a placement?
Yes, and you should if at all possible. Ask your organization for the contact information of past
and/or current volunteers. As a second option/last resort, be sure to carefully research past volun-
teer reviews.
What does the accommodation look like? Can I see pictures?
You can ask your organization if there are any photographs available, but in general you can expect
something much humbler than you are used to. If you are placed with a family be prepared for
potentially rustic conditions, and that your homestay conditions might not be as nice as another
volunteers.
You should ask about/check that you will be staying somewhere clean, with filtered water, a fan, a
lock on your door and so on.
Where will I be working?
Again, this depends on which project you have chosen. You might be in an urban or rural setting,
working outdoors or indoors, or maybe even on the beach! Research the specific location where
your volunteer organization is, and also what is available in and around that area.
This is important not only to plan weekend travel, but also to know what kind of amenities you can
expect, and how conveniently you can buy items you might need, like toiletries.
What kind of food will I eat while I’m there?
Tanzanian food is always delicious, though the staple dishes vary between regions. On the coast
you will find spicy foods made with lots of coconut milk, while on the mainland most dishes feature
rice, corn, meat or a variety of beans.
Many Tanzanian dishes have an Indian influence, due to the influence of immigrants, and you’ll find
chai tea is a popular drink, typically enjoyed throughout the day.
Are there any treks or excursions I can join in my free time?
Depending on where you are volunteering, there might be opportunities for hiking, trekking, and
(almost definitely) enjoying nature. Tanzania is home to many wildlife reserves and parks, so you
shouldn’t have a problem finding outdoor adventures.

24. www.travellersquest.com 24
This free eBook is just written to help volunteers. So please use this book just as a general reference or source
of information. We cannot guarantee the validity of information as changes in the field can be sudden. As it is
impossible to provide a definite or authoritative guide it is vital you verify information directly with a relevant
and up to date source. We cannot be held liable in any way for damages caused should you choose to overlook
this advice.
How many hours per day will I be volunteering?
This should be established with your volunteer placement well ahead of time, so you are both on
the same page about what is expected. Some volunteer organizations ask for a full 40-hour work
week, while others expect only a half day and allow you the rest of the time to explore and relax.
If you are working in agriculture or construction you may well have a very early start and finish,
while some other types of projects may need you to start later in the day. It’s always best to check
directly with your volunteer organization about the specific details of the project you will work on.
How much money should I bring?
This depends partly on what is included in your volunteer fees. Are all of your meals provided for
free, or are you responsible for buying some? Is transportation to and from your placement cov-
ered?
When you have this information, you’ll need to decide what other activities and travelling you plan
to do in Tanzania, and look around the Internet for up to date information on what these things will
cost. Don’t forget to include a budget for daily living expenses such as bottled water.