Tanzania Volunteer Quests

Volunteer in Tanzania

"My experience was everything I dreamed of and more. It was more than a vacation; it was education for the soul, relaxing yet challenging, uplifting and yet heartbreaking. I would recommend it to anyone who is looking for a way to further find their inner self and is willing to give everything they have in order to get more. It is a big world out there and time's not standing still; take action and go make a difference!"

--Erin Milley, Short-term volunteer in Tanzania

Read about United Planet's recent adventures at a music festival in Zanzibar.

What makes a United Planet Short-term Quest unique?

United Planet’s Quest volunteer abroad programs are 100% cultural immersion experiences. United Planet Quest programs run year-round and are available to individuals and groups of all ages, skill levels and nationalities. We have no doubt it will be life-changing and provide lasting memories.

All Quests include:

Flexible start dates and lengths of stay (2-12 weeks)
Personalized attention from Coordinators
Local home stays or on-site lodging options
Option for exciting excursions, cultural activities and/or language lessons

Country Information

Tanzania is famous for its dramatic natural features, including: Mt. Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain peak in Africa and one of world’s Seven Summits,the Serengeti,and the turquoise waters of Zanzibar. These attractions draw skilled mountain climbers and wildlife enthusiasts alike as tourists to Tanzania.Despite this, Tanzania remains one of the poorest countries in the world.

The country faces many economic and social issues, and a limited health care infrastructure results in large numbers of deaths from HIV/AIDS every year, in turn leading to many HIV/AIDS orphans. A stable democracy, Tanzania has avoided the internal strife that many other African countries have experienced, transcending the 120 tribal groupings its border encompasses and the division between Muslim and Christian. As a United Planet volunteer in Tanzania you will be located in bustling Dar es Salaam. Riding the dala dala, or local mini-bus, around the city, is an adventure in and of itself! Those looking for a more relaxed setting can volunteer in Iringa in the countryside.

Volunteer Opportunities in Tanzania: 2 - 12 weeks

United Planet currently offers volunteering opportunities in partnership with local organizations in and around Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

What's Included and Program Details

Tanzania Prices and Details

Sample Tanzania Itinerary

Highlights - with the add-on package

Swahili lessons
Weekend excursion to the beautiful island of Zanzibar!

Internships in Tanzania now available! Read more.

Quest Program Briefs

Working with Children Quest
Minimum Stay: 2 weeks
Volunteers needed: Year Round
Requirements: At least 18 years old, Fluent in English , previous international travel experience recommended.

There are many opportunities to work at schools, community development centers, and orphanages in the main city of Dar es Salaam or throughout rural Tanzania. Volunteers are needed to teach English and assist with homework. Volunteers may also assist in providing training on topics such as Child Rights, Life and Facilitation Skills, and Reproductive Health and HIV/AIDS. A main activity for volunteers is to participate in fun and creative leisure programs such as singing, dancing, drama and sports.

Cancer Institute Quest-Teaching
Minimum Stay: 4 weeks
Volunteers needed: Year Round
Requirements: At least 18 years old, a background in pyschology and previous international travel experience recommended.

Volunteers work in the Children's Cancer Center of a hospital in Dar es Salaam. Children come from all over the country, and, as a result, many stay in the ward for the entire duration of their treatment, which can range from 12 weeks to, in most cases, 1 year. The children’s ward is a very busy place and extra hands are always needed. Volunteers can help plan curriculum and teach the long-term patients that are well enough to attend school.

Disabled Youth Center Quest
Minimum Stay: 2 weeks
Volunteers needed: Year Round
Requirements: At least 18 years old, previous international travel experience recommended, experience working with mentally or physically disabled youth a plus.

Volunteers will work with mentally & physically disabled youth ranging from ages 6 to 31 years old. Tasks include teaching English, science, sports, playing and taking care of the children among other opportunities. Volunteers may choose to join in on activities at the center’s farm located at a short distance from the center, attend primary school with the children, or remain at the facility to assist in daily activities. The center’s aim is to create better awareness of mental disability in the community as well as improve the quality of life for mentally disabled young people.

Three Easy Steps to Apply

Questions about applying?

Call one of our friendly regional Quest coordinators today. We will walk you step-by-step through the application process and answer any questions you may have.

Step 1: Choose your Quest. Contact us at any time for help! We'd love to talk to you. Email or call .

Step 2: Enroll online. Please fill in the enrollment form. Then reserve your spot with a deposit (which will be credited toward your program fee).

Step 3: Meet your Quest coordinator and iron out the details. Once you've applied, your United Planet coordinator will contact you, and arrange a phone session to talk about your Quest of interest. THANKS!

Fundraising

Scholarships and Grants page for current opportunities and resources.
Fundraising page
Special Discounts