Join meaningful volunteer projects in education, healthcare, childcare, community development, and more with safe accommodation, airport pickup, and professional local support.
A Little Information About Us
Volunteers of Tanzania (VOT-Mwanza) came to life in 2018, the year we were legally registered as an organization that assists interns, students, and volunteers who want to come to Africa and find suitable placements to help the community.
This initiative is driven by our passion to transform communities and alleviate poverty and life hardships in Africa.
Since 2018, we have been hosting volunteers and interns from different countries, and from this initiative we are witnessing the changes in our communities.
To ensure interns and volunteers are well accommodated during their stay, the company also provides accommodation and transport services for the entire duration of the volunteer experience.
Placements
Every placement runs with full local supervision and a weekly schedule confirmed before you arrive.
Observe and support under supervision at local hospitals and clinics. Best for nursing, midwifery and pre-med students. Some placements request a small weekly on-site contribution (USD 25–61), paid directly at the placement.
Typical day: 08:00–15:00, Mon–Fri. Weekends free.
View this program Apply for healthcare
Assist teachers in government and community schools around Nyegezi and Mwanza city. No formal teaching licence is required for assistant roles.
Typical day: 08:00–14:00, plus lesson prep.
View this program Apply for teaching
A high-energy placement, good for gap-year volunteers and education students. You always work alongside Tanzanian staff — never left alone with children.
View this program Apply for childcare
A flexible placement for social-work, public health and development students. Projects shift with partner needs and your own skills.
View this program Apply for community
Shorter or mixed placements near the lake and community plots. Pairs well with a weekend on Saanane Island National Park.
View this program Apply for environment
Rare in the Tanzania volunteer market. Useful for geology, mining and environmental science students. Share your CV so we can match the right field supervisor.
View this program Apply for geologySupport VOT and partner organisations with photography, writing, and outreach content. Good for journalism, media studies and communications students.
View this program Apply for mass communicationSupport community infrastructure and facilities projects alongside local partners. Suited to engineering students who want practical, on-the-ground field experience.
View this program Apply for engineering
Train in customer service and guest operations with small hotels, guesthouses and tour desks in Mwanza, while supporting local tourism businesses.
View this program Apply for tourism & hospitality
Support wildlife and habitat conservation awareness work with local partners, with the option to pair your placement with a Serengeti or Ngorongoro safari.
View this program Apply for wildlife conservation
Located less than 5 km from VOT Hostel. TECEC empowers parents, caregivers and preschool teachers with vital resources to enhance children's health and learning, tackling developmental delays in low-income families.
View this program Apply for early childhood
A newly launched center associated with the TAG-BMCC church. It provides safe, nurturing care for children in the surrounding community while their parents are at work, helping families balance work and responsibilities.
View this program Apply for day care
A dedicated institution in Mwanza committed to providing quality educational services at an affordable price. They foster a nurturing environment where young minds can thrive, believing in education accessible for all.
View this program Apply for primary education
Experience the vibrant city of Mwanza with arrangements made by VOT management, from Capri Point Peninsula and Bismark Rock to the shopping and dining around Rock City.
View this program Book this trip
Visit the Sukuma Museum, a community-oriented organisation promoting traditional and contemporary Sukuma culture, with elders sharing history and arts in an interactive setting.
View this program Book this trip
Located 40 km northeast of Mwanza in Kayenze, this tranquil fishing community was once the most important port on the southern shore of Lake Victoria in the late 19th century.
View this program Book this trip
Visit SAUT, the largest private university and third largest overall in Tanzania, just 3 km from VOT Hostel, and meet its international student community.
View this program Book this trip
One of the Seven New Wonders of the World, just a 2-hour drive from Mwanza. Perfect for volunteers short on time who still want a taste of the Big Four and the great migration.
View this program Book this trip
Visit Africa's largest inland island, 50 km north of Mwanza in Lake Victoria, with historic churches, a chief's palace, and traditional island life to explore.
View this program Book this trip
Discover the Spice Island — a perfect blend of culture, history and tropical paradise, from Stone Town's UNESCO heritage streets to pristine beaches and spice plantations.
View this program Book this tripWhy Volunteers Trust VOT
Registered in Tanzania since 2018, with volunteers hosted from over 40 countries and a permanent local team based in Mwanza.
Our Impact in Pictures
Our Purpose
VOT Mwanza's mission is focused on encouraging all people around the world to volunteer in developing countries. Volunteering will help the world community to better understand the needs and challenges faced by developing countries. In the long run, communities around the world will become more aware and give necessary assistance related to problems in developing countries.
Our vision is to see the life of underdeveloped communities improved through the organization of internships and volunteering programs. Through internships, students' practical training, and voluntary works, we believe a multinational community is created.
Mwanza City, also known as Rock City to the residents, is a port city and capital of Mwanza Region on the southern shore of Lake Victoria in north-western Tanzania. With an urban population of over 3.6 million, it is Tanzania's second-largest city. The Sukuma constitute over 90% of the region's population, alongside smaller communities including the Zinza, Haya, Sumbwa, Nyamwezi, Luo, Kurya, Jita, Shashi, and Kerewe.
Swahili is Tanzania’s official language, and English is used alongside it. Most people speak their tribal language and Swahili, with many speaking English as a third language. Learning a few basic Swahili words will go a long way Tanzanians will love to interact with you!
Greetings are an important part of Tanzanian culture. Handshakes may last longer than you expect this is normal. Tanzanians treat the elderly with the greatest respect. To greet an elder, say "Shikamoo", and they will respond "Marahaba".
Christianity is the most practiced religion (~63%), followed by Islam (~34%). Around 1.2% follow traditional religions, and 1.8% are non-believers. Tanzania is known for its peaceful coexistence among faiths.
Tanzanians generally dress conservatively. Women traditionally wear long skirts with knees and shoulders covered. In places like Zanzibar, there is a strict dress code. At the coast, you'll discover the colourful kikoi (sarong for men) and kanga (sarong for women).
In Their Words
"My three months teaching in Mwanza were the most rewarding of my life. VOT made sure I always felt supported. The local team went above and beyond to ensure I had everything I needed."
"The healthcare placement gave me hands-on clinical experience I couldn't get anywhere else. The staff at the local clinic felt like family, and I learned so much about tropical medicine."
"Working with the local families and youth groups in the community development program was truly eye-opening. VOT's orientation prepared me perfectly for the cultural experience."
"The environmental conservation project around Lake Victoria was incredible. I loved that VOT organized weekend safaris to the Serengeti. It was the perfect balance of work and adventure!"
"VOT Mwanza provided an unforgettable experience. The accommodation was clean, the food was delicious, and the 24/7 support meant I never felt alone in a foreign country."
"As a medical student, the hands-on experience I gained in Mwanza was invaluable. The local doctors were incredibly welcoming and eager to teach. Highly recommend VOT!"
"The support from the local team was outstanding from the moment I landed at the airport. They helped me navigate the language barrier and made me feel right at home in Rock City."
"Combining my volunteering with the Zanzibar Island tour was a dream come true. VOT makes it so easy to experience the real Tanzania while contributing to a great cause."
"The children in Mwanza stole my heart! Teaching them basic English and seeing their smiles every day was the highlight of my year. Thank you VOT for this life-changing opportunity."
"Protecting Lake Victoria's ecosystem alongside the local community was a profound experience. The VOT hostel was a great place to relax and meet other volunteers from around the world."
Accommodation
During your stay in Tanzania, you'll be accommodated at VOT Hostel in Nyegezi, just 8 km from Mwanza City Center and 3 km from St. Augustine University of Tanzania (SAUT).
Our hostel is located on the roadside, making it easy to access public transport if needed. Our main house can host up to 20 guests at once. Don't worry; if you have a team of more than 20 people, we will always have a solution for that. You won't have to worry about companionship, as there are always volunteers living in the house.
Our local staff will prepare breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, taking special dietary needs into account. Meals include a mix of traditional African dishes and some Western cuisine. Complimentary tea, milk, coffee, and drinking water are provided while at VOT House.
If you enjoy cooking, you are always welcome in the kitchen. Soft drinks and beer are available for purchase in nearby stores.
Bedrooms are designed to provide comfort throughout your stay. For those seeking a tranquil escape, we also offer vibrant shared bedrooms that foster a sense of community among travelers. The choice is entirely yours, allowing you to select the option that best suits your desires and needs.
No matter which you choose a private or shared bedroom our dedicated team is committed to ensuring that your experience with us is enjoyable and memorable.
We have both shared bedrooms with shared washrooms and self contained bedrooms fitted with furniture to allow you to engage in personal study and other table activities. Don't worry about towels and bed sheets; we've got you covered!
The main house features a spacious sitting room, Western-style toilets, showers with hot water, and a kitchen. Each bedroom is equipped with bed sheets, towels, mosquito nets, and either air conditioning or a fan. Depending on your privacy needs, the bedrooms in the main house can be used privately, but this can be for an additional cost.
Free Wi-Fi is also provided. However, it is important to note that there are often power outages, which may affect the availability of hot water.
Enjoy the fenced yard, green garden, swimming pool and flowers surrounding the house for relaxation with friends. The place is very safe and for your safety at night, we have a night guard who is always on duty.
Our other house has a self contained room and other shared rooms with shared washrooms. Each shared room has two bunk beds to accommodate up to 4 people. They also have tables for extra activities in the room.
We do not charge you to volunteer. The weekly rate below is your cost of living during your stay housing, food, transport and support not a placement fee. Nothing extra to pay on arrival.
This covers your accommodation, meals, transport and in-country support it is not a fee to volunteer or to be placed. We don't charge host organisations extra either, and there's nothing more to pay on arrival.
| Length of stay | Weekly rate |
|---|---|
| Any length of stay Flat Rate | USD 295 per week |
Groups of 5–7 save 5% per person, groups of 8+ save 10%. Rates shown in USD; visa or residence permit costs are separate and depend on your stay length. Figures are indicative — confirm final pricing with the VOT team before publishing.
This covers your accommodation, meals, transport and in-country support during your stay — it is not a fee to volunteer or to be placed. Volunteering and placement are free.
Apply for this programYour Journey to Make an Impact in Tanzania
Simple steps. Real impact. Lifelong memories.
Browse our diverse volunteer opportunities and select the placement that best matches your interests, skills, and availability.
Complete our simple application form. Once we receive it, we shall review your application and contact you to discuss your placement, dates, and answer any questions.
After your placement is confirmed, we'll guide you through everything you need, including visa information, travel planning, airport pickup, accommodation, and what to pack.
Arrive in Tanzania, receive a warm welcome, attend orientation, and begin your volunteer experience while immersing yourself in the local culture and creating lasting memories.
Our Partners
Got Questions?
At VOT, we don't charge for volunteering or placement; the fee is for your daily expenses during your entire stay in Mwanza. Visit our Pricing page for full details.
You will stay at VOT Hostel in Nyegezi, just 8 km from Mwanza City Centre. The hostel features private and shared rooms, a garden, swimming pool, hot showers, and free Wi-Fi.
Yes — breakfast, lunch, and dinner are prepared daily by our local staff. Special dietary needs are accommodated. Tea, coffee, and drinking water are complimentary.
Most programs welcome volunteers regardless of experience level. For healthcare placements, some medical background is preferred. We match you with a placement that fits your skills.
We accept volunteers for as little as 1 week up to 6 months or more. The minimum recommended stay for meaningful impact is 2–4 weeks.
Airport pickup is included. Simply share your flight details with us after applying and our team will meet you at Mwanza Airport (MWZ).
Yes, free Wi-Fi is provided at the hostel and its available in all common areas around the property.
Our team contacts you within 2–3 business days to confirm your placement, discuss dates and fees, and answer any remaining questions. We then send a full pre-departure information pack.
Volunteers placed in our Education and Community programs work with children, so every volunteer is briefed on our child protection code of conduct before starting. This covers safe, appropriate interaction with children at all times, a strict no-photography-without-consent rule, and a direct line to our local staff to report any concern. Our permanent local team is present at every placement site throughout your stay.
If you need to cancel before your placement starts, contact us as early as possible — the more notice you give, the more of your fee we can refund, since it covers accommodation and placement arrangements made on your behalf. If you need to cut your stay short after arriving, tell your local coordinator; unused nights of accommodation and meals from that point are refunded, though placement and arrival costs already committed are not. Contact us directly for the exact terms that apply to your dates.
Yes — most of our volunteers travel solo. You'll live at VOT Hostel alongside other volunteers from around the world and a full-time local team, so you're never really on your own, and lasting friendships form fast.
Most placements run Monday to Friday, mornings into early afternoon. Healthcare placements can offer longer or shift-based hours if you want more hands-on time. We confirm your exact schedule with the placement before you arrive.
Yes — we require all volunteers to arrive with comprehensive travel and medical insurance, including cover for medical evacuation. VOT does not provide insurance, so please arrange your own before you travel and bring proof of cover.
Most volunteers are between 18 and 50, but we welcome all ages. Volunteers under 18 can join with a parent or guardian, and there's no upper age limit — get in touch and we'll help find the right fit.
Mwanza sits on Lake Victoria in a malaria risk area, so we recommend seeing a doctor or travel clinic about antimalarial medication before you fly. Every bed at VOT Hostel is fitted with a mosquito net, and we advise using repellent and covering up in the evenings.
The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). US dollars in cash (2009 or newer bills) are widely accepted for larger payments such as visa fees, and ATMs are available in Mwanza city centre for withdrawing shillings. We recommend telling your bank about your travel dates in advance.
Absolutely — many volunteers add on a safari, a Zanzibar beach trip, or local Mwanza activities before or after their placement. Let us know your interest and our team can help you plan it.
Yes. You're met at the airport by VOT staff, housed in our supervised hostel, and given a full safety and city orientation in your first days. A staff member is reachable 24/7 for the length of your stay.
Your international flights, travel insurance, visa or residence permit, and personal spending money. Everything related to housing, meals, transport and placement support is included.
No. Most placements operate comfortably in English, and every volunteer receives a 5-day Swahili crash course in their first week to help with day-to-day life.
Yes. Groups of 5–7 receive a 5% per-person discount, and groups of 8 or more receive 10% off. Contact us directly to arrange group placements and dates.
See It For Yourself
Contact Us
Tell us your interests and availability — our team will help match you with the right placement.