Challenging and worthwhile volunteering trips in Zanzibar

The idyllic islands of Zanzibar are world-famous for their pristine beaches and rich history. However, life can be very difficult for a large proportion of the population, many of whom survive on less than 75p per day.

Our trips focus on supporting government-run schools near Stone Town, all of which are severely underfunded and drastically overcrowded. In total, 15,000 children attend the three schools that we support. To manage this overcrowding, the school day is split in two, with students attending either in the morning or in the afternoon. Volunteers can make a tangible difference whilst developing a range of skills, before returning home as more rounded individuals.

The schools we work with are passionate about providing opportunities to young people through the provision of a quality education. As a member of the UN Global Compact, your students will help us drive the UN Sustainable Development Goals, leaving a lasting legacy at your partner project.

Away from volunteering, your students will have the opportunity to explore the varied history and breathtaking scenery of this island paradise. They can visit a local market, swim in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, or explore the cobbled streets of Stone Town.

You can also add something extra special to your trip with one of our adventure activities. From snorkelling alongside tropical fish, to visiting a local spice farm, learning about the history of Prison Island, and discovering the famous sites of Stone Town, there's something for everyone.

DAY 1 - Arrival
You will be met at the airport in Dar es Salaam by African Adventures’ friendly in-country team, before heading to the ferry terminal to make your way to Zanzibar.

DAY 2 - Project Welcome Day
You will head to your partner project for your first day of volunteering. Be prepared to receive a warm welcome from the teachers and children!

You will have a lunch break during the day, and will have the opportunity to play with the children. At 3:30pm you will be picked up by our in-country staff and taken back to your accommodation.

Before and after dinner, you can relax at your accommodation, or enjoy an afternoon activity as arranged with your Trip Host.

DAYS 3-5 Project Days
Continue volunteering at your partner project.

DAY 6 - Final Project Day
After spending the morning wrapping up your volunteering work, there will be a farewell celebration at your partner school. Be prepared for some emotional goodbyes!

DAY 7 - Taste of Zanzibar Weekend
Your walking tour will begin in the heart of Stone Town. Slalom through the narrow streets, passing an array of famous attractions, before enjoying lunch in a local restaurant.

After lunch, you will head north to a spice farm where you can learn about how local herbs and spices are grown.

In the evening, you will travel to a local beach resort, where you can swim in the ocean before enjoying dinner and an overnight stay.

DAY 8 - Taste of Zanzibar Weekend
Spend the morning relaxing at the resort, swimming in the sea, and enjoying a breakfast and lunch of locally sourced produce.

In the afternoon, you'll head back to your accommodation in Stone Town.

DAY 9 - Departure
Unfortunately, it is time to head home! You will travel to the ferry terminal with your Trip Host for your journey back to Dar es Salaam, from where you will fly home. In Zanzibar, we don’t say ‘goodbye’, we say ‘see you soon’!

Minimum 10, maximum 150.

Students with disabilities and/or restricted access needs are welcome to apply for a place on our trips. We will request full details of the individual's needs and subsequently carry out a risk assessment, factoring in the environment, facilities and objectives of the trip, to ensure that he/she can participate fully in the programme.

At African Adventures, we run all our trips from start to finish, meaning our friendly staff take care of every element of your trip whilst you're in-country. Once you book, you'll be looked after by a dedicated member of our UK groups team, who will build the itinerary you want and help answer any questions you may have before you travel.

You can manage your trip through our dedicated online portal, My African Adventure (My AA), which contains everything you need to know about your trip, and includes helpful tools and resources for you and your students to use prior to travel.

Many of our volunteers fundraise towards the cost of their trip, which means an African Adventure can start long before you step on the plane. In fact, in 2019, 41% of our youth volunteers fundraised 50% or more of their trip costs. This element of the trip can be as valuable as the trip itself and we've got lots of ideas to get you started. You'll also find plenty of support on My AA.