Want to volunteer or do an internship in Zanzibar? With ZIVO, you will have an experience you will never forget. For a small weekly fee, you can enjoy life on the beautiful island of Zanzibar while becoming part of the local community. You will experience the culture, daily life, and warm hospitality of the people around you, while making a real difference through your work.
In your free time, you can discover every side of the island, like the white beaches of Nungwi or the lively atmosphere and kitesurfing spots of Paje.
The program is €200 per week. This affordable price compared to other organization is possible because there is no third-party involvement. You will have direct contact with your coordinator, who is also your local host.
In the fee, transport, meals and accommodation is included so that your contribution goes directly towards supporting the local community.
Apply now| Duration | Fee in Dollars |
|---|---|
| 3 weeks | €600 |
| 4 weeks | €800 |
| 9 weeks | €1500 |
| 13 weeks | €2100 |
| 16 weeks | €2500 |
| 24 weeks | €4800 |
As your program coordinator is a local on Zanzibar, there is no other organization involved. This ensures that your contribution goes directly towards supporting the local community.
Volunteers typically arrive at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, located just 15 minutes from your accommodation near Stone Town. Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed and picked up at the airport by your host.
During your work, you are expected to attend your volunteer project on weekdays. Weekly transport to and from your placement is arranged and included in your stay, while you can use local transport such as tuktuks for the authentic island experience.
Transport for other facilities on weekend excursions is not included, but our host can help you with getting a taxi driver for a suitable price.
The accommodation is located in Malindi, Zanzibar Town, just a 10-minute walk from the center of Stone Town. Malindi is a lively area with restaurants, cafes, and takeaway places close by.
You will stay in a volunteer house together with other volunteers and interns. Shared facilities are available, including a bathroom, with shower, toilet, and washing machine. Rooms can be either single or shared double rooms, depending on availability and the length of your stay. If you have a preference or any concerns, let us know. We want your stay to be as comfortable as possible.
The house has also a communal living area with a television, where you can relax and spend time with the other volunteers after your project activities.
From Monday to Friday, three meals a day are provided at the accommodation. In the morning, breakfast includes fresh fruit, bread with jam, peanut butter or Nutella, and coffee or tea. For lunch, the housekeeper prepares delicious local dishes, giving you the chance to truly experience the traditional cuisine of Zanzibar. Dinner is also included and is usually enjoyed together with the other volunteers in the house.
Tap water in Zanzibar is not safe to drink. Drinking water is provided at the accommodation and is always available.
A reliable Wi-Fi connection is available at the accommodation. When going outside, you can purchase a local SIM card or eSIM to stay connected during your stay. Your host will be able to help you arrange this upon arrival. Free Wi-Fi is also available at the airport when you arrive.
In advance, there are a few steps that need to be taken care of, like the zanzibar insurance or the visa application. To make sure your arrival goes as smoothly as possible, we will guide you through all the steps needed to help and arrange your stay in Zanzibar.
In Zanzibar the lifestyle and culture can be different from most volunteers used to. As your host, a local, and your support is provided to guide you through this new culture and to make sure you feel at home. As there are problems or uncertainties, your host will be there to help you 24/7.
Zanzibar is a beautiful island known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Places like Nungwi, Kendwa or Paje show that this island is diverse place to discover.
Stone Town is known for its vibrant atmosphere and history. In the 18th century Stone Town was a large trading hub reflecting a blend of Swahili, Arab, Persian and Indian influences, leading into the explore the capital of Zanzibar you will find yourself in the narrow alleys and historic architecture, leading into the culture.
Discovering Stone Town includes visiting the former slave market, the Freddie Mercury Museum, taking a spice tour, or enjoying an excursion to Prison Island.
Zanzibar has a strong Islamic culture where religion plays an important role in daily life. Modest dress is appreciated across the island, covering shoulders and knees is required and respectfully encouraged in public areas such as Stone Town.
Life in Zanzibar is generally safe, and both tourists and volunteers are warmly welcomed by the local community. The island enjoys a sunny climate year-round, so regular use of sunscreen is essential.
Walking around during the day is typically safe. However, in some areas, modest clothing and being aware of your surroundings is advisable when out at night for convenient transport. Zanzibar has a strong cultural and religious identity, so respectful behavior (especially during Ramadan) is important for both your safety and good community relationships. Your local host is there to guide you and provide advice.
