Volunteer & Explore Tanzania
Why Choose Viva Tanzania?
Local
Expertise, Support & Adventure
An Unforgettable Volunteer Adventure in Tanzania
Wake up to Mount Meru in Arusha and spend your days teaching children, assisting in clinics or empowering women. After your meaningful work, join our local guides on safaris and treks to experience Tanzania’s wildlife, waterfalls and mountains. Safe housing, 24/7 support and lifelong friendships are all part of the adventure. Viva Tanzania has welcomed more than 3000 volunteers and interns from across the globe since 2015, connecting them with impactful volunteer and internship opportunities in Tanzania.
And you could be next!
Explore Volunteer Opportunities in Tanzania
Our all‑inclusive programmes include secure hostel accommodation, meals twice per day, orientation and guidance. Before you arrive in Arusha, we match you to volunteer projects that need support in education, healthcare, empowerment or conservation. Join us to make a lasting difference and enjoy weekend safaris, treks and cultural experiences.
Explore Safaris, Treks & Day Trips in Tanzania
Join our local guides on unforgettable safaris, Kilimanjaro treks and day trips across Tanzania. Choose from Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Tarangire safaris, hike Mount Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru, or spend a day visiting waterfalls, hot springs and Maasai villages. We customise every experience to your interests and budget No matter what you will decide ultimately for, we guide you all the way from the start to the end of your trip! So you get your individual memories of wonderful Tanzania.
About Viva Tanzania
Our Story &
Mission
Founded in 2015 by Tizia, Viva Tanzania is a locally‑run organisation based in Arusha. We connect volunteers with ethical projects in education, healthcare, empowerment and
conservation, while offering affordable safaris, treks and wellness experiences. Our team of local coordinators, guides and hostel staff ensure every volunteer receives personal support and cultural immersion. We work closely with community partners to create lasting impact in Tanzania. Today, Viva Tanzania is proud to be one of the leading organizations for volunteer programs, exciting tours and safe accommodation in Tanzania, enabling people from around the world to experience Tanzania the right way. Rama is our Manager. He is your first point of contact if you require any help, support, or advice during your stay. He is an Arusha native and is happy to answer all your questions about Arusha, life in Tanzania, day trips, safaris, and mountain climbs. Venance is our trusty driver and will be the first person you meet at the airport upon arrival if you have arranged for airport pickup. Venance is a qualified tour guide who speaks English, Swahili and French fluently, and is currently learning German.
Our dedicated team is here to make your experience unforgettable. Do you enjoy our fresh and delicious food? Give a big thanks to Sarah, she wakes up early in the morning ensuring you will be served a fresh and hot breakfast. In the evening she cooks delicious local Tanzanian and western food. If you have a tasty recipe to share, she will appreciate it! Together, Mama Denis, Pendo, and Elinipa, form the backbone of our housekeeping team, each bringing their unique skills and unwavering dedication to ensuring every inch of our premises sparkles with cleanliness.
There is no Viva Tanzania party at our Sunset Bar without our other Rama. He is the best when it comes to mixing drinks and preparing cocktails. It’s always fun to be around him! He also takes care of the weekly movie nights and is your point of contact in the evening. Gertrud, our dedicated spa therapist committed to nurturing your well-being. With expert hands and a warm smile, Gertrud makes sure you refresh your body and calm your mind. Franky, our green-thumb guru and passionate gardener. With a deep love for nature and a keen eye, Franky transforms outdoor spaces into lush havens of beauty. Amiri and David, our stalwart protectors, stand watch with unwavering commitment and a sharp eye for detail. With years of experience in security, they safeguard our premises with diligence and determination, ensuring the safety and well-being of all who enter.
Founded in 2015 by Tizia, Viva Tanzania is a locally‑run organisation based in Arusha. We connect volunteers with ethical projects in education, healthcare, empowerment and
conservation, while offering affordable safaris, treks and wellness experiences. Our team of local coordinators, guides and hostel staff ensure every volunteer receives personal support and cultural immersion. We work closely with community partners to create lasting impact in Tanzania. Today, Viva Tanzania is proud to be one of the leading organizations for volunteer programs, exciting tours and safe accommodation in Tanzania, enabling people from around the world to experience Tanzania the right way. Rama is our Manager. He is your first point of contact if you require any help, support, or advice during your stay. He is an Arusha native and is happy to answer all your questions about Arusha, life in Tanzania, day trips, safaris, and mountain climbs. Venance is our trusty driver and will be the first person you meet at the airport upon arrival if you have arranged for airport pickup. Venance is a qualified tour guide who speaks English, Swahili and French fluently, and is currently learning German.
Our dedicated team is here to make your experience unforgettable. Do you enjoy our fresh and delicious food? Give a big thanks to Sarah, she wakes up early in the morning ensuring you will be served a fresh and hot breakfast. In the evening she cooks delicious local Tanzanian and western food. If you have a tasty recipe to share, she will appreciate it! Together, Mama Denis, Pendo, and Elinipa, form the backbone of our housekeeping team, each bringing their unique skills and unwavering dedication to ensuring every inch of our premises sparkles with cleanliness.
There is no Viva Tanzania party at our Sunset Bar without our other Rama. He is the best when it comes to mixing drinks and preparing cocktails. It’s always fun to be around him! He also takes care of the weekly movie nights and is your point of contact in the evening. Gertrud, our dedicated spa therapist committed to nurturing your well-being. With expert hands and a warm smile, Gertrud makes sure you refresh your body and calm your mind. Franky, our green-thumb guru and passionate gardener. With a deep love for nature and a keen eye, Franky transforms outdoor spaces into lush havens of beauty. Amiri and David, our stalwart protectors, stand watch with unwavering commitment and a sharp eye for detail. With years of experience in security, they safeguard our premises with diligence and determination, ensuring the safety and well-being of all who enter.
You’ll also be greeted by our two friendly pet cats, Jasiri and Baraka. These affectionate feline companions love to interact with guests and are always up for some petting or playtime.
Since 2015, Viva Tanzania has connected over 3000 people with meaningful adventures, exploring Tanzania’s volunteering, tours, wellness, and accommodation. Tizia founded Viva Tanzania with the belief that volunteering can create sustainable change and empowerment within local communities. Today, Viva Tanzania is proud to be one of the leading organizations for volunteer programs, exciting tours and safe accommodation in Tanzania, enabling people from around the world to experience Tanzania the right way. Rama is our Manager. He is your first point of contact if you require any help, support, or advice during your stay. He is an Arusha native and is happy to answer all your questions about Arusha, life in Tanzania, day trips, safaris, and mountain climbs. Venance is our trusty driver and will be the first person you meet at the airport upon arrival if you have arranged for airport pickup. Venance is a qualified tour guide who speaks English, Swahili and French fluently, and is currently learning German.
Our dedicated team is here to make your experience unforgettable. Do you enjoy our fresh and delicious food? Give a big thanks to Sarah, she wakes up early in the morning ensuring you will be served a fresh and hot breakfast. In the evening she cooks delicious local Tanzanian and western food. If you have a tasty recipe to share, she will appreciate it! Together, Mama Denis, Pendo, and Elinipa, form the backbone of our housekeeping team, each bringing their unique skills and unwavering dedication to ensuring every inch of our premises sparkles with cleanliness.
There is no Viva Tanzania party at our Sunset Bar without our other Rama. He is the best when it comes to mixing drinks and preparing cocktails. It’s always fun to be around him! He also takes care of the weekly movie nights and is your point of contact in the evening. Gertrud, our dedicated spa therapist committed to nurturing your well-being. With expert hands and a warm smile, Gertrud makes sure you refresh your body and calm your mind. Franky, our green-thumb guru and passionate gardener. With a deep love for nature and a keen eye, Franky transforms outdoor spaces into lush havens of beauty. Amiri and David, our stalwart protectors, stand watch with unwavering commitment and a sharp eye for detail. With years of experience in security, they safeguard our premises with diligence and determination, ensuring the safety and well-being of all who enter.
You’ll also be greeted by our two friendly pet cats, Jasiri and Baraka. These affectionate feline companions love to interact with guests and are always up for some petting or playtime.
Villa Viva Accommodation
Safe
Volunteer Housing in Arusha
Stay at Villa Viva, our comfortable volunteer hostel in Arusha. We offer
private rooms and dormitories, a swimming pool, gym, spa, rooftop bar and communal spaces for volunteers to relax and socialise. Our hostel is
centrally located, secure and run by friendly staff who cook fresh Tanzanian and international meals.
Discover Viva Wellness
Viva Wellness is our newest addition to the many services and experiences we offer in Tanzania! While you stay at our Villa you can workout with our gym equipment, get a massage from our local masseuse and join our yoga classes! Our most exciting and premium service though, is our new Wellness Retreats. Whether it’s in Arusha or on the stunning shores of Zanzibar, our wellness retreats are an all-inclusive relaxation experience, specifically curated to allowing you to discover more of Tanzania, and yourself.
Why Do People Choose Viva Tanzania For Their African Adventure?
We Provide Experienced, Locally-Led Volunteer Programs
Our Tanzanian team grew up in Arusha and has been running locally-led volunteer programs & tours in Tanzania since 2015. We match you to experiences that genuinely need support, schools, clinics and animal welfare partners, so your time is well spent. Expect clear role briefs, classroom resources and on-site mentors. Whether you’re interested in education, volunteer in Tanzania placements, or medical volunteer in Tanzania experiences, we’ll guide you from enquiry to impact with practical training and cultural insight.
Personal Support & Safe Volunteer Accommodation
From airport pickup to your first day at project, you’re backed by 24/7 in-country support. We provide a city orientation, help with SIM cards and transport, and arrange ethical weekend trips like a safari from Arusha. Our hostel offers safe volunteer accommodation in Arusha with Wi-Fi, meals and friendly staff. You’ll focus on your placement while we handle logistics, ideal for gap year Tanzania volunteering or short-term stays.
Unforgettable Tours & Cultural Experiences In Tanzania
Beyond volunteer projects, we offer safari tours and mountain treks from Arusha and cultural excursions that bring Tanzania’s beauty to life. Spend a weekend spotting elephants in Tarangire, climb Mount Kilimanjaro, or relax on Zanzibar’s beaches. Our team also arranges day trips in Arusha like waterfalls, hot springs, and local markets. These adventures are ethical, guided by locals, and designed to complement your volunteering. It’s the perfect way to combine meaningful work with once-in-a-lifetime travel.
Read More Testimonials
Brianna, 20
USA
"Thank you for the great time and unforgettable experience(s)!"
“I recently had the great joy to stay at the Villa Viva for about 10 weeks during my time in Tanzania. And what can I say – it was awesome. They are great hosts who will always do their best to make your stay a pleasant one. But the Villa isn’t only a hostel: the team also do a great job at finding you the right place to volunteer or work as an intern if that’s what your looking for (if you haven’t already and that’s why you’re reading this review – in that case just contact them. You won’t find a better place!). All in all, staying at the Villa Viva was a great time. They are great hosts, the mamas are AMAZING cooks (and luckily breakfast and dinner is included – and you definitely won’t go to bed hungry), and we had the fortune of having an amazing group of people at the Villa at the time I was there – which really made the hostel home away from home. Thank you for the great time and unforgettable experience(s)!”
Alex, 27
Canada
"Villa Viva is like a home away from home..."
"Villa Viva is like a home away from home, except with way better weather and the best people. I’ve never been in a place where you feel so supported and connected to the community. The weekly cooking classes were such a highlight—learning how to make traditional Tanzanian dishes and sharing them with fellow volunteers was always fun. The accommodation was super comfortable, and I loved the peaceful evenings by the pool, just unwinding after a busy day."
Emma, 26
New Zealand
"Villa Viva provided an amazing foundation for cultural integration."
“I came to Tanzania looking for a new challenge, and I got far more than I expected. Villa Viva provided an amazing foundation for cultural integration. I was able to participate in local ceremonies, dance workshops, and share cooking experiences with Tanzanians. The volunteers I met became like family, and we spent our evenings at the Villa laughing, cooking, or playing cards. It was a unique experience to engage so closely with the community, and it left me with lifelong memories.”
Samuel, 35
United Kingdom
"I was surprised by how much I learned about Tanzanian culture..."
“My stay at Villa Viva was nothing short of inspiring. From the first day, I was welcomed into a vibrant, diverse community of volunteers from around the globe. What really stood out was how everyone collaborated—not just on our projects, but socially. Whether it was hiking on the weekends or spending the evenings chatting over a drink at the rooftop bar, there was always something happening. I was surprised by how much I learned about Tanzanian culture, and not just through my project, but through the shared experiences at Villa Viva.”
Unlike in other organizations you will get to know the person who stands behind the website, the emails and the whole organization personally at your first day in Arusha. The communal life and daily dinners guarantee an excellent local support.
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FAQ's
Prior To Your Arrival
Which airport do I have to fly to?
There are two airports near Arusha, Kilimanjaro (JRO) and Arusha (ARK). Kilimanjaro is an international airport, and Arusha is a domestic airport. You can often find cheaper flights to JRO, so that should be your first choice. We will pick you up at any time, day or night, so please choose the flight that suits you best.
Which vaccinations are needed? Should I take a malaria prophylaxes?
Information about travel vaccines and health advice for Tanzania can be found on your country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs website, and on the World Health Organization’s website. We recommend you visit a doctor who specialises in tropical diseases before your trip, to get any vaccines or medicines you may need.
What visa do I need?
To volunteer in Tanzania you will need an Ordinary visa for the purposes of humanitarian and charity activities. Most countries can easily obtain the visa on arrival at the airport. It costs $US50 ($US100 for American citizens), is valid for three months and can be renewed once. If you plan to stay longer than six months you need to apply for a Resident Permit.
What about insurance?
We recommend you have health insurance for your trip to Tanzania. Health care is not expensive here, but in case of an emergency your insurance can arrange for you to return to your home country for better treatment.
What’s the exchange rate from Euro, Pound and Dollar to Tanzanian Shilling?
Fluctuation in the exchange rate is common but currently it is:
1 Euro = 2.700 Tsh
1 GBP = 3.000 Tsh
1 Dollar = 2.500 Tsh
Which languages do locals speak in Tanzania?
English and Swahili are both official languages in Tanzania, although English is not widely spoken. At your project we will make sure that there is at least one person who speaks English. Also we offer Swahili lessons for a small fee to make your everyday life easier. Read more about Tanzania here.
During Your Stay
How can I access my money?
There are many ATMs in Arusha. All of the ATMs accept Visa and Mastercards. Payments with credit cards are only possible in large supermarkets and shops, at any other place only cash is accepted. Do not bring Travellers Cheques as you will be unable to cash them.
Is there a washing machine in the hostel?
There is a washing machine in the hostel, but it is mainly used by our staff to clean the bed linen. Buckets are available to wash your laundry yourself by hand, and the machine can also be used for 15.000 Tsh.
How can I stay in contact with my friends and family?
We recommend buying a local sim card. After you arrive we will take you on a town tour and help you buy one so you can use the internet to stay connected with family and friends.
How much extra money do I need to plan per week?
How much you spend depends on your personal spending habits. Some examples of local prices include: bus rides in town cost 700 Tsh and taxis start from 5.000 Tsh. Local meals start from 2.500 Tsh and western style meals are around 15.000 Tsh. A beer cost between 2.500 and 5.000 Tsh and cocktails start from 10.000 Tsh. Fabrics for the tailor start from 12.000 Tsh and tailor made clothes start from 10.000 Tsh. Souvenirs can be found from 3.000 Tsh onward.
About The Hostel And Our Projects
What are my working hours?
The working hours vary depending on the project. Usually you will work Monday to Friday, from morning to afternoon. In some projects it is possible to also work on the weekend if you wish. You can discuss the exact working hours on site with your project managers.
Where can I eat lunch during my work?
Depending on what time your project ends you can come back to the villa to make your own lunch or you can get lunch nearby your project. Your project manager will assist you in finding a restaurant.
What is the security like in the accommodation and Arusha?
Our house has a secure two-meter-high wall, a daytime caretaker, and two night guards. Arusha is generally safe but it is best to take a taxi in the evenings rather than walking. When you arrive we will give you all the tips you need to know on how to stay safe.
What kind of requirements do I need to participate in the projects from Viva Tanzania?
We welcome anybody who is open to new cultures, and who wants to contribute to meaningful projects in Tanzania. Work experience in the chosen field is welcome but is usually not a requirement. If a project has specific requirements they will be listed on the project page. A basic knowledge of English, and the willingness to learn some Swahili words are necessary.
Please note to work in our projects you must send us an “Police Clearance Certificate”. And upon arrival all volunteers are required to sign our “Code of Conduct”. Those volunteers working with children must also sign our “Child Protection Policy”.
What’s the minimum/maximum time I can participate in a project?
The minimum stay is two weeks. But it will take a few days to settle in and learn about your project and the best way you can support. The longer you work in a project, the more you and the project will benefit.
How will I be accommodated?
You can choose between a single room, a double room or a bed in a dorm in the hostel. Please let us know your choice in the registration form. Read more about the accommodation here.
I am vegetarian/ vegan or have allergies. Is this a problem?
At the hostel there is a hot cooked meal every evening, and there is always a vegetarian/vegan option. In the registration form please inform us if you have any allergies, and we will take care of your requirements.
How do I get to my project?
On the first day at your project we will take you there by public transport, and show you how to get back and forth safely. Or, if it is close we will show you how to walk there.
Always Stay Up To Date
Blog
The business with poverty, and why we won’t work with orphanages
We do not offer volunteer work and internships in orphanages in our program. We areoften asked why not? The answer ...
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Why you need to pay to volunteer
Many people see a contradiction in paying to do voluntary work. After all, you work … voluntarily … So why ...
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Volunteering with wildlife
The dream of many animal loving volunteers is to travel abroad and work with wildlife inneed. These volunteers want to ...
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Packing List and useful information
To be well equipped for your vacation or volunteering stay in Tanzania, we have put together a packing list for ...
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Have a Quick Question?
WhatsApp: +255 686 490 500
Email: info@viva-tanzania.com