Tanzania is a very friendly country with welcoming people. Compared to other countries, Tanzania is not very expensive, but you still need a budget plan. For affordable accommodation in Tanzania for volunteers, keep in mind that you will need to spend only where required, with no extra expenditure.
This blog offers budgeting tips for volunteers in Tanzania. Explore it thoroughly to understand everything you need to know about the budgeting plan you need to make.
Budget of Volunteering in Tanzania
Tanzania is a cost-effective location when compared to other international destinations. The cost of living, food, and other amenities can vary widely, but in Tanzania, they are pretty reasonable. Plus, if you are going there to volunteer, the stay needs to be sensible, as you will have to stay for an extended period.
Hostel Hoff provides volunteer hostels in Tanzania at a reasonable price. The team offers affordable accommodation in Tanzania for volunteers, with all amenities at local prices. Along with low prices, the team also guides on the trip, transport, and food and drinks at reasonable prices.
Accommodation in Hostel Hoff is Budget Friendly
In general, the price for staying at Hostel Hoff depends on the length of your stay. The prices of stay depend on the following factors:
- For short trips of less than 3 months, prices vary by month, with the first month costing more.
- For long trips lasting more than 3 months, the flat rate will apply for the entire duration of the stay.
- Hostel Hoff also offers private rooms, with an additional fee depending on availability.
- But your stay can be reasonable and cost-effective if you opt for a shared room, as you can get to know others in the volunteer program.
- In the reasonable price volunteer accommodation in Tanzania, the following amenities are included:
- The price you pay will cover the cost of bed, breakfast, dinner, and daily laundry service.
- You can request a vegetarian or a special food option if you want.
It is advisable to contact the hostel authorities to arrange the necessities. You can contact the hostel directly on the Contacts page on the Hostel Hoff website.
Budget Spent on Food
Though you can ask for dishes you eat, try the local meals as well. As you will mostly be outside, try to eat local food while you are there, as this is cost-effective and helps you explore their cuisine.
Go to local markets in Tanzania instead of supermarkets, as this will help you better understand their culture and lifestyle, and you will also get things at a lower price.
If you crave something, it is advisable to cook in the Hostel Hoff kitchen rather than go to any multi-cuisine restaurant to avoid overspending.
With the help of local people, try to find good local restaurants at lower prices and avoid tourist attraction restaurants and cafes. For your munching cravings, find some local food options that will not cost you a lot. Go around the area and find out which snacks are available locally. In this way, you get to know the place and the people.
Affordable Transportation for Volunteers
If you ask the local people or the employees at Hostel Hoff, you can find out how and where to get the cheapest travel.You can take dala-dalas, minibuses, bodabodas, or local bikes for rides. You can take these options if you want to explore the place and the people better.
When you don’t have to travel long distances, go for a walk and don’t take rides for short distances, as this is an add-on cost. This way, you can see and understand the place better.
If possible, travel with locals to get a sense of the transport prices. So, you can have an idea about the fare when you travel alone. Local people are the ones who can tell you about the price structures and their food and culture.
Weekend Travel and Safari Expenditure
Going on safaris and travels is like the cherry on top of your volunteer program. But most of the volunteers end up spending more than expected. Here are some tips you can keep in mind while you go for weekend travels and safaris:
- Travel in small groups so you can split the fare among yourselves, and it is also safe because you will not get lost, or if you do, you can help each other.
- Ask the Hostel Hoff staff for recommendations to avoid getting conned or overspending.
- Choose short, budget-friendly trips and safaris, if possible.
- Plan your whole trip to avoid last-minute decisions and budget accordingly.
Tips to Handle the Money
Although the staff of Hostel Hoff guides the money handling technique, you should keep some things in mind with the money:
- Start your trip to Tanzania with some cash and cards in hand.
- You can also withdraw money from ATMs, so be mindful and take only the minimum cash with you.
- Also, avoid spending a lot of cash so you don’t have to withdraw much from ATMs, as this can lead to bank fees.
- When you go to the local markets, take a few notes with you, as you may need some cash for a few payments.
How to Pack Smart for a Volunteer Accommodation in Tanzania
Below are few tips to pack smart for a volunteer plan in Tanzania:
- When travelling to any new country, make sure you carry a few items with you, which would be:
- Basic things like sunscreen, power bank, mosquito repellent, quick-drying clothes, and rough-and-tough shoes.
- When you come for volunteer accommodation in Tanzania, try not to spend on products from international brands, as they are generally more expensive.
- Pack some reusable water bottles and tote bags to avoid too many bags.
- Purchase local SIM cards and recharge them with ample data so you can spend your whole day in the volunteer program.
Volunteer accommodation in Tanzania can be affordable if you plan your trip accordingly. First, ask your fellow hostel mates at Hostel Hoff for the details you want, and then get the opinion of other locals if needed. Just remember not to overspend anywhere during your stay.
You can visit the Volunteering Hostel section on the website of Hostel Hoff to know more.