Where is Hostel Hoff located?

Hostel Hoff is located in Moshi, Tanzania, at the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, a majestic town with easy access to nature, culture, and local community life.

What types of volunteer programs do you offer?

We offer a wide range of volunteering and internship opportunities, including, Orphanages and childcare centres, Teaching in primary and secondary schools, Hospitals and local clinics, Women’s empowerment groups, Centres for special needs children, Environmental conservation projects, And Construction and community development work and many more

Who can volunteer with Hostel Hoff?

Anyone aged 18 and above with a positive attitude, willingness to learn, and respect for local culture can volunteer. Some placements (such as hospitals) may require relevant education or experience.

How long can I volunteer for?

Volunteers can join the programs in Hostel Hoff for a minimum of 1 month. The shorter time period of volunteering is less than 3 months, and the longer time period of volunteering is for more than 3 months. It depends on the volunteer program you choose, and according to the availability of the stay, the length of your volunteering opportunity can be decided. The prices will vary depending on the duration of the stay.

Do I need previous experience or qualifications?

Education or qualification is not required for most of the programs. Many placements focus on enthusiasm, commitment, and a genuine desire to help. However, medical and professional internships may require specific qualifications.

What kind of accommodation is provided?

Volunteers stay at Hostel Hoff in Moshi. The accommodation is safe and clean, with a few two-person sharing private rooms for couples and friends, and other rooms have 4-6 beds.

Will I receive support during my volunteering period?

Yes, Hostel Hoff provides support for its volunteers. Our local team is available to provide orientation, placement guidance, ongoing support, and help to get to know about the community.

Can I volunteer and still explore Tanzania?

Absolutely. Volunteering with Hostel Hoff allows time for weekend trips to beaches, safaris, cultural activities, and Mount Kilimanjaro excursions while still contributing meaningfully.

Will I work directly with local communities?

Yes. All our projects are respectful, ethical, community-driven, and locally partnered, ensuring your work has a real, lasting impact.

How do I apply to volunteer with Hostel Hoff?

You can apply by contacting us directly through our website or email. For volunteers from Denmark, please get in touch with our local Danish agent, Save a Heart. Our team will guide you through the following steps and help match you with the right project.

Will I receive a certificate after volunteering?

Yes. Volunteers can receive a certificate of participation, but we do consider volunteering to be a meaningful contribution to Tanzania. Hence, our certification of completion is for the dedication you show to the volunteering work.

How is Hostel Hoff the best volunteering agency in Tanzania?

Hostel Hoff is the best volunteering agency in Tanzania because it works closely with local communities, operates transparently, and focuses on making a real difference in life in Tanzania rather than profit. As a reliable volunteering agency in Tanzania, it prioritises ethical practices, long-term partnerships, and meaningful volunteer placements that truly benefit local people. Along with those, they provide affordable stays to the people when compared to other volunteering agencies.

Why choose a local agency for volunteer service in Tanzania?

Choosing a local agency for volunteer service in Tanzania ensures your contribution directly benefits local organisations. Local agencies understand community needs better and reduce unnecessary administrative costs often charged by overseas organisations. Plus, the local people provide everything at a reasonable price and help when needed.

Can international volunteers join a volunteering agency in Tanzania without experience?

Yes, Tanzania welcomes international volunteers without prior experience. But if you are looking for medical and clinical volunteering, you need to have qualifications or experience. Training and guidance are usually provided, especially for teaching, childcare, and community support roles.

What is volunteering in Tanzania like?

Volunteering in Tanzania is a rewarding experience that combines meaningful community work with cultural immersion. Volunteers work closely with local people, contribute to education, healthcare, conservation, and social projects, and gain a deeper understanding of life in Tanzania, Africa.

How can I volunteer in Tanzania?

To volunteer in Tanzania, you can apply through a trusted local volunteering organisation that partners with community projects. Contact the organisations directly through enquiry forms or drop them an email. Once accepted, volunteers usually arrange their travel, while the organisation provides placement, accommodation, and local support.

What volunteer opportunities & Work are available in Tanzania?

Volunteer opportunities in Tanzania span a wide range of sectors, including education, healthcare, environmental conservation, and social welfare. Volunteers may teach in schools, support orphanages and childcare centres, work with children with disabilities, assist in hospitals and local clinics, participate in environmental projects, contribute to women’s empowerment and skills training initiatives, help with construction work, and support broader community development programs.

Is volunteering in Tanzania, Africa, safe?

Yes, volunteering in Tanzania, Africa, is generally safe, especially when working with established local organisations. Volunteers receive orientation, cultural guidance, and ongoing support to ensure a safe and positive experience.

What volunteering programs are available in Tanzania?

Volunteering programs in Tanzania include short-term and long-term placements in education, healthcare, childcare, environmental conservation, women’s groups, and community development, depending on volunteer skills and interests.

How long can I volunteer in Tanzania?

Volunteers can join programs ranging from 1 month to 12 months long. Many volunteering programs in Tanzania are flexible, allowing volunteers to choose a duration that suits their availability and goals.

Do I need experience to volunteer in Tanzania?

No prior experience is required for many volunteer opportunities in Tanzania. However, professional programs such as medical assistance may require relevant qualifications or background.

What are the benefits of volunteering in Tanzania?

Volunteering in Tanzania supports local communities while offering volunteers valuable life experiences, cultural exchange, personal growth, and skills such as teamwork, communication, and leadership.

Who can apply for volunteering programs in Tanzania?

Most volunteering programs in Tanzania are open to international volunteers aged 18 and above. Applicants should be open-minded, respectful of local culture, and motivated to make a positive contribution.

Why choose a local organisation for volunteer work in Tanzania?

Choosing a local organisation for volunteer work in Tanzania ensures that your efforts directly support community-led projects. Local organisations better understand real needs and promote sustainable, ethical volunteering.

How do volunteering programs in Tanzania support local communities?

Volunteering programs in Tanzania support communities by strengthening education, healthcare, environmental protection, and economic empowerment while promoting long-term development rather than short-term aid.

What is a volunteering hostel in Tanzania?

A volunteering hostel in Tanzania is an accommodation designed specifically for international and local volunteers. It offers affordable lodging, shared spaces, meals, and a supportive community environment while volunteers take part in nearby community projects.

What type of volunteer accommodation is available in Tanzania?

Volunteer accommodation in Tanzania usually includes shared or private rooms, common areas, meals, and laundry facilities. You can purchase a basic mobile phone with a local SIM with a data plan. Wi-Fi in these areas can be unreliable. Most volunteer hostels are located close to project sites for convenience.

Why stay at a hostel for volunteers in Tanzania?

Staying at a volunteer hostel in Tanzania allows you to live with people from all over the world, share experiences, and receive local support. It also makes volunteering more affordable and socially rewarding.

Is volunteer accommodation in Tanzania safe?

Yes, volunteer accommodation in Tanzania is generally safe, especially when provided by established local organisations. Volunteer hostels offer secure environments, local guidance, and staff support throughout your stay.

How much does volunteer accommodation in Tanzania cost?

The cost of volunteer accommodation in Tanzania is usually affordable and covers lodging and meals. Ethical organisations do not charge extra accommodation fees beyond basic living costs.

Can I stay at a volunteer hostel in Tanzania without joining a volunteer program?

Some Tanzania volunteer hostels allow short-term stays even if you are not actively volunteering, while others prioritise volunteers. Availability depends on the hostel and season.

What facilities are offered at a volunteering hostel in Tanzania?

A volunteering hostel in Tanzania typically offers clean rooms, shared kitchens or meals, common areas, hot showers, and social spaces for volunteers to relax and interact.

How does volunteer accommodation in Tanzania support community projects?

Volunteer accommodation in Tanzania supports community projects by keeping costs low and ensuring volunteer contributions go directly to local initiatives rather than international intermediaries.

Is staying at a volunteer hostel in Tanzania better than a hotel?

For volunteers, staying at a volunteer hostel in Tanzania is often better than a hotel because it offers community support, cultural exchange, and a purpose-driven environment at a lower cost.

Can couples or groups stay at a volunteering hostel in Tanzania?

Yes, many volunteering hostels in Tanzania offer private or shared rooms suitable for couples and groups, depending on availability.

Where are most volunteer hostels located in Tanzania?

Most volunteer hostels in Tanzania are located in towns like Moshi and Arusha, close to community projects, schools, hospitals, and environmental programs.

How do I book volunteer accommodation in Tanzania?

Volunteer accommodation in Tanzania can usually be booked directly through the volunteering organisation or hostel managing the placements. Early booking is recommended, especially during peak volunteer seasons.

Why choose Hostel Hoff as a Tanzania volunteer hostel?

Hostel Hoff is a trusted Tanzania volunteers hostel based in Moshi, offering affordable volunteer accommodation, a welcoming community atmosphere, and direct access to ethical volunteer placements without program fees.

Things to know before you volunteer in Tanzania

Posted By Abhinav

15/01/2026

1:14 pm

Volunteering abroad is an opportunity that allows you to identify the areas in your life that can be crazy good and need to be explored. Among so many destinations in the world, Tanzania is a perfect place to volunteer. Choosing Tanzania as a place to volunteer is a great decision, and now you need to know a few things about Tanzania before you start packing your bag.

This blog offers insights into the majority of the things you need to discover for your trip to Tanzania. So, now let’s start to explore all the things one by one.

Planning Your Volunteer Experience in Tanzania

Instead of directly jumping into the trip, start planning the essential elements of your journey. Firstly, identify the core reason to decide on volunteering, in what sector you want to proceed, like healthcare, education, community development, sustainable conservation practices, etc.

Next, start searching for organisations working in that sector. Look for an organisation that does ethical volunteering, keeping in mind not to disrespect anyone.

When you finally select one of the organisations, the next step is to plan the logistics part, like flights, trains, buses, stay, and other finance-related things. You may not be precisely correct in determining the entire finances required, but you can still plan a budget for the volunteering.

Understand the Types of Volunteer Programs in Tanzania

There are various types of volunteer organisations in Tanzania. Hostel Hoff is an organisation that offers a lot of volunteering opportunities in multiple sectors. Here are a few sectors where you can find a lot of volunteering opportunities:

Teaching

The primary schools of Tanzania have crowded classrooms that are very difficult to handle for the teacher. So, they need support in handling the class so the teacher can concentrate on every student.

In the secondary schools, the kids have to learn everything in English, which was not the case in the primary schools. Volunteers can help the students learn English and perform well in their studies.

Healthcare

The healthcare facilities need assistance. For this reason, volunteers with a medical background are necessary. These volunteers can assist the doctors and perform basic tasks like checking temperature, counselling the patients, spreading healthcare awareness, and managing the healthcare campaigns.

Community Development

The community development programs are a very good opportunity for volunteering, as you will have to conduct campaigns to spread awareness for women’s empowerment, education, healthcare facilities, sustainable conservation techniques, etc.

To discover other volunteer opportunities in Tanzania, you can check out the volunteering opportunities at Hostel Hoff.

Volunteer Visa and Entry Requirements for Tanzania

For volunteer work in Tanzania for a time period of 1-3 months, you will require an ordinary visa costing USD $50 for other nationalities and USD $100 for American passport holders. You can avail this at the airport or at the border crossing in Tanzania. You can also purchase this online through this website. This process might take 2-3 weeks.

You can have the following types of visa based on your situation:

Ordinary visa A6 for the volunteers.
Student visa C2 for students.
Student visa C1 for interns.
These visas are non-renewable.
To finalise your volunteering in Africa, you need to have the following things with you upon arrival in Tanzania:

Hostel Hoff provides an invitation to you after you confirm your volunteering with us.

The USD $50 payment will only be valid for 1-3 months.

You will also receive a copy of our registration certificate after you confirm your volunteering with us.

The government of Tanzania finalises the visa payment, which is compulsory. If you want a visa for more than 3 months, then email Hostel Hoff and enquire about the requirements for the visa.

Health, Vaccinations, and Medical Preparation

You are planning to help others in Tanzania, but for that, you must be safe yourself first. Tanzania is very prone to malaria and diseases related to mosquitoes. Consult with a travel clinic and take specific medications for the yellow fever, hepatitis A/B, etc.

Opt for travel insurance so that you can evacuate the place immediately if it does not suit you well. Pack a basic first aid kit containing all the required medications and make sure you are prepared for all kinds of medical emergencies.

Cost of Volunteering in Tanzania

Tanzania is not a highly priced place. You can also manage on a low budget. Volunteering hostels like Hostel Hoff take care that when a volunteer visits Tanzania, they should not spend more on the basic amenities like food and the stay. So, they provide a stay at a minimal price range. Well, the budget actually depends on the duration of your stay.

A minimum of 1 month stay is required, but in the quiet times, shorter stays can also be considered. The pricing structure of the rooms in Hostel Hoff is as follows:
For shorter stays(less than 3 months), the charges will vary every month. The first month’s charges will be a bit more.
For more extended stays(more than 3 months), you will be charged a flat rate for the entire stay.
Sharing rooms, double bedrooms, and twin private bedrooms are available, and you will be charged an additional fee for that. But that solely depends on the availability of the rooms.
The amount covers a bed, breakfast, dinner, and daily laundry.
If you feel uncomfortable with our food style, you can request a vegetarian menu or any special menu.

The amount you pay also includes a bed levy fee. Anyone seeking a volunteering opportunity in Tanzania can contact Hostel Hoff for the stay and food facilities.

Accommodation and Living Conditions for Volunteers

You will experience a fantastic stay in Tanzania for volunteering purposes. Organisations like Hostel Hoff provide good and safe facilities, charging a minimal amount. Along with food and stay, these organisations also help the volunteers to understand the place, people, their religion, culture, and help them wherever they get stuck or face difficulty.

We provide shared rooms where you can share your rooms with other volunteers from different countries, and make new friends. It is a different experience, as you can learn a lot about different countries that you have never visited before. You can also opt for the double or twin bedrooms, which have a higher price than the shared ones. Special food requests can be made, if you want.

Cultural Awareness and Local Etiquette

People in Tanzania are friendly and welcoming. They are very open to meeting and greeting new people, learn from them. There are no rules to follow when you are in Tanzania, but a few things need to be considered before you visit Tanzania for the first time:

When you go out to meet the local people, ask the coordinator how to greet people there, because generally, the people there do not do handshakes. The local people are very fond of touching, so keep that in mind.
Tanzania is a foreign place, so the traditions and culture will be different. Respect the people and their culture, do not raise questions that may hurt the emotions of the locals. Ask them to explain their traditions and cultures politely.
Try learning a few words in their local language, Swahili, to form better bonds with the locals.
Never waste the food served to you, as people don’t like wastage.

Language Considerations: Swahili and English

Swahili, the heart of Tanzania, is the language spoken there. The native language of every place is a part of its entire culture. To get to the soul of the country, Swahili is a good choice as you can establish better connectivity with the local people, and even they will feel comfortable speaking to you. You can discover more about the language from the blog, The benefits of learning Swahili while volunteering in Tanzania.

The majority of the population speaks Swahili, but English also comes into play in government offices, diplomacy, business, and higher education sectors. The primary schools teach in Swahili, but in the secondary schools, everything is done in English. So, the kids need to learn English from a young age so that they do not face a lot of difficulties when they go to secondary school.

Safety and Security Tips for Volunteers in Tanzania

Moshi City in Tanzania is a safe city for most people and even solo travellers.
With a welcoming nature and a medium-sized town, Moshi has volunteering organisations like the Hostel Hoff. Although Tanzania is a safe place to visit, there are a few things that need to be taken care of and mentioned here:
You need to take care of your things and protect them from getting lost.
Avoid being out in the dark alone on darker roads.
The Tanzanian people treat the volunteers like celebrities and call the volunteers “Mzungu”(white people) and hope that the volunteers will wave them back.

Packing Essentials for Volunteering in Tanzania

Here is a list of the essentials you have to pack for volunteering in Tanzania:

Tanzania has a tropical climate and hence pack clothes that are comfortable and cotton.
Make sure you carry mosquito repellents with you so that you can be safe from mosquitoes and the diseases caused by mosquitoes.
Carry essentials like sunglasses, sunscreen, etc, to protect yourself from the heat.
Carry the VISA and passport with you and keep them in a safe place.
Carry basic medicines with you so that you can treat yourself for minor problems like headaches and gastric problems.

Tanzania is a very friendly place, and you are going to make a lot of good memories when you volunteer there. You will explore a lot, make a meaningful contribution, learn a lot and make bonds for life with other volunteers. The rich culture and the nature, everything is unique and attracts volunteers across the world.