Do you want to volunteer in Africa this year? Africa is a place like no other - filled with vibrant cultures, remarkable landscapes and unique beauty. No matter where you go in Africa, you’ll find rewarding opportunities and experiences that you can’t find anywhere else in the world. Add to that the chance to volunteer and give something back to those communities, and IVHQ can help you to make your African trip something truly special.
IVHQ has 11 volunteer opportunities in Africa to suit all types of travellers and budgets. Regardless of where you choose to volunteer, you’ll find meaningful volunteer opportunities where your contribution is genuinely appreciated by the communities in which you’ll be working. Couple this with incredible weekend travel options and the chance to meet like-minded travellers from all over the world, and you’ve got a volunteer destination that’s perfect for solo travellers, couples, senior travellers, families and groups.
This is your best guide to IVHQ’s volunteer programs in Africa and everything they have to offer you…
VOLUNTEER IN SOUTH AFRICA
There are no shortage of reasons why South Africa is one of IVHQ’s most popular African volunteer programs. You’re given the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local community and provide valuable assistance to schools around the Cape Town suburb of Muizenberg on Teaching, Sports Development or Computer Training projects. Alternatively, you might prefer to lend a hand in under-resourced childcare centers or join the unique Surf Outreach project. Add to this the fact that South Africa is one of the most diverse countries in the world, and you’ve got plenty of reasons why travelling and volunteering in South Africa is an easy choice.
As a volunteer in South Africa, you’ll be living and working in an area renowned for its cafe culture and vibrant nightlife and as an added bonus, you’ll have the beach and Table Mountain at your doorstep. Let’s not forget that a trip to Africa wouldn’t be complete without a safari, right?
Program Highlights:
- The program is based in central Cape Town with projects in the Muizenberg area, approximately 30 minutes from the city centre
- Flexible program durations from 1 week to 24 weeks
- The program is available year-round and starts on the first and third Monday of every month
- Affordable program fees from US$250 for one week
- Program fees include airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country volunteer support
- Weekends are free to explore Cape Town, climb Table Mountain or take a safari. You can also read more about South Africa travel and tours here.
The one month I spent volunteering in South Africa wasn’t nearly enough time! The Surf Outreach program was fun and relaxed, which meant that you really got to know the kids, because they were always just so happy to be there! You meet so many like-minded people from all of these far off places and you do pretty much everything with them so you all end up like one big family! I definitely recommend going to South Africa, it’s a beautiful country with beautiful people and when you volunteer you really get to live like a local. Brianna Hollis, IVHQ volunteer in South Africa
VOLUNTEER IN SOUTH AFRICA - TABLE VIEW
Based half an hour from central Cape Town is another volunteer program in the neighborhood of Table View. The South Africa - Table View program offers four volunteer projects in Kindergarten, Special Needs Care, Sports Development, Holiday Club and Surf, Skate, Swim. These are all fun projects that involve providing care and enhancing opportunities for people living within the local community of Table View.
Table View is a larger community than Muizenberg, with more amenities and shops, and volunteer work is often based around the nearby beach. Not only that, but as the name suggests, Table View boasts stunning views across the bay to the iconic Table Mountain. However, it enjoys the same access to wider Cape Town and the rest of Africa’s gems.
Program Highlights:
- The program is based in Cape Town with projects in the Table View area, approximately 30 minutes from the city center
- Flexible program durations from 1 week to 24 weeks
- The program is available year-round and starts every Monday
- Affordable program fees from US$285 for one week
- Program fees include airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country volunteer support
- Weekends are free to explore Cape Town, climb Table Mountain or take a safari. Nearby Robben Island is a popular attraction, as home to the former jail that Nelson Mandela was once imprisoned in. You can also read more about South Africa travel and tours here.
VOLUNTEER IN TANZANIA
What’s not to love about Tanzania? You’ve got the Serengeti National Park and Zanzibar right on your doorstep, and an all-around exotic backdrop which makes it a popular choice for volunteers in Africa. Most importantly, you can be confident that your contribution to IVHQ’s Tanzania volunteer program is genuinely appreciated by the local communities in which you’ll be working.
Contribute your high energy levels to working with young children on the Childcare and Teaching projects. On these projects, you’ll be volunteering in public schools, teaching a range of subjects to local students while sharing your own culture and stories. Those with a background in medicine can join IVHQ’s Medical volunteer project, working in a variety of clinics and hospital settings, or supporting the personal and professional development of local women living with HIV/AIDS. You could also take part in the Animal Welfare project helping local vets treat domestic animals around different farms and homes.
During your weekends, join fellow IVHQers on a safari through the Serengeti National Park or lay back on the beaches of Zanzibar. Wait until you arrive in Tanzania to make your weekend plans, as the IVHQ local team can help you organise your weekend excursions. If you’re considering conquering Mt Kilimanjaro, you can easily add an excursion to the beginning or end of your volunteer program.
Program Highlights:
- The program is based in Arusha and has volunteer placements in surrounding rural and urban communities and villages
- Flexible program durations from 1 week to 16 weeks
- The program is available year-round and starts on the 1st and 15th of every month
- Affordable program fees from US$270 for one week
- Program fees include airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country volunteer support
- Weekends are free to explore Arusha, take a safari through the Serengeti, visit the white sand paradise of Zanzibar or conquer Mt Kilimanjaro. You can also read more about Tanzania travel and tours here.
Accommodation was OUTSTANDING! Meals were fantastic! And we were all spoiled rotten. Amazing placement. Amazing time. Amazing experience. Mary Hewlett, IVHQ Volunteer in Tanzania
VOLUNTEER IN MADAGASCAR
If you love the idea of living and volunteering in a destination where the ocean is always by your side, Madagascar has your name on it! Crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches and welcoming local communities are what make this destination so special.
The volunteer opportunities on the IVHQ Madagascar program makes it a desirable volunteer country, with the option of diving into Marine Conservation, Turtle Conservation, Forest Conservation, Teaching, Community Development or Island Outreach projects. The island hut-style accommodation adds an authentic feel to your experience and you’ll make new friends and connections for life from the minute you arrive.
During your down time, either take in the island adventure activities or embrace the slower “mola mola” Malagasy way of life. Join local village guides for an in-depth tour of your surroundings or hire scooters and quad bikes to travel further afield and explore the lakes, beaches and waterfalls nearby.
Program Highlights:
- The program is based on the slopes of Nosy Komba, an island off the northwest coast of Madagascar, just a few kilometers from the larger island of Nosy Be
- Flexible program durations from 2 weeks to 12 weeks
- The program is available year-round and starts on the first and third Monday of every month
- Affordable program fees from US$580 for two weeks
- Program fees include airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country volunteer support
- Weekends are free to explore Nosy Be, go scuba diving or just relax at the volunteer base on Turtle Cove. You can also read more about Madagascar travel and tours here.
My volunteer experience in Madagascar was absolutely incredible. I spent my trip working in the Marine Conservation Program and it was such an experience. The staff are so helpful and work so hard to make sure every volunteer has the best experience in Madagascar. One of my favourite things was falling asleep listening to the ocean. So peaceful and calming. I learned so much on this trip that will stay with me forever. Katherine Krouse, IVHQ volunteer in Madagascar
VOLUNTEER IN KENYA
IVHQ volunteers have been making a positive difference in Kenya since 2007, making it one of our most popular and long-serving programs. It’s easy to understand why, when you consider the welcoming local people, vibrant communities, natural beauty and wildlife on offer.
Volunteers on the IVHQ Kenya program can choose to support 11 different projects in Teaching, Childcare, Special Needs Care, Sports Education, Women’s Education, Music or Wildlife Conservation. Projects are spread around Kenya, with bases in Nairobi, Mombasa and Maasai.
When volunteering in Africa, make sure your budget allows you to take a safari. When you arrive in Kenya, the local team will be more than happy to help arrange a safari trip for you and you fellow IVHQers, so there’s no need to book one in advance. A safari through the Maasai Mara is a truly unbeatable experience and is a must-do for volunteer trips to Kenya.
Program Highlights:
- The program is based in Nairobi with projects located in and around Nairobi, Nakuru, Mombasa, Maasai and surrounding rural villages
- Flexible program durations from 1 week to 12 weeks
- The program is available year-round and starts on the 1st and 15th of every month
- Affordable program fees from US$280 for one week
- Program fees include airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country volunteer support
- Weekends are free to explore the local neighborhood, take a safari or visit the local markets. Regardless of where your project is based, you’ll find energetic people, amazing wildlife and authentic African scenery. You can also read more about Kenya travel and tours here.
It was the most amazing experience of my life. I not only fell in love with everyone I met, but also the country. I cannot wait to go back and continue working with the amazing people.Kirra Stewart, IVHQ Volunteer in Kenya
VOLUNTEER IN ZAMBIA
Zambia has become a favourite destination of IVHQ volunteers, as it provides a wide variety of meaningful community-based volunteer projects set in close proximity to awe-inspiring natural wonders and world class tourist activities. The IVHQ Zambia program is based in Livingstone, with the stunning Victoria Falls right in your backyard.
IVHQ volunteers can take part in Teaching, Childcare, Medical, Elderly Care and Construction and Renovation projects. Not only is this one of the best Africa volunteer programs for young solo travellers, Zambia doubles as a fantastic location for families and older volunteers with its relaxed and friendly environment.
You’ll be spoilt for choice in your spare time! Choose from safaris, zip lining, a cruise on the stunning Zambezi River, shopping at the local markets and, of course, a visit to the iconic Victoria Falls. The local team in Zambia is always available to help facilitate your weekend plans and provide tips and ideas of what to see and do!
Program Highlights:
- The program is based in the laid-back tourist town of Livingstone with placements located in Livingstone and surrounding rural areas
- Flexible program durations from 1 week to 16 weeks
- The program is available year-round and starts on the first and third Monday of every month
- Affordable program fees from US$270 for one week
- Program fees include airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country volunteer support
- Weekends are free to explore Livingstone, go zip-lining, take a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, or visit Victoria Falls You can also read more about Zambia travel and tours here.
Living and volunteering in the village has been one of the most rewarding experiences I have ever had. After just 4 short weeks, the place had truly become my home, and the people, my family. Sidney Kannel, IVHQ volunteer in Zambia
VOLUNTEER IN VICTORIA FALLS
If you’re interested in wildlife conservation and want to experience a volunteer project set on a private game reserve, stop your search and volunteer in Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe!
There’s only one project in Victoria Falls, but it’s a spectacular one! On the Wildlife Conservation project you’ll be assisting in the day-to-day management of a private game reserve, home to native wildlife and the ‘Big Five’ - lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and buffalo. Tasks include alien vegetation removal, fence patrols, general cleanups, animal tracking and more, all set near the stunning Victoria Falls.
You’ll be accommodated in comfortable dormitory-style accommodation, with the added opportunity to camp out under the stars for a once in a lifetime experience! Just remember to pack gloves as the work is hard, and binoculars as the wildlife and scenery is breathtaking!
In the weekends, visit Victoria Falls, go zip lining, bungy jumping, gorge swinging, canoeing - the list goes on. Your weekends are guaranteed to always be full, with activities galore and plenty of volunteers to enjoy them with.
Program Highlights:
- The program is based in a private game reserve in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
- Flexible program durations from 2 weeks to 12 weeks
- The program is available year-round and starts on the first and third Monday of every month
- Affordable program fees from US$1000 for two weeks
- Program fees include airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country volunteer support
- Weekends are free to explore Victoria Falls, go whitewater rafting, take a sunset cruise or visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Victoria Falls - one of the largest and most spectacular waterfalls in the world You can also read more about Victoria Falls travel and tours here.
I had the best six weeks of my life on this program. I made the most incredible friends from all over the world and had an amazing time. The program gave me more than I could have imagined in my wildest dreams. I learned so much about wildlife, conservation and ecology. The facilities are outstanding and the food is first class. I can’t praise the staff highly enough. They made me feel entirely at home. The work is very enjoyable…just get completely stuck in! Between the program and the weekend activities, I wiped out my bucket list! Brendan Comerfield, IVHQ Volunteer in Victoria Falls
VOLUNTEER IN MOROCCO
Morocco is fast becoming a must-see country for travelers in Africa, as its Arabic and French influences make for a unique tourist experience. As a volunteer in Morocco, you’ll be based in the city of Rabat and the surrounding areas of Casablanca and Sale, with project options including Teaching English or Teaching French, Women’s Education, Sports Development, Childcare and a special project which is available during the holy month of Ramadan.
For your weekends, enjoy the local beaches and bazaars, and visit the Medina for an authentic market experience. Each city is distinctly explorable, meaning you’ll always have something to see and do with your fellow volunteers.
Program Highlights:
- The program is based in Rabat, the capital city of Morocco, with projects located in Rabat, Sale and Casablanca
- Flexible program durations from 1 week to 24 weeks
- The program is available year-round and starts on the first and third Monday of every month
- Affordable program fees from US$245 for one week
- Program fees include airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country volunteer support. It also entitles you to discounted language lessons.
- Weekends are free to explore Rabat, take a trip to Marrakech, explore the Sahara Desert, the Atlas Mountains or even venture further afield to the south of Europe. You can also read more about Morocco travel and tours here.
Volunteering in Morocco has definitely been a good experience and has taught me a lot. The accommodation was excellent. My favourite part of volunteering was working with an advanced English class where we could have in-depth discussions on social issues and really compare our different cultures. Rachel Griffin, IVHQ Volunteer in Morocco
VOLUNTEER IN MOROCCO - MARRAKECH
For volunteers wanting to get off the beaten track, the IVHQ Morocco - Marrakech program offers some unique volunteer experiences. The stunning city of Marrakech is highly rated for its culture and setting, and volunteers here can join six meaningful projects both in the city and in the nearby mountain ranges. Projects include Teaching English, Teaching French, Childcare, Women’s Education and Special Needs Care. Volunteers can also join the Amazigh Immersion project, which offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience in rural villages in the Atlas Mountains.
In your spare time, strap on some boots and go trekking in the Atlas Mountains, stretching from the Atlantic Coast to Tunisia, travel via 4x4 vehicles through the Sahara Desert or simply spend a weekend sampling the amazing local cuisine and food souks (over and over again). Top tip: head over to Djemaa el-Fna and surrounding streets for the best street cuisine!
Project Highlights:
- The program is based in Marrakech, with projects in the city and in the Atlas Mountains
- Flexible program durations from 1 week to 24 weeks
- The program is available year-round and starts on the second and fourth Monday of every month
- Affordable program fees from US$330 for one week
- Program fees include airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country volunteer support. It also entitles you to discounted language lessons
- Weekends are free to enjoy the authentic city of Marrakech, the Sahara Desert or Atlas Mountains. You can also read more about Morocco travel and tours here.
VOLUNTEER IN GHANA
Ghana is a much loved destination for volunteering in Africa and its popularity continues to grow. Volunteers on the IVHQ Ghana program are accommodated in houses with fellow volunteers in rural villages and townships within the Greater Accra region of Ghana.
Community-based volunteer projects include Teaching, Childcare and Sports Development for those who prefer classroom settings, or Construction & Renovation and Agriculture projects for those who prefer to get their hands dirty! Finally, for volunteers with the relevant qualifications, the Medical project offers the chance to assist in small rural health clinics, working closely alongside local staff to gain a first-hand insight into the medical system in Ghana.
A weekend must-do is a visit to the tropical rainforest of Kakum National Park, where you’ll encounter endangered forest elephants, monkeys, 300 species of bird and 600 species of butterfly. Be sure to make your way across the Canopy Walkway suspended 98 feet over the forest floor, or capture the magic of the cascading Wli Waterfalls - the highest waterfalls in West Africa.
Program Highlights:
- The program is based in Accra and has placements in rural villages and townships within the Greater Accra region
- Flexible program durations from 1 week to 24 weeks
- The program is available year-round and starts on the 1st and 15th of every month
- Affordable program fees from US$270 for one week
- Program fees include airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country volunteer support
- Weekends are free to explore Accra, take a trip to the fishing village of Kokrobite or explore the historical city and castles of Cape Coast. You can also read more about Ghana travel and tours here.
I had the absolute best time of my life in Ghana. From the moment I stepped off the plane I had staff waiting for me. Orientation was a lovely way to meet new friends and get familiar with the unknown. My project was the perfect match for me. I loved Dodowa and all the people that live there. I WILL be coming back to Ghana! Dillion Lucas, IVHQ volunteer in Ghana
Whether you have 1 week or 24 weeks to commit to volunteer abroad in Africa, IVHQ and our local teams will ensure that you are contributing to sustainable and impactful projects by building on the work of previous volunteers and paving the way for those to come.
If you’re still not sure which program for you, try taking our quiz to find out which African volunteer destination is for you, or for more information, see our full range of volunteer programs in Africa.
