Zanzibar - Childcare Volunteer

Stone Town is the capital of Zanzibar and about 20 minutes by car away from the volunteer house. It has a labyrinth of chaotic alleyways interposed between towering limestone houses with ornately carved arched hardwood doors with brass finishings and terracotta roofs. Stone Town is a melting pot of cultures and one of the last remaining ancient towns in Africa. It offers a rare cultural and historical insight into a former era of trade and exploration. As a primary trading post on the spice, silk, and slave trade routes for over a millennium, Stone Town has been a unique meeting place, blending African, Indian, Arabian, and European cultures. It is one of the few remaining ancient towns in Africa. Not only is this city visually beautiful, with old colonial buildings and exquisitely carved Zanzibari doorways, but your senses will be overwhelmed with the scent of the sea and spice and the calls to prayer echoing from the minarets. For history buffs and culture addicts, Stone Town offers plenty of activities for 2-4 days of exploration. Swahili is a local language used by people and is spoken extensively in Zanzibar. English is also spoken by many people.

- Improve the English skills of the local children
- Provide extra hands to assist the kindergarten and primary school's staff
- To give you an invaluable experience in Childcare on Zanzibar

On the Monday of your first week at this location, you will join our orientation day, to familiarize you with the surroundings as well as local culture. Your program will continue as usual from Tuesday onward throughout the rest of the week.

Schedule
09:00 - 12:30: Orientation & Introduction. Do's and Don'ts of the Country and Paperwork and Culture Lesson
10:00 - 12:30 (Old Participants Only): Core Program Activities
13:00: Lunch
13:30 - 18:30: Swahili Basic Lesson and Stone Town Tour

Monday to Friday
You will work for 4-5 hours per day, with a break in between, assisting with program placement. You will have time in the afternoon to prepare for the next day's activities and lessons before dinner. The day could look like this:

- Breakfast at the accommodation
- Engage children in creative learning activities and assist local teaching staff
- Morning break at the program
- Engage children in creative learning activities and assist local teaching staff
- Help local staff serve lunch to the children
- Lunch at the accommodation
- Prepare a lesson plan for the next day
- Free time
- Dinner at the accommodations

Activities & Events
Afternoon/Evening Activities
Wednesday - Beach Adventure Day: A trip to one of Zanzibar’s stunning beaches:
North Beach - Experience pristine white sands and turquoise waters.
East Coast (Paje) - A vibrant coastal town known for its lively atmosphere.
Fumba Beach - A serene and picturesque beach escape.

Thursday - Cultural Experience & Core Activities
Each Thursday, one core activity will be announced by the local team. Options include:
Afro-Dance Class - Feel the rhythm and energy of African dance.
Dufu Drum Dancing - Learn the art of traditional drumming and singing
BBQ Night - A delightful evening of delicious grilled food, music, and a good goodbye session for departures.

***This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances.***

An evening teaching session will take place on Monday and Tuesday at a local Community Center. This program runs from 19:00 to 21:00, where you will be teaching students of different ages (from 4 - 20 years old). You will be divided into groups where you will teach lessons prepared by you along with the local team. You are welcom to join this program.

This program can also include a Culture Week which is highly recommended but not mandatory - just inform your travel advisor if you wish to include it. Get to know Zanzibar! Explore the rich culture, the complex history, and meet amazing people who call this fantastic place home.

Immerse yourself in the rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes of Zanzibar through this action-packed adventure. Walk through the winding alleys of Stone Town, discovering its unique architecture and bustling markets. Delve into the secrets of Zanzibar's spice trade, taste exotic flavors, and enjoy a hands-on cooking experience with local chefs. Venture to Prison Island to meet the giant Aldabra tortoises and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. Spend a day in Makunduchi Village, cycling through scenic paths, learning local crafts, and engaging in age-old traditions. Wrap up your experience with a full-day beach retreat, soaking up the sun and enjoying the turquoise waters of Zanzibar's pristine coastline.

This program offers a truly immersive and unforgettable journey through the heart of Zanzibar.

Aims & Objectives
Help you learn helpful phrases in the local language
Broaden your knowledge of the local customs, history and culture
Enjoy local sights and activities
Provide a full induction, preparing you for a longer stay

Monday
Morning:
Orientation & Introduction - Settle in, meet fellow travelers, and get familiar with your surroundings.
Do's & Don'ts - Essential cultural insights and etiquette to help you blend in.
Paperwork & Culture Lesson - A deeper look into local traditions and daily life.

Afternoon:
Swahili Basics - Learn key phrases to connect with locals.
Stone Town Exploration - Wander through Zanzibar's historic heart, famous for its winding alleys, ornate doors, and lively markets.

Evening:
Sunset Views - Enjoy breathtaking golden hues over the Indian Ocean.
Forodhani Night Market - Dive into Zanzibar's famous street food scene and mingle with locals.

Tuesday
Morning:
Prison Island & Bawe Island Tour -
Meet the giant Aldabra tortoises on Prison Island.
Snorkel in crystal-clear waters around Bawe Island.
Enjoy a packed lunch with fresh fruits and snacks while taking in the ocean views.

Wednesday
Morning:
Spice Farm Visit - Discover the island's famous spices and their culinary & medicinal uses.

Afternoon:
Spice Tour & Cooking Class - Get hands-on experience preparing traditional dishes using fresh, local spices.

Thursday
Morning:
Local Transport to Makunduchi - A scenic 1.5-hour journey to an authentic Zanzibari village.

Afternoon:
Village Cycling Tour - Explore the rural beauty of Zanzibar on two wheels.
Khanga Demonstration - Learn the cultural significance of these vibrant fabrics.
Traditional Village Lunch - Enjoy a home-cooked meal featuring fresh fruit and a local main dish.

Hands-On Experiences:
Coconut Rope & Roof Making - See local craftsmanship in action.
Visit a Traditional Healer (Witch Doctor) - Gain insight into ancient healing traditions.

Friday
Full-Day Beach Escape - Relax on Zanzibar's famous white sands and swim in turquoise waters.
Packed Lunch - Enjoy a carefree beach day.

Please note that school holidays are determined by the Zanzibar Government and the Department of Education, and these dates are subject to change without prior notice. While we will make every effort to keep you informed of any adjustments, it is important to understand that holiday scheduling is beyond our control. During the holidays, participants are welcome to join our construction and renovation projects, which continue to make a meaningful impact on the community.

Public Holidays 2026
01 & 27 May, 07 July, 26 August, 14 October, 09 & 25 December

Public Holidays 2027
Please note 2027 dates are only a guideline and can change.
TBA
 
School Holidays 2026
23 June - 07 July (Switch to Summer Holiday Camp), 22-28 September (Switch to Construction and Renovation), 21 November - 12 December (Switch to Winter Holiday Camp), 12 December 2026 - 13 January 2027 (Switch to Construction and Renovation)

School Holidays 2027
Please note 2027 dates are only a guideline and can change.
08 February - 11 March (Ramadan and Eid), June holiday is approximately 4 weeks (Switch to Summer Holiday Camp), 21-27 September (Switch to Construction and Renovation), December holiday is approximately 4 weeks (Switch to Winter Holiday Camp)

Examinations Periods: 11-20 June 2026, 11-20 September 2026, 09-21 November 2026, 10-19 June 2027, 10-19 September 2027, 08-20 November 2027
Please note 2027 dates are only a guideline and can change.

Since schools are still functioning during the day for exams, our participants can continue to support the schools in the mornings, where possible, with tasks such as:
- ⁠Supervising the kids during exam sessions (helping them settle, avoid noise, and stay organized)
- ⁠Preparing and assisting with breakfast at the school
- ⁠Setting up exam desks and general school support

Then, in the late evening, kids will attend the INUKA teaching project, providing a more structured and interactive setting outside school hours. This setup allows volunteers to remain engaged and continue making an impact, while still respecting the school schedule and local customs during the exam period. The evening program is from 18.00-21.00, including 30 mins travel time each way to INUKA.

Ramadan
Ramadan is observed throughout Zanzibar. During this period, it is important to be mindful of certain customs and practices out of respect for the local community. The volunteer programs and activities are affected as they work with local community schools. The dates for Ramadan are not the same each year.

Holiday Camp
During school holidays in 08 February-11 March 2027, Teaching and Kindergarten volunteers will join the Ramadan Holiday Camp
Please note dates are only a guideline and can change.
The main focus areas of the holiday camp are: Mathematics, English, Science, Environmental Education, Healthcare & Hygiene. Each subject includes structured weekly lessons, with volunteers receiving a daily schedule and a weekly plan posted at the accommodation to support preparation and coordination.

June holiday is approximately 4 weeks. Dates TBA (Summer Holiday Camp), December holiday is approximately 4 weeks. Dates TBA (Winter Holiday Camp)
The main focus areas of the holiday camp are: Mathematics, English, Science, Environmental Education, Healthcare & Hygiene. Each subject includes structured weekly lessons, with volunteers receiving a daily schedule and a weekly plan posted at the accommodation to support preparation and coordination.

In addition to academic content, the program includes:
- Practical Environmental Activities (e.g. school and community cleaning, health education)
- Hygiene Workshop (teaching kids personal hygiene practices such as hand washing, brushing teeth, etc.)
- Sports Days (games, matches, fun trips)
- Group Beach Cleaning Tour

We kindly request volunteers to bring hygiene materials (toothbrushes, toothpaste), posters, and coloring materials to support the Hygiene Workshop and enhance learning at the school.

Program Time: From 08:00-12:00 every day, depending on activities. Most teaching takes place in the morning; cultural and community events are held in the evening.
Location: One of the local schools or a nearby community center in Zanzibar.
Number of Children: Approximately 50
Age Range: 5 to 14 years old

Minimum age of 18
Basic level of competency in English
Police Clearance Certificate on sign-up
Passport copy required on arrival
Travel & medical insurance (Older participants are required to have a medical clearance)
Before traveling to Tanzania, it's recommended to get vaccines for yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, typhoid, DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis), MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), meningitis, and rabies, as well as take malaria prevention if needed.
Visitor visa
You must have completed the mandatory Traveller's Health Surveillance Form online without 24-hours of arrival.

Apply Online Before Arrival in Tanzania
The visitor visa costs 50 USD and can be applied for online via https://visa.immigration.go.tz/

Volunteers need to be flexible and keep an open mind concerning their placements as situations can arise beyond our control which could require you to be placed at a different project than the one you have initially chosen. We will of course always do our utmost to fulfill your initial wishes but do remember that where you are going is quite different from where you are coming and as such one should be prepared for things not always going according to plan.

Volunteering and intercultural travel share a common trait: the more you put into it, the more you get out of it. This program is designed for proactive individuals and groups that are prepared to adapt to the local environment and its current needs. Naturally, the scheduling and activities of our program are subject to change. Alterations in activities are mainly due to changes in local conditions, which we believe is part of what makes overseas programs the interesting adventure and incredible learning experience that they are.

Our projects range from 1 week up to approx. 30 weeks. Projects have a specified minimum stay, then it's up to you how long you can commit. In our experience the longer you stay the more you will gain, as your understanding of the project broadens and you take on more responsibilities. Every volunteer will be given a certificate of appreciation at the end of their stay as a symbol of volunteering stay.