Trip Details

Healthcare Education Volunteer in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

If you have a medical background and want to give back to a local community whilst learning about a different healthcare system then this project with TRU Experience Travel, in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania is the project for you. Tanzania’s first and foremost concern is to eradicate public health problems through various healthcare campaigns but they are facing massive staff shortages so are in desperate need of help from volunteers like you!

Provide much needed medical knowledge whilst gaining invaluable experience

Currently in Tanzania there is a such a shortage in medical professionals that they need assistance from both people who have medical qualifications and those who can educate people in the areas of basic first-aid and personal hygiene. This is a great opportunity to give back to a community in need whilst gaining invaluable medical experience that you can use for your future career. You will help tend to the healthcare needs of the village community, help improve health education in these communities and gain an insight into the community healthcare system of Tanzania. An experience you won’t forget!

Enjoy your Freedom to Explore the stunning Country of Tanzania

Whether you’re an animal lover, a culture fiend or an intrepid explorer, Tanzania has it all – in bucket-loads!  Go on a safari, get your hiking boots on for some incredible mountains (perhaps not Kilimanjaro, but the area is definitely worth visiting!) or simply sit in the blissful surroundings of one of Tanzania’s vast Nature Reserves. Further, for the shoppers amongst you, there are markets, towns and cities – all with their own unique character, history and culture. And finally, don’t forget Zanzibar’s famous pristine beaches and buzzing nightlife for your exciting weekend outings!

Why be a healthcare education in Dar es Salaam?

  • Help with healthcare education in Tanzania
  • Gain invaluable healthcare experience working with the local community
  • Take time out to discover the beauty scenery in Tanzania
  • Discover Tanzania cuisine with all meals included at your accommodation

Get in touch to find out more or browse through our many other volunteer experiences.

Trip Itinerary

As a Healthcare Education volunteer, you’ll play an important role in raising awareness about first aid, hygiene, and personal care among school children in Madale, Dar es Salaam. You’ll help deliver both theoretical lessons and practical demonstrations while also taking part in community-wide campaigns.

Mandatory Orientation Day

On the Monday of your first week at this location, you will join our orientation day to familiarize yourself with the surroundings as well as the local culture.

Schedule

Week 1

Monday

  • Breakfast at the accommodation

  • Morning: Orientation and introduction with the local program coordinator

  • Lunch at the center

  • Afternoon: Lesson planning and preparations for the week-long healthcare educational campaign

  • Dinner at the accommodation

Tuesday to Thursday

  • Breakfast at the accommodation

  • Morning: Conduct healthcare campaigns in local schools. Teach first aid, hygiene, and personal care (theoretical classes)

  • Lunch at the center

  • Afternoon: Continue healthcare campaigns with practical classes and demonstrations in local schools

  • Dinner at the accommodation

Friday

  • Breakfast at the accommodation

  • Morning: Healthcare education campaigns in local schools (practical class focus)

  • Lunch at the center

  • Afternoon: Join a mass program and lead a community-wide demonstration day

  • Dinner at the accommodation

Week 2

Monday & Tuesday

  • Breakfast at the accommodation

  • Morning: Healthcare campaigns in local schools (theoretical classes)

  • Lunch at the center

  • Afternoon: Healthcare campaigns in local schools (practical classes)

  • Dinner at the accommodation

Wednesday

  • Breakfast at the accommodation

  • Morning: Healthcare campaigns in local schools (theoretical class)

  • Lunch at the center

  • Afternoon: Join a mass program and lead a community demonstration day

  • Dinner at the accommodation

Thursday

  • Breakfast at the accommodation

  • Morning: Healthcare campaigns in local schools (theoretical classes)

  • Lunch at the center

  • Afternoon: Healthcare campaigns in local schools (practical classes)

  • Dinner at the accommodation

Friday

  • Breakfast at the accommodation

  • Morning: Healthcare campaigns in local schools (theoretical class)

  • Lunch at the center

  • Afternoon: Join a mass program and host a final demonstration day

  • Dinner at the accommodation

Activities & Events

  • Movie night! We will show a great movie on our big screen at the accommodation.
  • Game Night! The local team will organize exciting and fun games for you to get involved with.
  • Team Building activities! Come and enjoy some team building activities and learn more about yourself and your fellow camp buddies.
  • BBQ with a great movie! Enjoy the last evening of the week with a delicious BBQ while watching one of your favorite movies on the big screen at the accommodation.
  • Bonfire night! Gather round and sing campfire music. Enjoy stargazing and many more!
  • Music night with staff and participants. Jam in a simple get together through singing a song with them, eating with them and many more

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

Evenings and Weekends

Evenings are free for you to relax, reflect, and connect with others. Weekends offer the perfect chance to explore Dar es Salaam’s cultural sites, vibrant markets, and coastal escapes. Our local team can help organize tours and activities.

Places to Visit

Dar es Salaam is alive with culture, history, and adventure. Weekend highlights include:

  • National Museum – Explore Tanzania’s history and cultural heritage through artifacts and exhibits
  • Coco Beach – Swim, relax, or picnic along this lively city beach
  • Kariakoo Market – Immerse yourself in one of the city’s busiest and most colorful markets
  • Village Museum – Learn about Tanzania’s diverse cultures through traditional dwellings and performances
  • Bongoyo Island – Snorkel, sunbathe, and enjoy a beachside barbecue on this tropical island escape
  • Darajani Fish Market – Experience the bustling seafood trade and try local street food
  • Azania Front Lutheran Church – Admire its architecture and stained-glass beauty
  • Mwenge Woodcarvers Market – Browse handcrafted wooden art and souvenirs
  • Sunset cruise – Relax along the coast while taking in breathtaking views
  • Sample local cuisine – Taste Tanzanian favorites like pilau rice, ugali, mishkaki, and samosas

Please Note:

  • This schedule may be adjusted depending on weather, local conditions, and unforeseen circumstances

Trip Accommodation

Dar es Salaam, whose name means “Haven of Peace,” is Tanzania’s largest city and a vibrant hub on the eastern coast of Africa. From lively markets to white-sand beaches and Swahili culture to colonial architecture, the city is full of contrasts and discoveries. During your stay, you’ll live in the quieter Madale area, just a short distance from the bustling city center, offering both a comfortable base and plenty of opportunities to explore local life.

About the Accommodation

You’ll stay in a shared volunteer house in Madale, about 5–10 minutes from central Dar es Salaam. Rooms are dormitory-style, shared with 2–8 other participants, and separated by gender for privacy and comfort. The house is fully equipped with everything you need for a homely stay, with lockable rooms and fans to keep you cool.

Bed linen is provided, but please bring your own towel. Rooms do not include air conditioning, hot showers, or mosquito protection, so packing light but smart is recommended. Laundry services are available for an additional fee. While WiFi is not available at the house, local SIM cards with data can easily be purchased nearby.

Available Room Types:

  • Standard Room — shared with 2–8 participants

  • Lockable rooms with shared bathrooms

  • Fans in all rooms (air conditioning not available)

  • Bed linen provided (towels not included)

  • No hot showers, but standard bathroom facilities provided

  • No WiFi at the accommodation (local SIM cards recommended)

  • Laundry available at extra cost

Food Arrangements

You’ll receive three meals a day during weekdays, and brunch and dinner on weekends. Meals are freshly prepared and mostly consist of traditional Tanzanian dishes, with regional flavors and ingredients. During outdoor activities, meals may be served at local restaurants in the city.

Special dietary needs can be accommodated with prior notice. Clean drinking water is always provided.

Facilities

The neighborhood has small local shops selling snacks, drinks, and daily essentials. ATMs, banks, pharmacies, and larger stores are also nearby, making it easy to get anything you might need during your stay.

Trip Country Info

Tanzania

Volunteering in Tanzania with TRU combines meaningful volunteer work with unforgettable adventure travel in one of East Africa’s most iconic destinations. Designed for gap year volunteers, solo travellers, students, and anyone looking for ethical volunteering abroad, TRU’s Tanzania volunteer programmes focus on sustainable community projects, cultural immersion, and responsible tourism.

Volunteers have the opportunity to support local education programmes, youth development initiatives, community outreach projects, and conservation volunteering experiences while working alongside local communities. Every volunteer project is designed to create a positive impact while giving volunteers hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of Tanzanian culture and daily life. TRU promotes ethical volunteering and sustainable travel, ensuring projects are community-led and focused on long-term support.

Beyond volunteering, Tanzania offers world-famous safari experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant local culture. Volunteers can explore national parks, discover tropical beaches, experience traditional food and markets, and visit destinations like Zanzibar City. From wildlife conservation and community volunteering to adventure travel and cultural experiences, TRU creates the perfect balance of purpose, exploration, and authentic travel in Tanzania.

Participant Criteria & Requirements

Standard Requirements

DBS, Police background check
Travel insurance
Visa, if applicable

Additional Requirements

No requirements have been provided.

What's included

  • 24/7 support in case of emergencies
  • Accommodation
  • Airport Pick up
  • English speaking coordinator
  • Meals
  • Orientation

What's not included

  • Airport drop off
  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Vaccination
  • Visa