★★★★★
"Combining my volunteering with the Zanzibar Island tour was a dream come true. VOT makes it so easy to experience the real Tanzania while contributing to a great cause."
James O'Connor — Ireland, Tourism & Hospitality
Tanzania Tours & Adventures for Volunteers
Combine volunteering with adventure — Mwanza day trips, national park safaris, and Zanzibar Island getaways, all organized around your placement with VOT.
Adventure, Organized For You
More than 15 parks and reserves to explore
We organize tours to all the major destinations in the country, including the famous Zanzibar Island. There are more than 15 different national parks and reservation areas in Tanzania — Tanzanian nature offers many memorable experiences, all arranged around your volunteer placement.
- Transport, guides, and entry fees arranged for you
- Trips planned around your volunteer placement
- Group and private options
- Local expert drivers and guides
01 — Day Trips
Day Trips from Mwanza
Explore Mwanza and its surroundings on a guided day trip — a great add-on for volunteers with a free day during their placement. Visit Bismarck Rock, the shores of Lake Victoria, Saanane Island — the country's only island national park — historic sites, and lively local markets.
Mwanza City Tour
Experience the vibrant city of Mwanza with arrangements made by VOT management.
Highlights Include:
- Capri Point Peninsula - Immerse yourself in the city's rich history influenced by German, British, and Indian cultures
- Bismark Rock - Iconic landmark perched atop boulders by the Kamanga ferry harbor
- Rock City Shopping Mall - Tanzania's largest mall with cinema, casino, restaurants, and supermarkets
- Boat Cruise Activities - Available on the shores of Lake Victoria (extra charge)
- International Dining - Visit popular Chinese and Indian restaurants
Additional Sites:
- CCM Kirumba and Nyamagana Stadium (football fans)
- The Hanging Tree in city center
- Mwaloni Fish Market (Eastern & Central Africa's largest)
- Mlango Mmoja & Makorobi (shopping)
- Germany Gunzet House & Indian old buildings
- Maasai Market
- Railway Station
- Bugando Hospital
Bujora Cultural Museum Tour
The Sukuma Museum is a community-oriented organization committed to promoting and honoring the traditional and contemporary arts of the Sukuma culture.
Interactive Experience: Sukuma elders share traditional history and arts with younger generations in an educational environment.
What You'll See:
- Traditional Sukuma dwellings
- Grass house of a traditional healer
- Blacksmith's tools
- Rotating cylinder illustrating Sukuma counting words (1-10)
- Artifacts from ancient Sukuma chiefdoms and dance societies
Special Events:
Home of the famous Bulabo Dance Festival in June, where dancers compete using various animals as props.
Workshops:
Join workshops offering training in traditional Sukuma arts.
Kageye Historical Site
Located 40 km northeast of Mwanza in the village of Kayenze, this tranquil fishing community was once the most important port on the southern shore of Lake Victoria in the late 19th century.
Historical Significance:
- Once a center for the slave trade until missionaries ended it in 1878
- Managed by the Sukuma Museum
- Tree-filled meadow with various monuments and graves
What to See:
- Traces of one of the oldest Sukuma chiefdoms
- Arab settlements
- Slave market remnants
- Graves of missionaries and travelers
- Remnants from different historical periods
St. Augustine University Visit
Visit SAUT - the largest private university and third largest overall in Tanzania, located just 3 km from VOT Hostel.
University Facts:
- Founded by Catholic Bishops in 1998 (accredited 2002)
- Over 10,000 students
- Extends over 600 acres in Nyegezi-Malimbe area
- Located 10 km south of Mwanza on Lake Victoria shores
Campuses:
- Main Campus: Administration & Faculty of Business Administration
- Malimbe Campus: Law, Social Sciences, Engineering, Education, and Mass Communication
International Community:
Students from Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Sudan, Ethiopia, Burundi, Malawi, Zambia, Germany, and other nations.
Boat Trip to Ukerewe Island
Visit Africa's largest inland island covering 530 km², located 50 km north of Mwanza in Lake Victoria.
Journey:
- 3-4 hour ferry ride
- 3.8 km vehicle ferry connection
- Surrounded by 27 smaller islands
- Main town: Nansio
Key Attractions:
- Kagunguli: Oldest Roman church built in 1895
- Chief's Palace (Bukindo): Built 1922-1923
- Irondo Point: Great views of Mwanza & traditional dance with Buzegwe band
- Dancing Stone (Ukara Island): Sacred to Kara people
- Forest of Rubya: Largest forest with fishing spots and natural beach
- Rutare Hill: Panoramic views (1 hour by bicycle)
Cultural Activities:
- Traditional dances
- Visit local healers
- Meet local farmers
- Experience simple island lifestyle
Ready to Explore Mwanza?
Whether you're a volunteer with free time or a tourist on a short visit, we can help you experience the best of Mwanza and its surroundings.
Contact us to book your adventure today!
Book Your Tour Now02 — Safaris
Tanzania National Park Safaris
Book a safari to Serengeti, Ngorongoro, or other Tanzanian national parks during your volunteer placement with VOT. From the great migration to the Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzanian nature offers many memorable experiences.
Serengeti National Park
Recognized as one of the 'Seven New Wonders of the World', Serengeti National Park is globally renowned for the spectacular wildebeest and zebra migration.
Great Migration: May to early June - witness over 2 million wildebeest and zebras in nature's greatest spectacle!
Wildlife Highlights:
- The Big Four (Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo)
- Over 500 bird species unique to the region
- Cheetahs, hyenas, and various reptiles
- Spectacular wildebeest and zebra migration
- Big cats in their natural habitat
Trip Details:
- Just 2-hour drive from Mwanza
- Perfect for day trips or extended safaris
- 4WD safari vehicle with expert guide
- Packed lunches, breakfasts, and beverages available
- Best visited: June-October (dry season)
Ngorongoro Crater
The world's largest inactive volcanic caldera, often called the "Eighth Wonder of the World". A UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with wildlife.
Unique Feature: Home to the highest density of wildlife in Africa, including the rare Black Rhino
What Makes It Special:
- 610 sq km crater floor with 25,000+ large animals
- Best place to see the Big Five in one day
- Rare Black Rhino population
- Maasai cultural experiences
- Stunning crater rim viewpoints
Wildlife You'll See:
- Lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards
- Black and white rhinos
- Hippos in Lake Magadi
- Flamingos and over 400 bird species
- Hyenas, cheetahs, and wild dogs
Tarangire National Park
Famous for its massive elephant herds and ancient baobab trees, Tarangire offers an authentic safari experience with fewer crowds.
Park Highlights:
- Largest elephant population in Tanzania
- Iconic ancient baobab trees (1000+ years old)
- Tarangire River - wildlife magnet in dry season
- High concentration of wildlife June-November
- Excellent bird watching (550+ species)
Best For:
- Elephant photography enthusiasts
- Those seeking quieter safari experience
- Landscape and tree photography
- Walking safaris available
- Night game drives
Lake Manyara National Park
A compact park famous for tree-climbing lions, flamingos, and diverse ecosystems from groundwater forests to alkaline lake shores.
Unique Features:
- Famous tree-climbing lions
- Thousands of pink flamingos (seasonal)
- Lush groundwater forest with baboons
- Hot springs with hippos
- Canoeing safaris on the lake
Wildlife & Activities:
- Elephants, giraffes, buffalos
- Over 400 bird species
- Tree-climbing lions (rare behavior)
- Night game drives
- Walking safaris outside park
Ruaha National Park
Tanzania's largest national park, offering wild, untouched landscapes and one of Africa's last great wildernesses.
Wild & Remote: Tanzania's largest park with only 5% visited by tourists - true wilderness experience
Park Features:
- 10,300 sq km of pristine wilderness
- Great Ruaha River - lifeline for wildlife
- Largest elephant population in Tanzania
- 10% of world's lion population
- Rare wild dogs and sable antelope
Best For:
- Adventure seekers
- Photography enthusiasts
- Those avoiding crowds
- Walking safaris
- Extended safari experiences
Safari Packages
Choose from our flexible safari options designed to fit your schedule and budget, whether you're a volunteer or tourist.
Available Packages:
- Day Safari: Perfect for volunteers with limited time (Serengeti - 2hrs from Mwanza)
- 2-3 Day Safari: Ngorongoro + Lake Manyara combination
- 5-7 Day Safari: Northern Circuit (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Manyara)
- Extended Safari: Include Ruaha and Southern parks
What's Included:
- 4WD safari vehicle with pop-up roof
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Park entrance fees
- Accommodation (camping or lodges)
- All meals and drinking water
- Packed lunches for game drives
Special Offers:
- Discounted rates for VOT volunteers
- Group bookings available
- Custom itineraries on request
Ready for Your Safari Adventure?
Whether you're a volunteer with a free weekend or a tourist exploring Tanzania, we'll arrange the perfect safari experience for you.
Book now and witness Africa's greatest wildlife spectacles!
Book Your Safari Now03 — Island Getaway
Zanzibar Island Getaways
Extend your Tanzania volunteer trip with a Zanzibar Island getaway — beaches, culture, and history organized through VOT. Wander Stone Town's alleys, relax on Nungwi's white beaches, and join a spice tour or sunset dhow cruise.
Stone Town & Culture
Explore the historical richness of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its winding alleys, architecture, and spice markets.
What to Experience:
- Wander through narrow alleys and historic architecture
- Visit the famous spice markets and local bazaars
- Discover the blend of African, Arab, and European influences
Pristine Beaches & Marine Life
Relax on pristine beaches with turquoise waters and lush vegetation, engaging with vibrant marine life.
What to Experience:
- Nungwi and Kendwa beaches with white sand
- Snorkeling and scuba diving in crystal-clear waters
- Encounters with parrotfish, green turtles, and more
Jozani Forest & Wildlife
Spanning 50 square kilometers, essential for observing the endangered Kirk's Red Colobus Monkeys and other wildlife.
What to Experience:
- Home to the endangered Kirk's Red Colobus Monkeys
- Spot Sykes' Monkeys and Chameleons
- Explore mangrove boardwalks and unique ecosystems
Spice Plantations & History
The island's fertile land fosters a variety of spices, such as cinnamon and cloves, with spice plantation tours.
What to Experience:
- Guided tours through cinnamon, clove, and vanilla plantations
- Learn about traditional spice cultivation methods
- Taste fresh tropical fruits and spices
Water Sports & Adventures
Zanzibar's diverse landscapes provide exceptional snorkeling, scuba diving, and water sports opportunities.
What to Experience:
- Deep-sea fishing with experienced guides
- Kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing
- Explore underwater shipwrecks turned vibrant reefs
Eco-Tourism & Wellness
Visit Chumbe Island for eco-friendly bandas and sustainable living, or enjoy yoga and wellness retreats.
What to Experience:
- Eco-tourism at Chumbe Island Coral Park
- Yoga and wellness sessions with ocean views
- Horseback riding and quad biking along the beach
Ready to Explore Zanzibar?
Experience the perfect blend of culture, history, and tropical paradise with VOT.
Contact us to book your Zanzibar getaway today!
Book Your Zanzibar TourGood to Know
Requirements & what's included
Can I combine volunteering with a safari or Zanzibar trip?
Absolutely — many volunteers add on a safari, a Zanzibar beach trip, or local Mwanza activities before or after their placement. Let us know your interest and our team can help you plan it.
What currency should I bring?
The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). US dollars in cash (2009 or newer bills) are widely accepted for larger payments such as park entry fees, and ATMs are available in Mwanza city centre for withdrawing shillings.
How do I get from the airport to Mwanza?
Airport pickup is included. Simply share your flight details with us after applying and our team will meet you at Mwanza Airport (MWZ).
What's included
✓ Local guide for each excursion
✓ Return transport from Mwanza
✓ Park/entry fees where listed
✓ Flexible booking around your placement
✓ WiFi & 24/7 staff support
✓ Trip planning help from local staff
In Their Words
What volunteers say
★★★★★
"The environmental conservation project around Lake Victoria was incredible. I loved that VOT organized weekend safaris to the Serengeti. It was the perfect balance of work and adventure!"
Michael Brown — Australia, Wildlife & Environment