Who volunteers?
Our volunteers vary in age, nationality and background. The common characteristic among all of them is their willingness to help. Our volunteers donate their time and money to conserve and protect the environment, uplift and build positive communities, teach children and adults, and promote health, education, and ecological awareness abroad.

Who will I be helping?
You will be helping our partner organizations and the communities with which they work. Your assistance will benefit local environmental and community advocates who have spent their lives promoting a specific cause. And most importantly, the people, wildlife, and the environmental causes aided by our projects will positively benefit from your work.

Why should I pay to volunteer?
As a volunteer you will be working with one of our partner organizations in Livingstone or the surrounding area. These schools, orphanages, health centres or local community based organisations do meaningful, much-needed work in their local communities, but are under constant pressure to keep staffed, organized, and to pay bills. These programs need your input and time.

Who can work with Volunteer Zambia.
In order to join one of our projects we require that you be 18 years old.  All nationalities are welcome.


Where will I live while I'm volunteering?
In one of our two lodges in Livingstone. This will usually be in a 6 bed dorm with other volunteers. Depending on the program you choose you may spend some time in a bush camp. We are able, to provide a private room on request. This does incur an extra charge.

Are there any other requirements?
Skills requirements vary on a project-to-project basis. All of our projects include training if specific skills are required for that particular project.

When do projects start?
Some projects have specific start dates, but others allow volunteers to start any day year-round. This information can be found on each project page.

How long do projects last?
Our projects last from 2 weeks to a year.

Do you offer special discounts for long-term volunteers?
No. We offer you the program at the in country cost. We do not load our programs to pay for expensive overseas offices and staff and we believe you will not find better value.

 Can I extend once in Zambia?
Yes. For as long as you would like.

May I go to more than one project location?
Yes. Our staff can recommend project combinations and help you arrange a Combination Project Package.

When should I apply?
We ask our volunteers to apply in full at least a month before the departure date.

What is the application process?
The easiest way to apply is by enrolling online. To reserve your space on any project, please go to our Enrol Online Registration Form.

How should I pay for my project?
You can pay by bank transfer into the UK or direct to Zambia. We accept Pounds, Euro and US$.

Can I get college credit for volunteering?
It is possible to get credit for many of our volunteer projects. Please contact your university for credit information. We would be happy to provide any documentation requested by your university. 

What are the current safety and health conditions in Zambia?
Since independence in 1964 Zambia has enjoyed peace. Crime rates are very low and the people very friendly. The following web sites offer travel advice for Zambia.
 US Department of State, UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office.

What injections or medication will I need?
Click on www.travel-bug.com or www.iexplore.com  for advice on the current medication requirements or consult your doctor. We recommend that all our clients take independent medical advice before they travel.

Will I need a visa, or will a passport be sufficient?
On arrival you will be issued with a volunteer Visa that is valid for the duration of your program. Should you wish to extend then you will incur an extra fee for a visa extension. We organise your visa for you.

Passport validity.
You should have at least 2 full clean pages in your passport and it should be valid for at least 6 months past the end of your project.

What should I do about health and travel insurance?
You have to organise insurance prior to departure from your home country.   Please note that Livingstone is home to many adventure and adrenaline sports and thus if you intend to do any of them (and most of our volunteers do) then you need to buy the policy that will cover them. We cannot take uninsured volunteers.

Will I have an opportunity to get to know the location in which my project is based and see the surrounding areas?
Yes. Although you are committed to specific volunteer schedules, we make sure that you have free time to explore and get to know the local culture and attractions. Victoria Falls is one of the world’s most exciting tourism destinations and we offer specially planned excursions and activities on a regular basis.

Can I travel before and after my project?
Yes. As long as you arrive at your project location on the start date, you can travel before your volunteer experience. You can also travel after and we will be happy to help and advise and help with onward travel.

 

Do I need to know any of the local languages before I volunteer?
English is the official language in Zambian and most residents speak good English. However they will be thrilled if you take the time to lean a little of one of the local traditional languages and doing so will enrich your experience. We are able to include language instruction upon request. Check out http://wikitravel.org/en/Nyanja_phrasebook for more info and some basic vocabulary.

Click on PROJECTS to find out more.