Farming and Agriculture

location
1 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+

rating  Brilliant 4.7  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Excellent response rate

Highlights

  • Active volunteers with a love for the outdoors, a commitment to environmental conservation
  • For those interested in horticulture and agroforestry
  • Seedbed preparation and management

Highlights

  • Active volunteers with a love for the outdoors, a commitment to environmental conservation
  • For those interested in horticulture and agroforestry
  • Seedbed preparation and management
  • Weeding and mulching
  • Integrated pest management


  • Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    If interested in horticulture and agroforestry, this is a fantastic opportunity to learn about, experience, and enhance the farming techniques of small scale farmers.

    Active volunteers with a love for the outdoors, a commitment to environmental conservation, and a desire to make a meaningful impact will suit this program.

    For those interested in horticulture and agroforestry, this program offers a fantastic opportunity to learn about, experience, and enhance the ...

    About the program

    Active volunteers with a love for the outdoors, a commitment to environmental conservation, and a desire to make a meaningful impact will suit this program.

    For those interested in horticulture and agroforestry, this program offers a fantastic opportunity to learn about, experience, and enhance the farming techniques of small-scale farmers in the Arusha communities.

    The sustainable agriculture and farming project aims to empower local farmers by equipping them with skills and resources to improve crop yields and diversify their farming methods. This approach not only enhances their income but also ensures food security for their families and communities. By adopting sustainable practices, these farmers contribute to environmental conservation and build a more resilient agricultural ecosystem that benefits the entire community.

    As a volunteer in Arusha, you will assist smallholders by introducing modern farming techniques, implementing sustainable practices, and providing hands-on support in the fields. Tasks are flexible and can be chosen based on your knowledge and interests or as directed by local staff and farmers. Most activities involve direct involvement in sustainable agriculture, including:

    • Seedbed preparation and management
    • Transplanting
    • Weeding
    • Mulching
    • Integrated pest management
    • Biopesticide preparation

    The project primarily focuses on horticulture (such as herbs, spices, vegetables, flowers, and seed production) and occasionally includes agroforestry (like apiculture, meliponiculture, synotropic practices, and silviculture). The specific tasks you will undertake may vary with the seasons and ongoing projects when you join.

    Location

    Arusha, located in northern Tanzania, is a vibrant city known as the gateway to some of Africa’s most famous national parks and Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers a unique blend of urban and natural attractions, with bustling markets, diverse cuisine, and a rich cultural heritage. Arusha’s temperate climate and stunning landscapes make it an ideal destination for both adventure and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy safaris, hiking, and cultural tours, experiencing the warm hospitality of the local communities.

    Project Tasks

    • Improve farming practices in local communities
    • Engage in outdoor farm work
    • Develop your communication and practical skills
    • Gain valuable experience in agriculture
    • Immerse yourself in Tanzanian culture


    Typical day

    First Day
    On the first day of the volunteering placement, you will be escorted to the project by our local staff and introduced to the staff at the project you will be working with.

    Weekday (Mon-Fri)
    Work and hours are dependent on the project and placement that each volunteer is working at. A typical ...

    Typical day

    First Day
    On the first day of the volunteering placement, you will be escorted to the project by our local staff and introduced to the staff at the project you will be working with.

    Weekday (Mon-Fri)
    Work and hours are dependent on the project and placement that each volunteer is working at. A typical volunteer day would be as follows:

    7:30 AM Breakfast at the volunteer house or homestay.
    8:00 AM Volunteers leave home and travel to their placements. Work and hours are dependent on the project and placement that each volunteer is working at.
    1:00 PM Work at the placement usually ends. Volunteers are free to travel home for lunch at their accommodation, prepare for the next day or do some shopping and sightseeing.
    8:30 PM Dinner at the volunteer house or homestay


    Free-time activities

    There are many exciting places to explore in the surrounding areas, here are just a few!

    Ngorongoro Conservation Area

    Home to the Ngorongoro Crater, this stunning area of vast plains, green forests and wild savannahs, sits next to the Serengeti National Park. You will see the highest concentration of ...

    Free-time activities

    There are many exciting places to explore in the surrounding areas, here are just a few!

    Ngorongoro Conservation Area

    Home to the Ngorongoro Crater, this stunning area of vast plains, green forests and wild savannahs, sits next to the Serengeti National Park. You will see the highest concentration of animals here from lions, zebra, wildebeest and elephants. The views from the crater are absolutely stunning, with an atmospheric mountain backdrop. This should be at the top of your bucket list for Tanzania!

    Serengeti National Park

    Another one for your bucket list and a perfect way to spend your weekend off. The Serengeti is home to an abundance of wildlife, including the big 5 (lion, rhino, leopard, buffalo & elephant). You will also find zebra, wildebeest, giraffes, hippos, baboons, hyenas, ostriches and many more incredible animals. The best way to explore is by camping out in the open or in one of the many lodges. The area is huge, and we recommend at least 2 days here.

    Moshi and Mount Kilimanjaro

    Moshi is about a two and half hour drive from Monduli and can be easily reached using a “dala dala” or taxi to Arusha and then changing again onto Moshi from there.

    Moshi is a quiet town with several Western cafes and coffee shops. It is also the closest town to the starting point of the Mount Kilimanjaro trek. On a clear day, you can get excellent views of Kilimanjaro right from the roadside (Tip: Moshi Train Station, which is no longer is use, has fantastic views of Africa’s highest mountain, with locals selling drinks and snacks up the top).

    Arusha National Park and Mount Meru

    Mount Meru is located in Arusha National Park and is the second largest mountain in Tanzania. If you’re looking to Climb Kilimanjaro ,then Mt Meru can be a great acclimatisation trek, taking you through various types of vegetation. There are also scenic trails around the mountain at ground level. Other attractions include Meru Crater, the Jekukumia River, Ngurdoto Crater and the Momelia Lakes which are known to change colour! You might even find wildlife here including giraffes, warthogs, cape buffaloes, lions, elephants, flamingos and more.

    Zanzibar

    A little further afield, it is still possible to fly to Zanzibar for a weekend from Arusha (although several days here would be ideal). Zanzibar is known for its sandy white beaches, turquoise water and unique culture. Stone Town is an interesting town, known for its mazes and spices. Other things to do is a visit to Prison Island, where prisoners were once held but is now home to giant tortoises. You can also spot dolphins and try snorkelling off the island. The North and East of Zanzibar have some of the best and cleanest beaches in the world.


    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level)

    Criminal Background Check

    required

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

    What's Included

    What's Included

    Services by Involvement Volunteers IVI

    • Accommodation
    • 3 meals p/day weekdays  
    • 1 day orientation
    • In country 24/7 support & emergency assistance
    • Fundraising support
    • University course credits (where applicable)
    • Certificate of Completion

    Accommodation

    You have the option to stay in a volunteer house or with a host family. In the volunteer house each person will have their own room and bathroom, and in the homestay you will have a private room, with the bathroom shared between the other volunteers. The houses are comfortable and equipped with running water and electricity, though occasional power outages may affect hot water availability. Bedding, including a pillow, pillowcase, sheets, and a mosquito net, is provided, but volunteers should bring their own towels and toiletries.

    Security in the volunteer house is ensured with a guard on duty both day and night. Staff are available daily during the week and can be reached by phone on weekends. Volunteers under 18 stay in a separate room. For internet access, volunteers should bring an unlocked mobile phone and purchase a local SIM card in Arusha, with assistance from the local staff upon arrival. The accommodation includes sinks, toilets, and showers with hot water, living room with a television, dining room, kitchen, Wi-Fi, security guard and watchman.

    Food & Beverages

    Your program fee includes main meals prepared with love by our in-house cooks, offering you a taste of the rich, authentic flavours of Arusha. Meals are predominantly Tanzanian, providing you with a genuine culinary experience. This approach allows you to fully immerse yourself in the local culture through its cuisine.

    We cater to various dietary preferences, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. Please specify any dietary needs in your application so we can meet your requirements from the beginning. While the number of meals provided may vary by program, the fee generally includes three meals daily—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—plus evening soup and snacks, seven days a week.

    Breakfast usually features eggs, bread with butter and jam, pancakes, fruits, and beverages like tea and coffee. Lunch and dinner include a mix of meat, fish, vegetables, and fruits, accompanied by staples such as rice, potatoes, pasta, and fries, all enhanced with traditional Tanzanian sauces and stews.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Airport Pickup at Kilimanjaro International Airport

    An airport pickup isn't included within the program fees either.

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) in Kilimanjaro. We assist you to find cheap flights to Tanzania. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Tanzania provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Tanzania you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Tanzania. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    Arrivals on Sunday. Small extra fee for airport pickup.

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program fees

    1 week (min. stay) 745€
    2 weeks 886€
    3 weeks 1,159€
    4 weeks 1,310€
    8 weeks 2,167€
    12 weeks (max. stay) 2,974€
    Average fees 496€/week

    Program fees

    496€ per week 1 - 12 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    1 - 12 weeks

    Deposit

    The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.


    Final Payment

    Your final payment will be agreed with Involvement Volunteers IVI during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


    Meet your organization

    Involvement Volunteers IVI

    Brilliant 4.7 rating (204 reviews)

    Non-profit - founded in 1989

    Verified by Volunteer World

      Excellent response rate

    Coordinated by

    Lauren

    Spoken languages: English

    About the project

    IVI are a non profit org with 28 years experience providing responsible volunteer placements in 15 countries worldwide. We help you connect with inspiring opportunities

    Meet your organization

    Involvement Volunteers International delivers positive social change to developing communities and vulnerable populations through local, national & international volunteering.  Our projects empower the skilled & un-skilled to catalyse the efforts of local partners in creating a better world.


    WHO WE ARE

    Founded in 1989, IVI is a pioneer of overseas volunteering.  Back when there was no internet and phones were a luxury in many parts of the world, we traveled to developing countries in search of credible NGO's in need of manpower and global volunteer resources.  Some of the many relationships we forged are utilized to this day. 

    We are passionate about volunteering and giving back to society and in particular developing communities which are less fortunate than us.  In this way, we combine travelling with volunteering to help people make a positive impact overseas.

    SOCIAL EXPERIENCES
    All of IVI’s projects have a strong social element at the core.  With more manpower (& womanpower!) we can truly catalyse the efforts of our local partners.  This means you're sure to meet loads of like-minded people from all parts of the world.   This type of experience truly broadens your understanding of the world and yourself, opening your heart to new enlightened ways of thinking .   With your new found travel companions, you'll have plenty of opportunity to explore and have fun!  

    Our projects create a unique platform to experience the true heart and soul of a destination rather than simply the tourist areas.   We'll involve you in meaningful & responsible volunteer work that really benefits the local communities.

    AFFORDABLE VOLUNTEER TRAVEL
    As a non profit org, we are not motivated by shareholder profits.  Our fee structure is fully transparent to ensure volunteers hard earned money is going directly to the areas where it is most needed.  It is vitally important to us that the presence of volunteers has a positive and sustainable impact on the local communities we work with.   

    We charge a one off US$275 application fee per volunteer to cover the running of IVI including administration overheads, project inspection costs, marketing, and salaries.

    The program fee starts at $150 p/week and goes straight to the in country management to cover arrival airport transfers, on the ground coordination, orientation, accommodation, meals, in country 24/7 project support, project development, donations and related administration costs.   

    In comparison to many of our competitors, our programs are incredible value.

    SAFETY & RESPONSIBLE PROGRAMS
    With approx 80-90% of our volunteers being single young female travelers, volunteer safety is of the utmost importance.  All of our projects include a dedicated 24/7 in-country management support contact as well as a dedicated placement manager pre/post journey.  This ensures you will be cared for every step of the way.    The local teams are highly experienced and qualified to manage emergency situations.

    All IVI projects have been personally inspected to ensure the standards meet necessary guidelines for quality and safety.  In addition, we monitor and maintain communication with local embassies to oversee potential issues in order to notify volunteers and their families accordingly.   

    Our Australian team are available 24/7 and only a phone call away.

    Our responsibility also extends to the local people which is why volunteers working in childcare related fields must provide a criminal background check before they travel.   Our ultimate goal is the long term development of the communities we work with, hence we work closely with our local partners to ensure that projects are needs driven and sustainable. 

    SUPPORT

    From your very first inquiry, right through to your welcome home, you'll have the same dedicated volunteer manager at every stage.  We are experts in the field and will provide you in depth insights about what to expect and how to prepare to ensure you have an amazing experience overseas.  Every project includes a detailed welcome pack which provides all aspects needed such as in country contacts, what to pack, cultural values, basic language guides and much much more.   

    On arrival at your destination, you'll be greeted by one of our in-country team and in many cases 1 week orientation is provided to help ease you into the way of life and ensure you're equipped with the right customs to ensure a successful volunteer abroad experience.  

    FUN!
    Volunteering abroad is quite possibly the most rewarding experience you will have in your life!   We know this not only through our own experiences, but through the testimonies from thousands of volunteers we have successfully placed worldwide over 27+ years in operation.  Volunteering overseas is not only rewarding.   It's fun!   You're meeting new people, you're seeing new sights, and you're expanding your understanding of yourself and the world.  You're experiencing something real and life changing in many ways...  

    GET INVOLVED WITH IVI TODAY!

    204 reviews · rating4.7

    What a fantastic trip. Getting the opportunity to live in a village for a week was so incredibly special, and all of our hosts quickly became like family. The work itself was challenging at times but very rewarding, and I felt like we were making a difference within the communities that we worked ...
    The team of us who were placed in Moala were instantly taken in by the family we were living and were made to feel part of the family. I am grateful for this experience, for the people I met and for the wonderful people who cared for us throughout the 2 weeks. This trip has inspired me to pursue ...
    What an incredible experience to be able to live in amongst the island community, fully immersed in village life. I really really enjoyed my stay and it was so amazing to explore the island in my free time. In the classroom, it was mostly helping kids one on one with the work assigned by the ...
    I am so blessed to have been lead by amazing dietician and naturopathic professionals who have inspired what I hope to be in this field one day. Words and pictures could never capture how life changing this experience was, and what beautiful souls these people hold. Pictures also don’t capture how ...
    There were so many highlights to this trip! However the one that stood out the most was living in Moala village for one week. The team of us who were placed in Moala were instantly taken in by the family we were living and were made to feel part of the family. The people we visited in Moala, Yako ...
    hannah rupp rating5

    2024 at Primary Teaching Support

    I had such a great time in Zanzibar. The accommodation is really good, it’s clean, you have a very sweet balcony and the bedrooms are good. Also the roommates and coordinators are were really nice 🥰 I really enjoyed my time at the school and I loved to work with the kids 🥰 I made so many ...

    Location


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    Contact Lauren
      Excellent response rate
    English

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