Volunteer in Mozambique

Volunteer in Mozambique

Spared the effects of mass-tourism, Mozambique has much to offer, including an almost 2700 kilometre-long coast featuring numerous gorgeous beaches, the impressive Zambezi River, colonial architecture (whose roots reach back to the former Portuguese rule of the country), and naturally the bright culture and traditions of the friendly Bantu people.

The country’s greatest landmark is the Bazaruto Archipelago, a World Heritage Site, whose crystal-clear water and coral reefs have won the adoration of many a scuba diver. As a volunteer in Mozambique in the coastal city of Vilanculos, you can do your part to help bring Mozambique on its way out of the crises which have afflicted its past to a brighter future.

Orientation and Accommodation

As a volunteer in Mozambique, you will be staying in the coastal city of Vilanculos, just a short boat ride from the world-famous Bazaruto Archipelago. The city, with 20,000 residents, has white-sand beaches and is very popular with divers. It is also becoming the focal point of an ever-growing tourism industry.

When you arrive to volunteer in Mozambique, you will have a short orientation. You will have the chance to see various volunteer project establishments, get to know the local working conditions, and get an idea of the various projects you could be placed in as a volunteer in Mozambique.

Your accommodation in Mozambique

You will stay in a shared room in the volunteer house at a beach camp as you volunteer in Mozambique, with other volunteers from around the world. The simple yet comfortable volunteer bungalow is directly on the Indian Ocean and has its own kitchen and living room/ eating area, as well as a swimming pool.

You will receive full board as part of the total programme price as you volunteer in Mozambique. A cook will prepare most of your meals. Volunteers will be responsible for the daily preparation of their own breakfasts. Every Saturday,all volunteers go out to eat with our local partners (this meal is not included in the programme price.)

Free time and culture

Once a month is "Culture Day". On this day, you will visit the family of a translator, which gives you the opportunity to dive into the traditions and way of life of the local people. You will also eat typical Mozambican food, sing, dance, and laugh with your hosts.

Use your free days to go diving or deep-sea fishing, or take sailing trips to the Bazaruto Archapelago. Also beloved among volunteers are pleasant evenings spent in one of the many local beach bars.

Volunteer in Mozambique

• Activities: Depends on the project and the experience that you bring along. You will volunteer in Mozambique for about 40 hours per week.
• Free Time: Usually Sundays and Wednesday afternoons.
• Duration: 2 - 8 weeks. For starting dates in May, June, and July, a maximum stay of 4 weeks is allowed.
• Application: At least 2 months before departure. It is best to sign up as early as possible, as the number of places in the programme is very limited.
• Starting Dates: Every first and third Monday of the month, March through November, at the following starting dates: 18 Oct., 1. & 15 Nov. 2010 and 7 Mar., 21 Mar., 4 Apr., 18 Apr., 2 May, 16 May, 6 June, 20 June, 5 Sept., 19 Aug., 3 Oct., 17 Oct., 7 Nov., 21 Nov. 2011. No project availability December through the end of February.
• Visa: Tourist visa, subject to a fee. A valid passport is also required.
• Practical Experience: Not necessary, but this would certainly make it easier for you as you volunteer in Mozambique.
• Other: Patience, independence, flexibility, adaptability, and personal initiative are essential, as is the ability to handle very basic living and working arrangements. Travel experience will also help you as you volunteer. Mozambique is an open country, but you still need to make sure that you wear appropriate clothing in public. This includes shoulder-covering shirts and skirts/trousers which cover the knee.