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.

Volunteer in Mozambique

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 and has its own international airport.

When you arrive to volunteer in Mozambique, you will have a several-day 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 bathroom, kitchen, and living room/ eating area, as well as a swimming pool, garden, and grilling area.

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, as well as lunch and supper at the weekend, with food provided as part of the programme price. 

Free time and outdoor activities

Use your free days as a volunteer in Mozambique to explore your surroundings – in the water, on land, or from the back of a horse. The possibilities for sightseeing in Mozambique are endless. For example, how would you like to:

• Go on a snorkeling or diving trip,
• Go sea-angling,
• Take a sailing trip to the Bazaruto Archipelago,
• Set out on safari and have a picnic in one of Mozambique’s many National Parks, or
• Go horseback riding at the beach with the wind in your hair and the sound of crashing waves in your ears?

Many volunteers also enjoy spending a pleasant evening playing billiards or beach volleyball in the Smuggler’s Sports Bar or in one of the many 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 Saturdays and Wednesday afternoons.
• Duration: 2, 4, or 8 weeks
• 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, from March through November, at the following dates: 5 & 19 July, 2 & 16 Aug., 6 & 20 Sep., 4 & 18 Oct., 1 & 15 Nov. 2010. It is not possible to volunteer in Mozambique from the end of November through the end of February. During the school holidays, recreational activities will be planned for the children, including painting, making crafts, going on excursions, etc., and you will help out as a volunteer. Holiday dates 2010: 19 - 30 April, 12 - 23 July & 2 - 30 November
• 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 in Mozambique.