Going abroad and volunteering is a noble cause that not everyone is able to participate in, so if you have the chance, don’t think twice! As you begin browsing programs, keep in mind that the best volunteer opportunities can inspire you to use your skills to help local communities and teach you new ones in the context of different environments. Just as traveling alone can widen your perspective, volunteering opens you up to new ways of thinking, empathizing, and understanding an individual’s place in the world.
Volunteering in Zimbabwe is a great way to give back and allows you to develop your firsthand perspective on some of the area’s most pressing issues while experiencing local culture and different ways of life. If this is something that you are drawn to, look no further than this article for some of the best volunteering options in Zimbabwe!
What makes these the best volunteer opportunities in Zimbabwe?
Ready to discover Zimbabwe while making a real difference? Then it’s time to volunteer!
The programs below have been carefully chosen because of their balance of safety, active enrichment, and additional adventures for volunteers. Other important factors that we considered include:
- Provider reputation and reviews: To create a list of the best volunteer programs in Zimbabwe, provider reputation and reviews were essential. These programs all have excellent reputations and fantastic reviews on GoAbroad. Links to reviews for each provider are included in the list below.
- Location: Various regions within Zimbabwe were chosen to provide a wide variety of program options, from rural areas to the famous Victoria Falls and Bulawayo.
- Hands-on approach: Chances are, if you are volunteering abroad, you actually want to do meaningful, hands-on work in another country. These programs were selected because they focus on getting outside and in the field instead of keeping you seated and indoors.
- Program inclusions and activities: While the work you do is important, the excursions and extracurriculars make your volunteer abroad experience even more memorable. Each program below offers many opportunities to get out and explore your surroundings, such as safaris, horseback riding, and wildlife interactions.
5 best programs for volunteering in Zimbabwe
Whether you’re passionate about wildlife, conservation, or community service, there’s a volunteer opportunity in Zimbabwe for you. Here are the best active volunteer programs in Zimbabwe:
1. African Wildlife Orphanage with GoEco
Why? This program gives you the opportunity to work with one of the largest wildlife rehabilitation and release centers in the entire continent of Africa! It’s a safe place for abandoned, harmed, and rescued animals where you will get to do field research and surveys, in addition to helping local children learn more about wild animals and conservation.
Where? Bulawayo
Subjects: Animal sciences, environmental management, and zoology & wildlife sciences
2. Wildlife Conservation with International Volunteer HQ
Why? Work on a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Zimbabwe and help educate and support the local community alongside an anti-poaching group. You will get to stay in an open-air entertainment area, which includes living with a swimming pool nearby overlooking the reserve riverbed. This program’s length ranges from two to 12 weeks for a quick but meaningful trip.
Where? Victoria Falls
Subjects: Conservation, environment, tree planting, and wildlife
Read International Volunteer HQ reviews
3. Educational Support with Love Volunteers
Why? This program is ideal for anyone passionate about education, with no teaching experience required! Based in Victoria Falls, you'll work alongside staff at local schools, helping teach core subjects, as well as sports and music, to students ages 3-12. Your presence will provide invaluable support to under-resourced teachers and the next generation of Zimbabwean children.
Where? Victoria Falls
Subjects: Education, youth and children, academic support
4. Volunteer in Zimbabwe with Volunteer World
Why? You’ll have your choice of programs, so you can find an opportunity that fits your interests and skills. Deforestation and poaching are harming the beautiful country of Zimbabwe, so you can join the fight to preserve natural resources and protect endangered wildlife. You might also engage in outreach activities while also supporting sanctuaries and rescue centers. Other programs give you the opportunity to help build schools for the local children.
Where? Harare, Rural Areas, Wedza
Subjects: Business, music, media, organic farming, computer training, and sports
5. HIV/AIDS Support with Love Volunteers
Why? This program is perfect if you’re passionate about supporting vulnerable youth or have a background in healthcare or social work. You’ll contribute to initiatives that focus on children and youth living with HIV/AIDS or who have been orphaned by the disease. This impactful work includes assisting with day-to-day operations and facilitating activities that promote knowledge on safety, healthy living, and community support for these kids.
Where? Victoria Falls
Subjects: Youth support, HIV/AIDS impact, education, social work
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Things to know before you volunteer in Zimbabwe
Whichever volunteer program you choose, prepare yourself for the experience of a lifetime.
So you've found a program that excites you—great! Before you pack your bags and head off on your adventure, there are a few things worth knowing to make sure your experience goes as smoothly as possible.
Visa and entry requirements
Most international volunteers will need a visa to enter Zimbabwe. The good news is that for citizens of many countries, visas are available on arrival at major entry points, including Harare International Airport and the Victoria Falls border crossing. That said, it's always best to check the latest entry requirements well in advance, as policies can change. Your program provider will typically guide you through this process, but doing a bit of your own research ahead of time never hurts!
Health and vaccinations
Always consider your health and safety in Zimbabwe, which is a malaria-risk country. Antimalarial medication is strongly recommended, particularly if you’re heading to lower-altitude areas like Victoria Falls. Routine vaccinations, such as hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus, are also advised. Visit a travel health clinic or your doctor at least four to six weeks before departure to give yourself plenty of time to complete any required vaccinations or check-ups. Your health is your most important travel asset, so don't skip this step.
What to pack
Packing smart can make a big difference in your day-to-day comfort. Zimbabwe's climate varies by region and season, but lightweight, breathable clothing works well for most of the country. If you're heading into the bush for wildlife work, neutral-colored clothing (think khakis and greens) is ideal. Don't forget a good pair of closed-toe shoes for fieldwork, a refillable water bottle, and travel health kit essentials! Many programs will also send you a recommended packing list once you're enrolled.
Cultural etiquette
Zimbabweans are known for being warm, welcoming, and deeply proud of their culture and heritage. As a volunteer, showing genuine curiosity and respect for local customs goes a long way. Greetings are important, so take the time to learn a few words in Shona or Ndebele, the two most widely spoken local languages, and you'll instantly make a great impression. Find out how you can practice cultural sensitivity while abroad, as well.
Getting around
Transportation within Zimbabwe can be an adventure in itself! Depending on your program location, you may rely on minibuses (known locally as "kombis"), private transfers arranged by your provider, or organized group travel. Most reputable providers will handle airport pickups and in-country logistics, so be sure to confirm these details during the onboarding process.
With a little preparation and an open mind, you'll be set up for an incredible, life-changing experience in one of Africa's most beautiful and fascinating countries!
Use GoAbroad’s travel resources to plan your trip
Volunteer in Zimbabwe and make an impact!
These volunteer programs in Zimbabwe are your ticket to a meaningful time abroad.
These volunteer programs in Zimbabwe are your ticket to a meaningful time abroad with experiences that will deepen your understanding and help contribute to wildlife protection, community outreach, and other great causes. In addition to the impactful initiatives you support, you can be sure to leave with new skills and an appreciation for other cultures and nature’s incredible variety.
The best volunteer opportunities challenge, encourage, and empower you to make a positive difference, and these programs help you achieve just that!
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Jacquie Truckey
GoAbroad Contributor
Jacquie is originally from Southern California. She embarked on her first study abroad adventure in Italy in 2016. In her final semester of college, she interned in Germany to gain invaluable experience in her field. Jacquie’s travel style is planned with room for spontaneity, which translates to her work as a content writer and an international education professional.
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