The Programme
What are the requirements to join?
We welcome all volunteers from any background, religion and nationality, as long as you have no criminal convictions and are able to supply a clean criminal background check
Individuals need to have a good level / understanding of English but it does not need to be your first language. As some programmes can be quite strenuous, we recommend that you should be physically fit.
What date should I arrive and leave?
You should arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) on your selected start date, being the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month. You will be met by one of our local team members or an appointed driver who will be holding a named sign. They will take you to the nearby accommodation for you to settle in.
The programme ends on a Saturday of your final week and you should depart the accommodation on this day. Our local team will be happy to help organise any onward journeys or book transport back to the airport.
Are there any age restrictions for solo travellers?
The only age restriction in place is that you have to be at least 18 years old before your programme start date. Anyone over this age is welcome. Generally the average age range for our programmes is 18 - 25, although this is by no means definitive and we regularly have volunteers of all ages.
When should I apply for the programme?
You can apply for this programme at anytime, however we advise that you apply as soon as possible to have the best chances of securing your placement on your selected dates. Some of our programmes have limited capacity and spaces can get filled up quickly.
If you are wanting to volunteer within the next few weeks, then please contact us and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.
It is possible to change your start dates once you have been accepted, however this is subject to availability and can attract a small administration fee.
What duration would you recommend?
On gaining feedback from previous volunteers, we believe 3 - 6 weeks is the ideal time to get settled in and really involved with the programme. This also allows you to make the most of your free time, to explore this beautiful country and to participate in any activities.
We regularly have volunteers come for 1 to 2 weeks that tell us that they did not believe they had enough time and wish they had stayed for longer.
What will my itinerary be?
Day 1 (Saturday) – Arrival & Moshi
Please ensure you arrive into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) on your selected start date – being a Saturday.
A member of our local team will be waiting for you in the arrival’s hall holding a named signed. You will then head to our volunteer accommodation located in Moshi - around a 45 minute drive.
The rest of the day is yours to spend relaxing and getting to know your fellow volunteers as and when they arrive.
Day 2 (Sunday) – Orientation
After a good night’s rest and a delicious breakfast, our local team will provide a full orientation / induction that will go into detail about your time in Tanzania. This will include information about each project, health and safety information and show you around the village, pointing out all of the essentials.
Day 3-7 (Monday – Friday) – Volunteering
Your volunteering projects start today! After being introduced to the project team, you will have another small induction before getting fully involved. You will generally be volunteering from 9am to 4pm, but this can be altered to suit your requirements - including night shifts.
Should you need anything at the project, then just let our local team know.
Day 8-9 (Saturday – Sunday) – Weekend
Whether you are looking for a relaxing weekend at the accommodation or looking to explore everything Tanzania has to offer – this is your time to do as you please.
The weekends are ideal for you to travel Tanzania and you will find a comprehensive list of ideas and also information about our organised weekend trips on our website.
The following weeks
Your next week(s) will follow a similar pattern, with volunteering from Monday to Friday and then free time Saturday and Sunday.
Our local team are there to support you throughout your stay. If you need advice about your travel plans or just someone to talk to then they are there for you.
Last day (Saturday)
On your last week, Saturday is your official last day with The Mighty Roar. If you wish to stay longer then please discuss this option with our local or UK team.
If you are heading home then we can help arrange your return airport drop off. Please note that this is not included within the programme fee and there are several options to take – detailed nearer the top of the handbook.
How will I get to the project?
All transport to and from the project is included within the programme fee and will be by tuk tuk or small mini van.
Is there Internet and phone signal?
Moshi has good phone and internet signal and we recommend that all volunteers take an unlocked mobile phone (or purchase one while in Tanzania for around £15) and buy a local sim card. You will then be able to use 4G Internet (although sometimes intermittent) and contact friends and family at home with minimal costs. Our local team will be happy to assist with this.
There are several hotels and restaurants nearby that provide free wi-fi.
What is Moshi like?
Our projects are based in Moshi, in the Kilimanjaro region of Tanzania. Set amongst the impressive backdrop of Africa's highest peak, this beautiful town and setting is the perfect place to come and volunteer!
It’s a low-key place with an appealing blend of African and Asian influences and a self-sufficient, prosperous feel, due in large part to its being the centre of one of Tanzania’s major coffee-growing regions. Virtually all visitors are here to climb Mt Kilimanjaro or to recover after having done so. Yet there's much more to do, including cultural tours and hikes on the mountain's lower slopes.
All amenities are nearby, including ATMs, hospitals, restaurants (serving local and western food), as well as good transport links to the rest of Tanzania – with taxis always readily available.
The Mighty Roar Local Team in Tanzania
Our programmes in Tanzania are run by our dedicated local team, who are committed to ensuring you have the best time ever. Emmanuel and his colleagues provide the structure for your stay, including the accommodation, meals, airport pickup, in-country orientation and of course support.
They are sure to become your good friends and they will give you a unique insight into Tanzania, teach you about their culture and traditions as well as recommend and organise the best places to see while there.
Will I get an in-country orientation?
Yes. Your orientation will be on Sunday morning and will go through everything you need to know for your time in Tanzania. You will be shown around the local area and the shops, ATMs and taxi rank will all be pointed out to you. If you need to, our local team can assist with any currency exchange and help you pick up anything you may need.
We will also show you the main points of interest, such as western restaurants, bars and other tourist attractions. Our local coordinator will go through all of the important health and safety information that you should follow during your time in Tanzania. You’ll learn about the Tanzanian way of life and the cultural differences.
What is the weather like in Tanzania?
The tropical climate of Tanzania varies from region to region. Along the coast, the weather can be quite humid whereas further inland it is notably cooler - especially during the evenings in the mountainous areas. The warmest time of year to visit Tanzania is December through to March, with the cooler months being June through to October.
There are two main rainy seasons, with lighter / shorter rains falling during November and December and heavier / longer rains falling in March to May. Rains generally occur in short sharp bursts and normally in the night / early hours of the morning.
Despite being close to the equator, Moshi enjoys a cool and dry climate due to its high elevation from sea level. The average temperates are 25ºC all year, although it can get cold during some nights.
Can I volunteer if I live outside of the UK?
Yes of course. We welcome volunteers from around the world, no matter how far away from the programmes you are. The majority of volunteers that we host come from the UK, US, Germany, Canada and Australia.
Can I go with my friend / partner?
We have many volunteers that travel with their friends, family members or with their partner. If required, we can ensure that you are based on the same project and stay within the same accommodation. On request, we can normally organise a private room too.
Is it safe to travel to Tanzania?
We regularly visit and participate in each and every one of the programmes we offer in Tanzania to rigorously check all aspects of the project and accommodation are safe and that all procedures are being followed. These include but are not limited to checking the living conditions within the volunteer accommodations, checking the neighbourhoods you’ll be staying in, tasting the food you’ll be eating and going on any weekend trips recommended by us or our local team.
We monitor the stability of all of our volunteer destinations on a daily basis and have constant contact with our overseas teams to ensure that our volunteers are safe.
All volunteers will receive a comprehensive volunteer handbook when you choose to join us on one of our programmes. This detailed document addresses a large range of issues such as health, safety, visas, as well as going into details about local cultures and traditions.
When you arrive in-country, you will be given a safety briefing during your orientation that will cover things like emergency procedures, how to use local transport and any cultural differences.
Our in-country team are on hand to help with any issues or to answer any questions and please do not forget that our UK office is available 24/7 in case of any rare emergencies.
While we can never guarantee your volunteer experience will be 100% trouble free, we have taken all of the necessary precautions to minimise all risks and to ensure the programme is as safe as possible.
Before You Depart
When do I pay? Can I pay in instalments?
To confirm and guarantee your placement on one of our programmes, you need to pay the registration fee of £149 within 7 days of receiving confirmation that your application was successful. The remaining balance is then due no less than 60 days prior to your programme start date.
Payments can be done all at once or be spread out over several months and can be paid via BACS (bank transfer). We do accept additional payment methods such as debit and credit cards, although there may be additional fees.
Do I need any vaccinations and / or malaria tablets?
As we are not trained medical experts we cannot tell you exactly what vaccinations or other medication you may need for your trip. You will need to consult with your local doctors or travel clinic.
You can also find additional information on the NHS Fit For Travel website.
How do I arrange my flights?
We work closely with several partners in the aviation industry to provide competitively priced flights. Not only this, but our specialist team know each and every one of our programmes so we can ensure you get the most suitable flight with regards to arrival and departure times into Tanzania. If you would like any assistance with booking your flight, then please drop us an email and we will be happy to provide a quote.
Please note that we cannot accept standby flights. All flight details provided to us must be fully confirmed.
Do you offer travel insurance?
Travel insurance is a compulsory part of your volunteering trip, that’s why we have teamed up with Endsleigh to create an affordable and comprehensive travel insurance policy. It is suitable for all of the programmes we offer and can be taken out at any time. You can read more about our insurance here.
If you decide to purchase your travel insurance from an alternative provider, please ensure it covers you for everything you will be doing. Adequate travel insurance must be in place no less than 60 days before your programme start date. Without proof of this insurance, we will not be able to accept you onto the programme.
When will I receive my volunteer handbook?
You will receive a welcome email from us as soon as you have paid the registration fee and your placement has been confirmed. The welcome email will include the volunteer handbook that provides a wealth of information that will help you better understand all aspects of your upcoming trip as well as details about our insurance policy.
Please note, all material is sent via email and hard copies cannot be sent.
On Your Trip
Can I arrange a private room?
The majority of our accommodation only offers shared rooms that are usually same-sex. However, if you would prefer a private room please let us know and we will at least try for you.
Can you cater for my dietary requirements?
We will try our best to cater for any dietary requirements. When you submit your application please include any required details within the dietary section and we will liaise with our local coordinators.
Are there any public holidays that would affect the project?
Although we try to be as clear as possible of all holidays that affect project availability, due to the nature of some countries, holidays can often be sporadic or prone to change.
If such a holiday falls when you are on your placement, this is generally a good time to experience unique festivities where you can join in with the locals.
What is the dress code at the projects?
We ask that all volunteers take the approach of a smart and responsible image during your time in the communities and on projects. It is best to also take some older clothes that you don't mind getting dirty.
Generally, it is best to avoid tight and very short clothing and anything that may have offensive slogans on it. It's recommended that you take some nicer clothes for weekends or any free time you may have.
We do not wish to impose strict regulations, however we do ask that you respect the local culture and do your best to adhere to the clothing guidelines within the volunteer handbook.
How much spending money will I need?
For general expenses and some travelling, you should find that £50 - £100 per week is sufficient. However, this can vary greatly depending on the amount of activities or trips you do and if you are eating out during the week.
Will I be able to travel whilst on the programme?
There should be plenty of time to travel while on your placement and we actively encourage that you do! The local coordinators will be able to give you lots of travel tips and provide any help needed for your independent adventure.
