As a medical volunteer in Tanzania with PMGY, you’ll have an incredible opportunity to gain first-hand insight into the Tanzanian healthcare system. Whether you’re considering a career in healthcare or currently studying a health-related subject at university, this program provides invaluable real-world experience to support your professional development. By working alongside and learning from local staff, you’ll gain exposure to healthcare practices and challenges that are rarely encountered in your home country.
Medical Volunteer Program Highlights
- Support The UN’s Sustainable Development Goal No. 3 For Improved Health
- Gain Medical Experience Across Public Hospitals & Local Clinics In Arusha
- Shadow Local Healthcare Professionals & Observe Patient Care Across Wards
- Explore More Of Tanzania With Weekend Trips To Zanzibar & Safari Adventures
- Experience Tanzanian Culture Through Cooking Classes & Swahili Lessons
Background to the Medical Program
Tanzania, like many African countries, faces a severe shortage of healthcare workers. Low wages, challenging working conditions, and limited training programs all contribute to the issue. The situation is worsened by the growing demands of HIV/AIDS treatment, leading to a decline in health standards that leaves Tanzania trailing behind many other developing nations.
The leading causes of death in Tanzania include malaria, HIV/AIDS, respiratory diseases, and cardiovascular conditions. Many of these illnesses are challenging to prevent, and the healthcare system is heavily focused on treating urgent cases. However, significant efforts are also made to educate patients on preventative measures to reduce future risks.
As a medical volunteer in Tanzania with PMGY, you’ll have a unique opportunity to gain first-hand insight into the country’s healthcare system. PMGY collaborates with a government hospital and a community clinic in the Arusha and Meru districts, providing you with an exciting chance to experience healthcare delivery in diverse settings.
This medical program is ideal for individuals looking to gain practical volunteer experience to enhance their medical careers. Participants will have the opportunity to explore a range of departments, offering varied and valuable exposure to different aspects of healthcare. Beyond the professional experience, this program also provides a gateway to exploring one of the most beautiful and culturally rich countries in the world!
Medical Volunteer Placement Examples
Muriet Hospital - Located within one of Arusha’s growing residential communities, Muriet Hospital plays an important role in providing accessible healthcare to local families and surrounding neighbourhoods. As a government-operated facility, the hospital manages a varied patient caseload each day, allowing medical volunteers to gain exposure to a broad spectrum of healthcare services within the Tanzanian public health system.
The hospital offers learning opportunities across a number of departments, including General Medicine, Maternity, Paediatrics, Outpatient Care, Laboratory Services, Antenatal Clinics, Family Planning, and Community Health. Volunteers work alongside local doctors, nurses, and healthcare staff, observing patient care and developing a greater understanding of how healthcare is delivered in a resource-conscious environment. Although volunteers are welcome to express their areas of interest, placements are ultimately determined by hospital needs and availability.
Your placement will begin with an introduction to the hospital, where staff will outline the different departments and discuss your interests. Volunteers may remain within a single department or experience several during their placement, depending on the duration of their stay and operational requirements.
For many volunteers, one of the most rewarding aspects of Muriet Hospital is the opportunity to gain firsthand insight into healthcare practices that may differ considerably from those at home. The placement encourages cultural exchange, adaptability, and professional development while offering a realistic perspective on both the challenges and successes of healthcare delivery in Tanzania. Through observation and engagement with local staff, volunteers leave with a deeper appreciation of global health issues and the important role community hospitals play in supporting local populations.
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Medical volunteers in Tanzania can gain experience in various departments, including Dental, Diabetes Clinic, General Medical Consultation, Laboratory, HIV Awareness and Testing, Midwifery & Labour Ward, Newborn Care and Immunisations, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Optical, Paediatrics, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy (part-time), Prenatal and Antenatal Care, Radiology, Surgery (both minor and major), and the Tuberculosis Wing. While you may indicate preferences in your application, specific placements cannot be guaranteed.
On your first day, you’ll receive an orientation from the matron, who will discuss your interests and aim to get you rotated between your preferred departments. You can focus on one or two departments or rotate through several, with a minimum of one week typically recommended in each area.
This placement offers the chance to encounter cases rarely seen in your home country, such as Typhoid and TB, and to learn about tropical diseases like Malaria, Yellow Fever, and Dengue. However, working in a government hospital comes with challenges, such as limited equipment and facilities, which can evoke strong emotions. Tanzanian healthcare may feel more relaxed in pace, and patient interactions may appear impersonal. By embracing these differences and immersing yourself in the experience, you can make a meaningful impact while gaining invaluable insight and knowledge.
Community Clinic – The community clinic provides affordable healthcare to some of the poorest residents in Arusha and surrounding areas. As the first full-service charity clinic in the city, it serves up to 3,000 patients monthly despite its relatively small size. Patients can receive consultations, blood work, and prescription treatments for minimal fees.
Departments at the clinic include General Medical Consultation, Minor Surgeries (primarily fractures), Laboratory, Pharmacy, X-ray, and Ultrasound. As a volunteer in Tanzania, you’ll have the opportunity to work across multiple departments, guided by the head doctor and their team, who are dedicated to involving you in as much as possible.
In the small surgery room, you might assist with procedures such as circumcision, abscess or cyst removal, drainage, and stitching. The pharmacy offers a chance to learn about commonly prescribed medications, including antibiotics, anti-worm treatments, and antimalarial drugs. This placement is open to all medical backgrounds, including school leavers and university students. You’ll witness a variety of cases, including malaria and typhoid, along with frequent issues in obstetrics, basic dentistry, and the urinary system.
Student Elective Opportunities
PMGY offers specialist elective placements for students in Tanzania, providing a unique opportunity to gain invaluable international experience. Whether you’re pursuing a career in medicine, midwifery or nursing, our programs allow you to learn directly from health professionals in distinctive medical settings. As a medical volunteer in Tanzania, you can specify your desired clinical elective during the online application process. Simply highlight your preferences in the ‘Special Requirements’ section, and the PMGY Tanzania team will organise everything to ensure your elective placement runs smoothly.
Medical – As part of your medical elective in Tanzania, you’ll be based at a government hospital in Arusha. Here, you’ll shadow doctors and nurses during their daily rounds, learning about the diagnosis, management, and treatment of common illnesses such as Malaria and Typhoid.
Midwifery – Gain unparalleled international midwifery experience during your placement in Tanzania. Shadow experienced midwives in the maternity ward, observing consultations and assessing the conditions faced by pregnant women in Tanzania. Witness childbirth in the delivery room and explore the stark differences in maternal care, including limited support during labour and prenatal care. Your midwifery elective will be an eye-opening journey into the challenges and triumphs of maternal healthcare in a developing country.
Nursing – Embark on a transformative experience with a nursing elective in Tanzania. Shadow nurses in a government hospital as they care for patients, monitor their health, and administer medication. Rotate across different departments to witness a range of medical cases, illnesses, and injuries. Additionally, take part in community outreach work by assisting with healthcare checks, wound care, and screenings for tropical diseases. You’ll also have the chance to conduct blood pressure and blood sugar tests, gaining valuable experience while making a meaningful impact.
Each elective offers a unique opportunity to broaden your medical knowledge and develop your skills, all while contributing to essential healthcare services in Tanzania.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Work Day
As a medical volunteer in Tanzania, you will have the unique opportunity to observe and learn from qualified healthcare professionals. If you have little or no medical experience, your role will primarily be observational, allowing you to gain insights into the Tanzanian healthcare system. For those studying a medically related degree, there may be opportunities for basic hands-on involvement. However, this is dependent on building trust with the local doctors and nurses, as well as obtaining patient consent.
Your primary role as a medical volunteer in Tanzania is to observe and learn about healthcare practices in a developing country. This experience will provide you with a deeper understanding of common health challenges in Tanzania, such as malaria and typhoid, and how they are managed within the constraints of a resource-limited setting. It also offers a comparative perspective on healthcare practices between Tanzania and your home country.
You can expect to spend 3-5 hours per day on the project, typically working from either 8:30am to 1pm or 11am to 4pm, Monday to Friday. Volunteers are often welcome to stay longer at the project if they wish to further immerse themselves in the experience.
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Other Things to Consider as a Medical Volunteer in Tanzania
Return Airport Transfer – Your return airport transfer is not included in your Program Fee. However, our local team can assist in arranging onward transfers to the airport or another destination. Making arrangements once you’re in-country allows for greater flexibility, especially as plans can often change, and some participants may share similar flight schedules. Costs will vary depending on your chosen method of transport and destination, and they can often be split if you’re travelling with fellow trip participants. It is strongly advised not to use public transport or tuk-tuks for airport transfers, as they are less convenient and pose additional safety risks.
Hands-On Involvement – The level of hands-on involvement at medical volunteer abroad projects depends on several factors, including your medical background, the length of your program, and your willingness to participate. The medical staff overseeing your work decides upon the extent of your involvement, ensuring all procedures are carried out responsibly.
Some previous participants in the medical volunteer in Tanzania program have been allowed to administer IV injections, dress wounds, and perform other basic tasks. However, hands-on involvement cannot be guaranteed, regardless of your experience. Volunteers without medical training typically take on observational roles, while those pursuing medical studies may have the opportunity for more direct participation under supervision.
Hospital Experience – Healthcare students who can provide proof of study may be eligible for additional learning opportunities. Be prepared to encounter cultural differences in bedside manners and expressions of grief, which may differ significantly from Western norms. Government hospital placements can be emotionally challenging, and medical staff may not always offer emotional support during difficult moments. If you feel uncomfortable, you are encouraged to step away and discuss any issues with our local team.
Trained Professionals – This program is not designed for trained professionals looking to practise medicine overseas. It is specifically tailored for school leavers and medical students who wish to learn about healthcare systems abroad and gain experience in a supportive environment.
Photos – Please note that photography is not allowed in clinical areas. Patients are often in vulnerable situations, and taking photos can compromise their privacy and dignity. Even if you witness something memorable or medically interesting, capturing images is not appropriate. You are welcome to take general photos outside of clinical settings, but always follow local guidance and respect the privacy of staff, patients, and the wider community.
Advice for 17-Year-Olds – While the medical program in Tanzania is open to participants aged 17 and above, younger volunteers must be confident, proactive, and capable of using their initiative. The large government hospital setting can be overwhelming for some. For a more structured experience with closer mentorship, consider our medical programs in India or Sri Lanka.
Multiple Projects – Typically, you will be placed at one medical facility during your program. In some cases, it may be possible to combine placements across multiple facilities. However, this incurs an additional local payment of 150 USD as a medical donation to the new facility.
Yellow Fever – Tanzanian authorities have updated their Yellow Fever Vaccination requirements. The vaccination is only legally required for:
• Travellers arriving from countries with a risk of Yellow Fever transmission
• Travellers transiting through at-risk countries for 12 hours or more
Despite this, some participants outside these criteria have been asked to show proof of vaccination upon arrival. To avoid confusion or entry issues, it’s advisable to obtain the Yellow Fever Vaccination before your trip. Ensure you plan ahead to secure the vaccination in time. While there has been ongoing debate about this requirement, PMGY’s team has consistently been asked for proof upon arrival, so we recommend obtaining the vaccination to avoid complications.
Weekend Trip Opportunities
Explore three world-famous national parks in Tanzania with a specially tailored three-day safari to Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire. Enjoy stunning scenery, an excellent chance to spot the Big Five, and evenings around the campfire. Accommodation is in comfortable glamping tents with hot meals prepared by a private chef and expert guides leading the way in open-roof safari jeeps.
Getting There
• 3 hours by private jeep
Where to Stay
• Accommodation included in trip price
Things to Do
• Game Drives in Three National Parks – Included
• Big Five Sightings – Included
• Evening Bonfire and Star Gazing – Included
Just a short flight from Arusha, Zanzibar is a tropical island escape with white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and rich Swahili culture. Whether you want a lively weekend or a relaxing break, our team can help arrange flights, accommodation, and activities.
Getting There
• 4 hours by private taxi and flight
Where to Stay
• Hostel Dorm – 10–25 GBP per night
• Guesthouse – 40–60 GBP per night
• Beach Hotel – 70+ GBP per night
Things to Do
• Snorkelling Trip – 25 GBP
• Sunset Dhow Cruise – 15 GBP
• Kite Surfing – 50 GBP per hour
• Stone Town Tour – 25 GBP
• Spice Farm Tour – 15 GBP
Hike through lush rainforest at the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro to Materuni Waterfalls, one of the tallest in the region. Enjoy a traditional Chagga coffee-making experience and a local lunch before returning to Arusha.
Getting There
• 3 hours by private vehicle
Where to Stay
• Day trip from Arusha
Things to Do
• Waterfall Hike – Included
• Coffee Experience – Included
• Local Lunch – Included
Spend a relaxing day at the Chemka Hot Springs surrounded by palm trees and crystal-clear geothermal pools. It’s the perfect way to recharge before a new week of volunteering.
Getting There
• 3 hours by private vehicle
Where to Stay
• Day trip from Arusha
Things to Do
• Swimming in the Hot Springs – Included
• Float Hire – 5 GBP
Experience the thrill of Mount Kilimanjaro with a one-day hike to base camp. Led by an experienced guide, you’ll explore different ecological zones, enjoy lunch on the trail, and take in incredible views without the full summit trek.
Getting There
• 4 hours by private vehicle
Where to Stay
• Day trip from Arusha
Things to Do
• Hike to Base Camp – Included
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- Six friends smile and embrace at sunset on a scenic hillside, capturing a joyful moment of friendship and outdoor adventure.
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- Tourists photograph a tranquil elephant in Tanzania’s lush savannah under a partly cloudy sky.
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- Joyful snorkeler holding a vibrant red starfish in crystal-clear tropical waters, celebrating marine beauty and underwater adventure.
Accommodation - Shared & Comfort Options Available
Volunteer House
During your time on the Tanzania volunteer program, you will stay at our Volunteer House in Arusha, the city where our volunteer programs are based. Located at the foot of Mount Meru, the house is in a peaceful residential neighbourhood with restaurants, supermarkets and ATMs nearby.
You will share the Volunteer House with other international volunteers, creating a friendly and social environment throughout your stay. The house has communal areas where you can relax and spend time with other participants, as well as a refrigerator for storing food and drinks and access to filtered drinking water. A laundry service is available onsite, or you can choose to hand wash your clothes.
Free Wi-Fi is available at the Volunteer House, although the connection can occasionally be unreliable. Volunteers are also provided with a local SIM card for use with an unlocked phone. Power cuts can occur from time to time in Tanzania and are usually resolved within a few hours.
Both shared and private room options are available within the Volunteer House. All volunteers are provided with bed linen, a locker and a mosquito net. For added security, a nightguard is on duty at the house, and valuables can also be stored securely with our local team. We recommend bringing a small padlock for personal use.
Most volunteer projects are within walking distance of the Volunteer House, while some require a short drive. The local team will explain the most suitable transport arrangements for your placement during orientation.
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
Our Shared Option offers the most social way to experience life at the Volunteer House. Bedrooms are arranged dorm style and separated by gender, with up to 10 volunteers sharing a room. This makes it easy to meet other participants and become part of the volunteer community from the beginning of your stay.
Bathroom facilities are shared with other volunteers and include western style toilets and showers. Hot water is available whenever possible. This is our standard accommodation option and is particularly popular with younger volunteers who enjoy the communal experience of living alongside a larger group.
🔒 Comfort Option - Private Room Upgrade 150 USD100 GBP120 EUR210 AUD170 CAD Per Week (Recommended for 26+ Year Olds)
For volunteers who prefer additional privacy and their own space to unwind, our Comfort Option provides a private bedroom within the Volunteer House. You still share all of the communal areas and social aspects of the house, while having your own room to return to at the end of the day.
Comfort rooms can accommodate a solo traveller or two people travelling together and contain a single bed. Each Comfort room also has its own private ensuite bathroom with a western style toilet and shower, with hot water available whenever possible.
Wi-Fi
Yes (Free)
People Per Room
Up To 8 (Shared) or 1 (Comfort)
Single Sex Rooms
Yes
Western Bathroom Facilities
Yes
Airport Transfer
1.5 Hours
Nearest ATM & Shops
5 Minute Walk
Meals
Volunteers enjoy breakfast and dinner prepared on-site by our cook. Meals are a mix of Tanzanian and Western cuisine. For lunch, you can visit the restaurant opposite the Volunteer House or explore nearby eateries near your placement. Alternatively, Western supermarkets in Arusha offer supplies if you prefer to prepare your own meals at the house.
Meals follow a rotating weekly menu, providing a variety of dishes. Dinner portions are divided equally to ensure everyone gets their fair share. Filtered water is available at the Volunteer House for a small cost.
* Our team will do their best to cater for dietary requirements, but this cannot always be guaranteed. Volunteers may need to purchase additional ingredients at their own expense. Please note any dietary requirements in your application and re-iterate them to the local team on arrival. For major concerns, contact the PMGY International Team before confirming your place on the program.
Here is an example of the meals you can expect:
Breakfast
Pancakes, Eggs, Toast, Jam, Coffee
Lunch
Not Included
Dinner
Pasta, Beans, Rice, Chapati, Sweet Potato
Program Location
FAQ's
PMGY welcomes medical volunteers in Tanzania of all nationalities, religions, and backgrounds. The minimum age to join the program is 17, with no upper age limit. Additionally, all volunteers need to have good English, although it does not need to be your first language. While it’s not necessary to speak the local dialect, you’ll find that learning a few local words during your time in Tanzania will go a long way in building connections and enriching your experience.
As a Tanzania medical volunteer, you must provide a clean criminal background check before volunteering with us abroad. This ensures the safety and well-being of the children and communities we work with. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept anyone with previous criminal convictions.
In general, no formal experience or qualifications are required to join the medical projects — just lots of energy, enthusiasm, and a proactive approach to preparation! However, please note that medical and healthcare projects often require additional documentation before participation begins in-country.
Volunteering overseas can be a rewarding yet demanding experience. It can be physically and mentally challenging, so all participants must be fit in both areas. If you have any medical or mental health conditions that may affect your participation, these must be disclosed to us during your online application. This ensures we can best support you and assess the program’s suitability.
If you have any concerns or queries regarding your eligibility or suitability for the Tanzania medical program, we recommend that you contact us before committing to the program. Our team is always happy to assist you in making an informed decision and ensuring a positive and enriching experience for all involved.
For your volunteer trip to Tanzania, you should book your flights to Kilimanjaro International Airport (airport code JRO) to arrive on the designated Sunday start date. This is the official arrival day for the program, ensuring a smooth and well-organised beginning to your experience as a Tanzania medical volunteer.
Please check out our Chaperoned Flight options for group flights from London Heathrow on selected start dates.
Upon your arrival, you will be warmly greeted at the airport by a member of our local team or an appointed driver. They will be easy to spot, holding a sign with your name to ensure you feel welcomed from the moment you land. From there, they will escort you to your accommodation, where you will have the rest of the day to relax, settle in, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
The program officially ends on the Sunday of your final week. This means you will need to vacate the accommodation on this day to make way for new participants arriving for their own life-changing experiences. Our local team will be available to assist with arranging transport to the airport or providing guidance for any onward travel plans you may have.
Whether you’re just arriving or bidding farewell to Tanzania, our team is here to ensure your transition is as seamless and stress-free as possible. Your time as a Tanzania medical volunteer will leave you with unforgettable memories, meaningful connections, and a lasting impact on the communities you’ve helped.
You can apply anytime for most of our programs, including the Tanzania medical volunteer program. However, we highly recommend applying soon to secure your spot. Some of our programs have limited capacity, and spaces can fill quickly, especially during our peak travel period from June to August. If you plan to join us during this time, applying early is even more important to avoid disappointment!
When you embark on this experience, you must be 100% committed to joining the program. To apply, locate the “Apply Now” button on the individual project page. This will guide you step-by-step through our online Application Process. We’ve made it as straightforward and user-friendly as possible so that you can easily secure your place.
Based on feedback from previous Tanzania medical volunteers, we’ve found that 3-4 weeks is the ideal amount of time to fully immerse yourself in the experience of volunteering in Tanzania. This duration provides ample opportunity to integrate into the local community, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to your chosen project. Over this time, you’ll be able to make a lasting positive impact while having plenty of time to explore Tanzania’s incredible sights and culture during your weekends.
Many of our Tanzania medical volunteers who joined us for just 2 weeks often expressed that their time was too short. They leave wishing they had stayed longer to further engage with the projects they’ve grown passionate about. If your schedule allows, we highly encourage you to consider a longer stay to make the most of this life-changing experience!
While our programs are available for longer durations, volunteers can initially sign up for a maximum of 12 weeks in each destination. In the past, we’ve found that some volunteers commit to extended placements but later wish to adjust their plans for independent travel or to join another program. Please note, however, that Program Fees are non-refundable once committed. If you arrive and find yourself loving the program (as many do!), you are more than welcome to extend your placement. Extensions are subject to availability at the time of your request, but our team will do their best to accommodate your desire to stay longer and continue making an impact.
For those considering an even more adventurous journey, we recommend exploring our Encounter Programs. These unique opportunities allow you to experience 2-4 week stays across 3-10 destinations, offering a perfect balance of travel, cultural immersion, and volunteering.
At PMGY, we understand the importance of safety, especially for first-time travellers, and we work diligently to ensure that all our programs, including those in Tanzania, provide a secure and enriching experience. Our programs are carefully designed to balance structure and independence perfectly. This means you’ll enjoy a guided and supportive environment while free to explore and immerse yourself in local culture. For further details, please refer to our Safety & Wellbeing page.
Volunteer safety in each destination is a top priority and is monitored regularly. A member of our International Team has thoroughly inspected every PMGY program to ensure it meets our high standards. We also stay current with advice published by the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office. Through constant communication with our local teams, we ensure that our volunteers are always placed in secure and stable regions.
Our International Team has personally visited and participated in every program we offer, paying close attention to every detail—from the living conditions and local neighbourhoods to the food you’ll enjoy. These meticulous checks ensure that all aspects of your stay meet our rigorous standards. Additionally, our local teams are experienced professionals with years of experience hosting international volunteers. They serve as PMGY’s trusted representatives, offering 24/7 support to all volunteers throughout their stay. To further enhance your safety, PMGY provides a 24-hour international emergency line accessible at all times. In-country staff also maintain connections with local medical professionals, ensuring that immediate assistance is available should it be required during your placement as a Tanzania medical volunteer.
Before you embark on your journey, you’ll receive a comprehensive Volunteer Handbook, which covers key topics such as health, safety, visas, and dress codes. If you have additional or specific questions, our dedicated support team is available 24/7 to assist. Furthermore, on a monthly basis, PMGY hosts an Introductory Webinar and a Safety Webinar. These interactive sessions offer invaluable information about our projects and practical tips for staying safe abroad.
When you arrive in-country, you’ll participate in a detailed orientation session. This introduction will cover the general volunteer program and your specific project, including essential safety advice tailored to your destination. During this session, you’ll also have the opportunity to purchase a local SIM card — a step we highly recommend to ensure you remain contactable at all times. Additionally, you’ll receive a comprehensive list of essential contact numbers to keep on hand during your stay.
While no travel experience can ever be guaranteed 100% trouble-free, PMGY has taken every precaution to ensure that your time as a Tanzania medical volunteer is as safe and enjoyable as possible. We strongly suggest following the local team’s guidance and advice to ensure your safety throughout your journey.
