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Brilliant 4.72rating (254)
  • Sustainable Cities And Communities

Construction & Renovation Assist

location
1 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Help to improve living and educational settings for local residents.
  • Take part in maintenance tasks at the local school.
  • Laying bricks, carpentry work, painting, tiling, landscaping, and gardening.

Highlights

  • Help to improve living and educational settings for local residents.
  • Take part in maintenance tasks at the local school.
  • Laying bricks, carpentry work, painting, tiling, landscaping, and gardening.
  • Stay in the unique Stone Town, a facinating mix of cultures.
  • Improve local schools by creating more engaging learning spaces.
    • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Help with the renovation of libraries, playgrounds, fixing school furniture, and anything that requires a helping hand.

    Join this hands-on community project and help create a welcoming and inspiring learning environment for local students. Contribute through practical tasks such as bricklaying, carpentry, painting, and landscaping while assisting with essential building repairs and renovations. Additionally, bring ...

    About the program

    Join this hands-on community project and help create a welcoming and inspiring learning environment for local students. Contribute through practical tasks such as bricklaying, carpentry, painting, and landscaping while assisting with essential building repairs and renovations. Additionally, bring your artistic touch to enhance the school surroundings with creative designs. Guided by experienced local coordinators and foremen, this rewarding initiative allows you to make a lasting impact while fostering teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

    Program Highlights
    • Improve local schools by creating safer and more engaging learning spaces.
    • Participate in hands-on tasks such as bricklaying, painting, and landscaping.
    • Assist with essential renovations, including repairing furniture and equipment.
    • Use creativity to beautify school surroundings with artistic designs.
    • Work alongside local coordinators and foremen for guidance and support.
    Your Role:
    • Take part in physical tasks such as carpentry, tiling, and gardening.
    • Assist with maintenance and renovation projects to enhance school facilities.
    • Use artistic skills to brighten and beautify the learning environment.
    • Collaborate with local staff to ensure effective planning and execution.
    • Contribute to creating a positive and inspiring space for students.

    Location
    Stone Town is an historic and cultural city located on the island of Zanzibar, off the coast of Tanzania. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its beautiful architecture, narrow streets, bustling markets, and rich history. It has a unique blend of African, Arab, Indian, and European influences can be seen in its buildings, food, and culture. 

    Project Tasks
    • Improve standards of local schools
    • Laying bricks, carpentry work, painting, tiling, landscaping, and gardening

    Typical day

    Monday to Friday

    You will be assisting at the program placement for 4-5 hours each day with a break in between. The day could look like this:

    • Breakfast at the accommodation
    • Construction and renovation activities
    • Morning break at the program
    • Construction and renovation activities
    • Lunch at the ...

    Typical day

    Monday to Friday

    You will be assisting at the program placement for 4-5 hours each day with a break in between. The day could look like this:

    • Breakfast at the accommodation
    • Construction and renovation activities
    • Morning break at the program
    • Construction and renovation activities
    • Lunch at the accommodation
    • Construction and renovation activities
    • Return to the accommodation
    • Free time
    • Dinner at the accommodations

    This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions, and unforeseen circumstances.

    Free-time activities

    Here are some of the best things to do in Zanzibar…

    Stone Town

    Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its winding streets, historic buildings, and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can explore the local markets, visit the old fort, and learn about Zanzibar’s fascinating history.

    Relax on ...

    Free-time activities

    Here are some of the best things to do in Zanzibar…

    Stone Town

    Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its winding streets, historic buildings, and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can explore the local markets, visit the old fort, and learn about Zanzibar’s fascinating history.

    Relax on the beaches

    Zanzibar has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with white sand, crystal clear water, and palm trees swaying in the breeze. Some of the best beaches include Nungwi, Kendwa, and Paje.

    Go on a spice tour

    Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island, and visitors can take a tour of the local spice farms to learn about the different spices grown on the island, including cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves.

    Snorkel or dive in the coral reefs

    Zanzibar’s coral reefs are home to a stunning array of marine life, including colourful fish, sea turtles, and dolphins. Visitors can go snorkelling or diving to explore these underwater wonders.

    Visit the Jozani Forest

    The Jozani Forest is a nature reserve known for its unique wildlife, including the rare red colobus monkey. Visitors can take a guided tour of the forest to learn about the local flora and fauna.

    Go on a dhow cruise

    Dhows are traditional sailing boats used for fishing and transportation in Zanzibar. Visitors can take a sunset cruise on a dhow to enjoy the beautiful scenery and watch the sun dip below the horizon.

    Visit the Prison Island

    Prison Island is a small island just off the coast of Zanzibar known for its giant tortoises and beautiful beaches. Visitors can take a boat tour to the island to see the tortoises up close and relax on the beach.

    Explore the local markets

    Zanzibar’s local markets are a colourful and lively place to explore, with vendors selling everything from spices and textiles to handmade crafts and souvenirs. Some of the best markets to visit include Darajani Market in Stone Town and Forodhani Night Market.

    Visit the Old Slave Market

    Zanzibar was once a major hub of the East African slave trade, and the Old Slave Market in Stone Town is a sombre reminder of this dark history. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the slave trade and its impact on Zanzibar.

    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level)

    Criminal Background Check

    required

    Required Documents

    Inbound travel insurance only from Zanzibar Insurance Corporation, Resume and Passport Scan

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    Program fees include: 
    • Accommodation
    • 3 meals p/day & 2 p/day at weekends
    • Arrival airport transfer (Sat/Sun arrivals)
    • Filtered drinking water, coffee & tea
    • 1 day orientation
    • Daily transportation to project
    • In country 24/7 support & emergency assistance
    • Fundraising support
    • University course credits (where applicable)
    • Certificate of Completion

    Airport Pickup at Zanzibar International Airport

    Programs begin every Monday, and volunteers are required to arrive the day prior, for orientation before the project. Your accommodation on the Sunday is included in the program fees. If arriving on Saturday, there is a fee for the extra night.

    A free airport pickup is included when arriving to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) on Saturday or Sunday between 6AM to 9PM.

    If arriving outside of the pickup times, we charge an additional fee for any extra night’s accommodation before your program, and an extra fee for a private transfer.

    Alternatively, if arriving early you could wait at the arrival’s terminal for the pickup time, book accommodation at the airport and meet us during the pickup times or make your own way to the project (we will advise on how to do this).

    From the airport to the accommodation, it takes 15-30 minutes by car to Stone Town and around 1.5 hours to Nungwi.   

    Accommodation

    You will be accommodated in a traditional and comfortable guesthouse in Chukwani, close to the popular area of Stone Town, making it a convenient location for visitors exploring the island's rich history and culture. The village offers a more local experience compared to the bustling tourist areas. Bedrooms are shared (2-8 per room, single gender), communal bathrooms, a kitchen, and a shared living room.  Bed linen, fans, and lockable rooms are all provided. No Wi-Fi, although local sim cards can easily be purchased nearby. You will can find a few small local stores that sell snacks, drinks and any basic supplies you might need during your stay. Nearby, there are ATM's, banks, shops, a local pharmacy, etc.

    The nearest beach to Chukwani is typically the beach at Buyu, about 30 minutes away by walking. Buyu Beach is known for its calm waters and beautiful scenery, making it a great spot for relaxation and swimming.

    *Accommodation may be in our local centre or in close proximity, depending on availability and time of year.

     

    Food & Beverages

    All meals will be provided at the guesthouse during your stay (3 on weekdays and 2 on weekends). Local meals are typical of Zanzibari culture, such as wali (rice), ugali (maize porridge), nyama choma (grilled meat), mshikaki (marinated beef), samaki (fish), pilau (rice mixed with a variety of spices), biriyani, and ndizi-nyama (plantains with meat). Once per week all participants create together the weekly food plan.
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Internet Access

    Sorry, no access at the project site

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) in Zanzibar. We assist you to find cheap flights to Tanzania. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Tanzania provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Tanzania you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Tanzania. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    Program starts every Monday. Arrivals on Sat/ Sun. If arriving on Sat, an extra night is charged.

    *Please note: Effective 1st October 2024, Inbound travel insurance is mandatory for all foreign visitors to Zanzibar. This must be obtained only from Zanzibar Insurance Corporation. Please contact us for more info. 

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program Fees

    $782 per week 1 - 12 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES

    Duration

    1 - 12 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.

    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet
    4.7
    Top Pick
    One of the top picks on Volunteer World, according to travelers
    •
    2025
    Very well organised, had no problem checking in. The work was so nice and the people were wonderful. Staff is also there to help out with ...
    Sarah Damaschin

    School Construction

    Location

    Africa > Eastern Africa > Tanzania > Stone Town, Zanzibar

    Meet your project coordinator

    Lauren
    254
    reviews
    4.72
    Brilliant
    1989
    Founded

    Verified

      Very high response rate
    Spoken languages: English
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    Volunteer Abroad  >  Community  >  Construction in Tanzania
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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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