Experiencing a new culture and seeing a completely different part of the world, whilst being able to help at the school. The teachers were extremely welcoming, and I will be back. The kids are so eager to learn, and I made lots of posters for their class, so it is nice to know that even though I have left, I have been able to give them that. Anyone thinking about doing it, I say just go for it. I was incredibly anxious to go away and do that, but the moment I got there, all nerves disappeared. Everyone from the locals, to other volunteers, are amazing, and you will meet so many people from all over the world, and make friends for life.

Volunteer in Zambia
Explore International Volunteer HQ’s exciting Zambia volunteer abroad program. Choose from a wide range of trusted Zambia volunteer projects, including Teaching, Medical and Construction & Renovation, Elderly Care, Childcare and a unique Rural Teaching project. Volunteer opportunities in Zambia are based in Livingstone, which is a hub for travelers visiting Victoria Falls and the surrounding National Parks. With affordable Program Fees and top rated volunteer projects trusted by over 147,000 travellers, IVHQ is the best volunteer organisation in Zambia.
Highlights:
- 6 meaningful project options available year-round
- Program Fees from AU$715 for 1 week
- Includes airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support
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Accommodation in a dormitory-style volunteer house
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Projects based in Livingstone and surrounding rural areas
Key information
Volunteer opportunities in Zambia
Increases access to education
3-5 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from AU$715
- Duration: 1 - 16 weeks
- Programs start every first and third Monday of the month
- Based in kindergartens and daycare centres
- Volunteers aged 18+ and families
Help in kindergartens and daycare centres for underprivileged children aged between 2-6. Assist with lessons and fun activities, using your creativity to make the days exciting and fulfilling.
Supports community development
3-5 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from AU$800
- Duration: 1 - 16 weeks
- Programs start every first and third Monday of the month
- Community centres and schools
- Volunteers aged 18+ and families
Help local builders with hands-on work to build and improve community centres, toilet facilities and schools in poor communities where labor is often hard to find.
Improves health & wellbeing
4-5 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from AU$715
- Duration: 1 - 16 weeks
- Programs start every first and third Monday of the month
- Based in elderly care facilities
- Volunteers aged 18+ and families
Volunteer in under-resourced elderly care facilities for those who need support, but can’t get it from their families. Provide general care and assistance in a range of areas where help is needed.
Improves health & wellbeing
3-5 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from AU$889
- Duration: 1 - 16 weeks
- Programs start every first and third Monday of the month
- Based in clinics
- Volunteers aged 18+
Volunteer in medical centres in low income communities, shadowing and assisting local medical staff. Volunteers with relevant experience can assist in a range of medical fields.
Increases access to education
4-8 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from AU$1063
- Duration: 1 - 8 weeks
- Programs start every first and third Monday of the month
- Based in rural villages and schools
- Volunteeers aged 18+ and families
Help informal community or government schools set up for students who can’t afford to pay for their education. Teach English and other subjects as the head teacher or teaching assistant.
Increases access to education
3-5 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from AU$715
- Duration: 1 - 16 weeks
- Programs start every first and third Monday of the month
- Based in local schools
- Volunteers aged 18+ and families
Help informal community or government schools set up for students who can’t afford to pay for their education. Teach English and other subjects as the head teacher or teaching assistant.
What recent volunteers said about their IVHQ experience
Volunteering with IVHQ was the best thing I have ever done. I would repeat my time in Zambia a million times over if I could. I came alone and was initially a little nervous but if I could give any advice to someone hesitant about joining the program I would say just do it! I felt so safe and supported throughout my entire stay.
I gained friendships and understanding of how a different part of the world lives. Even though it is scary because you might have no idea what to expect, Zambia was an amazing country with the friendliest people and support. I felt very safe there and have made connections with the local people.
The local team were very supportive. I loved how they let me call my boyfriend and my parents to let them know I was ok before I got a sim card. We had a thorough orientation. Our flight was delayed meaning we got there a day late but they worked around this to ensure we were settled. They also came to placement with me on my first day and were very lovely, chatty and approachable with any questions. Our toilet was broken on arrival and the local team fixed it immediately which was great.
I felt I connected to the local people and gained insight to their way of life. I feel like we learnt from each other. It was also a very eye opening experience from how things were so different from home and has left me with a more giving mentality and has made me more conscious about my future lifestyle, spending etc.
Volunteering was an amazing experience! There are other volunteers there and it was amazing sharing this experience with them and we often planned our weeks together, so you will not be alone.
IVHQ provided good communication and was very helpful pre-departure with the list of things to complete so you don't miss out on anything. The local went above and beyond - I couldn't have asked for a better group of people to look after me.
I feel like I've gained so much information and learned so much about their culture. I've learned to appreciate things in life a lot more and not take certain things for granted. The advice I would give is just go do it. You meet amazing people who all have the ambitions as you. Throw your self into the program you have chosen and don't be afraid to get stuck in.
To read all reviews, visit our reviews page.

Webinar: Volunteering abroad in Zambia with IVHQ
Considering volunteering abroad in Zambia? Watch the replay of our webinar where our experts will answer all your questions, give their top program recommendations, and give you tips and tricks to make the most of your volunteer abroad program.
Popular add-ons & experiences in Zambia
Take your volunteer experience to the next level with these popular add-ons and experiences. Explore your options below and learn how to book them once you've been accepted onto the IVHQ Zambia program.

A memorable 2 day safari experience at the Chobe National Park, Botswana, known for its huge elephant herds.

Experience Mosi-Oa-Tunya guided game drives, home of most of Zambia’s white rhino population.

Enjoy a stress-free ride from your accommodation to the airport, organized by the local team.

A memorable 2 day safari experience at the Chobe National Park, Botswana, known for its huge elephant herds.

Experience Mosi-Oa-Tunya guided game drives, home of most of Zambia’s white rhino population.

Enjoy a stress-free ride from your accommodation to the airport, organized by the local team.