Tanzania – Kilimanjaro Reforestation and Conservation

Moshi Town, at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, offers a dynamic mix of cultural experiences and stunning natural scenery. Known for its vibrant markets, cafes, and warm hospitality, Moshi serves as the perfect base for conservation efforts. The program takes place at multiple sites, including the Kiviwama Tree Nursery and a botanical garden in Karanga. Volunteers will also have the opportunity to visit traditional villages and take part in sustainability projects. The town is a gateway to some of Tanzania’s top attractions, including Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, making it an ideal spot for exploration.

About the Organization:
The program is hosted by a local conservation initiative dedicated to reforestation, sustainable farming, and environmental education. The organization works closely with community leaders and schools to promote ecological awareness and sustainable practices.

About the Volunteer Work:
Volunteers will support conservation projects that include tree planting, water source protection, and hands-on workshops in eco-friendly craftsmanship. They will work alongside local farmers, artisans, and educators to implement sustainable solutions. Activities vary based on seasonal needs, ensuring impactful contributions throughout the program.

Main Volunteer Tasks:

• Assist with tree nursery operations, planting, and distributing seedlings.
• Take part in reforestation efforts at local schools and community sites.
• Support sustainable farming initiatives, including botanical garden maintenance.
• Engage in environmental education programs at schools.
• Join workshops on bamboo crafts, paper-making, and self-sufficient living.
• Help produce biodiesel and experiment with renewable energy solutions.
• Work on composting, aquaponics, and sustainable energy cooking projects.
• Contribute to community infrastructure projects such as repairing schools and bridges.

A Typical Day

• Morning: Breakfast at Siarick Cottages, followed by volunteer activities such as tree planting, farming, or environmental education.
• Lunch Break: Enjoy a meal at the accommodation or receive a packed lunch for fieldwork.
• Afternoon: Continue with conservation work or participate in workshops on eco-friendly practices.
• Evening: Dinner with fellow volunteers, debrief sessions, and leisure time.

   Internet: Wi-Fi isn’t available, but participants can use their cell phones for internet access. Every volunteer receives a local SIM card and a top-up voucher worth 10,000 TSH to purchase an internet data package.

Laundry: Washing machine is available

Accommodations: Volunteers stay at Siarick Cottages, a locally owned guesthouse in Moshi. Rooms are shared (three beds per room) and feature private bathrooms with hot showers. The property has solar lighting, 24-hour security, and communal areas.

Food: Three daily meals, prepared by local chefs, with vegetarian options available. Triple-filtered drinking water is available at no extra charge.

• Minimum age of 18
• GoEco interview
• Police clearance
• Good level of English
• Open-minded and positive attitude
• Not afraid to get your hands dirty
• Comfortable with the possibility of encountering insects during the volunteer work.
• Immunizations (please consult your local travel clinic). Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory when entering Tanzania from a yellow fever country or when having a stopover there (e.g. Kenya, Ethiopia)

Moshi Town is the perfect starting point for exploring Tanzania’s diverse landscapes and rich culture. Volunteers can hike to Materuni Waterfalls, visit Kilimanjaro National Park, or take a safari in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. Weekend trips can also include visiting hot springs, Maasai villages, or the tropical beaches of Zanzibar. For adventure seekers, Kilimanjaro trekking routes offer stunning views, while coffee tours provide insight into the region’s agricultural heritage. The town is known for its friendly atmosphere, making it an exciting place to meet locals and experience Tanzanian hospitality.

Volunteers can book tours with a budget safari company based in Moshi. They offer affordable safaris, Kilimanjaro climbs, excursions, and watersports activities in Tanzania and Zanzibar.