Volunteer in Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Make a real difference with KYGN.
No program fees, only cover your board & lodging.”
KYGN
KYGN (Kilimanjaro Young Girls in Need) is a private primary and secondary school based near Moshi, at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. Founded in 2006, it provides education, health care, and safe-house accommodation for some of the region’s most vulnerable children, especially girls who might otherwise miss out on schooling. Supported by the UK charity GAGA UK, KYGN now teaches over 900 students and continues to grow.
Volunteers are a vital part of our community, and we’ve been welcoming people from around the world for more than 15 years to share their skills, time, and kindness with our students.
Why Volunteer with KYGN?
Experience a life-changing adventure — while making real impact
At KYGN, we believe volunteerism should be ethical, sustainable, and community-led. When you join us, you will:
Support, not replace, our local Tanzanian staff and teachers
Be integrated into the school community — live, work, and celebrate with us
Enjoy full logistical support: accommodation, daily transport, orientation
Have opportunity for excursions in off time: Mt. Kilimanjaro treks, safaris in the best parks in the world, Maturuni Waterfalls, coffee plantations, hot springs.
Unlike many volunteer programs, KYGN does not charge a program fee, you only pay your flight, board & lodging.
Who Can Volunteer?
We welcome anyone. No prior experience is required to join one of three core volunteer roles.
During orientation, we’ll match you to the role that fits your interests, skills, and the school’s needs.
Why it matters - Many of our year groups have large class sizes so we cannot offer the individual attention many of our students require. Your support helps students catch up, build confidence, and access quality education.
Your role - Sit alongside teachers, run conversation classes, help with reading, writing, maths, run educational games, support small-group learning
Classroom / Teaching Volunteer
Medical Volunteer
Your role - Assist local medical staff: health education in schools & community, basic screening (BP, vitals), aid in community health outreach, assist in school clinic, health campaigns (malaria prevention, hygiene, nutrition)
Why it matters - In rural Tanzania, many communities have limited medical access. Your help strengthens our healthcare outreach, supports preventative health, and reduces disease burdens.
Construction / Maintenance / Mechanic Volunteer
Your role - Help build new classrooms, repair existing infrastructure, maintain school grounds, upgrade sports & playgrounds, build garden beds, assist in vehicle & bicycle maintenance
Why it matters - As our school expands, we need hands-on help to keep facilities safe, growing, and welcoming. Your efforts improve learning environments and community pride.
Testimonials & Volunteer Stories
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"My first two months in Tanzania were spent at KYGN; undoubtedly the most valuable and rewarding experience of my life so far."
Laurie Payton
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“It has been an inspirational experience for all of us, including my children who are 8 and 11 years old.”
Jamie Kokot
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"Our time at KYGN was one of the most amazing experiences of our lives."
The Clarke Family 2025
Your Volunteer Journey — What to Expect
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Fill out a short application. We’ll arrange a call and talk about your interests, skills, availability, and match you to one of the volunteer roles above.
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You’ll receive a volunteer guide, suggested packing list, recommended vaccinations, and basic Swahili phrases.
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We’ll arrange for someone to pick you up from the airport and take you to your accommodation. On your first day you’ll meet the team, tour the school and community, get an induction briefing, and observe a few classes.
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You’ll volunteer Monday–Friday during school hours (0800-1500). Evenings and weekends are free for rest, travel or excursions. We can help organise excursions and Swahili lessons
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We help coordinate weekend and holiday trips: Kilimanjaro treks, safaris, hot springs, waterfall hikes, local markets, coffee plantations, cultural visits.
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At the end of your stay, we’ll hold a debrief, share stories, and help you stay connected with KYGN & the community.
Practical Details & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Minimum 2 weeks (longer stays are very, very welcome - we often have gap year students and university students with us)
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No program fee. You cover board, lodging, daily meals, and transport to/from Tanzania.
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Hostel accommodation in Moshi or for longer stays we can help you find a house to rent.
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Daily shuttle service from accommodations to the school
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Age 18+ (14+ if accompanied by parents, younger volunteers help in the nursery school).
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No experience needed.
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English is used in education and in the school; volunteers are encouraged to learn Swahili phrases to help integrate into the local community
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We provide support, staff oversight and emergency protocols. Malaria prevention, vaccinations and travel insurance are required.
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We’ll guide you through the visa requirements.
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At the end, we’ll review your stay and we can give you any recommendations or certification you may require.
Why Tanzania
& Kilimanjaro Region?
Tanzania lies at the heart of East Africa volunteering. It’s known for its wildlife, mountains, and rich culture, and attracts thousands wanting to volunteer in East Africa.
The Kilimanjaro region offers unique advantages:
Proximity to Mt. Kilimanjaro and national parks such as The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater for safaris
Easy to get to - Kilimanjaro airport is under one hour away
A region with real needs in education, healthcare, and infrastructure
If you are looking for a volunteering opportunity that will not only have the most impact but also be close to the most iconic locations in East Africa, KYGN is a great choice.
Next Steps
Ready to join us? Here’s how to start:
Click “Apply to Volunteer” to fill the application form
Or email us with your name, skills, and preferred role
We’ll respond within 48 hours with next steps