Public Health and Community
Volunteer Project
location
Livingstone, Zambia
Available
year Round
Duration
2 Weeks+
Minimum Age
18 years
Price From
$2,050
Experience grassroots healthcare in action
Support local healthcare initiatives in a Zambian community where extra hands truly matter. This project places you alongside clinic staff and community caregivers, assisting with basic medical support, home-based care visits, and youth health education. You’ll gain hands-on insight into grassroots healthcare while building meaningful connections with patients and families.
You’ll be based in Livingstone, a vibrant town best known for its proximity to the iconic Victoria Falls and its welcoming community atmosphere. Living here gives you the chance to experience everyday life beyond the tourist highlights, combining meaningful volunteer work with the opportunity to explore one of Southern Africa’s most exciting destinations.
Project highlights
Get hands-on experience
Gain real insights into community healthcare
Learn from local medical teams
Observe how they adapt to community needs and practical challenges.
Build confidence and skills
Develop professional skills and cultural awareness in a healthcare setting.
Make Livingstone your home
Become part of a volunteer family and a welcoming Zambian community.
What you’ll do
View an Example Week
Monday
07:00 – 07:40
Breakfast
08:00 – 11:00
Home Based Care
In the mornings, volunteers visit different communities around Livingstone to provide home-based care, assisting patients with tasks such as dressing wounds, administering basic medication, taking vitals, and providing healthcare education. Caregivers familiar with the area accompany the volunteers and provide translation support when needed. At least once a week, volunteers also assist at the clinic, supporting nurses with tasks such as helping at the under-five clinic by weighing babies and documenting their growth, taking vitals, or observing the clinical officer.
11:00 – 12:00
Back at the Volunteer House
The volunteers have free time to read a book, go to the supermarket
12:00 – 12:30
Lunch
12:30 – 13:00
Preparation time
The volunteers prepare for the afternoon activities together with the staff, ensuring that everyone is fully prepared and understands their role for the afternoon. At times, they also help make peanut butter sandwiches and juice for the students.
13:00 – 16:00
Community project
Each day, the volunteers visit a different community project. These may include Eco Club, Math Club, Reading Club, Girl Impact, Rugby, Health Club, and others. Teaching volunteers are mixed with those working in medical, education, or sports roles to create a balanced team.
16:00 – 16:30
Back at the Volunteer House
A Monday meeting is held with the entire team to get to know one another, review the weekly plan, and share any additional announcements.
18:00 – 18:30
Dinner
18:30 – Onwards
Free night
Easy night for all the volunteers.
Tuesday
07:00 – 07:40
Breakfast
08:00 – 11:00
Home Based Care
In the mornings, volunteers visit different communities around Livingstone to provide home-based care, assisting patients with tasks such as dressing wounds, administering basic medication, taking vitals, and providing healthcare education. Caregivers familiar with the area accompany the volunteers and provide translation support when needed. At least once a week, volunteers also assist at the clinic, supporting nurses with tasks such as helping at the under-five clinic by weighing babies and documenting their growth, taking vitals, or observing the clinical officer.
11:00 – 12:00
Back at the Volunteer House
Volunteers receive an activities talk from Victoria Falls Backpackers, after which they can book their weekend activities.
12:00 – 12:30
Lunch
12:30 – 13:00
Preparation time
The volunteers prepare for the afternoon activities together with the staff, ensuring that everyone is fully prepared and understands their role for the afternoon. At times, they also help make peanut butter sandwiches and juice for the students.
13:00 – 16:00
Community project
Each day, the volunteers visit a different community project. These may include Eco Club, Math Club, Reading Club, Girl Impact, Rugby, Health Club, and others. Teaching volunteers are mixed with those working in medical, education, or sports roles to create a balanced team.
16:00 – 16:30
Back at the Volunteer House
18:00 – 18:30
Dinner
18:30 – Onwards
Movie night
Today the volunteers have a movie night in the volunteer house.
Wednesday
07:00 – 07:40
Breakfast
08:00 – 11:00
Home Based Care
In the mornings, volunteers visit different communities around Livingstone to provide home-based care, assisting patients with tasks such as dressing wounds, administering basic medication, taking vitals, and providing healthcare education. Caregivers familiar with the area accompany the volunteers and provide translation support when needed. At least once a week, volunteers also assist at the clinic, supporting nurses with tasks such as helping at the under-five clinic by weighing babies and documenting their growth, taking vitals, or observing the clinical officer.
11:00 – 12:00
Back at the Volunteer House
A language lesson is held, during which a staff member teaches the volunteers some basic Nyanja phrases.
12:00 – 12:30
Lunch
12:30 – 13:00
Preparation time
The volunteers prepare for the afternoon activities together with the staff, ensuring that everyone is fully prepared and understands their role for the afternoon. At times, they also help make peanut butter sandwiches and juice for the students.
13:00 – 16:00
Community project
Each day, the volunteers visit a different community project. These may include Eco Club, Math Club, Reading Club, Girl Impact, Rugby, Health Club, and others. Teaching volunteers are mixed with those working in medical, education, or sports roles to create a balanced team.
16:00 – 16:30
Back at the Volunteer House
18:00 – 18:30
Dinner
18:30 – Onwards
Games night
The team either play games in the volunteer house or they go to a pub quiz in town.
Thursday
07:00 – 07:40
Breakfast
08:00 – 11:00
Home Based Care
In the mornings, volunteers visit different communities around Livingstone to provide home-based care, assisting patients with tasks such as dressing wounds, administering basic medication, taking vitals, and providing healthcare education. Caregivers familiar with the area accompany the volunteers and provide translation support when needed. At least once a week, volunteers also assist at the clinic, supporting nurses with tasks such as helping at the under-five clinic by weighing babies and documenting their growth, taking vitals, or observing the clinical officer.
11:00 – 12:00
Back at the Volunteer House
The volunteers have free time to read a book, go to the supermarket.
12:00 – 12:30
Lunch
12:30 – 13:00
Preparation time
The volunteers prepare for the afternoon activities together with the staff, ensuring that everyone is fully prepared and understands their role for the afternoon. At times, they also help make peanut butter sandwiches and juice for the students.
13:00 – 16:00
Village tour
Every volunteer has the opportunity to take part in the Village Tour, which is organized by the women of the local women’s group. This tour serves as an income-generating activity for the group while allowing volunteers to visit and experience two different communities around Livingstone. Volunteers also get to taste local snacks. If a volunteer has already participated in the Village Tour the previous week, they instead take part in a community project.
16:30 – 18:00
Back at the Volunteer House
18:00 – 18:30
Dinner
18:30
Free Time
Volunteers can chill at the volunteer house and play games with each other or read a book.
Friday
07:00 – 07:40
Breakfast
08:00 – 11:00
Home Based Care
In the mornings, volunteers visit different communities around Livingstone to provide home-based care, assisting patients with tasks such as dressing wounds, administering basic medication, taking vitals, and providing healthcare education. Caregivers familiar with the area accompany the volunteers and provide translation support when needed. At least once a week, volunteers also assist at the clinic, supporting nurses with tasks such as helping at the under-five clinic by weighing babies and documenting their growth, taking vitals, or observing the clinical officer.
11:00 – 12:00
Back at the Volunteer House
The volunteers have free time to read a book, go to the supermarket etc.
12:00 – 12:30
Friday check-in
Before lunch, a “Friday Check-In” is held. During this session, volunteers are asked for feedback on the week, informed of any maintenance in the house, updated on the weekend plans, and briefed on any new arrivals.
12:30 – 13:30
Cultural meal
13:30 – 16:00
Cultural afternoon
Volunteers gather in the boma at the backpackers, where one or two staff members give a talk about Zambia. The session includes time for questions and answers, followed by a “mock wedding,” in which two volunteers are playfully married to demonstrate a traditional Zambian wedding. Afterward, everyone participates in drumming and dancing together. If a volunteer has already attended the cultural afternoon the previous week, they instead take part in a community project.
16:00 – 18:00
Back at the Volunteer House
18:00 – 18:30
Dinner
18:30 – Onwards
Free Time
Volunteers can chill at the volunteer house and play games with each other or read a book.
Living on the banks of the Zambezi
Livingstone, Zambia
Set on the banks of the Zambezi River, and a short drive from the mighty Victoria Falls, Livingstone is a town that perfectly balances adventure, culture, and everyday life in Zambia. It has a warm, welcoming energy, with friendly locals, colorful markets, and a relaxed pace that makes it easy to settle in. Outside of your volunteer hours, there’s plenty to see and do. You can spot hippos and crocodiles while taking a boat trip on the Zambezi, walk the paths around impressive Victoria Falls, or go for a game drive in the local game reserve. For those seeking adventure, options include white-water rafting and bungee jumping.
Staying at Our Base
Accommodation
Your home during your stay is a simple, comfortable volunteer house in Livingstone, designed to give you everything you need while staying immersed in local life. You’ll share rooms with other volunteers, each equipped with basic furnishings, fans, and secure storage. Bathrooms and showers are shared, and communal areas provide space to relax and connect.
There is also a pool for you to unwind during hot days. The house is within easy reach of the clinics, schools, and local amenities, so it’s easy to balance activities with downtime and explore the town at your own pace. Staying here also gives you the chance to experience daily life in Livingstone alongside other volunteers and local staff.
The Meals
Meals are prepared on-site by our local team and give a taste of Zambian cuisine alongside familiar, international options. Expect wholesome breakfasts to start your day, filling lunches during scheduled activities, and warm, home-cooked dinners in the evenings. Ingredients are fresh and locally sourced, and dietary needs can usually be accommodated with prior notice. Weekends offer the chance to try local cafés, markets, or cook together with fellow volunteers, making meals not just nourishing but also a social and cultural experience.
Support Team
You’ll be supported by an experienced local team who oversee daily activities, training, and volunteer wellbeing. They provide orientation on arrival, guide you through your volunteer work, and are available for advice and support throughout your stay. The team also helps you understand local culture and customs, ensuring your work is respectful, effective, and a positive experience for both you and the community.
Connectivity
Staying in Livingstone, you’ll have access to Wi-Fi at the volunteer house, though note speeds can vary. Local SIM cards with data are inexpensive and widely available, allowing you to stay connected while out in the community. Power outages can occasionally occur, which is part of life here, so having a charged power bank and some flexibility is useful.
Safety
Volunteer safety is a top priority. You’ll receive a full induction covering health precautions, local customs, and emergency procedures. During clinic visits and home-based care, staff ensure activities are conducted safely and responsibly. The volunteer house is in a secure area, and staff are available 24/7 in case of emergencies. Simple precautions like staying hydrated, protecting yourself from the sun, and following local guidance will help ensure your experience is both safe and enjoyable.
Flights and Arrivals
Arrive at Harry Mwanga Nkumbula (Livingstone) International Airport (LVI) on your Monday start date, landing between 9am and 6pm in order to make the complimentary transfer service. Look for the African Impact sign – a friendly face will be there to welcome you!
View rates and inclusions
Fees cover accommodation, meals, project costs, transfers, support, and in-country orientation.
inclusions
- Backpacker style accommodation with swimming pool
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner (Mon - Fri)
- Airport transfers on arrival and departure
- Transport for scheduled activities, equipment and resources
- Support from experienced local and international African Impact staff
- Full orientation for responsible participation
Exclusions
- Flights
- Visas
- Insurance
- Weekend tours
- Personal expenses
Rates
| Duration | Project Fee |
|---|---|
| 2 weeks | $2,050 ($1,025 per week) |
| 3 weeks | $2,940 ($980 per week) |
| 4 weeks | $3,830 ($958 per week) |
| 5 weeks | $4,720 ($944 per week) |
| 6 weeks | $5,610 ($935 per week) |
| 8 weeks | $7,390 ($924 per week) |
| 10 weeks | $9,170 ($917 per week) |
| 12 weeks | $10,950 ($913 per week) |
| Duration | Project Fee |
|---|---|
| 2 weeks | £1,560 (£780 per week) |
| 3 weeks | £2,235 (£745 per week) |
| 4 weeks | £2,910 (£728 per week) |
| 5 weeks | £3,590 (£718 per week) |
| 6 weeks | £4,265 (£711 per week) |
| 8 weeks | £5,620 (£703 per week) |
| 10 weeks | £6,970 (£697 per week) |
| 12 weeks | £8,325 (£694 per week) |
| Duration | Project Fee |
|---|---|
| 2 weeks | €1,825 (€913 per week) |
| 3 weeks | €2,620 (€874 per week) |
| 4 weeks | €3,410 (€853 per week) |
| 5 weeks | €4,200 (€840 per week) |
| 6 weeks | €4,995 (€833 per week) |
| 8 weeks | €6,580 (€823 per week) |
| 10 weeks | €8,165 (€817 per week) |
| 12 weeks | €9,745 (€813 per week) |
| Duration | Project Fee |
|---|---|
| 2 weeks | $2,975 ($1,488 per week) |
| 3 weeks | $4,265 ($1,422 per week) |
| 4 weeks | $5,555 ($1,389 per week) |
| 5 weeks | $6,845 ($1,369 per week) |
| 6 weeks | $8,135 ($1,356 per week) |
| 8 weeks | $10,715 ($1,340 per week) |
| 10 weeks | $13,300 ($1,330 per week) |
| 12 weeks | $15,880 ($1,324 per week) |
Requirements
The minimum age to join this project is 18 years old
The minimum stay for this project is 2 weeks
Available start dates
What our volunteers say
Is This Project For You?
If you’re considering a future in healthcare or public health, this project offers valuable exposure to real-world systems in a community setting. You don’t need prior medical qualifications, just empathy, adaptability, and a willingness to learn.
By the end of your stay, you’ll have:
- Gained practical experience in a public healthcare setting
- Developed confidence interacting with patients and families
- Learned basic clinical support skills, such as taking vitals and documentation
- Understood how community outreach supports preventative healthcare
- Built cross-cultural communication skills in a meaningful setting
Our Favorite Weekend Activities in Zambia
Africa’s adventure capital offers no shortage of ways to spend your weekends as a
volunteer. There’s something for everyone – from the adrenaline junkie to culturally
intrigued traveller.
volunteer. There’s something for everyone – from the adrenaline junkie to culturally
intrigued traveller.
Safari Time
Enjoy easy safaris in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park with elephants and zebras along the Zambezi, or cross into Botswana for Chobe’s famous elephant-filled overnight adventure.
Victoria Falls
The Zambezi River invites adventure with scenic cruises, white‑water rafting, and peaceful canoe trips, plus bungee jumping and gorge swings for those seeking an unforgettable thrill.
Tours and Markets
Experience Livingstone’s rich culture with walking or cycling village tours, explore vibrant markets, and find handmade crafts or unique local foods to bring home.
Zambezi River
The Zambezi River promises adventure with scenic cruises, thrilling white‑water rafting, and peaceful canoe trips, letting you explore vast waters and hidden, tranquil channels.
Project FAQs
What qualifications do you need to become a public health volunteer?
We place each volunteer in a healthcare setting in Zambia that perfectly suits their education, previous experience, interests, and the local community’s needs. We’ve welcomed everyone from nursing students, recently graduated doctors to experienced healthcare professionals in the past. If you have any questions about qualifications for volunteer opportunities, please contact us.
What are the benefits of becoming a community medical volunteer?
As a community medical volunteer in Zambia, you’ll be making real, transformative impacts on the lives of the local community members in desperate need of medical attention. Working alongside local doctors and nurses and gaining invaluable professional experience in global healthcare practices, this is an adventure like no other, powerfully transforming you and the local community alike.
What ethical considerations are in place to ensure I am providing appropriate support during my public health placement?
We prioritise ethical and responsible volunteering practices through all our placements. You’ll never be expected to perform tasks beyond your training or qualifications, and our experienced program coordinators will closely supervise your involvement. We emphasise cultural sensitivity and respect for local customs and traditions throughout your placement. Additionally, we have established strong partnerships with local healthcare facilities, ensuring your contributions align with their existing needs and complement the work of qualified professionals.
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