Teaching Volunteer Program in Zambia

Teaching Volunteer Project

location

Livingstone, Zambia

Available

year Round

Duration

2 Weeks+

Minimum Age

18 years

Price From

$2,050

Education and Community on the Banks of the Zambezi

Spend your days immersed in local school life in Livingstone, Zambia, supporting classrooms and engaging with students in a lively, community-driven environment. You’ll work alongside local teachers, contribute to daily learning, and experience the rhythm of school life in a Zambian setting.

As a teaching volunteer on this project, you’ll be living in one of Southern Africa’s most exciting destinations. Based near the iconic Victoria Falls, Livingstone offers adventure, culture, and a strong sense of community. Along with fellow volunteers, you’ll spend weekends discovering waterfalls, wildlife, and the Zambezi River. It’s about travel, growth, and seeing the world from a completely new perspective.

Project highlights

Lead lessons in a Zambian classroom

Teach Maths, English, or Science to energetic primary school students.

Get involved beyond the classroom

Support afternoon programs focused on reading, health, or sports.

Make Livingstone your home

Become part of a volunteer family and a welcoming Zambian community.

Have an adventure

Go on game drives, take a sunset cruise, and be awed by the falls.

What you’ll do

View an Example Week

Monday

07:00 – 07:40

Breakfast

08:00 – 11:00

Teaching Assistant

Volunteers assist in teaching students from grades 4 to 6, typically at Libuyu Community School. Several subjects may be taught, most commonly English, Math, or Science. Each volunteer is partnered with a school teacher to help grade papers and also has the opportunity to lead classes independently. A total of three lessons are taught each morning. Volunteers receive support in preparing the lessons, and translation assistance is available if needed.

11:00 – 12:00

Back at the Volunteer House

Volunteers have free time to read a book, run errands such as going to the supermarket, or simply relax.

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

Teaching Assistant

Volunteers assist in teaching students from grades 4 to 6, typically at Libuyu Community School. Several subjects may be taught, most commonly English, Math, or Science. Each volunteer is partnered with a school teacher to help grade papers and also has the opportunity to lead classes independently. A total of three lessons are taught each morning. Volunteers receive support in preparing the lessons, and translation assistance is available if needed.

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

Teaching Assistant

Volunteers assist in teaching students from grades 4 to 6, typically at Libuyu Community School. Several subjects may be taught, most commonly English, Math, or Science. Each volunteer is partnered with a school teacher to help grade papers and also has the opportunity to lead classes independently. A total of three lessons are taught each morning. Volunteers receive support in preparing the lessons, and translation assistance is available if needed.

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

Teaching assistant

Volunteers assist in teaching students from grades 4 to 6, typically at Libuyu Community School. Several subjects may be taught, most commonly English, Math, or Science. Each volunteer is partnered with a school teacher to help grade papers and also has the opportunity to lead classes independently. A total of three lessons are taught each morning. Volunteers receive support in preparing the lessons, and translation assistance is available if needed.

11:00 – 12:00

Back at the Volunteer House

Volunteers have free time to read a book, run errands such as going to the supermarket, or simply relax.

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 have free time to read a book, run errands such as going to the supermarket, or simply relax.

Friday

07:00 – 07:40

Breakfast

08:00 – 11:00

Teaching Assistant

Volunteers assist in teaching students from grades 4 to 6, typically at Libuyu Community School. Several subjects may be taught, most commonly English, Math, or Science. Each volunteer is partnered with a school teacher to help grade papers and also has the opportunity to lead classes independently. A total of three lessons are taught each morning. Volunteers receive support in preparing the lessons, and translation assistance is available if needed.

11:00 – 12:00

Back at the Volunteer House

Volunteers have free time to read a book, run errands such as going to the supermarket, or simply relax.

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

This cost covers your accommodation, meals, project fees, transfers, 24/7 support and in-country orientation.

 

inclusions
Exclusions

Rates

DurationProject 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)
DurationProject 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)
DurationProject 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)
DurationProject 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

What our volunteers say

Is This Project For You?

If you’re interested in education, youth development, or simply want a meaningful classroom experience abroad, this teaching project in Zambia will be a great fit for you. It offers practical exposure in a supportive setting.

By the end of your stay, you’ll have:

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.

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

Do I Need Teaching Qualifications To Volunteer In Zambia?

While a teaching qualification is not mandatory for all our teaching programs, a genuine passion for education and a willingness to learn are essential. We offer comprehensive training and support throughout your experience, equipping you with the necessary skills to effectively engage with students in a classroom setting.

You’ll be welcomed into a supportive and collaborative environment! Our experienced program coordinators and local teachers will provide ongoing guidance, mentorship, and training throughout your volunteer teaching placement. They’ll be readily available to answer your questions, address any challenges you may face, and ensure you have a fulfilling and enriching experience.

We offer comfortable and secure accommodation, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the local community and culture. You’ll have the opportunity to connect with fellow volunteers and share your experiences in a supportive and friendly environment. Additionally, we provide meals and assist with transportation arrangements to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay.

Enquire Now