I have completed three different programs with GoEco over the past few years, and I must say that the Zanzibar teaching program was by far the most incredible experience of them all. Although I spent six weeks on the island, it was not enough time. I plan to return in just a few months for another trip, and hopefully a longer one!
In the mornings, volunteers enjoy breakfast and then have the choice of biking through the village or walking along the stunningly beautiful beach to the children’s schools. You can also take local transportation if you prefer, for as little as $1 or $2 per day. Depending on the day, we either teach the children a prepared lesson subject for the week or design a sports class for them to play games and participate in dance activities. The kids are truly special; they are very bright, respectful, energetic, and always happy to see you each and every day. It’s a small town, so they’ll definitely say hello whenever they see you outside of school!
In the afternoons, after lunch and a little downtime, we head to the adult classes. Although working with the children was a lot of fun, the adult teaching was the highlight of my time in Zanzibar. Volunteers are typically assigned to a specific class level, where they will stay throughout their entire trip. The coordinators give you the freedom to plan and run the class as you wish, so I got to prepare lessons every week for my 15 students in the medium-level English class. It was a truly unique and amazing experience, and getting to know all the students was just so much fun. I’m so excited to see them all again and return to teaching.
The weekends are completely free for you to relax at the volunteer base, at one of the many luxury hotels in the area, or take advantage of the dozens of activities the island has to offer. The food in Zanzibar is amazing, so I would definitely recommend trying new restaurants and local places during your trip. Here are the top activities I would recommend!
1. The Floating Rock Restaurant
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Amazing food and stunning views. You take a 2-minute boat ride to the restaurant, as it is actually located on a floating rock in the ocean.
2. Underground swimming caves located in Jambiani and Paje
3. Trip to Stone Town
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Lots of incredible markets, food, and shopping. Be ready to practice your bargaining skills.
4. Snorkeling and Seafood Lunch
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Get taken on a private boat to explore the amazing snorkeling surrounding Zanzibar and enjoy a gourmet seafood lunch prepared and served to you on your own personal sandbar island.
