I spent 2 weeks in Tanzania volunteering at an orphanage in Moshi, a little town just under Mt. Kilimanjaro. My experience was phenomenal in every way - the people, the culture, the nature, the work. Before the trip, Nish from the Dallas office was helpful in getting me prepared, answering my questions on packing list, vaccinations etc in a timely manner. He quickly connected me with my in-country coordinator Mama Alice, and by speaking with her directly before I left for the trip made me feel more comfortable knowing what to expect. I was picked up from the airport by a driver Mama Alice sent and was immediately welcomed into the house when I arrived. During my stay, there were 4 other volunteers at the same house, including one volunteer working at the same orphanage with me. Everybody came home and ate dinner together every night sharing our days and engaging in interesting and meaningful conversations learning about each other's cultures and ways of thinking. I definitely felt at home staying with these amazing friends at Mama Alice's house. Mama Alice was a great host mom - always checking up on me and making sure I was adapting well into the new lifestyle in Tanzania.
The orphanage I volunteered at was founded by Catholic nuns and there were around 51 orphans. I worked mostly with the toddlers playing with them, singing and dancing together, feeding them, as well as helping with changing their diapers and tucking them to bed. They are the most adorable and sweetest children; I just wanted to give them all the love that I have while I was there. Watching some of them learn how to speak and smile more even just from the short two weeks I was there made my heart so full. I definitely want to go back to visit them sometime in the near future. There were a couple other volunteers from other programs working at the same orphanage - we all became good friends and explored Moshi together during our free time.
During my 2 weeks in Tanzania, I also went on a safari to Tarangire National Park - saw lions, leopards, lots of elephants, zebras and wildebeests. I also did a day hike to the first base of Mt. Kilimanjaro and spent a day relaxing in a natural hot springs. Overall, I had an amazing experience doing meaningful work, got to meet really amazing people - both locals and other volunteers, and explored Tanzania and crossed off some major items on my bucket list. I would absolutely recommend IFRE and Tanzania if you are looking for flexible and affordable volunteer experience in a beautiful and friendly country.