trip details
Trip Breakdown
Volunteer in Botswana
Volunteer in Botswana and embark on a journey of exploration and impact with Unity Hands Volunteers. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Botswana while making a meaningful difference in the lives of children. After your volunteer experience, dive into the wonders of a safari adventure, where you’ll witness Africa’s majestic wildlife in their natural habitats. Discover the beauty of Botswana and leave a lasting legacy of compassion and service.
Highlights
- Duration: 14 Days (09 February 2025 – 22 February 2025)
- Program fees: $1399
- 6 hours of volunteering per day
- Age: Volunteers aged 18+
- Certificate of participating in the experience
The Trip Includes:
- Accommodation
- Airport Pickup/drop off
- 75% meals
- Programme coordinator
- Inbound transport
The Trip Excludes:
- Flights
- Travel Insurance
- Vaccinations
- Personal Expenses
- Extra Excursions
Trip Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Botswana
- Arrive in Botswana and transfer to accommodation.
- Orientation session: Introduction to the project, safety guidelines, and cultural norms.
- Team meeting at 6pm.
- Complimentary dinner at an iconic restaurant called Spur, soaking up the best vibes in town.
Day 2: Orientation and School Visit
- Morning: Introduction to the project, safety guidelines, and cultural norms.
- Continuation of orientation session, detailing project roles and schedules.
- Afternoon: Visit to the volunteering school, meeting with staff and community members.
- Evening: Small time to relax before heading out on a safari game drive and enjoying a complimentary braai.
Day 3-4: Project Kickoff
- Morning: Start of project work at the school (e.g., renovation, painting).
- Afternoon: Split into groups for various tasks (e.g., assisting teachers, infrastructure improvements).
- Evening: Reflection and cultural activities.
- Optional: Traditional cooking class or guided nature walk.
Day 5-8: Community Engagement and Safari
- Morning: Project work continues at the school.
- Afternoon: Drive to safari where we will spend the weekend.
- Evening: Cultural exchange with the community and Braai with the group.
- Leave in the afternoon for a safari in South Africa, enjoy complimentary food at a small town in Zeerust, optional game drives and activities in Dinokeng Nature Reserve.
Day 6-7: Immersive Experience
- Morning: Hands-on activities at the school.
- Afternoon: Workshops for students (e.g., English language, arts and crafts).
- Evening: Cultural exchanges and activities.
- Optional: Volunteer-led cultural exchange night or traditional storytelling session.
Day 8: Rest and Recreation
- Free day for relaxation or optional excursions.
- Optional: Full-day excursion to explore nearby attractions.
Day 9-12: Project Intensification
- Morning: Resume project work with a focus on completion.
- Afternoon: Extracurricular activities for students.
- Evening: Reflection and planning.
- Optional: Volunteer-led activities or community service projects.
Day 13: Finalization and Farewell
- Evening: Exchange of contact information and farewells.
- Visit to Mokolodi Game Reserve with optional add-ons like game drives, giraffe tracking, rhino tracking, reptile park visit, and cheetah spotting.
Day 14: Departure
- Check out from accommodation and transfer to the airport.
- Reflection on the volunteering experience during the journey home.
This trip is ideal for:
People who want to make a difference in this world.
People who want to see people that are in need flourish in life.
What to expect in your trip:
Volunteering in Botswana with Unity Hands Volunteers promises a transformative experience filled with diverse opportunities to make a tangible impact. You can expect to engage in a variety of activities such as painting vibrant murals, constructing essential infrastructure, repairing community facilities, and teaching eager children. As you immerse yourself in local life, you’ll be warmly embraced by the children, who eagerly await your guidance and affection. From coaching sports to nurturing creativity, every interaction fosters mutual respect and lasting bonds. Your journey in Botswana promises not only meaningful work but also a profound exchange of love and learning, leaving an indelible mark on both the community and your own heart.
Volunteer Requirements:
- You must be 18 years or older.
- Volunteers over 18 years have a clear criminal background check.
- Level of fitness to work everyday with children.
- All volunteers are required to have travel insurance.
- Fluent English must be spoken.
- All necessary medicine required for the trip.
Location:
Gaborone, the capital city of Botswana, is a vibrant hub where modernity meets rich cultural heritage. Nestled in the southern part of the country, Gaborone boasts a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. Surrounded by savannah plains, the city offers a unique juxtaposition of bustling markets, contemporary architecture, and serene landscapes. Visitors can explore museums showcasing Botswana’s history, enjoy local cuisine at bustling eateries, or embark on safaris to nearby wildlife reserves. Gaborone invites travelers to experience its warm hospitality and dynamic spirit, making it a gateway to Botswana’s diverse wonders.
Arrival and orientation:
Day 1: Arrival in Botswana
Upon your arrival in Botswana, you will be warmly greeted and transferred to your comfortable accommodation. Settle in and take a moment to relax after your journey.
Orientation Session
Later in the day, join us for an orientation session where you’ll be introduced to the project, our mission, and the impactful work you’ll be doing. We’ll cover essential safety guidelines and cultural norms to ensure your experience is enriching and respectful of the local community.
Team Meeting
At 6pm, we’ll gather for a team meeting, providing an opportunity to meet your fellow volunteers and discuss the upcoming activities and goals. This is a great chance to bond and start building the sense of camaraderie that will enhance your volunteering experience.
Complimentary Dinner
Conclude your first day with a complimentary dinner at the iconic Spur restaurant. Enjoy a delicious meal while soaking up the best vibes in town, celebrating the start of your journey with Unity Hands Volunteers. This dinner not only marks the beginning of your adventure but also allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture from the get-go.
Accommodation and WiFi
Accommodation in Gaborone, Botswana
During your stay in Botswana, you’ll be accommodated at the luxurious Grand Aria Hotel (or a similar standard hotel). You will share a room with a fellow volunteer of the same gender, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared experiences.
The Grand Aria Hotel offers:
- 24-hour Room Service: Enjoy the convenience of round-the-clock room service, ensuring your comfort at any time of day or night.
- Pool Bar Overlooking an Infinity Pool: Relax and unwind at the pool bar, taking in the breathtaking views of the infinity pool.
- Romantic Rose Garden: Stroll through the beautiful rose garden, perfect for a moment of tranquility and reflection.
- Additional Amenities: The hotel provides various other facilities to enhance your stay, making it a delightful and memorable experience.
Safari Accommodation at Dinokeng Game Reserve, South Africa
For the safari portion of your journey, you’ll stay at the Dinokeng Game Reserve in South Africa. This unique accommodation offers an authentic African safari experience with opportunities to:
- Experience the Big 5: Enjoy complimentary game drives where you can witness Africa’s Big 5 (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo) in their natural habitat.
- Engage in Various Activities: Participate in a range of activities designed to immerse you in the beauty and wonder of the African wilderness.
WiFi Availability
WiFi will be available at all the accommodation sites, allowing you to stay connected with loved ones and share your incredible experiences. However, please note that WiFi will not be available at the schools where you will be volunteering.
