Culture Week in Kajjansi, Uganda

• Accommodation
• 3 meals p/day & 2 p/day at weekends
• Arrival airport transfer (Sat/Sun arrivals)
• Filtered drinking water, coffee & tea
• 1 day orientation
• Daily transportation to project
• In country 24/7 support & emergency assistance
• Fundraising support
• University course credits (where applicable)
• Certificate of Completion
• Ferry to and from Nusa Penida (only Sunday before project and Saturday after project)

• Airfares
• Travel Insurance
• Tours, Souvenirs & spending money

Programs begin every Monday, and volunteers are required to arrive the day prior, for orientation before the project.

A free airport pickup is included on Saturday or Sunday when arriving to Entebbe International Airport (EBB). You must arrive between 10am to 2pm. 

If arriving outside of the pickup times, you can pay an additional fee for a private pickup and any extra nights, depending on availability. Saturday arrivals need to book an extra night accommodation for an additional charge.

Journey time from the airport the accommodation centre takes 1-2 hours. 

You will attend our orientation day on Monday of your first week at this location to become acquainted with the surroundings as well as the local culture. Your program will continue as usual from Tuesday until the end of the week.

Schedule

• Following breakfast, we will have an introduction meeting, discuss house rules, set expectations, get health and safety advice, and handle documents.
• Ugandan Dos and Don’ts, a cultural introduction, a history of the nation, and lessons in the Swahili language.
• Take a tour of the compound and the neighborhood to learn about local shops and how to get a SIM card if required.
• Continue your tour of the neighborhood and become acquainted with your surroundings after lunch. A special dinner is served in the evening to welcome you to Uganda!

Monday

After breakfast, we will have an Introduction meeting, House rules, Setting Expectations, Health and Safety advice, and handling of documents. Followed by Ugandan Do’s and Don’ts, Culture introduction and country history, and Swahili and Luganda Language Lessons. Then, after lunch a walking tour around the compound and local area will familiarize you with where to find local shops, and arrange a sim card if necessary.

Tuesday

After breakfast, we’ll visit the Botanical Garden and the Wildlife Conservation Education Center, then have lunch outside at a local restaurant in town. In the afternoon, we will pay a visit to Victoria Lake, where you can relax and enjoy the lovely Ugandan weather and atmosphere or have a leisurely stroll about.

Wednesday

After breakfast, we’ll prepare for a day out, visiting a local museum, a palace, and other significant local sites. In between, we will stop for a nice lunch before continuing on our cultural quest. When we return, you will have some free time to enjoy before dinner.

Thursday

After breakfast, we will head to meet some of the elders of the local community and then shop at the weekly market to buy the ingredients for our dinner. After enjoying a satisfying lunch, and a bit of free time, you will get to work on creating your first traditional Ugandan meal in our cooking class. Do a good job because your efforts will become your dinner, so pay close attention!

Friday

After breakfast, There will be a program discussion, where you can learn about our programs in Uganda and ask any further questions! We will pay a visit to all of our projects in the area so you can get an insight into what we do. After lunch, we will take a Ugandan handicraft-making class.

***This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances.***

Things to Do in Uganda

• Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – A once-in-a-lifetime chance to see endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
• Safari in Murchison Falls National Park – See elephants, lions, giraffes, and hippos in one of Uganda’s most stunning parks, capped off by the thunderous Murchison Falls.
• Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest – A close encounter with our closest relatives in a lush tropical forest.
• White-Water Rafting on the Nile River – Thrill-seekers love Jinja, the adventure capital of East Africa.
• Boat Safaris on the Kazinga Channel – Spot elephants, buffalo, and crocodiles from the water in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
• Hiking the Rwenzori Mountains – Known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” these peaks are a challenge for trekkers and a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
• Cultural Tours in Kampala – Visit the Uganda Museum, Ndere Cultural Centre, and bustling markets like Owino.
• Relax at Lake Bunyonyi – Canoe across this tranquil, island-studded lake surrounded by rolling hills.

Things to Do in Kajjansi

Kajjansi is a small but lively town located on the main road between Kampala and Entebbe.

• Visit Kajjansi Craft Village – Support local artisans by purchasing handmade crafts, jewelry, and textiles. Some centres offer workshops where you can learn skills like weaving or bead-making.
• Explore Local Markets – Wander through Kajjansi’s bustling market to experience daily life, try fresh produce, and interact with locals.
• Take a Trip to Lake Victoria – Uganda’s share of Africa’s largest lake is just a short drive away and perfect for boat rides, birdwatching, and picnicking.
• Visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre in Entebbe – Just 30–40 minutes away, this zoo-like conservation centre is home to rescued native wildlife.
• Birdwatching and Nature Walks – The area around Kajjansi is rich in birdlife and lush greenery, great for casual hikes or photography.
• Easy Day Trips to Kampala or Entebbe – Whether you’re up for nightlife, shopping, or historical sites, both cities are within easy reach for a day out.

Additional Requirements

• Moderate fitness is necessary
• A positive attitude and readiness to embrace new experiences are essential!
• Medical clearance for participants over 65 years.
• Signed parental consent for participants under 18 years
• Proof of yellow fever vaccination (mandatory)
• Recommended to have the following vaccines: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies, meningitis, polio, MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis), chickenpox, and influenza. Please follow WHO recommendations and guidelines.

Additional Equipment

Packing List
        Clothing

• Light, breathable clothing for warm weather
• Modest clothing for visits to local communities (covering shoulders and knees)
• Comfortable shoes for walking tours and exploring
• Flip flops or sandals for relaxed moments by the lake
• Hat or cap for sun protection
• Light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings
• Rain jacket (during rainy season)

Documents

• Passport
• Flight info, insurance, vouchers, visas, and vaccination certificates

Health & Safety:

• Hand sanitizer, face masks (if required)
• First-aid kit (medications, sunscreen, insect repellent, rehydration tablets)

Essentials:

• Toiletries (shampoo, soap, etc.)
• Day pack, small travel towel, reusable water bottle
• Moneybelt, locks for bags
• Personal entertainment (books, cards, music player)

Optional Items:

• A daypack for carrying essentials during day trips
• Waterproof bags to keep electronics safe.
• Personal water bottle
• Swimwear (if you plan to swim at Victoria Lake)

For information on holidays and any programs affected, please see the following link: UG – Holidays – All Programs

Uganda is a landlocked country located in East Africa, bordered by Kenya to the east, Tanzania to the south, Rwanda to the southwest, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west, and South Sudan to the north. With a population of approximately 48 million people, Uganda is one of the most youthful countries in the world, with the majority of its citizens under the age of 30. The capital city, Kampala, is a lively urban hub known for its markets, nightlife, and cultural diversity.

Religion plays an important role in Ugandan life, with Christianity and Islam being the most practiced faiths. Geographically, Uganda is part of the African Great Lakes region and boasts incredible biodiversity, including a portion of Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa. Its varied landscape includes mountains, savannahs, forests, and wetlands, making it an exciting destination for travellers and conservationists alike.

Uganda’s location near the equator gives it a tropical climate that is generally warm and pleasant throughout the year. Average daily temperatures range from 25°C to 29°C (77°F–84°F), making it comfortable for most travellers. The country experiences two main rainy seasons—from March to May and September to November—which can make rural roads difficult to navigate. The dry seasons (December–February and June–August) are the best times for travel and outdoor activities. Elevation also plays a role in climate; higher-altitude regions like Kabale or the Rwenzori Mountains can be quite cool, especially at night.

Uganda has a mix of diverse cultures, ethnicities, and traditions, with over 50 ethnic groups, each with its own language and customs. The Baganda are the largest ethnic group and dominate the central region, but others like the Basoga, Banyankole, Bakiga, and Acholi contribute to the nation’s rich heritage. Traditional music, dance, and storytelling are integral to social life, often performed during community gatherings, weddings, and festivals. Respect for elders, hospitality, and strong community ties are central to Ugandan society. Religion also plays a significant role in daily life, with many people attending church or mosque regularly. Visitors are often struck by the warmth and friendliness of the Ugandan people, making cultural exchange a rewarding part of any trip.

30 Years Non Profit Experience

IVI is an Australian charity & non profit organisation founded in 1989 and is one of the pioneers of overseas volunteering successfully placing over 20,000 volunteers globally.

Affordable Volunteer Travel

We’re not motivated by shareholder profits. Our fees are fully transparent to ensure maximum benefit where it is most needed. 

Safe & Responsible Projects

All projects include a dedicated 24/7 in-country management team, operational & risk assessment & overseas support contact. All projects are personally inspected to ensure very high quality.

Work Experience & University Credits

We place thousands of Uni students and can assist you with course credits and in-field experience points. Many of our project coordinators are qualified practitioners in their respective fields allowing unique in-field supervision and Uni accreditation options

See More

Check out this amazing blog with step by step info on how to raise funds for your overseas volunteer experience to help maximize your impact abroad. Guide to Fundraising