Volunteer in Uganda

30 Years 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.  We accept volunteers from all over the world and place them in meaningful overseas missions.  

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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.

Kajjansi is a small but growing town located along the main road between Uganda’s capital city, Kampala, and Entebbe International Airport. It offers a peaceful, semi-rural setting while still being conveniently close to urban amenities. Surrounded by lush greenery and small farms, Kajjansi is known for its tight-knit community, local markets, and artisanal craft centres.

You’ll be accommodated in either a local homestay or our rural volunteer centre. The homestay offers a more comfortable experience with a cozy family atmosphere, while the farm-based accommodation is simpler and gives you a truly authentic rural living experience.

Ugandan cuisine is hearty, locally sourced, and rich in both flavour and tradition. Meals are usually built around starchy staples like matoke, a dish made from steamed green bananas, often mashed and served with a savoury sauce such as groundnut (peanut) stew. Another common staple is posho, a dense maize flour porridge similar to polenta, typically eaten with beans, greens, or meat. Cassava, sweet potatoes, and Irish potatoes are also popular bases for meals. Street food is an important part of Ugandan culture, with the rolex (a rolled chapati filled with eggs and vegetables) being a beloved fast food option found almost everywhere. Ugandan meals tend to be filling and nourishing, often prepared with care and shared with family or guests in a communal setting, reflecting the country’s strong sense of hospitality.

Volunteers are strongly encouraged to take up the 1 week introduction to ease volunteers into the lifestyle and pace of Uganda. You will get to know your town and it’s facilities and everything required to make your stay comfortable. Most volunteers benefit greatly from having a deeper understanding of the local culture, language and customs before commencing your chosen project.  

The introduction week is not mandatory however so for those who want to get straight into it, no problem, a brief orientation will be provided, showing you the local area and explaining the general norms/ do’s and don’ts, etc.

An arrival airport pickup is included in the cost of your placement. . Accommodation on the Sunday is included in the program fees. Arrivals are on Saturdays and Sundays (please check the individual project for the pickup window times, as they can differ). 

If arriving outside the pickup times we can arrange a private transfer and extra nights accommodation, depending on availability, or you can make your own way to the project. 

Getting around Uganda can be an adventure in itself. Transport options include:

• Boda-bodas: Motorcycle taxis are a fast and cheap way to get around towns and cities, though safety can be a concern. Helmets are rarely provided, so it’s best to bring your own or use other transport when possible.
• Matatus: These shared minivans operate on set routes between towns and cities and are the most common form of public transport. They’re inexpensive but often crowded.
• Buses: Long-distance buses connect major cities like Kampala, Gulu, and Mbarara. They are generally more comfortable than matatus and a better option for longer travel.
• Private Hire Taxis: More expensive but safer and more convenient for visitors unfamiliar with local transport systems.
• Car Hire: Renting a vehicle with a driver is common for volunteers and tourists, especially when visiting remote areas or national parks.

Road conditions vary, with major highways in decent shape but many rural roads becoming muddy and impassable during the rainy season.

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.

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