Kilimanjaro, Tanzania · Classic SLT

Kilimanjaro Classic SLT Handbook

A week of field education, mobile clinics and community-led development around Moshi, at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro. Tap any section — everything is short, searchable and made for reading on your phone.

For more information email info@medlifemovement.org

Overview

Not charity — a service learning trip

Service Learning Trips are retreats where you disconnect from distraction, reconnect with purpose, and learn the mindset and skills required to serve ethically and sustainably. They are the beginning of a lifelong journey, not the end.

Service

Through Mobile Clinics and Development Projects you help bring accessible medical care, health education and safer homes to the communities you visit.

Environment

Service Learning Trips are created with sustainability in mind — in Tanzania you may take part in an environmentally friendly project such as an eco-bathroom.

Education

Learn the historical, political and economic factors shaping families' realities, and deepen your global-health knowledge by shadowing professionals.

Life-changing

Eye-opening experiences and human connection renew your passion for a world free from the constraints of poverty.

Flip the switch — same week, two very different mindsets

VoluntourismMEDLIFE Service Learning

MEDLIFE Service Learning

Listening to community needs and acting responsibly to support sustainable, culturally sensitive and community-led change.

  • Communities define the project; we follow their lead
  • Students support licensed local professionals, never replace them
  • Follow-up visits, patient records and long-term projects

Voices from students

What students say about their SLT

Hear from students, teacher and parents who have already been in the field with MEDLIFE.

Before coming on the educational trip with MEDLIFE I was excited but still scared — I had only ever experienced America, so coming to a new area I was skeptical. The whole trip was a highlight, but if I had to pinpoint certain activities it would be the waterfall and visiting the Chagga tribe and learning how they make coffee. It was so wholesome seeing a community come together with so much joy, showing their pride in their tradition and allowing us to be a part of it. I learned that I need to explore more — coming from America we're closed off with only one perspective, and being here exposed me to different cultures, traditions and value systems. It made me open-minded, more optimistic and eager to travel. I also learned that I love Tanzanian food. Just do it — there's a lot of hesitation behind wanting to explore somewhere else, but once you get here you'll love it and take away something real.

Ahad

Student, Drexel University

Quick check 1 of 3

What are the three pillars of every MEDLIFE Service Learning Trip?

About Kilimanjaro

Where you're going

Over one-third of all households in Tanzania live in poverty, on $1.00 a day or less, with children and rural populations disproportionately affected. Because the economy relies primarily on agriculture, about 75% of the population lives in rural areas, often without access to basic infrastructure or clean water. According to UNICEF, malnutrition is the single biggest contributor to child mortality in Tanzania, with malaria, anemia, pneumonia, diarrhea, HIV and AIDS also key causes. Access to education remains limited: the abolition of primary school fees increased attendance, but with no corresponding increase in teachers, infrastructure or resources.

Location

Moshi, in the Kilimanjaro region of northern Tanzania · near the Kenyan border, at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro · about a 40-minute drive from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).

Tanzania population: 57.31 million

Open larger map

Capital

Dodoma

Groups fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), near Moshi.

Language

Swahili & English

Swahili phrases for every clinic station are included below.

Currency

Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)

Approximate exchange rate: $1 = 2,460 TZS. Bring new USD bills (2013 or newer).

Visa

$100 US / $50 others

Payable on arrival in cash USD (exact change, bills from 2013+), or apply online in advance — recommended.

Climate

Hot & sunny ~84ºF (29ºC)

Rainy season March–June is ~60ºF (15ºC) — bring a raincoat and waterproof shoes. Strong UV: sun protection is a must.

Context

1 in 3 households in poverty

About 75% of Tanzanians live in rural areas, often without basic infrastructure or clean water.

Where we work around Moshi

We partner with rural communities around Moshi and the Kilimanjaro region, bringing Mobile Clinics and Development Projects — school constructions, library renovations and hygienic toilets — designed and led by local partners.

  • Moshi Rural
  • Hai
  • Kilimanjaro Region

Common health issues we see

Poor diets in remote communities lead to nutritional deficiencies in children. Malnutrition is one of the major factors contributing to infant mortality and developmental deficiencies, like stunted growth, which hold children back from reaching their physical and cognitive potential.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, increases a person's risk of heart disease and stroke. Blood pressure refers to the force of a person's blood flow against the walls of their arteries.

A degenerative, chronic disease resulting from the breakdown of joint cartilage and underlying bone. It is common among elderly people.

Parasites infect the gastrointestinal tract, living in the intestinal walls. This condition affects mostly children and is commonly caused by drinking unclean water, fecal-oral transmission, and skin absorption.

Malaria is a concern for all travelers going to Tanzania. MEDLIFE recommends consulting your doctor to determine whether malaria prophylaxis is right for you.

Quick check 1 of 3

Where do groups stay during a Kilimanjaro SLT?

Your week

What we'll do together

  1. Engaged Education Reality Tour
    1

    Engaged Education Reality Tour

    Learn directly from local leaders about the social, cultural and systemic factors shaping their communities.

  2. Mobile Clinics
    2

    Mobile Clinics

    Shadow licensed local professionals and gain real-world insight into community-centered healthcare.

  3. Development Project
    3

    Development Project

    Work alongside locals on a hands-on community project — installing fuel-efficient stoves, building safe homes, or renovations — then celebrate the results at an inauguration with the community.

  4. Reflect & Connect
    4

    Reflect & Connect

    Evening discussions that deepen understanding of global health, equity and ethical service.

  5. Cultural Excursion
    5

    Cultural Excursion

    Optional full-day Saturday excursion — most participants choose a Tanzanian safari (Tarangire or Ngorongoro) or a cultural day at Materuni waterfalls and Arusha.

Sample itinerary

This itinerary is a sample and may change based on community needs, weather, and logistics.

Day 1 · Saturday

Arrival to Tanzania

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). A MEDLIFE staff member will greet you and transport all participants from Kilimanjaro to the hotel. You'll have the night to settle in and recover from the long travel days. Lunch and dinner are not provided on the weekend, but food is available at the hotel's restaurant.

  • REVIEW THE TRANSFER TIMES BELOWTransfer in

Day 2 · Sunday

Orientation & Moshi Visit

Begin with an orientation covering Tanzania's history and culture, the week's schedule, safety recommendations, and an introduction to MEDLIFE Mobile Clinics. Afterward, visit Moshi for lunch and time to explore the town. Participants will also have an opportunity to exchange money and become familiar with useful local locations. Meals are not included today.

  • MorningOrientation meeting · Tanzania history, safety & clinic training
  • MiddayLunch in Moshi Town · money exchange
  • AfternoonExplore Moshi & useful local locations

Day 3 · Monday

Reality Tour

Gain a firsthand introduction to Tanzanian culture, healthcare, education, and rural life. Visit a local police station and Kibosho Hospital to learn about public services and healthcare access. Continue through villages, farms, and rainforest areas while discussing Chagga traditions, Tanzanian history, politics, and education. Through community visits and conversations with MEDLIFE staff and local leaders, gain the context needed to understand the week's Mobile Clinics and development projects. Return to the accommodation for a MEDLIFE presentation and Mobile Clinic station assignments.

  • 8:00 AMDepart for the Reality Tour
  • MorningPolice station & Kibosho Hospital · hike through Chagga villages
  • 1:00 PMLunch, then return & relax
  • EveningMEDLIFE presentation & station assignments

Day 4–6 · Tuesday – Thursday

Mobile Clinics & Development Project

Travel to a different rural community each day to support local healthcare professionals and community initiatives. Upon arrival, help establish the clinic by raising tents, organizing supplies, preparing workspaces, and stocking the pharmacy. Rotate through the available stations, assisting with non-clinical activities and observing how local professionals provide care. MEDLIFE staff may also identify patients who require follow-up after the clinic. Depending on the schedule, participants may rotate into projects such as school bathrooms, school renovations, home construction, painting, or library improvements. Due to significant community need, clinics may serve large numbers of patients and operate until approximately 3:00–5:00 PM. Expected Patients: 50–200 per clinic Stations Not Included: Dental and OB/GYN

  • 6:00 AMBreakfast
  • 7:00 AMDepart for the community (1–2 hour bus ride)
  • 8:00 – 9:00 AMUnload supplies, training & clinic begins
  • 11:40 AMLunch on the bus
  • 12:00 PMSecond station rotation
  • 2:00 – 3:00 PMPack up & return to the hotel
  • 5:00 PMPost-clinic activity
  • 6:00 PMDinner

Day 7 · Friday

Final Clinic/Project Activities & Inauguration

Complete the final day of service by supporting a Mobile Clinic or helping finish the community development project. Clinic participants will assist local professionals with the final day's patient care and logistics, while project participants complete the remaining construction, renovation, or painting activities. Later, everyone will gather at the project site for an inauguration celebration with the community, followed by a final debrief and reflection.

  • 7:00 – 8:00 AMBreakfast
  • 8:00 – 9:00 AMDepart for the community / Final clinic-project activities begin
  • AfternoonInauguration celebration with the community
  • 2:30 – 4:00 PMReturn to the hotel for debrief & reflection

Day 8 · Saturday

Optional Safari or Departure

Continue exploring Tanzania or head back home after a week of service and learning. Depart anytime between 12:00 pm and 6:00 pm, or choose an optional extension: Option A — a full-day safari (depart Sunday), or Option B — a 2-day safari (depart Monday). The full-day option is the Tarangire National Park Safari Day: elephants, baobabs and the Tarangire River, with a game drive and lunch in the park.

See the full-day itinerary
  • Full dayTarangire National Park Safari Day · or departure 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Day 9 · Sunday

Departure

Continue exploring Tanzania or head back home after a week of service and learning. If you chose Option A (full-day safari), depart today between 12:00 pm and 6:00 pm. If you chose Option B (2-day safari), continue your safari experience.

  • 12:00 PM – 6:00 PMTransfer out (Option A) · safari continues (Option B)

Day 10 · Monday

Departure (Option B)

Continue exploring Tanzania or head back home after a week of service and learning. If you chose Option B (2-day safari), depart today anytime between 12:00 pm and 6:00 pm.

  • 12:00 PM – 6:00 PMTransfer out

Quick check 1 of 3

Which activity happens on Day 2, before the mobile clinics start?

Mobile clinic

Clinic stations

Stations may vary with community needs and group size. Patients return to Education between specialists, and Pharmacy is always last.

Tr

Triage

Triage station during a MEDLIFE mobile clinic

The Triage Station is where we obtain the patients' contact information, basic medical history, and other data for the physicians to use during their consultations.

What will I be doing?

  • Fill out the vital-signs section on each patient's medical history form.
  • Measure height (HT), weight (WT), blood pressure (BP), heart rate (FC/HR) and temperature (TC/Temp).
  • BP does NOT need to be taken for kids. For BP, the systolic pressure goes above the diastolic pressure.
  • Star the patient's information if diastolic pressure is higher than 90, or temperature is higher than 38°C (100°F).
  • Guide patients to the waiting area — medical history forms stay with the patient.

Recommendations

  • Divide tasks so the line keeps moving: one person measures, one records, one organizes patients.

Useful phrases

EnglishSwahili
Open your mouth wideFungua mdomo
Stand up straightSimama sawa
I'm going to measure your heightNina kupima urefu wako
I'm going to take your blood pressureNina kupima presha
I'm going to take/measure your weightNina kupima uzito wako
Take off your shoes/sweaterVua viatu vyako/sweta
Lift the sleeve of your sweaterNyanyua nguo yako
You're going to feel a bit of pressure on your armUtasikia presha kwenye mkono wako
Get on the scale with/without your babyPanda juu ya mizani na/ bila mtoto wako
Ed

Education

Education station during a MEDLIFE mobile clinic

The Education Station is a space to provide health education to everyone before the clinic begins. Education is given on topics such as clean drinking water, diabetes, high blood pressure, cervical & breast cancer, and nutrition.

What will I be doing?

  • Distribute informational brochures.
  • Assist the education nurse by keeping the patients and their history forms in order of arrival.
  • Determine which participant will monitor each station for openings. When a station is open, inform the education nurse and direct patients to the station.
  • Your assistance may be required to set up other stations while education is being carried out.

Recommendations

  • Maintain the order of patients by number of arrival — the number is written at the top of each patient history form.
  • Do not send patients to the Pharmacy Station until they have visited every consultation circled on their history form. Pharmacy is always last.
  • Families are treated as a single unit: everyone must see the providers circled on their forms before proceeding to Pharmacy.

Useful phrases

EnglishSwahili
Have a leafletChukua kipeperushi
We will start with an information sessionTuta anza na dondo za habari
This one is about… (water, nutrition, diabetes, cancer)Hii ni kuhusu… (maji, lishe, kisukari na saratani)
The nurse will start talking soonMuuguzi ata anza hivi karibuni
Dr

General Medicine

General Medicine station during a MEDLIFE mobile clinic

The General Medicine Station is the major station where doctors address individual medical issues and identify patients who require follow-up care.

What will I be doing?

  • Listen and be observant to the patient's needs. Most doctors speak English and will explain the diagnosis and treatment plan — ask questions once the consultation is over.
  • Remain attentive to the waiting areas until there is a doctor available for a consultation.
  • Guide patients to the Pharmacy Station ONLY if they have visited all medical consultations circled on their medical history form.

Recommendations

  • Be patient and wait until the doctor finishes the consultation to ask questions.
  • Be cordial and polite with every patient, and avoid side conversations with other students.
  • These patients are receiving a private medical consultation — no photos allowed.

Useful phrases

EnglishSwahili
Open your mouth and stick out your tongueFungua mdomo wako na utoe ulimi nje
Follow me pleaseNifuate tafadhali
Go to the pharmacy for your medicineNenda kachukue dawa zako duka la dawa
Go back to the education tent for the next stationRudi kwenye hema la elimu na subiri maelekezo
The doctor will choose the best treatmentDaktari atakuchagulia tiba bora
Wait a momentSubiri kidogo
De

Eye Doctor

Eye Doctor station during a MEDLIFE mobile clinic

The Eye Doctor Station gives patients an opportunity to have their vision tested and, if needed, to obtain glasses.

What will I be doing?

  • Support and shadow the optometrist as they test patients' vision.
  • Call out the names of patients when it's time for their consultation and show them where to go.
  • Point to the shapes and letters on the wall as the patient reads them out, and turn the lights on/off when required.
  • Assist with collecting paperwork and completing forms as instructed by the optometrist.
  • Help the optometrist distribute glasses according to the needs of each patient.

Recommendations

  • Always follow the instructions of the optometrist.
  • Wait until the optometrist finishes the consultation to ask questions.
  • Be cordial and polite with every patient.

Useful phrases

EnglishSwahili
The Eye Doctor will see you nowDaktari wa macho atakuona hivi karibuni
Take a seatKeti hapa
Here are your glassesChukua miwani
Put them in a case so they don't get brokenWeka kwenye kipochi isivunjike
Ph

Pharmacy

Pharmacy station during a MEDLIFE mobile clinic

After the patient has visited every station indicated on their medical history form, they are directed to the Pharmacy Station to fill their prescription(s). We collect data here on the quantity prescribed and received, and collect the history forms to enroll patients into MEDLIFE's follow-up program.

What will I be doing?

  • Maintain the line so only one patient is seen by the nurse at any given time.
  • Collect the patients' medical history forms in the order received.
  • Following the pharmacy nurse's instructions, record the medicine distribution.
  • If a medication is prescribed in a different dose than is being given, alert the nurse immediately.
  • Make sure the patients take the hand-written prescription with them.

Recommendations

  • Listen attentively to the data collection process as soon as you arrive at this station.
  • Have one person writing down the data, one managing patients, and another organizing the medicine.

Useful phrases

EnglishSwahili
Give me your prescription and formNipe karatasi yako ya dawa na fomu
I'm going to prepare your medicineNakuandalia dawa zako
Take your medicineKuchukua dawa zako
Take with food/waterTumia na chakula/maji
We will keep the formsTunabaki na fomu
Tb

Toothbrushing

Toothbrushing station during a MEDLIFE mobile clinic

The goal of this station is to educate children about dental hygiene. It is for children only, and children do not need a medical history form to participate. This is the only station without a medical professional, so be proactive about setting up and running it.

What will I be doing?

  • Request a table and a bucket filled with water from a MEDLIFE staff member.
  • Set up the table with toothbrushes, water cups, and toothpaste.
  • Register all kids including name and age — don't worry about correct spelling.
  • Hand each child a toothbrush with toothpaste and a water cup.
  • Demonstrate how to properly brush teeth with the giant mouth and toothbrush props.

Recommendations

  • This station runs on your initiative — keep the energy up and the kids engaged.

Useful phrases

EnglishSwahili
Everyone take a toothbrush and cupKila mtu achukue mswaki na kikombe
Now copy what I doSasa fanya kama mimi
Brush all of your teeth in a circular motionSugua meno yako katika mzunguko
Don't eat or drink anything for an hourUsile au kunywa kitu chochote kwa muda wa lisaa
Rinse your mouthSukutua
Spit out here / thereTema hapa
Wash your toothbrushSafisha mswaki wako

Quick check 1 of 3

Where does a patient go first when they arrive at the mobile clinic?

Conduct & health

Rules and recommendations

Face masks

Beyond local laws and regulations, masks must be worn during Mobile Clinics.

Compulsory safety briefing

Upon arrival, all students attend an extensive safety briefing.

Illness during the trip

If you feel unwell or show symptoms of any illness, advise your Trip Leader immediately so you can get medical care.

Wash and sanitize hands

Hand-washing stations and hand sanitizer are available at every Mobile Clinic.

Respectful behavior in communities

  • No photos during medical care or inside the clinic — patients are receiving medical attention.
  • Do not leave your station. Alert your Trip Leader if you need a break so your spot is covered.
  • The Trip Leader announces lunch and station rotations. Lunch is approximately 20 minutes long.
  • Report missing utensils or materials from your station to the Trip Leader.
  • Do not pet or feed animals — we cannot know if they carry disease or have a poor temperament.

General recommendations

  • Do not drink tap water — it can make you sick.
  • Be cautious with street food, especially meat; make sure it is boiled or cooked. Avoid street-sold juices, the water is not safe.
  • Throw toilet paper in the trashcan provided. Local plumbing cannot handle paper and will clog and flood.

Quick check 1 of 3

Before taking a photo of a patient or community member, you should:

Preparing

Get ready for Kilimanjaro

A short checklist so you arrive confident, covered and connected before the clinic doors open.

Documents, visas & vaccinations

Passport requirements
Passport must be valid for at least 7 months after your arrival date (some destinations require this for entry)
Visa requirements
If you are not traveling with a U.S. or Canadian passport, you may need a visa to enter certain countries. It is your responsibility to determine whether a visa is required and make the appropriate arrangements before traveling.
Vaccinations
MEDLIFE follows CDC recommendations. No specific vaccinations are required, but you should follow all CDC guidance and consult your doctor.
View CDC travel recommendations

Be sure to confirm any required visas or fees involved in your flight layover based on airport as well.

Flight information and timeframes

The attendees of the SLT are responsible for buying their own airfare. However, our team can help you in this process by providing a flight quote for your group. You can request a flight quote by emailing info@medlifemovement.org. Once your flight is booked, please make sure to add your arrival and departure information to your booking.

Airport: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), Tanzania

Kilimanjaro, Tanzania — recommended timeframes

Arrival: Saturday, into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).

Departure: Saturday, Sunday, or Monday between 12:00 PM and 6:00 PM — depending on whether you take an optional full-day or 2-day safari extension.

If attendees arrive outside of the set time frames, they will be responsible for covering the cost of transportation to their site. If your flight arrives outside the timeframes listed please email info@medlifemovement.org. Remember that any additional nights and transfers that are added before/after your trip because of early or late arrival are not included in the Service Learning Trip donation goal, and will be at the cost of the student.

We highly recommend purchasing trip cancellation insurance, which will allow you to cancel for any reason. You can contact info@medlifemovement.org for more information about our insurance options.

Note that this type of insurance must be purchased within a short number of days of your initial registration, and cannot be added in the days leading up to your departure — reach out as soon as possible to access this opportunity.

Accommodation

A MEDLIFE Representative stays at your accommodation for the duration of the trip. Accommodation details are shared with your group in the WhatsApp group before departure.

What's included

  • Materials & ResourcesFor the Mobile Clinic & Project.
  • Accommodation8-nights dorm room accommodation for 6 to 9 people, exclusively with MEDLIFE participants.
  • Meals3 meals a day are provided Monday–Friday, along with breakfast provided on the weekends.
  • TransportationTo and from the airport (within the established schedule), and to SLT activities.
  • English-speaking Leader
  • Safety equipment
  • Travel health insuranceThe insurance requires a $250 payment as a deductible for coverage.

What's not included

  • Flights
  • Tips
  • Pre-Post accommodation
  • Optional excursions
  • Weekend meals
  • Cancellation insurance
  • Room upgrades
  • Transportation outside provided timeframes

What to pack

Summer weather is hot and sunny at about 84ºF (29ºC); the rainy season (March–June) is cloudy and around 60ºF (15ºC) with heavy rains, so pack a raincoat and waterproof shoes. Tanzania is close to the equator — strong UV protection is recommended. Women are asked to wear clothing that does not reveal knees or shoulders, and to avoid tight clothes, to respect the local culture. During the dry season Moshi can be very dusty — anyone with respiratory issues should bring a scarf or buff. Bring warm clothes for chilly nights, books and games (**the hotel is isolated** and wifi can be unreliable), and cash, as **many establishments do not accept credit cards** — US bills must be printed in 2013 or newer.

Clothing
Layers for cold mornings & warm days — jacket, fleece, breathable shirts, long pants, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes. Modest clothing for community visits.
Clinic wear
Closed-toe shoes (required for clinic stations), a lanyard for your badge, and clothes you don't mind getting dirty.
Altitude & health
Coca tea or altitude-sickness medication if advised by your doctor, reusable water bottle, sunscreen (SPF 50+), lip balm, and basic personal medications.
Documents & money
Passport (7+ months validity), travel insurance info, $250 USD cash for the deductible, a credit card, and copies of key documents.
Extras
Power adapter (Peru uses Type A/B), portable charger, headlamp for early clinic days, a towel, and a small backpack.
Check the full list here

What to donate

Many families travel hours to reach our clinics. Donations are handed directly to community members and stations — bring what you can, packed in your checked luggage.

  • Vitamins and nutritional supplements for children and adults — new, unopened, and within their expiration date.
  • Dental supplies: floss, fluoride, and child-sized toothbrushes for the Toothbrushing station.
  • Hygiene kits: toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and feminine hygiene products.
  • Over-the-counter medicines (in original, sealed packaging): pain relievers, antacids, and oral rehydration salts.
  • If you’re unsure what to bring or have items you’d like to donate that aren’t listed, please email info@medlifemovement.org and we’ll be happy to help.
See the full donation list

Join the WhatsApp group

About 3–4 weeks before your trip, MEDLIFE adds you to a WhatsApp group with your Trip Leader and fellow students. It's where we share daily logistics, meeting points, weather notes, and reminders.

If you have not received a WhatsApp invitation at least 2 weeks before your departure, email info@medlifemovement.org with your name and trip dates so we can add you right away.

info@medlifemovement.org
Important considerations
Safety for LGBTI students
Students should be aware of Tanzania's travel warning in place due to “crime, terrorism, and targeting of LGBTI persons” (US State Department). We encourage concerned participants to reach out to their own governments or other agencies for further information.
Health concerns
  • Ebola: MEDLIFE is aware of Ebola's presence in East Africa and will cancel or postpone trips if the risk is unacceptable.
  • Yellow Fever: proof of vaccination is required upon entry if traveling from a yellow fever endemic country.
  • Malaria: a concern for all travelers to Tanzania — consult your doctor about whether malaria prophylaxis is right for you.
Money & payments
Many establishments do not accept credit cards, so bring cash. You will need new USD bills — US currency printed before 2013 may not be accepted by merchants.
Entry visa
The visa can be paid on arrival at the first port of entry in Tanzania, in cash USD with exact change (bills from 2013 or newer): $100 for US passport holders, $50 for European/Canadian passport holders. MEDLIFE recommends applying for an online visa in advance — fill in the form, pay, and submit your application online.
Register with your embassy
MEDLIFE recommends that all students register their travel with their country's embassy prior to their trip.
Day-to-day in Moshi
Do not drink tap water — it can make you sick. The hotel is isolated, so bring books and games, and keep in mind the wifi may be unreliable. Bring warm clothes for the evenings, as the temperature can drop significantly.

Watch the summary video

A short message from the MEDLIFE team to wrap up your pre-departure training.

Quick check 1 of 3

You haven't received your trip WhatsApp group invite two weeks before departure. What do you do?

Optional extras

Explore immersion add-ons

Extend your trip before or after your SLT with your friends, chapter, or family, or add a SUNDAY experience on DAY 9, in the event of Sunday night flight departures. These trips are offered through Good Life Expeditions, a MEDLIFE partner travel agency whose profits support MEDLIFE projects in the communities we work alongside.

Tarangire National Park Safari Day
Kilimanjaro Saturday Experience (Day 8 of your SLT)Full day

Tarangire National Park Safari Day

Join a full-day Tanzanian safari in Tarangire National Park. Experience rich cultures, visit diverse parks, and connect with nature. An unforgettable African day awaits.

Starts at $355.00 per participant.

Materuni & Arusha Cultural Immersion
Pre/Post SLT bundle3 days / 2 nights

Materuni & Arusha Cultural Immersion

Enjoy Weruweru Resort's calm, Materuni's coffee roots, and Arusha Park's splendor. In 3 days, explore Tanzania's culture, flamingo lakes, and Mount Meru's majesty.

Starts at $323.00 per participant. Available before or after your SLT.

Rundugai Hot Springs & Ngorongoro Safari Experience
Pre/Post SLT bundle4 days / 3 nights

Rundugai Hot Springs & Ngorongoro Safari Experience

Enjoy a peaceful swim in Rundugai Hot Springs, and visit the majestic Ngorongoro Crater, one of Africa's “7 Natural Wonders”.

Starts at $795.00 per participant. Available before or after your SLT.

Interested? Email info@medlifemovement.org or meet with a Good Life Expeditions advisor to add one of these to your trip.

High school students, families:

Book a meeting

OUR PROTOCOLS

In case of emergencies

Save these numbers before you fly. If MEDLIFE staff aren't nearby, call or WhatsApp the Tanzania emergency line.

What to do, step by step, if something goes wrong

  • Contact your local emergency authorities.
  • For non-urgent matters contact your Chapter, MEDLIFE HQ, or info@medlifemovement.org.

  • Contact the Tanzania Emergency Phone.

  • Find your Trip Leader or the MEDLIFE Representative at your hotel.
  • Speak to reception.
  • Contact the Tanzania Emergency Phone.

  • Find your Trip Leader.
  • Clinic nurses and doctors are available to attend to you.

  • Find your Trip Leader.
  • Contact the Tanzania Emergency Phone.

National emergency numbers

Clinics & police

  • Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre

    Main referral hospital for the Moshi area

    +255 27 2750748
  • Police Station (Moshi)

    Moshi, Kilimanjaro Region

    +255 27 2755055
  • Trawick International (insurance)

    Inside USA: 833-425-5101 · MEDLIFE staff can assist with claims in-destination

    +1 603 952 2686

Nearest embassies

  • Embassy of the United States (Dar es Salaam)

    686 Old Bagamoyo Road, Msasani, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

    +255 22 229 4000
  • Canadian Embassy (Dar es Salaam)

    26 Garden Avenue / 38 Mirambo Street, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

    +255 22 216 3300
  • British High Commission (Dar es Salaam)

    Umoja House, Hamburg Avenue, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

    +255 22 229 0000

Insurance & cash

Emergency medical and evacuation insurance up to $250,000 USD with a $250 USD deductible once on a trip.

A doctor's visit to your hotel can be arranged if you feel unwell — typically $50–$100 USD, usually less than the $250 deductible. Staff or hotel reception can coordinate.

Bring $250 USD in cash beyond your spending money to cover the deductible, plus a credit card for emergencies if you have one.

Trawick International · 833-425-5101 (inside USA) · 603-952-2686 (outside USA)

Quick check 1 of 3

In an emergency during the trip, who do you contact first?

After your trip

Keep the momentum going

Take your experiences from the field and put them into action at home through MEDLIFE activities all year round.

Moving Mountains

Our fundraising campaign supporting day-to-day work in medicine, education and development. MEDLIFErs run Power Hours inviting contacts to donate — often with wild fundraising challenges.

Grow the Movement

Refer friends at other schools to start a MEDLIFE Chapter, encourage others to travel on a Service Learning Trip, and recruit new members for your Chapter.

Leadership activities

Volunteer locally with your Chapter, run for an E-Board position, or become a MEDLIFE Ambassador or Active Member to unlock discounts on your next trip.

Keep in touch

Follow us on social media and the blog, send photos and stories to media@medlifemovement.org, and tag us when you share what you saw.