My Medical Elective

What we do

My Medical Elective offers medical electives in Africa, Tanzania, clinical placements, medical teaching programmes and global health experiences for medical students and healthcare professionals. Our programmes provide opportunities to gain clinical experience, develop practical skills, participate in healthcare education and learn from Tanzanian healthcare systems. We create tailored educational experiences that combine clinical learning, teaching, mentorship and East African cultural immersion.All participants receive a certificate of completion, guidance with reflective writing, and opportunities to obtain recommendation letters. Our community programmes also offer the chance to work with children, experience Tanzanian culture, and support local education initiatives.
Electives are available from 1 week to 6 months. To book, complete the registration form and email your confirmation to [email protected]. Our team will then contact you with your placement details.

Medical Electives

Your role

Gain invaluable experience by assisting within a busy hospital that will expose you to a variety of tropical and uncommon diseases. You will shadow and observe local professionals as well as get hands on to help support the local team with basic tasks.
Whether you are taking your elective placement in Tanzania, looking to gain some medical experience before university or are a trained professional, this is a unique chance to experience a brand new health care system in East Africa while exploring everything. You will be placed at local hospitals, which are located in the town of Moshi. Our Tanzania medical experience welcomes people from all backgrounds.Why Choose Tanzania for Your Medical Elective?
Tanzania is an excellent destination for international medical students seeking clinical experience in Africa. From hospital-based learning to community health experiences, students can gain exposure to a wide range of medical conditions and healthcare settings while learning alongside local healthcare professionals.So if you have just finished school and are looking for experience to boost your university applications, or you're currently a university student organising an elective placement overseas or are a trained professional - this is the perfect programme for you!You will be working alongside qualified local staff from the specific departments where you will gain hands on training, supervised by experienced English-speaking medical experts. You will vastly increase your own knowledge while having the ability to help out in simple but practical ways expanding your knowledge of the clinical environment.

Packages and prices

The package fee includes Airport pick up, the hospital elective fee, certificate of participation, letters of recommendation, bed, breakfast, lunch, dinner on your elective days and transportation to and from the hospitals.
Prices:
One week £425
£400 per week after that
For more than 8 weeks, let us know for a discounted price!
FOR GROUP BOOKINGS OF 10 PEOPLE OR MORE, WE OFFER A 10% DISCOUNT, MESSAGE US FOR MORE INFO!
£150 booking fee is applied on registration and then the elective fee can be split into payments, with the final payment being made 30 days before your trip. Please note the registration fee of £150 is non refundable.

Application

What you will need:1. Letter of student status from your university or college.
2. If you are not a student, a letter with your job title and what your job entails.
3. Criminal record check of no later than 2 years
4. CV with a letter of motivation
5. Passport picture
6. Travel insurance
7. Flight detailsIf you have any questions, feel free to contact us.

Teaching Electives

Your role

Become a part of the community as you teach English and other core subjects in the heart of Tanzania. You will play a vital role, assisting and leading your own classes within an overcrowded and under resourced government school. This is your chance to really make a difference by providing a new learning experience for the children and at the same time teaching new skills and sharing cultural perspectives. While shaping the children's future by teaching, you'll also have ample opportunity to explore everything this amazing country has to offer.
Volunteering within the day care centre will see you busy assisting the teachers where you will brighten up the lives of many young children. You will make a vital and important contribution to not only their daily lives, but the future of this traditional community .You will provide much needed support and assistance as you plan and provide simple English lessons, get involved with music, dance, art and play an active role with the general care of the children.

Packages and prices

The package fee includes Airport pick up, letters of recommendation, reflective diary and essay guidance, bed, breakfast, lunch, dinner and transportation to and from the schools as well as local trips into and around town.
One week £400
£385 per week after that.
For more than 8 weeks, let us know for a discounted price!
FOR GROUP BOOKINGS OF 10 PEOPLE OR MORE, WE OFFER A 10% DISCOUNT, MESSAGE US FOR MORE INFO!
Flights, visas, travel insurance, optional trips and experiences and spending money is not included in this price.
£150 booking fee is applied on registration and then the elective fee can be split into payments, with the final payment being made one month before your trip.
Please note the registration fee of £150 is non refundable.

Application

What you will need:1. CV with a letter of motivation
2. If you are not a student, a letter with your job title and what your job entails.
3. Criminal record check of no later than 2 years
4. Passport picture
5. Travel insurance
6. Flight detailsIf you have any questions, feel free to contact us.

Booking

book your elective today

Fill out the form below indicating your field of interest in medicine and teaching and we will get back to your right away. You can also use the secure link below to pay your registration fee by card.

Tours

Your elective doesn't have to be all work work work! During the weekends you can explore the country and participate in so many activities. Here are some of many offered!

Embarking on a safari in Tanzania is a journey into the heart of Africa's unparalleled natural beauty and diverse wildlife. The Serengeti National Park, renowned for its dramatic wildebeest migrations, offers visitors the chance to witness the circle of life in its most raw and majestic form. Elephants, lions, giraffes, and zebras roam the savannah, creating unforgettable encounters. Also visit Ngorongoro, lake Manyara, Tarangire park and more.

Standing at 5,895 metres (19,341 ft), Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa's highest peak and one of the world's most iconic trekking destinations. Whether you choose a 5-day or 7-day climb, reaching Uhuru Peak is an unforgettable adventure, taking you through changing landscapes from lush rainforest and moorland to alpine desert and the snow-capped summit.
Climbers can choose from several established routes, each offering a unique experience: Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Rongai, Shira, Northern Circuit, and Umbwe. The 5-day routes are ideal for experienced hikers seeking a shorter challenge, while 7-day itineraries provide more time for acclimatisation, increasing the chances of a successful and enjoyable summit.
Every step up Kilimanjaro rewards hikers with breathtaking scenery, spectacular sunrises above the clouds, diverse wildlife, and a profound sense of achievement. Whether you're climbing for adventure, personal growth, or to fulfil a lifelong dream, the journey to Africa's rooftop is an experience that will stay with you forever.

Materuni is one of the few villages of wonder in Northern Tanzania sitting at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro. The village is blessed with full of all the beauty worth much visiting for holiday, week-end outing or vacation. While in the village you can visit Kinukamori,Ndooro and Kilasiya waterfalls. This green village with fresh air from green vegetations welcomes visitors to explore the beauty of the land and cultural heritage of the Chagga people.
Coffee was one of the major exports of Tanzania, whilst this has lessened, coffee growing is still widespread across the region.You will have the opportunity to meet with local coffee growers, gain exposure to chagga culture and cuisine with an opportunity to enjoy traditional chagga food, and learn about the history whilst experiencing the process involved in making your own cup of coffee.

The fascinating warm spring in the village with amazing clear blue water that bubble up from the ground. This place is an oasis in semi desert area. It is small pool that is 9 meters deep in beautiful surroundings covered by big trees with surprising roots of the fig trees. You will have a chance to swim against strong flow of water in spring, camp overnight and have a local food prepared by our locals. On this trip, you will spend a day swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing among palm trees. There is even a rope for you to swing on before jumping into the crystal-clear springs! Make sure to keep your eyes open for small fish that will nibble at your feet!

Nestled on the lush foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, Mailisita Waterfall and Nature Park is a peaceful natural retreat just outside Moshi. Surrounded by tropical forest, volcanic rock formations, and crystal-clear mountain streams, the park offers a refreshing escape where visitors can relax by the cascading waterfall, explore scenic walking trails, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Nature lovers may also spot a variety of wildlife, including colourful birds such as sunbirds, kingfishers, and turacos, as well as monkeys, squirrels, butterflies, and other small forest animals that thrive in this beautiful ecosystem.

Rau Forest is a peaceful natural sanctuary on the outskirts of Moshi, offering visitors a chance to experience one of the area's last remaining lowland forests. Shaded walking trails wind through towering indigenous trees, crystal-clear streams, and lush vegetation, creating a cool and tranquil environment perfect for nature walks, birdwatching, and relaxation.
The forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including blue monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, squirrels, butterflies, and an impressive diversity of bird species. Fed by the underground springs from Mount Kilimanjaro, the clear streams add to the forest's unique beauty and support its rich ecosystem. Whether you're looking for a quiet escape, a guided nature walk, or an opportunity to connect with Tanzania's remarkable biodiversity, Rau Forest offers a memorable experience just minutes from the heart of Moshi.

The Maasai Experience offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect with one of Tanzania’s most iconic cultures. Through traditional village visits, guests can learn about Maasai customs, daily life, music, dance, and centuries-old traditions passed down through generations.
The experience provides a deeper understanding of the Maasai way of life, including their strong connection with nature, cattle-keeping traditions, traditional clothing, crafts, and community values. Visitors can enjoy authentic cultural interactions, witness energetic traditional dances, explore handmade jewellery and artwork, and create meaningful memories while supporting local communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

What do you provide?- Medical students:
medical elective Tanzania
clinical elective East Africa
overseas medical elective
international medical placement
medical student elective abroad
global health elective Africa- Teaching:
teaching programme in Tanzania
Elementary and secondary schools
faculty teaching opportunities- Professionals:
healthcare education abroad
global health training
medical training Tanzania
continuing professional development AfricaWho can attend the medical electives?Anyone with a healthcare interest, as well as medical students, nursing students, midwifery students, nurses, midwives, doctors, pre med students, physiotherapists, osteopaths and chiropractors! Depending on your qualifications and year of study, we will find a suitable role for you.Can I choose the speciality that I do my elective in?Of course, you can let us know what areas you are interested in and depending on your length of stay, we can organise for you to participate in more than one area of interest or if you prefer just to stay in one place the whole of your elective then we can arrange for that also.What is the closest airport to where we are staying?You can fly to Kilimanjaro( JRO)Do I need a visa?Check with the country issuing your passport, there are some passport holders who will obtain visa on arrival and others who need to apply for a visa beforehand. Volunteers are required to obtain a visa, either through e-visa or visa on arrival at the cost of $50.Will I get a certificate or proof that I have participated at the end of my time there?You will receive a certificate of attendance and you can request letters of recommendations from the doctors that you have been closely working with.When is the best time to visit Tanzania?If you like the heat, May - July/August is a good time to go, if you prefer cooler weather September to November is very nice and not too hot, Usually December - February is warm but more chances of rain. Whatever time you decide to go, there will be plenty of activities for you to do and plenty of sights to see on your evenings and weekends off.What do I wear and what should I take with me?Usually in the hospitals, you will be required to wear your scrubs and sensible footwear, such as crocs or trainers. You should bring an extra pair of scrubs if you are attending theatre as you are required to change into clean clothing and clean shoes during times of surgery. Students usually bring a few changes of scrubs for their stay.Does the hospital provide PPE and sanitiser or should I have my own?The hospitals are equipped with basic PPE and sanitiser, but it is a good idea to bring your own, or buy some from the pharmacies there, its very affordable and ensures you always have clean masks and other PPE with you when needed.Is there anything I should bring with me for the hospitals or for patients?You will be seeing patients of various socio- economical backgrounds, students in the past have donated medications and other medical necessities that are in high demand to the hospitals. It is up to you as an individual if you would like to donate anything to the hospitals.Where do I exchange money?'It is difficult to buy Tanzanian Shillings outside of Tanzania, so the best thing to do is have your currency in cash and you can exchange at the airport or you can use your bank cards at certain ATM machines for a small fee, depending on your bank. There are supermarkets and some restaurants that take card payments.How much money do I need?Depending on your activities, if you are planning to go on activities, you will be provided with a price list to book beforehand, generally students will use anywhere between £50-£100 a week, however, it is entirely up to you if you want to go out every night and spend money or you want to relax at the lodge every evening and have all your meals there! Bear in mind the average wage in Tanzania is equivalent to $170-$230 per month, so the cost of living is comparatively low to other countries.What is the food like? Is there any food catered to westerners?You can experience local cuisine at very reasonable prices and you can choose to eat at restaurants that cater for American and European diets, there is something for everyone!What kind of place will we be staying at?Everyone will be staying together in one lodge resort, breakfast, lunch and dinner is included in your package, we can cater for certain dietary requirements that you mention in your application form.Are there opportunities to go out and explore?We have event organisers that we work closely with to offer you safe, affordable and amazing experiences such as safari, Mount Kilimanjaro experiences, nature reserve walks and hikes and much more. You can also go and explore the local town and markets and restaurants and immerse yourself in the beautiful culture.Is there anything I should be wary of while I am there?As with any new country or unfamiliar territory, it is important to stay in groups, don't speak to strangers or engage with any suspicious activities with people you dont know. You will have a driver that will be with you taking you to and from the hospital and dropping you to town or to the supermarket when you need. If there is anything you need you can ask the hotel staff who will assist you in every possible way.What type of clothes should I bring with me?Bring comfortable, loose clothes to wear, trainers and other comfortable shoes are ideal. It is important to respect the culture and religions of the nationals, so dressing modestly is highly advisable. There are opportunities to go to pubs/bars restaurants, so you can bring occasion wear to those events. Bring a hoodie or something warm incase the weather gets a bit chilly at night!What vaccinations do I need?You can check out the advise of CDC on the following link: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2024/itineraries/tanzania-and-zanzibar
What will my day to day look like?
Day 1: You should ensure that your flight lands into Kilimanjaro International Airport .The airport pickup is available 24 hours. A member of our local team will be waiting for you just outside the arrival’s door with a named signed. You will then head to our volunteer accommodation located in Moshi - around a 45 minute drive. The rest of the day is yours to spend relaxing and getting to know your fellow volunteers as and when they arrive.
Day 2: Orientation and optional day trips- After a good night’s rest and a delicious breakfast, our local team will provide a full orientation / induction that will go into detail about your time in Tanzania. This will include information about each project, health and safety information and show you around the village, pointing out all of the essentials. You will also have the option to head out on a day trip if you wish.
Day 3: Orientation and palcement. this will be the first day of your placement, you will be briefed about where you will be going and the hours and about drop off and pick up, once you arrive at the hospitals or schools, you will be shown around and your placement starts!What kind of meals will we be getting?
All meals are included within the package and are provided either at the volunteer accommodation or at the project on days of your electives - Monday - Friday. The only things that are charged extra are drinks. The meals are freshly prepared by our on-site cook and will be a mixture of Tanzanian and western cuisine. There are several restaurants and supermarkets just a short tuk-tuk ride away, where you can enjoy a vast array of other meals and snacks. Some of the meals you can enjoy while volunteering include: Breakfast –Pancakes, eggs, toast, coffee, tea Lunch & Dinner – Chips, rice, chicken, mixed vegetables, pasta, stews. There are vegetarians and vegan options too.What if I need to cancel?We know life gets in the way so we will always try and help where we can. You can reschedule your elective date, if you need to, free of charge. However, if you need to cancel please note the registration fee of £150 is non refundable. You can cancel for a full refund of your elective fee (minus the registration fee) six weeks before your placement date. If you cancel less than six weeks prior to the start date you will receive 50% of your elective fee back.IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS THAT HAVE NOT BEEN ANSWERED, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO DROP US A MESSAGE AND WE CAN ANSWER ALL YOUR QUESTIONS TO THE BEST OF OUR ABILITY.

Contact

Contact us today if you have any questions about your elective and we will get back to you as quickly as possible.

a complete guide to your elective in tanzania

A Meaningful Medical and Teaching Experience in East AfricaA medical elective is an opportunity to expand your knowledge, develop professional skills and gain a deeper understanding of healthcare in a different country and culture.
Tanzania offers a unique environment for international medical students and healthcare professionals who want to experience a different healthcare system, learn from local clinicians and develop a broader perspective on global health.
From busy hospitals and community healthcare settings to opportunities to work with local schools and communities, an elective in Tanzania provides an experience that combines learning, cultural exchange and personal growth.At My Medical Elective, we provide personalised programmes designed around your interests, whether you are looking for a clinical medical placement, a teaching experience, or a combination of both.
Our programmes are suitable for individuals looking for experiences ranging from one week to six months, with support provided throughout your journey.Why Choose Tanzania for Your Elective?Tanzania is one of East Africa’s most diverse and welcoming countries, offering incredible opportunities for learning both inside and outside of professional settings.
For medical students and healthcare professionals, Tanzania provides insight into healthcare delivery in a different environment, including the management of infectious diseases, tropical medicine, public health challenges and conditions commonly encountered in resource-limited settings.
For teachers, volunteers and those who enjoy working with children, Tanzania provides an opportunity to support local education, interact with communities and share knowledge and experiences with young people.Beyond your placement, Tanzania offers unforgettable experiences including Mount Kilimanjaro, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, waterfalls, coffee farms and the beaches of Zanzibar.
An elective in Tanzania is not only a professional experience — it is an opportunity to develop confidence, independence and a greater understanding of the world around you.What Is a Medical Elective?A medical elective is a supervised clinical experience that allows medical students and healthcare professionals to gain exposure to healthcare practice in another country.
Medical electives allow participants to:
- Observe different healthcare systems
- Develop clinical knowledge and confidence
- Experience different approaches to patient care
- Learn about global health challenges
- Improve communication and cultural awareness
- Understand healthcare delivery in different environments
- Programme lengths can be adapted depending on your goals, university requirements and availability, from short-term experiences to longer placements of several months.Clinical Placements and Learning OpportunitiesOur medical elective programmes are designed around your interests and educational objectives wherever possible.
Participants may gain experience across a range of clinical specialties, including:
- Internal Medicine
- General Surgery
- Emergency Medicine
- Paediatrics
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology
- Orthopaedics
- Anaesthetics
- Psychiatry
- Family Medicine
- Community Health
- Public Health
- Infectious DiseasesDuring your placement, you may have opportunities to observe patient care, attend ward rounds, participate in clinical discussions, visit outpatient clinics and learn from local healthcare professionals.
Working within the Tanzanian healthcare system provides valuable insight into medicine in a different setting, including how healthcare teams adapt, prioritise and provide care when resources may be more limited.Who Can Apply for a Medical Elective?Our medical elective programmes are suitable for:
-Medical students
-Junior doctors
-Qualified doctors
-Nursing students
-Midwifery students
-Allied healthcare students
-Healthcare professionals interested in global health experience
We work with participants to understand their interests and create an experience that aligns with their learning goals.Teaching Electives in TanzaniaAlongside our medical electives, we offer separate teaching electives for people who are passionate about education, children and community involvement.
Teaching electives are based within local primary and secondary schools and provide an opportunity to support education, interact with children and experience Tanzanian school life.
These programmes are suitable for:
-Teachers
-Education students
-People working with children
-Volunteers
-Gap year students
-Anyone passionate about helping young people learn and develop
Participants may have opportunities to:
-Assist local teachers in classrooms
-Plan and deliver creative lessons
-Teach English, mathematics, science or other subjects depending on experience
-Organise educational games and activities
-Encourage confidence and communication skills
-Share knowledge, hobbies and cultural experiences
-Build meaningful relationships with children and local communities
Teaching electives are designed to be interactive, rewarding and enjoyable, giving participants the chance to make a positive impact while gaining international experience.What Will You Learn?An elective experience develops much more than professional knowledge. It encourages personal growth, independence and the ability to adapt to new environments.
Participants may develop:
-Greater confidence communicating across different cultures
-Adaptability when working in unfamiliar environments
-Problem-solving skills in settings with limited resources
-A deeper understanding of global health and community needs
-Improved teamwork and leadership skills
-Greater independence and resilience
-Appreciation of different approaches to healthcare and education
-Professional confidence and maturity
-For medical participants, electives can provide valuable experiences for university reflections, portfolios and future career development.
-For teaching participants, the experience can develop communication skills, creativity, confidence and an understanding of international education.Accommodation and Student SupportWe understand that travelling to another country for an elective can feel exciting but also challenging. Our aim is to ensure every participant feels safe, comfortable and supported throughout their stay.
Accommodation is designed to provide a welcoming, home-from-home environment where participants can relax after each day and feel part of the community.
Accommodation includes:
-Safe and comfortable living spaces
-Hot water
-Wi-Fi access
-Washing machine and laundry facilities
-A welcoming home environment
-Three meals per day on elective placement days
-Daily transport between accommodation and your hospital or school placement.
Our team provides ongoing support throughout your stay. Whether you need help with daily arrangements, advice about the local area or assistance with anything during your placement, support is always available.
We want participants to feel looked after so they can focus on learning, exploring and enjoying their experience in Tanzania.Preparing for Your Elective in TanzaniaGood preparation helps you make the most of your experience.
Before travelling, participants should consider:
-Passport and visa requirements
-Travel insurance
-Recommended vaccinations
-University documentation
-Appropriate clothing and footwear
-Any equipment required for your placement
Before arrival, you will receive guidance and information to help you prepare for your time in Tanzania.Life in TanzaniaMany placements are based in Moshi, a beautiful town located at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Moshi offers a friendly and welcoming environment with local markets, coffee farms, restaurants and cultural experiences. It is also an ideal base for exploring northern Tanzania.
During your free time, participants can experience:
-Mount Kilimanjaro
-National parks and wildlife safaris
-Waterfalls
-Coffee plantations
-Local culture
-Weekend trips around Tanzania
Your elective experience can be combined with adventure, exploration and unforgettable memories.Why Choose My Medical Elective?Choosing an elective provider is about finding an organisation that understands your goals and supports you throughout your journey.
At My Medical Elective, we offer personalised, Tanzania-based experiences focused on learning, cultural exchange and meaningful participation.
Our programmes provide:
-Flexible placements from one week to six months
-Tailored medical and teaching opportunities
-Support before and during your stay
-Comfortable accommodation
-Local guidance and assistance
-Opportunities to develop global experience
-A certificate of completion
Whether you are looking to develop your clinical skills, gain teaching experience, volunteer with communities or explore healthcare and education in Tanzania, we can help you create an experience that is both meaningful and memorable.Start Planning Your Tanzania Elective TodayContact My Medical Elective to discuss your interests, preferred dates and the type of experience you are looking for. We will help you design a programme suited to your goals.