What to Expect from a Volunteer Trip to Mali
Volunteering in Mali is a chance to step into someone else's world and help change it for the better.
From October 5 to October 11, 2025, you’ll join Muslim Hands USA on the ground in Bamako and the Koulikoro region. You’ll visit children at our School of Excellence, where your support helps them learn, grow, and dream bigger. You’ll meet families in remote villages where clean water wells restore health and dignity. And you’ll walk alongside locals building small businesses through livelihood projects that offer a more stable future.
This is what to expect from a volunteer trip to Mali: hands-on service, real relationships, and the chance to see the direct impact of your fundraising. You’re not just visiting. You’re part of the solution.
Why Volunteer in Africa?
Volunteering in Africa is a powerful way to grow while giving back.
Support vulnerable communities in Mali and build leadership skills
Strengthen communication, adaptability, and teamwork through hands-on service
Gain real insight into global development and humanitarian work on the ground
After the trip, you can request a reference letter to support your school or career goals.
Key Details
Fundraising Target: $4,000 per volunteer. This covers flights, meals, accommodations, transport, and project support in Mali.
Fundraising Deadline: Monday, September 15, 2025. All volunteers must raise the full amount by this date.
Registration Fee: $100 non-refundable fee due upon acceptance.
Registration Deadline: Wednesday, July 30, 2025.
Itinerary
| Location | Date | Start |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1: Travel to Mali | Sunday, October 5, 2025 | 00:00 |
| Day 2: Arrival in Bamako,Mali | Monday, October 6, 2025 | 00:00 |
| Day 3: Visit Muslim Hands School of Excellence (MHSOE) | Tuesday, October 7, 2025 | 00:00 |
| Days 4 & 5: Visit Completed Model Villages | Wednesday, October 8, 2025 | 00:00 |
| Day 6: Visit Incomplete Model Villages | Friday, October 10, 2025 | 00:00 |
| Day 7 & 8 : Reflections & Departure | Saturday, October 11, 2025 | 00:00 |
Eligibility Criteria
To join the Volunteer in Africa 2025 program, you must:
Be at least 18 years old
Be able to attend mandatory orientation and training
Have a strong desire to serve and make a positive impact
Be open-minded, culturally aware, and comfortable engaging with local communities and children
Bring relevant skills or experience, whether through education, volunteering, or hands-on work
Be flexible and willing to adapt to new environments
Complete the full registration process and agree to all program guidelines
Be vaccinated for yellow fever
Be in good health with a reasonable level of fitness
Hold a passport valid through at least August 2026
Essential Details for Your Trip
Fundraising Target
Each participant must raise a minimum of $4,000.
This amount covers flights, meals, accommodation, transportation, and supports life-changing projects in Mali. Your efforts will help children and families build a stronger, more hopeful future.
Fundraising Tips
Register early to give yourself plenty of time
Set up your fundraising page on platforms like GoFundMe or JustGiving
Share your journey on social media, in mosques, community centers, and with local businesses
Organize a bake sale, walkathon, or another creative event to reach your goal
Registration Process
•Registration deadline: Wednesday, July 30, 2025
• Registration fee: $100 due upon acceptance
• If accepted, you have up to 30 days after completing the form to submit payment
• Fundraising deadline: Monday, September 15, 2025
• All volunteers must raise 100 percent of the total fundraising target by this date
Volunteer Requirements
• Must be at least 18 years old
• Must have a valid yellow fever vaccination
• Should be in good health and maintain a reasonable fitness level
• Passport must be valid through at least August 2026
• Must complete the full registration process and agree to the program terms
• Must follow all safety and participation guidelines to ensure a smooth and successful trip
Travel Checklist
Please pack the following essential items:
• Lightweight, breathable clothing including long-sleeved shirts or t-shirts in neutral colors like white, beige, or black
• Comfortable pants such as black joggers or cargo pants, and a light jacket for cooler evenings
• Durable walking shoes like sneakers, and sandals for lighter use
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, personal hygiene items, and a refillable water bottle
• Basic first aid kit, insect repellent, any personal medications, and oral rehydration salts
• Power bank, universal travel adapter, chargers, and any essential devices
Frequently Asked Questions
A. Your fundraising covers round-trip flights, accommodation, daily meals, in-country transportation, and logistical support during the program.
A. All meals will be halal and alcohol-free. Traditional local dishes will be served throughout the trip. If you have specific dietary needs, let us know in advance so we can accommodate you.
A. To ensure your safety, a Muslim Hands USA representative will accompany the group at all times. In case of illness or emergency, they will help you get timely medical care and support.
A. Yes. All participants must arrange their own travel insurance before the trip.
A. Anyone aged 18 or older who is looking for a meaningful experience and is willing to fundraise and work as part of a team. Our group will include ten volunteers from different backgrounds and walks of life. If you’re positive, enthusiastic, and ready to make an impact, this opportunity is for you.
A. In October, temperatures in Mali range from 85°F to 95°F during the day. Evenings are generally warm, but we recommend bringing a light jacket just in case.
A. Yes. If you’d like to stay longer in Mali, please contact our team in advance. Any additional costs will be your responsibility.
Muslim Hands is an international aid agency and NGO working worldwide to help those affected by natural disasters, conflict and poverty. Muslim Hands USA is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization (No. 27-4155655).