Internal Medicine & Surgery Internships in Zanzibar

Internal Medicine & Surgery Internships: Intern abroad in Zanzibar

Zanzibar Internship Abroad Medical & Healthcare

Gain practical experience alongside practicing medical professionals in Zanzibar. Interns assist across a broad range of health concerns.

What to expect from your Internal Medicine & Surgery internship:

Learn how Internal Medicine and Surgery teams operate in Zanzibar
Observe both simple and complex procedures being expertly executed by African surgeons, and learn from surgeons afterwards

Your internship abroad host organization:

Hospitals
Medical Facilities

Apply for free

On this page:

Arrival & Orientation

Visa Requirements

Accommodation & Meals

Country Info

Reviews

Gain academic or course credit

Fully hosted experience from $1729

Includes accommodation & meals

Start dates every Monday

Minimum duration 2 weeks, up to 24 weeks maximum

Discover Zanzibar’s world-class beaches

Get job-ready with our Experiential Learning Curriculum

Suitable for English language speakers

Eligibility requirement

Suitable for university/college students at various levels of their relevant medical/healthcare studies, as well as recent graduates. First year undergraduate students are eligible, provided that their studies have commenced. Medical interns must submit their relevant academic record (transcript) and a letter of recommendation from their university.

Language requirements for this internship

This internship is conducted in English. However, interns should expect that a language barrier can still be encountered to a certain extent. It’s possible to arrange in-country Swahili language lessons, in conjunction with your internship. Online Swahili lessons can also be arranged.

Associated career paths

Physician, Nurse, Surgeon, General Practitioner, Orderly, Medical Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, Physical Therapist, Occupational Therapist, Dentist, Medical Scribe, Medical Administrator, Diagnostic Medical Sonographer, Clinical Laboratory Technician, Emergency Medical Technician, Radiologic Technologist, Phlebotomist, Optometrist, Cardiovascular Technologist, Anesthesiologist, Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist, Obstetrician

Internship details

Gain practical experience alongside practicing medical professionals across a range of Hospitals and healthcare facilities in Zanzibar. You’ll have the opportunity to apply your academic knowledge in a clinical setting while observing and, where appropriate, assisting with the diagnosis and treatment of patients with a broad range of health concerns.

This is an in-country internship, with accommodation and meals provided.

Medical internships in Zanzibar

This Medical Internship in Zanzibar is ideal for medical students seeking exposure to areas such as oncology, neurosurgery, ENT surgery, and infectious diseases, including tuberculosis and HIV. You’ll observe and assist healthcare professionals with patient diagnosis, treatment, counselling, health education, and preventive care, where appropriate.

Medical interns primarily shadow and observe their supervisors, gaining insight into how they assess and manage a range of patients. Due to local regulations, unqualified international interns cannot perform hands-on medical duties. The specific activities you may participate in will depend on your supervisor, your level of study, experience, and demonstrated capabilities.

Hospital placement is determined by the Ministry of Health based on current hospital needs, your area of study, and your interests. Final placements are allocated on the first Monday following your Sunday arrival, so specific placement details cannot be confirmed in advance. You may express a preference, but the final allocation is determined by the Ministry of Health and cannot be guaranteed. Changing hospitals after allocation can also be difficult, particularly between facilities under different management, so flexibility is essential.

Healthcare professionals will always prioritise patient care, meaning supervisors may not be available to provide immediate explanations or debriefs while working. Interns should be proactive in asking questions and coordinating discussions when appropriate. Although the internship is conducted in English, language barriers may occasionally arise, as other languages are commonly spoken in Zanzibar.

Healthcare facilities in Zanzibar may differ significantly from those you’re accustomed to, including being under-resourced or understaffed. This can present challenges and may contribute to culture shock, particularly in healthcare settings. Interns are therefore expected to demonstrate professionalism, compassion, patience, and adaptability while approaching differences in healthcare practices with an open mind.

The first week is generally focused on orientation, settling in, and understanding your placement rather than immediately taking on significant responsibilities. Use this time to ask questions, provide feedback, and establish expectations with your supervisor.

Typical Schedule

Schedules vary based on the exact nature of each internship. Interns should prepare to be flexible with their schedules, but expect between 6-8 hours of work each day, including (optional) possible weekend work

What are the career benefits of interning abroad as a Internal Medicine & Surgery Intern?

Internal Medicine & Surgery interns learn from a qualified and experienced supervisor, and can be involved in:

Shadowing and observing local professionals, for diagnosis and treatment of a broad range of symptoms and diseases
Supporting medical professionals with patient guidance, counseling, and preventive interventions for improved overall health
Supporting medical professionals with comprehensive and palliative care for a broad range of patients
Assisting with patient care for mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety

Professional development opportunities:

Learn from experienced surgical professionals
Experience pre-operational preparation and post-operative care
Gain practical skills and boost your employability, with guidance from Intern Abroad HQ’s Experiential Learning Curriculum to support your learning and cultural intelligence

Are you eligible for this internship?

Submit a free application so we can confirm your eligibility and check availability for your preferred dates.

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Zanzibar photo gallery

Our commitment to providing safe internship experiences

Academic credit available for all internships

Get course credit from your college or university while completing your internship abroad or a remote internship program. It's a great way to meet your academic requirements and gain valuable experience at the same time.

Learn about course credit

Program fees

Applying for our Internal Medicine & Surgery Internship is completely free! The support package covers the assistance we provide in finding your internship and arranging your living accommodations in your host country, ensuring you thrive during your program.

Please note that a deposit of US$499 is required to confirm your place. The remaining balance (minus your initial US$499 deposit) is due at least 60 days before your internship start date.

Duration	Program Fee USD United States Dollars - $ Australian Dollars - AU$ Brazilian Reals - R$ British Pound Sterling - £ Canadian Dollars - CA$ Chinese Yuan - CN¥ Euros - € Hong Kong Dollars - HK$ Mexican Pesos - MX$ New Zealand Dollars - NZ$ Singapore Dollars - SG$ Swiss Francs - CHF UAE Dirhams - AED
2 weeks	$1,729 Equivalent to $123 /day
3 weeks	$2,039 Equivalent to $97 /day
4 weeks	$2,454 Equivalent to $87 /day
5 weeks	$2,764 Equivalent to $78 /day
6 weeks	$3,074 Equivalent to $73 /day
8 weeks	$3,694 Equivalent to $65 /day
10 weeks	$4,314 Equivalent to $61 /day
12 weeks	$4,934 Equivalent to $58 /day
16 weeks	$6,284 Equivalent to $56 /day
20 weeks	$7,524 Equivalent to $53 /day
24 weeks	$8,764 Equivalent to $52 /day

A deposit of $499 (approximately 499) is required to confirm your participation. This is subtracted from the Program Fee total.
It is important to note that internships in Zanzibar require all participants to obtain a visa. We advise Zanzibar interns to purchase and obtain this in-country (at the airport, on arrival in Zanzibar). Interns receive details in advance, which outline instructions for this process (depending on your specific internship details), along with anticipated costs. Some interns are additionally required to purchase a Work Permit (US$400) in-country. Please note that the requirements and costs for such visas and/or permits are outside the control of Intern Abroad HQ and are subject to change without notice.
Balance of your Program Fee is due 70 days before your internship start date. The Program Fee payment can also be completed in installments through our Zero-Fee Payment Plan. Learn more.
All payments attract a 5% transaction fee to cover international banking fees and currency charges.
Terms and Conditions apply.

Airport pick-up
Airport drop-off
Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation
24/7 in-country support
Program orientation
Dedicated support before, during, and after your internship
In-country guidance for social and tourist activities
Sourcing and securing your internship placement
Personalization of your internship plan
Coaching from your supervisor
Documented portfolio of your experiential learnings
Academic credit facilitation
International reference letter
Certificate of Internship Completion

All in-country transportation
Visa (if required), flights, travel insurance (mandatory), vaccinations, criminal background check
Personal spending money for snacks, drinks, public transport, laundry, and leisure activities during your free time.

Popular add-ons & experiences in Zanzibar

Take your internship to the next level with Intern Abroad HQ's affordable activity and tour add-ons in Zanzibar! Explore your options below and learn how to book them once you've been accepted onto an internship program.

2 day, 1 night Safari to Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro Crater

This 2-day safari packs the very best into one incredible experience. From the lush, groundwater forests of Lake Manyara to the prehistoric majesty of the Ngorongoro Crater, you’ll experience two distinct ecosystems and the legendary “Big Five.”

$599

Jozani Forest, Cultural Village and Mangrove Canoeing Experience

Connect with nature and local tradition on this curated day-trip. Whether you’re wildlife-spotting in the forest, gliding through hidden waterways, or sharing stories in a cultural village, you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of Zanzibar’s unique spirit.

$70

Sunset Stand Up Paddleboard

Explore the hidden wonders of Chukwani’s mangrove tunnels on a paddleboarding journey that perfectly balances adventure with tranquility in the tidal forests of Chukwani.

$47

View all add-ons & experiences

Swahili Language Lessons

Swahili, also known as Kiswahili, is spoken throughout Zanzibar and it is the national language of Tanzania. (English is only the official language of the High Court). While fluency in Swahili is not a requirement to intern in Zanzibar, learning some of the local language can help enhance your cultural experience and immersion. Starting with a few lessons can help you learn some basics to demonstrate common courtesy. A maximum of ten hours per week are recommended. Lessons are typically conducted individually, but may be shared between 2-3 other participants of the same level (although, the number of participants per lesson does not affect the cost). For more information about language lessons, interns may speak directly to the local team in-country.

Arrival and Orientation

When are internships in Zanzibar available?

Internships in Zanzibar begin every Monday. Interns may choose to spend a minimum of 2 weeks, up to a maximum of 12 weeks. Exceptions to start date availability may occur over public holiday dates, or if the program has already reached capacity.

When do you need to arrive and check-in?

Airport pick up and accommodation are included in the Program Fee, as well as return transportation to the airport in Zanzibar at the completion of the internship.

In order to receive this airport pick up, interns fly into the Abeid Amani Karume International Airport in Zanzibar (ZNZ). Upon arrival, interns will be met, greeted, and transferred to the accommodation, to settle in and rest.

Accommodation is covered from the Sunday night of the internship start date. The last night of the accommodation is the Saturday night of the final week, leaving interns free to depart on the Sunday.

Extra nights of accommodation can be arranged in advance, if requested, and are subject to availability.

Note that all participants are advised not to book flights until they have first registered to confirm their internship placement.

What does the internship orientation cover?

Orientation typically takes place on the Monday start date and covers important details for your internship, including introductions, information about culture, customs, rules, expectations, safety, language lessons, cultural excursions, and more. For participants who will be interning within Zanzibar Town / Stone Town, a walking tour is also covered. Tourism & Hospitality interns, who may be based within popular beach areas, such as Nungwi, Kendwa, Kiwengwa, Paje, Jambiani and Michamvi, will receive a local orientation that’s relevant to their area.

Visa Requirements

It is important to note that internships in Zanzibar require all participants to obtain a visa. We advise Zanzibar interns to purchase and obtain this in-country (at the airport, on arrival in Zanzibar). Interns receive details in advance, which outline instructions for this process (depending on your specific internship details), along with anticipated costs.

To cover the cost of the visa sufficiently, most interns need to budget US$50-100. However, Tourism & Hospitality interns will need to budget US$250 for a Business Visa. The visa is valid for 90 days.

Some interns are additionally required to purchase a Work Permit or Trainee Permit in-country. This is a government requirement and it will apply to participants who are doing their placements for longer than 4 weeks. The Work Permit is required in addition to the required cost for your visa. It is US$400 and will be arranged through the Zanzibar Labor Office, once you are in Zanzibar.

The Work Permit requirement applies to:

Cultural Arts interns - For durations of 4 weeks + you will need to cover the cost of a Work Permit in Zanzibar. Please budget US$400 for this.
Social Work & Education interns - For durations of 4 weeks + you will need to cover the cost of a Work Permit in Zanzibar. Please budget US$400 for this.
Tourism & Hospitality interns - you will need to cover the cost of a Work Permit in Zanzibar. Please budget US$400 for this.

If this is required then it will be arranged with you during the orientation, as coordinators will assist you at the Zanzibar Labour Office. Please note that the requirements and costs for such visas and/or permits are outside the control of Intern Abroad HQ and are subject to change without notice.

Zanzibar also requires all visitors to purchase mandatory travel insurance via the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC). This is a government-owned entity and the insurance can be purchased online. Personal insurance policies will not be accepted. Failure to comply with this mandatory requirement may result in denial of entry at immigration checkpoints. Intern Abroad HQ still requires all program participants to have travel insurance that includes overseas health insurance cover. This must be obtained in addition to the ZIC insurance, to protect against policy exclusions.

Any interns who choose a duration of more than 12 weeks or more will be required to renew their visa arrangements, to ensure that a stay permitting 90 days is possible. Interns should ensure that such additional costs are planned and budgeted for accordingly.

Accommodation and WiFi

Interns in Zanzibar have several accommodation options, all of which are covered by the standard program fee payment.

Self-catering apartment (meals excluded).
Homestay accommodation (meals included).
Custom arrangements for Tourism & Hospitality interns

An Accommodation Preference Form will be provided for interns to complete and return in advance. Preferences are taken into consideration but will be subject to availability. Contact our Program Manager for more information.

The accommodation pictured in the photo gallery of this webpage provides examples of both homestay and apartment options. Since we work with more than one accommodation, the exact accommodation you’re assigned may differ slightly from the example photos. Rooms sizes vary.

Any requests to exclude the accommodation service from your internship experience, in order for you to make independent arrangements, must be discussed and confirmed in advance.

Meals

Meals are provided for internship guests assigned to homestay accommodations only. The service provision covers two meals per day (breakfast and dinner). Rice is a staple and an array of spices are typically used to flavor rice, meat, fish and curry dishes. Fresh fruits can include pineapple, mango and watermelon. Typical meal examples include chicken with rice and vegetables, potatoes, beans, salads, samosas, curry, and chapati.

Please be sure to let us know of any specific dietary requirements that you have in advance (i.e. allergies and intolerances), so that we may ensure your hosts are aware and make recommendations to you accordingly.

It is important to note that the provided meals are not likely to reflect what you’re used to eating at home. Local portion sizes may also differ from your own dining habits. Interns are encouraged to budget extra spending money to cover any of your own snacks, treats (including lunches, which are not included through homestay accommodation).

If desired, interns allocated to apartment accommodation may request a meal service for an additional weekly cost.

How to obtain course credit and meet your academic requirements on Intern Abroad HQ internships

Gain Academic Course Credit Learn more

Experiential Learning Curriculum Learn more

Essential country information

Capital	Zanzibar City
Population	1.304 million
Languages	Swahili, Arabic, English
Currency	Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
Time zone	UTC+03:00

Weather and climate:

Being near the equator, the islands of the Zanzibar Archipelago are warm year-round, and the temperature doesn’t vary too much throughout the year. The usual highs are between 85°F / 91°F (30°C / 33°C) and the usual lows range between 70°F and 76°F (21°C / 24°C). The hotter times of the year are typically from December through March. From July through October, the temperatures are more comfortable. The wetter season usually begins in late November, leading up to the wettest month of the year, which is April. After April, the dry season begins again around mid to late May.

What recent Internal Medicine & Surgery interns said about their experience

Eloha Nabizadeh

I enjoyed my entire internship because it helped me in so many ways. The hospital experience was so varied and great because I rotated throughout so many different hospitals and shadowed so many doctors (including gp's, dermatologists and surgeons). The internship gave me so many opportunity to see many departments, helping me decide what avenue of medicine and healthcare I'd like to explore moving forward. The hands on experience was so valuable as I would not have gained this experience where I live. Furthermore, I really enjoyed meeting the other interns and doing touristic things during the weekend with them. I gained lifelong connections. This internship has helped with my confidence as a solo female traveler. I was pushed out of my comfort zone and this allowed me to gain so many skills like communication and resilience. The support I received was excellent throughout the planning stage. I had a lot of questions when deciding on an internship, so I messaged Sarah, who gave me excellent personalized recommendations and then helped me decide on what internship is best for me. Any queries I had were answered in a very quick time, which made me feel very confident and cleared up my concerns. I would definitely recommend this experience to everyone!

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Sophia Wheelton

I enjoyed the hospital environment. I got to see, learn and experience a lot. The doctors were very welcoming and I got to do a lot more than I thought.

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Therese Byankuba

I learned so much throughout my four week internship in Zanzibar. I got the opportunity to shadow different departments of the hospital and to witness the day to day problems that the doctors worked through. It was a great learning experience, and I will forever remember the doctors, nurses, patients, and other interns that I met along the way!

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Intisar Shafie

I enjoyed meeting new interns and people from around the world and new connections with people from different backgrounds. I thoroughly enjoyed the hospital experience, it was very hands on and I learnt a lot from the students and doctors in Zanzibar. This internship has helped develop my confidence and communication skills as it has developed my ability to communicate with people that are of different cultures and languages to me. It was interesting to see how differently hospitals in Zanzibar operated compared to the UK and what things we had in common. Outside of the work aspect of the internship, I was able to immerse myself in the Swahili culture by having a great relationship with my host family and making friends with local people. I was also able to appreciate my surroundings and beautiful landscapes in Zanzibar. I would definitely recommend Intern Abroad HQ to others, as there's a whole host of opportunities to get involved in. Intern Abroad HQ co-ordinators/supervisors were also very organised and helpful throughout my internship.

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To read all reviews, visit our reviews page.