Zanzibar Winter
Dates
December 27, 2025 – January 10, 2026
Subjects
Public Health, Communication
Deadlines
Aug. 1: Apply Early & Save $100
Sept. 15: Regular Deadline
Program Overview
This program is designed for students and professionals in public health and related areas. With a site in the world heritage center of Zanzibar Island, East Africa, the program offers a 3-credit hour course (grad/undergrad) that offers participants with an opportunity to engage in collaborative learning, service learning, and internships alongside their local counterparts and community members. Students will learn about the organization of health, occupational, and social services, business structure, and natural resource services of Tanzania through educational excursions to cultural, natural, community, and historic sites. Guest speaking events and assessment or observation of community development initiatives are included as part of the learning process.
Note: Studying abroad likely is more physically strenuous than you are used to at home. KIIS study abroad programs typically involve approx. 5-10 miles of walking (approx. 10,000-20,000 steps) or the like in a day, including the possibility of walking, hiking, and climbing stairs in heat and humidity, over elevations at higher altitudes, and over rocky terrain. See Health & Wellness for more information.
All KIIS course credit is awarded by Western Kentucky University. Prior to your KIIS program, please speak with your home campus academic advisor and/or study abroad office to determine course equivalencies. Grades will be transferred to your home institution in late January after the completion of the program. Course offerings are subject to change according to enrollment. For more information, visit Transcripts & Grades.
Program Excursions
A famous restaurant in the Indian Ocean accessible by boat in high tide, with a 360-degree view of the beautiful coastline. We visit the Rock Café or “the floating restaurant” for lunch and ocean viewing after a day of community outreach.
A day on the Indian Ocean dubbed as “Safari Blue” includes opportunities for swimming, eating local fruits, volleyball and sunbathing, seafood lunch, visiting a former island that held slaves and viewing giant turtles.
Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island and spices are the main source of income among the residents of Zanzibar. We will have the opportunity to visit a farm to touch, smell, and taste different spices, eat a traditional Swahili dinner and enjoy a traditional dance performance.
One of the few places in the world where the rare colobus monkeys can be spotted. We also examine many species of butterflies, birds, plants and trees and learn about alternative medicine derived from the forest that is used among the residents of Zanzibar.
What's Included
Program Cost: $3,495 + airfare
To help you budget, keep in mind that you are responsible for the cost of your textbooks & materials, passport fees ($165), Zanzibar entry visa ($100) and Zanzibar travel insurance ($44); details provided at Orientation, one meal per day + personal expenses (approx. $400), and any fees from your college/university.
Although KIIS tries to foresee all possible expenses in formulating program fees, please note that dramatic fluctuations in foreign currency valuations and/or airline surcharges may affect the total cost of the program.
Student Voices
“I had the pleasure of spending winter break studying Comparative Health Systems in Zanzibar, Tanzania! It was such an incredible and unique opportunity to be fully immersed in another culture while gaining the experience necessary to take my education and career to the next level. My gratitude to KIIS Study Abroad, Dr. Mkanta, Dr. Sanyang, and the health practitioners in Tanzania cannot be adequately expressed. I’ve developed skills and relationships through this experience that will last a lifetime. I was able to learn alongside other health administration and public health students while also enjoying the beautiful sites of East Africa. Thank you University of Louisville for allowing me to represent UofL abroad!”
– Erin, Zanzibar Winter
“Studying abroad opened my eyes too many things. There’s only so much you can learn from staying in one place and country. Seeing things with your own eyes creates a completely different learning opportunity and a place in your heart. There is a whole other side of the world that can show you things, people, places, cultures, and how to appreciate what has been given to you. Experiencing Tanzania was one of the best decisions I could have made for myself. I was able to explore an entirely different way of life, get out of my comfort zone, and learn from the amazing, hard-working and respectful people of Tanzania. I am so thankful to have experienced their daily life, welcoming nature and their inspirational work ethic. My heart is forever changed for the better.”
– Shiloh, Zanzibar Winter
“Being able to be a part of this study abroad program was one of the most humbling and rewarding experiences I have ever had. During this trip, I met some of the most amazing people and made friendships that will last me a lifetime. I was able to gain knowledge and awareness on global healthcare. This program gave me the opportunity to participate in things that were way out of my comfort zone. I saw wild animals in their natural habitat, tried new foods, went snorkeling for the first time, watched a live delivery, and many more. As a result, I believe this particular study abroad experience has molded me into a different person; one who is more adaptable and willing to try new things, one who can now find comfort in the uncomfortable.”
– Brittany, Zanzibar Winter
“This study abroad trip has been the most eye opening, heart warming, learning, and rewarding experience. We toured many hospitals, a University, orphanages, and different cultivating tours. The Tanzanian population was nothing but nice and with open arms for new visitors. Getting a feel for the culture of Africa, specifically Zanzibar, was the best thing I could have asked for. The people have little to nothing, but still keep an uplifting and warm smile on their faces everyday. This trip has also shown me a lot about myself, as this was my first study abroad trip. I chose to get out of my comfort zone and experience something that took my learning and experiences to the next level. I will forever have a special place in my heart for Tanzania and the wonderful people I have met along my journey. I hope that everyone gets to experience something as great as this!”
– Brooke, Zanzibar Winter
“When our daughter expressed interest in traveling to Tanzania, we were somewhat concerned. It’s so far away, is it safe? Our concerns were quickly resolved as we gained information regarding the program success, stability and purpose. Our daughter has had a life-changing experience; the beauty of Africa, an amazing culture and the formation of lasting personal relationships. I recommend each student takes advantage of this opportunity!”
– James and Rona, parents of Tanzania and Zanzibar student
“Studying abroad in Tanzania and Zanzibar for our daughter Molly was an incredible adventure. Helping and learning in the nursing field allowed her to gain an immense amount of experience while also enhancing her compassion, empathy and respect for the field. Stepping out to new and different cultures is a great way to learn, share skills and allows students to become well-rounded. Getting to experience new parts of the world, creating lifelong friendships and the great staff at KIIS is an added bonus! We are so happy our daughter had this opportunity!”
– Alisa, parent of Tanzania & Zanzibar student
“My experience in Zanzibar was magnificent. Being in a country with so much history, beautiful scenery, and with natives who are truly happy to see you is a humbling feeling. There is not enough words to explain the peace, serenity, and love that I felt while in Zanzibar.”
– Shantera, Zanzibar Winter
“This experience has given me a new spirit to challenge myself and go above my limits. Also the places we went to were picturesque. It made me feel like mother nature’s lap.”
–Aishwarya, Zanzibar Winter
Take Your Education Further
Description
Dates
December 27, 2025 – January 10, 2026
Subjects
Public Health, Communication
Deadlines
Aug. 1: Apply Early & Save $100
Sept. 15: Regular Deadline
Program Overview
This program is designed for students and professionals in public health and related areas. With a site in the world heritage center of Zanzibar Island, East Africa, the program offers a 3-credit hour course (grad/undergrad) that offers participants with an opportunity to engage in collaborative learning, service learning, and internships alongside their local counterparts and community members. Students will learn about the organization of health, occupational, and social services, business structure, and natural resource services of Tanzania through educational excursions to cultural, natural, community, and historic sites. Guest speaking events and assessment or observation of community development initiatives are included as part of the learning process.
Note: Studying abroad likely is more physically strenuous than you are used to at home. KIIS study abroad programs typically involve approx. 5-10 miles of walking (approx. 10,000-20,000 steps) or the like in a day, including the possibility of walking, hiking, and climbing stairs in heat and humidity, over elevations at higher altitudes, and over rocky terrain. See Health & Wellness for more information.
All KIIS course credit is awarded by Western Kentucky University. Prior to your KIIS program, please speak with your home campus academic advisor and/or study abroad office to determine course equivalencies. Grades will be transferred to your home institution in late January after the completion of the program. Course offerings are subject to change according to enrollment. For more information, visit Transcripts & Grades.
Program Excursions
A famous restaurant in the Indian Ocean accessible by boat in high tide, with a 360-degree view of the beautiful coastline. We visit the Rock Café or “the floating restaurant” for lunch and ocean viewing after a day of community outreach.
A day on the Indian Ocean dubbed as “Safari Blue” includes opportunities for swimming, eating local fruits, volleyball and sunbathing, seafood lunch, visiting a former island that held slaves and viewing giant turtles.
Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island and spices are the main source of income among the residents of Zanzibar. We will have the opportunity to visit a farm to touch, smell, and taste different spices, eat a traditional Swahili dinner and enjoy a traditional dance performance.
One of the few places in the world where the rare colobus monkeys can be spotted. We also examine many species of butterflies, birds, plants and trees and learn about alternative medicine derived from the forest that is used among the residents of Zanzibar.
What's Included
Program Cost: $3,495 + airfare
To help you budget, keep in mind that you are responsible for the cost of your textbooks & materials, passport fees ($165), Zanzibar entry visa ($100) and Zanzibar travel insurance ($44); details provided at Orientation, one meal per day + personal expenses (approx. $400), and any fees from your college/university.
Although KIIS tries to foresee all possible expenses in formulating program fees, please note that dramatic fluctuations in foreign currency valuations and/or airline surcharges may affect the total cost of the program.
Student Voices
“I had the pleasure of spending winter break studying Comparative Health Systems in Zanzibar, Tanzania! It was such an incredible and unique opportunity to be fully immersed in another culture while gaining the experience necessary to take my education and career to the next level. My gratitude to KIIS Study Abroad, Dr. Mkanta, Dr. Sanyang, and the health practitioners in Tanzania cannot be adequately expressed. I’ve developed skills and relationships through this experience that will last a lifetime. I was able to learn alongside other health administration and public health students while also enjoying the beautiful sites of East Africa. Thank you University of Louisville for allowing me to represent UofL abroad!”
– Erin, Zanzibar Winter
“Studying abroad opened my eyes too many things. There’s only so much you can learn from staying in one place and country. Seeing things with your own eyes creates a completely different learning opportunity and a place in your heart. There is a whole other side of the world that can show you things, people, places, cultures, and how to appreciate what has been given to you. Experiencing Tanzania was one of the best decisions I could have made for myself. I was able to explore an entirely different way of life, get out of my comfort zone, and learn from the amazing, hard-working and respectful people of Tanzania. I am so thankful to have experienced their daily life, welcoming nature and their inspirational work ethic. My heart is forever changed for the better.”
– Shiloh, Zanzibar Winter
“Being able to be a part of this study abroad program was one of the most humbling and rewarding experiences I have ever had. During this trip, I met some of the most amazing people and made friendships that will last me a lifetime. I was able to gain knowledge and awareness on global healthcare. This program gave me the opportunity to participate in things that were way out of my comfort zone. I saw wild animals in their natural habitat, tried new foods, went snorkeling for the first time, watched a live delivery, and many more. As a result, I believe this particular study abroad experience has molded me into a different person; one who is more adaptable and willing to try new things, one who can now find comfort in the uncomfortable.”
– Brittany, Zanzibar Winter
“This study abroad trip has been the most eye opening, heart warming, learning, and rewarding experience. We toured many hospitals, a University, orphanages, and different cultivating tours. The Tanzanian population was nothing but nice and with open arms for new visitors. Getting a feel for the culture of Africa, specifically Zanzibar, was the best thing I could have asked for. The people have little to nothing, but still keep an uplifting and warm smile on their faces everyday. This trip has also shown me a lot about myself, as this was my first study abroad trip. I chose to get out of my comfort zone and experience something that took my learning and experiences to the next level. I will forever have a special place in my heart for Tanzania and the wonderful people I have met along my journey. I hope that everyone gets to experience something as great as this!”
– Brooke, Zanzibar Winter
“When our daughter expressed interest in traveling to Tanzania, we were somewhat concerned. It’s so far away, is it safe? Our concerns were quickly resolved as we gained information regarding the program success, stability and purpose. Our daughter has had a life-changing experience; the beauty of Africa, an amazing culture and the formation of lasting personal relationships. I recommend each student takes advantage of this opportunity!”
– James and Rona, parents of Tanzania and Zanzibar student
“Studying abroad in Tanzania and Zanzibar for our daughter Molly was an incredible adventure. Helping and learning in the nursing field allowed her to gain an immense amount of experience while also enhancing her compassion, empathy and respect for the field. Stepping out to new and different cultures is a great way to learn, share skills and allows students to become well-rounded. Getting to experience new parts of the world, creating lifelong friendships and the great staff at KIIS is an added bonus! We are so happy our daughter had this opportunity!”
– Alisa, parent of Tanzania & Zanzibar student
“My experience in Zanzibar was magnificent. Being in a country with so much history, beautiful scenery, and with natives who are truly happy to see you is a humbling feeling. There is not enough words to explain the peace, serenity, and love that I felt while in Zanzibar.”
– Shantera, Zanzibar Winter
“This experience has given me a new spirit to challenge myself and go above my limits. Also the places we went to were picturesque. It made me feel like mother nature’s lap.”
–Aishwarya, Zanzibar Winter
Take Your Education Further
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