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Sustainable Tourism Internship in Malawi
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Gain a wealth of experience in strategic development while helping a Malawi-based eco-lodge grow its impact
Be part of an inspiring nonprofit eco-lodge during this Sustainable Tourism Internship in Malawi. Embark on an opportunity to expand your skill set in communications, marketing, management, and business development and to get a great understanding of the eco-tourism industry in Malawi. You’ll also learn about – and contribute to – the nonprofit aspect of the lodge that serves as a hub for a community and conservation volunteers and interns from around the world.
As an intern, you’ll assist with the overall development of the lodge, which may involve doing market research, developing marketing strategies, working on SEO, managing communications channels, assisting with project/volunteer coordination, and collaborating on ideas to further green initiatives within the lodge. To apply for this Eco-Tourism Internship, you’ll need to have some basic knowledge or experience in marketing or management, a desire to learn, and a passion for sustainable tourism.
Learning Outcomes:
- Practical experience in day-to-day marketing activities and management operations
- An ability to work collaboratively on grassroots initiatives
- Experience in managing a variety of communications channels
- An understanding of the intersection of tourism and sustainable development
- Experience in partnership development and management
ORGANIZATION
Butterfly Lodge is a unique and eco-friendly lodge that combines sustainable tourism and community development in an effective and exciting way. Based in Nkhata Bay, in the north of Malawi, the lodge is home to a number of social and environmental projects in the neighboring communities, including health and HIV support groups, permaculture clubs at schools, educational programs, and media development projects. The lodge invites volunteers from around the world to join their community – and their effort to bring positive change to this part of the country. It offers a rewarding experience to volunteers and interns, who can bring their skills to the project of their choice, and make a lasting impact.
TASKS & REQUIreMENTS
All internship positions with Butterfly Space allow you to join this grassroots nonprofit on its journey of local community development work. Each member of the team is involved across multiple aspects of the projects and contributes in ways that go beyond outlined task descriptions. Interns are expected to be hands-on, open-minded, and eager to learn across various areas of the organization.
Responsibilities
As a Sustainable Tourism intern, you’ll help grow the online presence of the eco-lodge and the volunteer opportunities it offers, while working with the team on the ground to further green tourism practices. Your internship will be tailored to your specific skills and interests, and will include a mixture of the following;
- Marketing:
- Innovating and implementing new digital strategies
- Managing (and developing) social media channels
- Writing blog content
- Developing online strategies for driving traffic to the website
- Partnerships:
- Helping create a strategy for advertising volunteer opportunities in local communities, and forming partnerships with advertising platforms for global volunteers
- Doing research into and outreach to businesses in order to form Corporate Social Responsibility partnerships
- Management:
- Assist with project facilitation during field work
- Take on the role of volunteer coordination and learn to manage a team
- Eco-Practices:
- Conducting research into sustainable tourism practices that can be implemented in Malawi
- Collaborating with the lodge staff to develop green initiatives
- Create relevant materials to engage guests in making a positive impact during their stay
- Finance:
- Assist with bookkeeping activities and learn how a social enterprise functions
- Contribute to fundraising efforts by creating financial reports and completing grant applications
Requirements
- Strong online communication skills
- Ideally some experience in marketing or management
- Experience with different social media platforms
- Good writing skills
- An ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Strong research and analytical skills
- A passion for sustainable tourism
You’ll stay at a popular backpackers in the northern town of Nkhata Bay. Located on Lake Malawi, with views of palm trees and green-blue water, this lodge has an idyllic location and a relaxed vibe. You’ll enjoy a private beach, beautiful gardens, a lakeside bar, and communal spaces. The rooms are comfortable 6 bed dormitories, although there are options of upgrading to single chalets (at an extra fee). The lodge is a hub for people who are volunteering their time at different communities and environmental projects in the area, so you can expect to share this space with like-minded people.
Safety & Support
Safety & Support
Malawi is considered to be safe for tourists, however, being a developing country with poverty, there is petty crime. Keep your belongings securely stored and close to you, don’t walk alone in the dark, and report any suspicious behavior that you may see to the accommodation/host organization.
Communication
Communication
You’ll be able to use your phone in Malawi with roaming data turned on or a local SIM card if your phone is unlocked. Visit Airtel or TNM stands for a SIM and purchase 1000MK ‘Airtime’ (for calls), and a data bundle. Wi-Fi is not an amenity offered in Malawi, so you will need to buy data bundles from a provider for work and personal use.
Meals
Meals
A meal package is included for the first month that suffices for two meals per day (breakfast and lunch/dinner). For the next months you can either book a meal package or eat locally. There is also a small kitchen available for basic cooking. Meals are prepared through Mkana Cafe, the restaurant on-site. The menu includes many international dishes and is also vegetarian-friendly. Make sure to notify us in advance of any allergies/dietary needs.
Location details
Location details
Nkhata Bay is a lively ferry port on the shores of Lake Malawi with a bustling market which is one of the biggest cultural influences on the area. It offers many activities, such as snorkeling, boat/kayak trips, energetic football matches, and beach ventures. Explore Malawi via coach buses and boats, especially the iconic Ilala Ferry, which has been active since 1951.
DATES & RATES
Fee Breakdown
The start dates for this internship are flexible and will be discussed during the application process.
What you’ll pay (2025 rates)
8 weeks USD 2,149
12 weeks USD 2,500
16 weeks USD 2,851
20 weeks USD 3,202
26 weeks USD 3,729
Inclusions
- Careful matchmaking. It takes time to find the right internship for each person, and we take this process very seriously
- Initial interview with one of our team to gauge your skills, interests, and desired learning outcomes
- An academic internship eligible for university credit. Check with your university to confirm if this internship qualifies for credit or alternatively we can assist you with purchasing transfer credits
- Accommodation in a dorm room. If you prefer a single room, please contact us for availability and prices
- Breakfast and dinner daily for the first month
- Laundry service
- Housekeeping service
- Guidance with your visa arrangement and other preparations
- Development of an Internship Work Plan to help you reach your learning goals
- Onboarding with your supervisor
- Regular check-ins
- Support from the Roots team remotely
- A certificate of completion at the end of your internship
- A reference letter upon request
Exclusions
- Flights to Lilongwe
- Transport from Lilongwe to Nkhata Bay (approximately 400 km) – we can help you arrange this in advance
- Transport to any project sites (not required) – it is recommended to fundraise prior to your arrival to help cover travel costs for site visits should you wish to get involved with field work
- Meals after your first month – for the remaining duration, you can prepare your own meals or opt to extend the meal package
- Visa and medical/travel insurance costs for the duration of your placement – must include cover for repatriation
- Lunch, drinks, snacks, and items of personal nature (f.e. curios, gifts, clothing)
- Costs for additional excursions or activities
GALLERY
FAQs
Some of our most commonly asked questions for programs in Malawi.
What can I expect from an internship in Malawi?
You can expect to foster a unique connection with the local community, as well as having many opportunities to explore various projects during your internship. If you wish to know more about what to expect, make sure to read our blog from a previous intern who traveled to Malawi!
How long can I do an internship in Malawi?
The minimum length of our internships in Malawi is two months, but the ideal length is closer to four months, if possible. This ensures you have an adequate amount of time to make a tangible impact. Luckily, the length of our programs is customizable so you can apply for a summer, remote, hybrid, or gap-year internship!
Can I get university credit for an internship in Malawi?
Yes, but you must ensure with your supervisor that your university approves this. You can also purchase transfer credits to add onto your internship experience.
How can I prepare for an internship in Malawi?
Personally, you can prepare by learning about the history and culture of Malawi and reflecting on your internship goals, and we’ll be here to help you with the rest! Ask us any questions you may have about placement logistics, matchmaking, check-ins, advice on visa/insurance, or anything else you may think of. If you wish to know more about preparing for your internship, you can check out our ultimate guide to NGO internships in Africa!
Will I receive a stipend during my Roots internship?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to receive any kind of stipend while interning for a nonprofit organization. Your internship will be unpaid so we’ve put together a few tips on how to fund your internship. There will be opportunities for professional and personal growth and you’ll leave with a wealth of knowledge that is invaluable!
REVIEWS
Roots Interns connected me with the perfect organization to grow my personal and professional skills. With their help I was able to travel to Malawi and be a part of projects that make a tangible impact in the community. I was able to see first-hand how nonprofits function in a developing country and the work I did made changes that I could see reflected in my time on the ground. This internship changed my career goals by exposing me to a whole new way of working and I couldn’t be more thankful to Roots Interns for the role they played in giving me this experience.
Amanda, American – Indiana Universtiy
Community Development Internship, Malawi
Malawi will forever hold a deeply special place in my heart! The team at my host organization and in the community were so welcoming that I grew to feel fully part of life in Malawi. I got the chance to explore all around the country while being immersed in the culture and making incredible new friends. Being based on the shores of Lake Malawi was truly like waking up in paradise each morning and there were plenty of activities and adventures to be had. Each day brought something new and my internship abroad has truly shaped my future.
Amanda, American – Indiana University
Community Development Internship, Malawi
Interning in Malawi allowed me to not only work on their current projects, but also venture off on my own to make new connections within the community. I was able to meet so many different community leaders, teachers, mentors, and coaches within Nkhata Bay and surrounding villages. I feel like I was able to not only bring new knowledge and ideas to the people of Nkhata Bay, but also learn so much from them and develop in my own way. It was truly a beautiful experience that I will always be grateful for, and has encouraged a future of volunteering and traveling.
Kya, American – Harris-Stowe State University
Community Development Internship, Malawi
QUICK FACTS
LOCATION: Nkhata Bay, Malawi
PROGRAM FOCUS: Community Development NGO
TASK FOCUS: Digital Marketing, Eco-Tourism, Sustainable Development
LENGTH: Min. 8 weeks
COST: From USD 2,149
FEATURED REVIEW
HIGHLIGHTS
- Gain practical (and hugely varied) work experience with a grassroots nonprofit
- Be part of an innovative eco-lodge that is a hub for community development projects in Malawi
- Get a good understanding of sustainable tourism, and how it intersects with nonprofit work
- Contribute to the long term impact of a worthwhile nonprofit initiative
- Live and work in a beautiful part of Malawi
- Be part of a larger community of interns and volunteers from around the world
ENQUIREAPPLY NOW
HOW TO APPLY
If you’re ready to apply for this internship, here’s what to do:
APPLY
Fill in the application form (it will show in a new screen) which includes sharing your CV to us.
SPEAK WITH AN ADVISOR
We’ll set up a call with you to go through your application.
INTERNSHIP MATCHING
If we feel it’s a good match, we’ll set up a call between you and the supervisor for this internship.
PAYMENT
If everyone’s happy, we’ll provisionally confirm your placement! We’ll then send you the invoice for the deposit, getting started with the booking process and all the info you need.
CONFIRMATION
Only once we receive payment of the deposit your placement will be confirmed.
NEED TO MAKE AN ENQUIRY FIRST?
Or if you’d just like to ask us some questions about this internship first, just fill in the contact form below. We’ll be happy to assist!
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