What do we do in Tanzania?
We visit our companion congregations in Makifu, Tungamalenga, and Usolanga, feeling the unity we have in Christ across barriers of distance, language, race, and culture. We act as ambassadors to our companions in the Iringa Diocese of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Tanzania. We experience generous hospitality, deepen our relationships, and plan and evaluate projects.  We also take a few days for safari at Ruaha National Game Park.

Who can travel?
SOTV members and friends who are interested in the journey of a lifetime are welcome to apply. Children and youth can travel with a family member or guardian. Healthcare is somewhat limited in this part of the world, so medical evacuation insurance is recommended for all travelers.

How do I get started?

Read posts from past travelers on the Tanzania blog. Apply for a passport if you don’t already have one.

Once the travel group is formed, the group will meet 4-6 times to prepare for the journey. Learn about our companionship, history, and the roots of the relationship between the Saint Paul Area Synod and the Iringa Diocese. We’ll plan gifts for our hosts, learn a little Swahili, and get up to speed on projects we may be asked to plan or monitor.

What’s the cost?
Recent trips have cost around $5,000 per person. Airfare is the biggest variable, ranging from $1,800 – $2,600. A deposit is due with the application.

Besides traveling to Tanzania, are there other ways to get involved? Yes!

• Pray for our partners.
• Follow our SOTV Tanzania Partnership page on Facebook to hear about current needs and concerns.
• Read our partnership blog for more in-depth stories.
• Support the partnership with monetary gifts for scholarships, medical needs, and projects like chapel construction or bringing water to a village.
• Purchase Tanzanian handcrafts at the Christmas & Craft Boutique.
• Welcome Tanzanian guests when they come to visit.
•