The diversity within Tanzania is stunning. the country is home to over 120 ethnic groups, the equatorial snows of Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti plains teeming with wildlife, and the white sand beaches of Arab and Indian influenced Dar es Salaam. ELI works with organizations within three distinct communities in Tanzania: the Meru Community in the village of Tengeru on the flanks of Mt. Meru, the multicultural city, Dar es Salaam, and the Maasai community in the village of Elkurot north of Arusha town.

The Meru are a Bantu tribe who inhabit the foothills of Mt. Meru, the second highest mountain in Tanzania. The Meru people are predominantly farmers both cultivating crops and keeping livestock. The Meru area is flanked by hills that support abundant banana and coffee plantations and many trees. Volunteers can work with a wide variety of community-started initiatives here.

Dar es Salaam is the bustling economic and political center of Tanzania. The mix of African, Arab, and Indian cultures typifies the distinctive Swahili culture found along the coast of Tanzania. Dar es Salaam began as a small fishing village until Sultan Seyyid Majid of Zanzibar started developing the harbor to attract more trade. German colonists later found the harbor perfect for their large steam ships. Through the centuries, the white beaches of the Swahili coast have seen countless merchants, conquerors, slaves, explorers and refugees pass by, Each group leaving its mark on life in the colorful city. 

The Maasai are a Maa speaking Nilo-Hamitic group who have, in large part, retained their traditional culture. They are pastoralists inhabiting the northern part of Tanzania. Typical Maasai are generally tall, slender people living off milk, blood (especially where water is scarce), and meat.  Volunteers working with the Maasai community will stay in a typical Maasai hut and must be prepared to live without the modern conveniences of running water and electricity.