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2024 Best Volunteer Abroad Programs, Organizations, and Projects

By Sarah Vandenberg

By Volunteer Forever

(New! Updated for 2024 trips)

Since 2015, Volunteer Forever has compiled the original list of best volunteer abroad programs worldwide with nearly 12 million views of our travel guides . Using our database of 1,000 international volunteer abroad organizations, 6,000 program reviews, and 13,500 fundraisers who’ve collectively raised $3 million for their trips, we have crunched the numbers to identify the top volunteer abroad opportunities. To take some of the guesswork out of choosing a program, we considered the history of each organization, number of alumni, and our twelve years of intensive work and research in the volunteer abroad world.  

Read on for our list of the top recommended volunteer abroad programs!

2024 Best Volunteer Abroad Programs

If you’ve resolved to travel and make a difference this year, there’s no shortage of amazing volunteer abroad, intern abroad, study abroad, and teach abroad programs awaiting you. All of the volunteer abroad organizations showcased below have excellent reviews from very happy participants on Volunteer Forever – on this list, you’ll see some of the many different volunteer abroad experiences you can embark on and you’ll learn how to get there.

While traveling abroad can be expensive, we feature wonderful volunteer organizations such as International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) , which are super affordable and available in over 50 different destinations , including in Bali , South Africa , Costa Rica , Peru , Fiji , Nepal , and Spain . They have supported over 130,000 travelers to volunteer abroad safely since 2007 and have an experienced team of volunteer travel experts who will ensure you are well prepared for your trip. Their top rated volunteer abroad programs and emphasis on safety are what makes IVHQ the world’s most popular choice for solo travelers, couples, families, and groups . Starting from $20USD a day, volunteers have among 330 plus projects to choose from with volunteer opportunities in Healthcare , Childcare , Teaching , Conservation , Construction , Wildlife and Animal Care , and more. Some of the most popular destinations to check out are Madagascar , Vietnam , Kenya , Cambodia , Spain , and Thailand , and they’ve recently opened new programs in Jamaica , Greece , Australia , Belize , Namibia , and Trinidad and Tobago .

If you’re interested in volunteering with animals, check out GoEco’ s numerous well-known wildlife conservation projects , which are some of the most popular in the world. If you want to work with animals in exotic locations, then GoEco’s Marine and Turtle Conservation program in the Maldives , Wildlife Animal Sanctuary in Australia , Marine Conservation in Belize , Giant Tortoise Conservation in Galapagos , or Amazon wildlife Sanctuary in Peru is worth a visit! Also, one of GoEco’s top programs in 2022 is the African Wildlife Orphanage in Zimbabwe , where volunteers will care for injured animals from tortoises to lions. Besides wildlife conservation projects, GoEco also has medical volunteer programs in Peru , Sri Lanka , and Costa Rica ; teach English abroad in Nepal , Sri Lanka , or in Tanzania !  Some of their programs are also family friendly to make a family vacation more meaningful. In addition, they offer safe and impactful  programs specifically curated for teens , and programs that accept under 18 years old with parental consent.   Visit GoEco to start your volunteering abroad adventures!

Take an immersive volunteer abroad trip to Latin America with Maximo Nivel! They offer impactful and educational placements in Costa Rica ,  Guatemala , and  Peru . Some of Maximo Nivel’s volunteer abroad opportunities include construction ,  conservation ,  teaching English ,  working with kids , and working with  indigenous communities . You also might consider earing your certificate by enrolling in a  Teach English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certification program , which offers job-placement workshops and prepares you for ESL job placements around the world – or on the flip side, if you’re looking to learn a new language, be sure to check out Maximo Nivel’s  Spanish Immersion programs . Lastly, if you are interested in studying abroad in Costa Rica, Peru, or Guatemala, you’ll definitely want to look into Maximo Nivel’s University Abroad programs , which are excellent alternative to traditional programs due to their affordability.

Check out Volunteering Solutions ’ wide-range of affordable volunteer and intern programs worldwide in more than 26 countries. They are known for their voluntourism and professional growth their projects offer. Take a look their curated programs for the best summer volunteer programs , for medical internships abroad , or wildlife conservation projects for outdoor adventures!

Or if you’re a current or aspiring doctor, nurse dentist, or other healthcare professional, you will find a ton of medical volunteer opportunities and healthcare internships with Projects Abroad . For those interested in public health and nutrition, we strongly recommend Involvement Volunteers International , which has been providing humanitarian aid, emergency disaster relief, and international volunteer opportunities since 1989.

Lastly, if you’re interested in teaching English abroad, a high quality and educational international volunteer and work organization is International TEFL Academy (ITA) . Through International TEFL Academy, you can get paid to live abroad as a professional English teacher in a country like Spain , Thailand, or Costa Rica . The organization offers TEFL training to get you certified to teach English abroad, then provides job placement services. Teaching English with ITA is a great way to do good while earning money and traveling the world.

Ready to plan your trip? Read on!

Most Popular Guidebooks

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Founded in 2007 by Dan Radcliffe, International Volunteer HQ offers over 330 affordable volunteer trips to over 50 destinations in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Latin America, the USA, Europe, the Caribbean, and the Pacific. IVHQ has placed more than 130,000 volunteers around the world on projects ranging from teaching and healthcare, to wildlife conservation and construction, and more. Programs last one week to 24 weeks and start at $20USD a day. 

One of the key benefits of volunteering with IVHQ is knowing you’ll receive ongoing support from their experienced team of volunteer travel experts. If you’re looking for an immersive and impactful travel experience, IVHQ makes organizing a volunteer trip on your own schedule easy and affordable.

IVHQ Opportunities to Check Out

Volunteer in galapagos island.

IVHQ has exciting new volunteer opportunities in the Galapagos Islands. This program is great for eco volunteers with a love of conservation and protection of natural resources and habitats. Most of the volunteer experiences will be set in the small coastal town of Puerto Villamil, on the southeastern edge of Isabela Island, with its pristine white beaches. There are 6 interesting projects to choose from, with a minimum commitment of 2 weeks. Check these projects out:

• Promote conservation and document ongoing projects in social media
• Environmental conservation , where you will work in the National park to protect and preserve the ecosystems
• Giant tortoise conservation , where you’ll help this endangered species at a breeding center
• Sea turtle nest monitoring to help protect and manage the nesting season
• Sustainable agriculture and gardening to support sustainable farming practices
• Teaching English to the local adults and children 

As a volunteer for these projects, you are working to help protect this beautiful island’s ecosystem as well as enjoying its beautiful natural beauty and learning about its culture, animals, and people. On the weekend, there are opportunities to dive, hike an active volcano, snorkel in many of the islands’ beautiful spots, or just relax on the white sand. For more detailed information, click here ! 

Volunteer in Bali: Ubud and Lovina

Looking for a tropical island getaway where you can also help the community? Volunteer with IVHQ in Bali ! There are 9 year-round projects to choose from. Travel to the cultural center of Ubud, where you can volunteer to teach English in an afterschool project , to assist teaching in a kindergarten , to help with construction and renovation in schools and community spaces, to support turtle conservation , to improve environmental education on recycling and sustainability living, or to encourage healthcare education promoting health and wellbeing. Or head to the coastal town of Lovina, where you can lend a hand with kindergarten support and teaching, or with school and community renovation . During your free time, go snorkeling or diving, embark on a cycling or trekking tour, explore temples and waterfalls, and much more! IVHQ’s trips to Ubud and Lovina , Bali start from one week at a very affordable $385.

Volunteer in South Africa: Cape Town, Kruger National Park, and Table View

Have you always wanted to visit South Africa? If so, IVHQ has 10 year round projects for you to choose the perfect volunteer abroad opportunity! Travel to central Cape Town, Kruger National Park, or to nearby Table View and immerse yourself in South African culture while volunteering on impactful initiatives. 

In Cape Town, you can choose between childcare , teaching , animal care , sport development , or surf outreach volunteer trips . If you decide to volunteer in Table View, check out IVHQ’s Surf, Skate & Swim volunteer program , which supports students from low-income communities. Other Table View volunteering opportunities include childcare in kindergarten in low-income communities, sport development to help after-school sports programs, and the Holiday Club project , which keeps students active and engaged during their school holidays. Lastly, you can visit Kruger National Park while being a wildlife conservation volunteer. During your free time, you can explore the areas, and even take a long weekend to go on a safari or check out the Garden Route. IVHQ’s South Africa volunteer programs in Cape Town , Kruger National Park, and Table View start from only $275 for one week.

Volunteer in Costa Rica

Embark on an adventure to Costa Rica with IVHQ, where you can choose from sixteen volunteer programs in San Jose, Manuel Antonio, and beyond! Some highlight programs that you can be a part of include:

• Childcare and working with children at daycares and schools 
• Turtle conservation and research
• Healthcare at clinics for disabled children or the homeless, nursing homes, and ambulance services in San Jose , Maneul Antonio
• Construction and renovation
• Teach English at public schools, in homes, or even at a local fire station in Manuel Antonio , in San Jose
• Eco-agricultural conservation in the central highlands of Costa Rica
• Special needs care for students with intellectual and physical disabilities

IVHQ also offers a Holiday Experience during Christmas and the New Year in San Jose, where you can participate in a variety of volunteer projects, including working with children and the elderly, planning celebrations for underprivileged children, and sprucing up community centers. 

During your weekends and free time, you’re invited to explore San Jose and other areas of the country, including volcanoes, rainforests, and beaches. Volunteering with IVHQ in Costa Rica starts from one week at only $445.

Volunteer in Spain

Volunteer in Barcelona with IVHQ ! Choose one of eight impactful programs to volunteer while immersing yourself in a beautiful architectural, vibrant, and cultural city with lots to do. These programs range from one week to 12 weeks, starting at $650 a week. 

Programs in Barcelona include:

• Youth support , where you will volunteer in an afterschool center 
• Animal care , which will have you working in a shelter for cats and dogs
• Marine conservation , which gives you the chance to complete PADI dive certifications while helping to reduce ocean pollution
• Special needs support , which assists people with disabilities and may include arts and crafts, physical therapy, and exercise
• Creative technologies , where you’ll help local NGOs develop their online presence

During your stay in Barcelona, you will have the opportunity to explore the iconic architecture, museums, go shopping, relax on the beach, or visit other beautiful surrounding cities. 

IVHQ Program Review: Kaitlyn, Guatemala

I volunteered in Guatemala with IVHQ and it was one of the best experiences I have ever had ! My program cost less than half of some of the other programs I was looking at and gave me more than those programs did – from the great food at meal times, to the actual program and the pickup at the airport and lots of options for support if it was needed!! Overall IVHQ is amazing and they are definitely the organization to volunteer with !

Check out over 6,400 reviews of International Volunteer HQ here !

Since 2006, GoEco has offered  affordable volunteer abroad programs and internships  in over 45 countries throughout  Africa ,  Asia ,  Australasia ,  Central America ,  Europe , the  Middle East , and South America . With more than 170 different programs, GoEco is a great organization to check out if you’re looking for a variety of impactful volunteer abroad trips to choose from, from  wildlife conservation  to  teaching English . As a volunteer, you will have 24-hour support from the GoEco team, from start to finish.

Top destinations include  South Africa ,  Australia ,  Bali ,  Costa Rica ,  Thailand , and  Zimbabwe . Top activities include  wildlife and animal conservation ,  marine and coral reef conservation ,  medical and healthcare ,  community aid and development ,  teaching English , and  volunteering with children .

With GoEco’s 3rd Week Free Grant , enjoy the benefits of a third week free of charge when you sign up for two weeks or more on selected projects.

GoEco Opportunities to Check Out

• Zimbabwe – African Wildlife Orphanage:  Volunteer abroad at a wildlife orphanage in Zimbabwe to care for various wild animals that have been injured or orphaned. Volunteers work closely with these animals to rehabilitate them before releasing them into a Protected Area.
• Indonesia – Bali Sea Turtle Rescue:  Join GoEco on the beautiful island of Nusa Penida, just off the coast of Bali! Work hands-on with injured sea turtles and release the rehabilitated back into their ocean home.
• Thailand- Hua Hin Teaching and Childcare : Teach English to children ages 6-18 years old with local teachers while immersing yourself in Thai culture. Known for being a beautiful beach destination, Hua Hin has golden beaches for swimming and snorkeling during your free time.
• South Africa – African Wildlife Ranch: On this program, you will travel to a privately owned ranch and sanctuary in South Africa to help endangered animals, such as the white tigers, cheetahs, lemurs, and meerkats. Volunteer tasks focus on construction at the sanctuary and hands-on care.
• Australia – Wild Animal Sanctuary:  Lend a hand at a sanctuary that provides a safe, natural home for some of Australia’s unique wildlife such as koalas and kangaroos. This sanctuary provides refuge for rehabilitated but unreleasable, injured and orphaned animals.
• Costa Rica – Animal Rescue and Conservation:  Experience Costa Rica with this unique program! Volunteers will work closely with injured sloths, monkeys and other Costa Rican wildlife and immerse themselves into the local culture through Spanish language lessons, exploring the capital of San Jose and living with a host family.
• Check out other varieties of Wildlife Conservation programs in Japan , South Africa , Portugal , Kenya , Thailand.
• Other Marine Conservation programs include: Portugal , Dolphins in Italy , Whales and Shark in Mozambique , and Marine Conservation in Barcelona

GoEco Program Review

Taking this volunteer trip to the Wildlife Sanctuary project was something I had wanted to do for several years… Literally after one day of volunteering, I was already regretting only having two weeks to stay. Every day was amazing and full of incredible experiences and new people. The days flew by as we were so busy working on the farm, hanging out and making new friends, and learning about the wildlife in a very hands on manner. The staff is very helpful, friendly, and seem just as excited to be there as the volunteers. As mind-blowing as the actual project [was], the people I met were similarly incredible. It’s crazy that in just a few weeks you can develop friendships that seem like you’ve had for years. Leaving was very emotional, but still,  I can’t recommend this trip enough to anyone who is considering it or may be on the fence, seriously, do it. Having just returned home, I already miss everything that filled my days for those two weeks in South Africa.  I find myself constantly looking back at photos and in the back of my mind planning a return visit as soon as possible.  – Dave P, Wildlife Sanctuary, South Africa

Maximo Nivel

Maximo Nivel  is Volunteer Forever’s  top-ranked volunteer abroad program  with over 250 reviews and a  perfect 5-star rating . Their projects are  very affordably priced ,  starting at just $595  (for one week) and appeal to a broad base of participants from high school students to graduate students and working professionals.

Maximo Nivel was founded in 2003 and has hosted over 25,000 participants for its  volunteer abroad ,  internship abroad ,  study abroad ,  Spanish Immersion , Teach English as a Foreign Language ( TEFL ), Semester Abroad, and High School Abroad programs. Maximo Nivel offers its projects in three countries in Latin America:  Costa Rica ,  Guatemala , and  Peru .

Whether you’re looking for a one-week adventure or a full  gap year  experience,  Maximo Nivel  is definitely worth checking out if you are looking for a high-quality, affordable, and enriching experience in Latin America.

Maximo Nivel Opportunities to Check Out

Tefl – teaching english abroad.

Right now, Maximo Nivel is offering  TEFL certification courses  for travelers who want to volunteer abroad as English teachers and gain new skills abroad. You’ll start with an intensive, four-week, accredited certification course in Costa Rica, Guatemala, or Peru ( online courses  also are available), after which you’re free to look for paid teaching abroad placements.

Maximo Nivel provides lifetime job-seeking support for their alumni, and even hires three to five graduates each month to work as teachers in their  Native English Program  in Costa Rica, Guatemala, or Peru. There are lots of different types of teaching opportunities Maximo Nivel will help you find, including business English teaching, private tutoring, school teaching, and much more, depending on your skills and interests.

Volunteer Adventure

On this two-week  volunteer adventure , you’ll spend five days volunteering, and six days traveling in Costa Rica, Guatemala, or Peru. A few volunteer work projects you can take on include working with kids, teaching English, construction, conservation, animal care, or medical / healthcare.

For the tour portion of your trip, you’ll go zip lining, touring on a catamaran, hiking through a national park, visiting waterfalls and volcanoes, and much more, depending on which country you decide to visit. This is an excellent opportunity to combine international community service, learning, and adventure.

Education Internship

If you’re currently studying education, secondary education, or a related field at your college or university, you are invited to take part in Maximo Nivel’s  education internship abroad . Through this placement, you’ll work alongside professional teachers to gain insight into teaching in classrooms for early childhood, elementary, middle school, and high school students. ESL-specific placements also are available.

You’re invited to stay for a minimum of four weeks and can expect to work four to six hours per day Monday through Friday each week. As an intern, you’ll have the wonderful opportunity to observe classroom instruction and management, help with planning and conducting lessons, learn about Latin American culture, and develop your teaching and leadership skills.

Micro Business Internship

Maximo Nivel also offers a  micro business internship  for students interested in subjects such as business development and management, marketing, sales, client services, accounting, and much more. For four weeks, you’ll work with a local company or entrepreneur in Costa Rica, Guatemala, or Peru to assist with marketing, client needs, administrative work, and other tasks that can help keep the company running, scale it appropriately, and set it up for success over the long-term.

You must have intermediate Spanish language ability to apply, and you’re encouraged to enroll in Maximo Nivel’s  online Spanish class  or  native Spanish program  to gain the language skills you’ll need to be successful on your internship.

Maximo Nivel Program Review: Alexa Hart

I went to Cusco, Peru on a one-way ticket back in 2009 and had the time of my life. Maximo was a big contributor to my positive experience. I volunteered with underprivileged kids and helped paint a battered women’s shelter. I also took inexpensive Spanish lessons with them. The accommodation they provided was great (I recommend Arcopata Family House). I lived with fellow participants of the program in a house and was provided really good meals. When I got sick, they had a doctor come to the house to check on me and give me medicine too. After volunteering, I became TEFL certified with them during a 4-week course. All in all, I was very impressed, and I would recommend them to anyone.  The experience changed my life.

Projects Abroad

Projects Abroad  describes itself as providing the gold standard of volunteer support and safety so that travelers may fulfill their potential, discover themselves, and create positive change in the world. Long-term, sustainable solutions are at the core of their programs, where you can be part of their  ongoing efforts to meet specific goals  in places where extra support is critical. Projects Abroad works directly with local community members and organizations, ensuring that their work meets real needs.

Programs  run year-round, allowing volunteers and interns to choose their own start and end dates. With a hassle-free experience and  dedicated in-country staff available 24/7 , you don’t need experience or qualifications to sign up for most trips.

Projects Abroad Opportunities to Check Out

Medicine internship in ghana.

Projects Abroad’s  medical internships in Ghana  give you the opportunity to learn directly from doctors in hospitals or clinics. You’ll shadow them on their rounds, observing how they diagnose and treat different illnesses or conditions. You’ll see medical cases that you’ve only read about in textbooks, which is a great way to enhance your practical medical knowledge. This program is suitable for pre-med and medical students.

In Ghana, the organization runs regular medical outreaches in communities where healthcare services are limited. As a volunteer, you will help provide basic medical treatment, from cleaning and bandaging wounds, to measuring blood pressure levels. If you would like to focus specifically on practical outreach work, you may be interested in joining the  Public Health internship .

Volunteer with Children in Nepal

In Nepal, Projects Abroad supports the work of local caregivers and teachers by focusing on improving early childhood development and literacy in care centers. During your time here, you will  work with young children  and assist with a variety of activities such as:

• Sing songs to teach the alphabet and counting
• Play catch with a ball to improve hand-eye coordination
• Read stories that engage the kids’ imaginations

You don’t need previous experience to volunteer with children in Nepal – you’ll work alongside local staff and have regular workshops.

Protect the Amazon Rainforest in Peru

Live in the heart of the Amazon Rainforest  and work alongside experienced conservationists to protect wildlife and indigenous plants. You’ll be on the frontlines of rainforest conservation at Taricaya, an award-winning ecological reserve.

There’s plenty to do in the jungle. You’ll help rehabilitate wild animals like the spider monkey, and release them back into their natural habitat. You’ll also help with reforestation, collect scientific data on local animal populations, and work on a sustainable farming initiative.

Projects Abroad Program Review: Christian, Shark Conservation in Fiji

As a scientist-in-training I was most impressed with all of the science underlying the project and how willing the staff was to share their knowledge. I was able to see science in action as well as conservation efforts making their way up the chain to actually change environmental policy.

Involvement Volunteers International (IVI)

Are you in search of a life-changing experience and an opportunity to make a genuine difference in communities around the world? Involvement Volunteers International (IVI) , founded in 1989, invites individuals to join the ranks of over 25,000 volunteers who’ve made a lasting impact in 112 projects spread across 23 countries.

Why IVI Stands Out

With a legacy spanning over 34 years, IVI distinguishes itself as a non-profit that actively supports local communities, particularly in the South Pacific regions of Fiji and Vanuatu , as well as in India . Unlike many organizations, IVI has built many of its projects from the ground up. Beyond offering travel and volunteering experiences , they play a significant role in the humanitarian sector, aiding impoverished communities and refugees. They also provide university students the opportunity to fulfill their practicum hours in sectors such as mental health, medical, teaching, and veterinary projects.

Beyond Volunteering: Internships, Teaching, and More

Moreover, for those eyeing internships, destinations like Peru, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Ghana, Nepal, and Sri Lanka offer openings in the medical , teaching, physiotherapy, dental, and nursing fields. IVI’s internships guarantee specific hours, and for university placements, the necessary documentation and supervisor approvals are given. Although IVI doesn’t provide paid teaching abroad, they offer teaching projects at almost every destination, catering to various age groups, predominantly aged 3-12.

Family and Group Adventures 

Whether one is a solo adventurer, a family unit , a group, or a teen, IVI has projects tailored to fit each need. Their family-friendly ventures encompass kindergarten teaching, construction, environmental initiatives, and animal care projects. For larger groups, IVI presents specialized itineraries combining volunteering programs with engaging activities, making them an ideal choice for school groups.

For volunteers aged 16-17, a signed parental consent from their guardians is a prerequisite. Some of IVI’s projects also accommodate younger kids, ensuring they remain under parental or guardian watch.

Discover More 

Interested in learning what sets IVI apart? Dive deeper into their story by visiting “Who We Are” and “Why IVI?” on their official website: volunteering.org.au

Embarking on a journey with IVI promises to enrich both the individual and the world at large. The adventure awaits!

Volunteer in Fiji (Flagship Program)

Fiji is Involvement Volunteers International’s premier destination where they have over 25 years of operation history. With over one third of the population below the poverty line, malnutrition, and low literacy rates, Fijian communities desperately need the support of international volunteers. IVI offers project opportunities in five different parts of Fiji with projects including Public Health & Nutrition , Teaching , Construction , Medical Care , and more. Project fees are extremely affordable starting at just $295 and includes accommodation, meals, airport pickup, 24/7 in-country support and so much more. Click here to learn more about volunteering in Fiji with IVI .

Beach Cleanup in Costa Rica

Volunteer to protect beaches and nature reserves in the Nicoya Peninsula of Costa Rica . If the place “Nicoya Peninsula” rings a bell, it may be because it is considered to be one of the world’s five “Blue Zones”. As a volunteer, your responsibilities will include assisting with trail maintenance at a nature reserve, assisting with beach cleanups, educating the local population on conservationism, and showing visitors around the nature reserve. Program fees start at an affordable $595 and includes meals and homestay with a local family. Click here to learn more .

Public Health and Nutrition in Vanuatu

Vanuatu is a South Pacific island nation between Fiji and Australia. Vanuatu’s population is largely impoverished with only 58% of people having access to electricity and one third of people lacking access to basic services. Furthermore, the island nation has one of the highest rates of diabetes, high blood pressure, and malnutrition in the world necessitating the need for strong public health interventions. As a public health volunteer , you’ll conduct health screenings for local communities, raise awareness about nutrition and diabetes, and design exercise programs for villagers. Program fees start at $1150 for two weeks. Click here to learn more and apply .

Volunteering Solutions

Volunteering Solutions (VolSol) is an international volunteer organization that was started in 2007. Since then, they have hosted over 17,000 volunteers in projects across 27 countries , including popular destinations such as Nepal , India , Thailand , South Africa , Peru , and Costa Rica .

Volunteering Solution’s volunteer projects are among the most affordably priced in the world, starting at $200 USD for one week .

In addition to their 120+ volunteer projects, Volunteering Solutions also offers intern abroad opportunities, the highlight of which are their international medical internships.

To learn more about Volunteering Solutions and apply to their program , visit their website here (UK readers, please visit their UK site here ).

Volunteering Solutions Opportunities to Check Out:

Medical Internship

Right now, Volunteering Solutions is offering several different medical internships in Nepal, India, Peru, and Thailand. As a medical or healthcare intern with VolSol, you can choose from projects focusing on nursing, medical care, dentistry, and physiotherapy while earning hands-on experience in your field.

Depending on your placement, you can work in local government or private hospitals and clinics, and you’ll have the amazing opportunity to work alongside local medical and healthcare professionals to learn about their practices. Internships can be customized to your university requirements, and you’ll earn a certificate of participation upon successful completion of your program abroad.

Internships start from two weeks at $650, with your program cost varying based on which placement you sign up for. Learn more about medical internships with Volunteering Solutions here .

NGO Support and Human Rights Volunteering

If you’re passionate about human rights, check out Volunteering Solutions’ NGO support and human rights volunteer program in Rabat, Morocco. As a volunteer, you’ll work with local organizations that confront a variety of important social and political issues, including human rights, children’s support, women’s rights, education, skilled learning, government accountability, and much more.

Depending on your background, skills, and what’s needed by your program site, you can assist with marketing, planning community events, helping with reporting and documentation, and assisting with development activities at your partner NGO. You’re invited to stay one week or longer, starting from just $410 for your first week in Morocco. Click here to learn more and to sign up .

Sports Coaching in South Africa

Another excellent volunteer program being offered right now with VolSol is their sports coaching project in South Africa . Through this placement, you’ll coach sports, teach life skills, and encourage healthy habits among children at a local primary school.

During your stay, you’ll help lead three physical education periods per day, while assisting teachers with their lessons and guidance in classrooms in between those periods. If you’re creative, flexible, and ready to be a mentor to students in South Africa, this program is for you! You’re invited to stay two weeks or longer, starting at just $495 for your first two weeks in South Africa – learn more about coaching sports here .

Volunteering Solutions Program Review: Sarah, Thailand Elephant Program

“I participated in the Elephant Camp Program in Chiang Mai, Thailand . Before arriving in Thailand, I was a bit apprehensive and nervous , however after arriving in Chiang Mai, everything went smoothly. I dad a very informative orientation session with the local team. The Chiang Mai city tour was fab too!

My 3 weeks stay at the elephant camp was definitely the highlight of my Thailand trip. I enjoyed meeting other volunteers from around the world and getting involved in different tasks at the elephant camp. On the weekends, we enjoyed our time in Chiang Mai thoroughly exploring the night market, going to Doi Suthep and other plenty of Thai temples. I would definitely recommend doing the Elephant Camp project in Chiang Mai.”

African Impact

African Impact is a responsible, sustainable volunteer travel organization that has won multiple industry awards, including being voted the world’s Top Volunteer Abroad Organization by volunteers on GoAbroad four years in a row. Since 2004, they have hosted over 35,000 participants on 20 projects across 7 countries. The organization believes in the spirit of Africa and that the volunteer experience is just as important as the impact made. 

African Impact manages its own projects and is able to provide tangible, real achievements on a regular basis. The organization has a clear Child Protection Policy and ensures that volunteers complete a criminal record check prior to involvement. Experienced staff is on the ground to support volunteers day-in-day-out and the organization does not use volunteer support in replacement for a local person.

In addition to making a positive impact, African Impact also believes that volunteering abroad should be enjoyable. The organization offers a range of activities for volunteers, including teaching children in South Africa , assisting with wildlife conservation in Zimbabwe, working in hospitals or clinics in Kenya, and carrying out dolphin and marine research in Zanzibar .

Volunteering with African Impact allows individuals to gain new skills, knowledge and practical work experience, while also making a lasting impact on local communities and conservation efforts. The organization believes that volunteering in Africa helps to change perceptions and stereotypes about Africa and its people, while providing local communities with an exchange of culture, mindsets and ideas.

African Impact Opportunities to Check Out

Big Five and Wildlife Conservation, South Africa

For two weeks or longer, you’ll have the chance to monitor and study the African Big 5 (leopard, rhino, lion, buffalo, and elephant) and help local researchers and foundations with protecting endangered species. Based in the game reserves of the Greater Kruger Area, your volunteer tasks can include researching animal behavior and movements, helping with reserve conservation work such as clearing brush and maintaining waterholes, compiling data at the research lab, and much more to help understand animal behavior and maintain a healthy ecosystem. Learn more here!

Education and Community Support, Tanzania

On this program , you will teach English and other skills to children and adults on the island of Zanzibar. Zanzibar is a beautiful island that is a tourist favorite, yet many of the residents don’t have adequate access to English-learning opportunities. By teaching English, you’ll help to provide economic opportunity to the residents of Zanzibar and help them participate in the island’s thriving tourism industry. This volunteer trip lasts 10 days or longer, and is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in Tanzanian culture while contributing to valuable development initiatives. Click here to learn more!

Early Childhood Development Project in Cape Town

The Early Childhood Development Project in Cape Town offers volunteers the chance to work with vulnerable children in underprivileged townships. Volunteers will support children in foster care homes and pre-schools, providing them with access to education and care that they may not otherwise have access to. The project aims to make a positive, long-term impact on the lives of disadvantaged children by providing them with the support and education they need to succeed.

In addition to working with children, volunteers will have the opportunity to explore the beautiful city of Cape Town and all it has to offer. Cape Town has been named the Most Beautiful City in the World for the past 5 years, and is known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse culture, and vibrant nightlife. Volunteers can take advantage of the many activities available in the city, such as hiking up Table Mountain, going paragliding, kayaking in the ocean, or visiting historic sites such as Robben Island.

Volunteers will live in a spacious guesthouse in the center of town, with shared dorm-style accommodation and shared bathroom facilities. The guesthouse is close to the main sights of Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront, and the Company’s Gardens. A team on site will be available to support volunteers and help them with any needs they may have during their stay.

Dolphin and Marine Conservation Project 

Volunteer in Zanzibar on African Impact’s Dolphin and Marine Conservation Project and make a real difference to the sustainability of dolphin tourism. As a volunteer, you will monitor human-dolphin interactions, promote ethical dolphin tours, and contribute to the conservation of marine life in the area. This project is ideal for those passionate about marine conservation and the environment. In your free time, you can explore the beautiful coastlines and vibrant culture of Zanzibar. You will live in a private volunteer house near the coastal village of Kizimkazi and work with local communities and organizations to protect the marine ecosystem. This is a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact while enjoying a truly amazing location.

Founded in 2015 by Daniel Botha, Surfpop is a South African-based organization that aims to build a sustainable future for vulnerable children from township communities around Muizenberg, Cape Town through a powerful formula of surfing, education and life coaching. They have hosted over 350 international volunteers for their two surf volunteer projects in Cape Town.

Surfpop is very unique compared to other international organizations due to their long-term outlook on supporting the needs of the local community. On average, they work with each child beneficiary for around 8 years, after which they help them find sustainable employment or provide them with employment within the Surfpop organization. Their holistic model of surfing, education, life coaching and nutrition also sets them apart from most other organizations.

Surfpop is the only Volunteer Forever partner that exclusively focuses on surf volunteering, so if you are a surfer or have a strong interest in surfing, Surfpop is definitely an organization you will want to check out!

Volunteer with Surfpop in Cape Town, South Africa

Surfpop’s surf volunteer program is based in the beautiful seaside town of Muizenberg, South Africa. As a volunteer, you will play a critical role in helping disadvantaged children escape poverty, crime, and drugs. Through their comprehensive after-school program, you will not only teach children to surf and swim, but also tutor them on more formal academic subjects such as math, English, and computer literacy.

Surfpop’s volunteer program is open to volunteers ages 18 and up. No prior experience with surfing is necessary. This program starts at roughly $500 USD per week with a minimum duration of four weeks. The cost of the program includes accommodation, breakfast, airport pick-up, orientation, 24/7 support, and surf lessons. Volunteers will also receive surf gear rentals for their stay. If you are interested in having more surf lessons or even practicing yoga, then check out Surfpop’s Surf Pro and Surf & Yoga volunteer programs .

International TEFL Academy

Do you want to get paid to live abroad as a professional English teacher in a country like Spain, Thailand, or Costa Rica? Are you looking for the best TEFL training and job services? If so, then International TEFL Academy is the right place for you.

Founded in 2010, International TEFL Academy (ITA) offers the gold standard in TEFL certification for teaching English abroad and teaching English online. ITA offers the finest internationally accredited TEFL courses both online and in-person in 20+ locations across the globe. ITA certifies 5,000 people per year, with graduates teaching in over 80 countries and online. Committed to providing the highest quality training and services, ITA can help you achieve your goal of getting a great job and enjoying the experience of a lifetime teaching English abroad and online.  

All ITA TEFL courses – including online TEFL classes –  include live practice teaching and employ a state-of-the-art curriculum taught by highly credentialed and experienced instructors. In addition, all ITA students receive lifetime job search assistance that includes personalized guidance from a team of expert advisors. To learn more and begin your journey, download your free TEFL Guide now .

Teach English in Japan

With International TEFL Academy, you can get a job teaching English in Japan – long one of Asia’s top teaching job markets! You must be a native English speaker, have a 4-year college degree, and get TEFL certification. After getting your TEFL certificate, ITA will help you obtain a job in a city such as Tokyo, Kobe or Osaka. Learn Japanese, immerse yourself in the culture, help students learn and earn money during the trip of a lifetime. Teaching hours should be about 20-25 hours per week and you can expect to earn between $2,500 – $4,000+ per month. Free housing is available with some contracts.

Teach English in the Czech Republic

Providing a quintessential blend of modern and classic Europe, the Czech Republic is a great destination if you wish to teach English abroad. Demand for qualified native English teachers is high, especially in cities such as Prague. English teachers typically need a bachelor’s degree, plus TEFL certification, to teach in the Czech Republic. Pay is about $1,000 – $1,800+ per month and work hours average around 20-25 hours per week.

Teach English in Mexico

With an abundance of cultural and natural diversity, Mexico offers international volunteers all you could want, including ample work opportunities and the chance to practice Spanish everyday. You must have a 4-year degree, along with TEFL certification, to obtain a job teaching English. Cities with the highest demand for foreign teachers include Mexico City, Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta and Puebla. Similar to teaching jobs elsewhere, hours range from 20 to 25 per week. You should earn between $600 – $1,000+ per month.

Teach English in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)

A center of trade and commerce, cities in the UAE such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi are some of the most sought-after destinations for English teachers. To get a teaching job in the UAE, a bachelor’s degree is required (master’s preferred). You’ll also need TEFL certification and preferable some experience to help you have an edge over other applicants (due to a competitive job market). Expect to make between $1,800 – $5,000+ per month, with 20-25 teaching hours monthly. The nice aspect of teaching jobs in the UAE is the benefits, which can include free housing, airfare and health insurance, as well as paid vacation.

Global Vision International

Founded in 1997 by Richard Walton, Global Vision International (GVI) is an award-winning organization that provides volunteer and internship opportunities in Africa, Asia, Australasia, Europe, Latin America, and North America. GVI has sent more than 25,000 volunteers overseas on programs ranging from construction, to animal care, to education, and beyond with 95% of past volunteers stating they would want to travel with them again. GVI is unique from other volunteer programs in three ways: they operate their own volunteer projects to ensure real, sustainable impact on the ground; they provide 360 degree support before, during, after your placement; and lastly their alumni network provides increased access to higher education and career development opportunities. GVI’s differentiators and their emphasis on volunteer safety make the program very appealing to first-time international volunteers and teen / high school / under age 18 volunteers. Their projects start from one week and can last up to one year. Projects mix community service with global and cultural awareness to inspire and encourage volunteers to continue learning and serving even after they’ve returned from their trip.

GVI Opportunities to Check Out

Wildlife research in south africa internship.

Through this internship , you’ll work with local research teams to track animals, study behavior, and learn more about the wildlife of South Africa. You’ll get started with a training session to get you acquainted with the project and the types of animals you’ll study, and from there work day-to-day tracking wildlife, conducting research, assisting with data entry, and even participating in community education about conservation. This program starts from four weeks at $8,445.

Volunteer with Elephants in Thailand

If you’d like to visit Asia, GVI has an amazing opportunity right now in Thailand to volunteer with elephants that have been rescued from working in the tourist industry. Through this program, you’ll help rehabilitate elephants and work with trainers to care for the animals, and may even help with community education and outreach programs. This amazing project starts from one week at $3,545.

Volunteer with Buddhist Novice Monks in Cambodia

Through this placement, GVI invites you to teach English to Buddhist monks and children in Siem Reap, home to the famous Angkor Wat, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll work directly with monks in a temple school and learn about Cambodian culture, history, religion, and much more. This program starts from two weeks at $2,895.

Marine Conservation Expedition in Fiji

On this project , you’ll travel to Caqalai Island in Fiji to work with a local NGO in collecting data on fish species, mapping coral reefs and mangrove, developing an environmental education and awareness program for local schools, and assisting with the development of best practices in conservation on the island. The first part of your project will start with an initial training phase, where you’ll learn to identify fish and coral species through a series of dives with guidance from GVI staff. This program starts at $6,545, and you’re invited to stay from two to 12 weeks.

GVI Program Review:

“I was in need of a career break, and was looking to do something out of the ordinary. I was looking to get far away and do something worthwhile. After some heavy research GVI continued to be the organization that ticked all the boxes. They were incredibly helpful when I was choosing my location, and the onsite assistance and support throughout the entire journey was fantastic. I was so lucky to be involved in the Community development program of El Cocal, the children were amazing, I made some friends for life and hopefully one day soon I’ll return for a visit! It really was an unforgettable experience!” – Amelia, Costa Rica Community Development Program

First Things Foundations (FTF) 

First Things Foundation (FTF) is a non-profit organization that partners with local leaders to build sustainable businesses and communities in developing countries. FTF is different from other volunteer organizations in that its field workers (international volunteers) commit two years of their lives to living in the communities they are serving; all expenses are fully covered by the program . This allows field workers to develop deep relationships with the people they are working with and to better understand the needs of the community.

FTF has 15 projects in 4 countries ( Guatemala , Sierra Leone , the Republic of Georgia , and Mozambique ). These projects are all led by locals in the communities that FTF works in. FTF’s field workers have worked on a variety of projects, including starting businesses, building schools, and providing healthcare. FTF field workers are not afraid to get their hands dirty: working on farms, sanding wood, and kneading dough are some of the ways that they integrate into the local community and become familiar with a new rhythm of life.

FTF covers all travel costs and operations expenses (food, local transport, accommodation, etc.) for its field workers. In addition, field workers receive a monthly stipend of $375. FTF also has international medical and evacuation insurance for all of its field workers.

FTF is looking for volunteers with a desire to better their souls by undertaking a serious challenge, an adventurous attitude, and a willingness to learn new languages, make fun of themselves, and be made fun of. Field workers typically have completed 4 years of college or have an equivalent amount of experience. If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding volunteer experience, the First Things Foundation volunteer program is a great option. FTF field workers have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of others and to learn and grow in ways that they never thought possible.

First Things Foundations Opportunities:

• Field Worker Program in Guatemala : The First Things Foundations has been facilitating impactful projects in popular tourist destinations in Guatemala since 2016, with accomplishments like building schools and supporting local businesses. As a field worker, you’ll immerse in the local community for 8 months to understand their needs and then embark on a community development or social entrepreneurship project. This two-year paid immersionship is a unique opportunity to make a real difference while experiencing the rich Mayan culture.
• Field Worker Program in Sierra Leone : First Things Foundation has been empowering communities in Sierra Leone since 2017, with projects ranging from constructing churches to enhancing medical services. Volunteering in the serene town of Kailahun, you’ll immerse in the local culture for 8 months, then collaborate with an “Impresario” on meaningful community projects. Embrace this two-year “immersionship” for a deeply rewarding experience that brings tangible change to communities.
• Field Worker Program in Mozambique : First Things Foundation’s Mozambique program offers a unique opportunity to pioneer community development in Corrane, a town impacted by internal displacement. As a field worker, you’ll immerse in the rich culture, learning Portuguese and Makua, while forging deep connections with locals over 8 months before spearheading impactful projects. With the support of a dedicated professional team, this challenging “immersionship” promises personal growth, skill enhancement, and the chance to leave a lasting positive mark on Mozambique
• Field Worker Program in the Republic of Georgia : First Things Foundation is expanding its impact to the Republic of Georgia, focusing on Akhaltsikhe, a town enriched by its Armenian heritage. As a field worker, you’ll dedicate the first 8 months to deeply connect with the community, subsequently aiding local businesses and community projects during a transformative two-year immersionship. With expert guidance, immerse in Georgia’s vibrant culture, enhance your skills, build genuine relationships, and contribute meaningfully to a nation on the cusp of change.

Love Volunteers

Founded by a brother-sister team,  Love Volunteers is a low-cost international volunteer organization  that provides meaningful, life-changing projects in over  34 countries around the world .

Every year, thousands of Love Volunteers from all over the globe are placed into 1 week to 6 month volunteer abroad projects in Central and South America, Asia, Africa, The Middle East, and Europe. A few of Love Volunteers’ popular locations include:

• South Africa

Love Volunteers’ volunteer abroad programs start at just $175 for a one week placement along with a one-time $249 registration fee when you submit your application.

Love Volunteers offers  120 community-based development programs  in healthcare, education, sports and coaching, law and legal assistance, social services, engineering and architecture, special needs, construction, environmental protection and in many more areas.

We LOVE  Love Volunteers  because it is an  affordable volunteer program with lots of options  in terms of placements.

Love Volunteers Opportunities to Check Out

Tanzania: teaching and assisting in schools.

Through this program, volunteers work in multiple schools in the city of Arusha. English teacher volunteers are especially needed to English and as such, volunteers should consider a TEFL course prior to volunteering (though this is not required by the program).This program starts at one week for $175.

Nepal: Special Education Program

This program is located in Kathmandu in order to assist people with disabilities. Volunteers in this program help the participants in the special education program to develop technology skills, develop their conversational English skills, and build the life skills needed to live an independent and dignified life. This program at 1 week for $195.

Thailand: Elephant Village

Based in Surin, this volunteer trip invites you to provide care for elephants that have been abused and neglected as tourist attractions and for logging work. As a volunteer, you can help to create a safe place for elephants to live full, peaceful lives in their natural habitats. This program starts from one week at $619.

Costa Rica: Turtle Conservation

Another excellent trip you can take with Love Volunteers brings you to Costa Rica to help save sea turtles from extinction by assisting in hatcheries, helping with conservation projects at the beach, releasing hatchlings into the sea, and patrolling hatching grounds. This trip starts from one week at $349.

Love Volunteers Program Review: Delaney and Jordan

Love Volunteers is such an amazing organization . I can’t stress enough how kind and helpful they were doing the whole trip process. They were happy to answer any question I asked, and made the process as smooth as possible. I would recommend Love Volunteers to everyone. I can’t thank them enough for helping give me this opportunity. It easily was the greatest experience of my life, and I can’t wait to do it again.

Fronteering

If you’re looking for a volunteer abroad experience that’s  unique, exotic, and off the beaten path , look no further than  Fronteering . With volunteer and internship projects located in 14 different countries, Fronteering offers impactful programs for travelers who want to visit unspoiled locations and make a positive difference in environmental conservation, wildlife research, indigenous communities, and more.

Fronteering’s volunteer abroad and intern abroad opportunities  start at an affordable $695  for your first week onsite – and if you’d like to stay longer, the organization also offers placements up to 24 weeks.

Fronteering Opportunities to Check Out

Husky ranch canada.

For four to eight weeks, you’ll have the chance to feed, groom, and walk  huskies , help with ranch maintenance, go dogsledding and snowmobiling (if you’re volunteering in the winter), clear and prepare dogsled tracks, and more. Located in British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, or the Yukon, this program is excellent for volunteers who love animals and the outdoors, and starts from $1,395 for your first four weeks.

Predator Research Internship

If you’ve always wanted to visit the Amazon, Fronteering invites you to help with  bush dog research and monitoring  in the rainforest, with tasks such as setting camera traps, collecting data, helping with community activities, performing research, and much more. This volunteer abroad opportunity starts from one week at $695, and you’re invited to stay up to six weeks to help further research, get to know the community, and rough it in the Amazon Rainforest.

Amazon Amerindians

Through this program, you’ll delve into the jungles of  Guyana  to help an indigenous community create a sustainable, eco-friendly infrastructure through construction, maintenance, wildlife research, and more. And depending on your skills and background, you can also teach IT skills, build wildlife viewing camps, and much more. You’re invited to stay two to eight weeks, starting at $1,695.

A Broader View Volunteers

A Broader View Volunteers, a US nonprofit charity, was founded in 2007 by Sarah and Oliver Ehlers. Their team sends more than 5,000 volunteers each year to 245 programs across 25 countries, and has raised and distributed more than $3 million in donations worldwide.

A Broader View ’s goals are to provide developing countries with volunteer assistance while educating those volunteers about the communities in which they serve. Projects can include  wildlife conservation ,  childcare ,  teaching , and more, and start from one week at $745, depending on the location and placement. Many of their projects are offered year-round, which provides you flexibility in terms of your start date.

A Broader View  is one of the best rated programs on our site and has  over 150 positive reviews  on Volunteer Forever!

A Broader View Opportunities to Check Out

Ecuador: quito hippotherapy.

Volunteers in the  Quito Hippotherapy program  assist with rehabilitation and recreational programs with horses for those with mental or physical disabilities. Through this placement, volunteers feed and groom horses, prepare them for and handle them during therapy sessions, and may provide horseback riding lessons to the general public. Gardening and canine therapy placements also are available. Placements range from one to 12 weeks and start from $895. Volunteers must have intermediate Spanish knowledge, and immersion courses are available for those that would like to gain a greater language proficiency.

Peru: Environmental Conservation

In this  conservation volunteer abroad program , volunteers work in reforestation, organic farming education, and sustainable growth at a Peruvian national park in the Madre de Dios region. Projects can include flower inventory, research, replanting, clearing holes, animal rescue, and other tasks. This program lasts one to 12 weeks and starts at $895. Spanish language background isn’t required, but is helpful while assisting on community outreach programs.

Colombia: Social Welfare Program

Volunteers in A Broader View’s  Social Welfare program  assist a local center that cares for children from 18 months to five years old, and that educates single mothers about child care, nutrition, and hygiene. On this placement, volunteers help provide lunch, assist in the kitchen, teach preschool lessons, and play games with the children. This program starts from two weeks at $995.

Uganda: Maternity / Midwifery Nursing Program

Based in the Bulenga community, this  program  provides the opportunity for volunteers to support two healthcare centers that offer maternity, ultrasound, and contraceptive services; treatment for malaria, typhoid, and diarrhea; infant care; antenatal care; and HIV/AIDS testing and counseling. Volunteers also assist with outreach and education for expectant teen mothers within the community. This program starts from two weeks at $995.

A Broader View Program Review: Logan,  Honduras Medical Program

I had a great time in La Ceiba, Honduras. I did not feel unsafe or threatened at any time. My work was great and fulfilling at both the old hospital and the school. My host family was excellent and accommodating, and the food – especially the local food – was very delectable. All of the people, from the children to the patients at the hospital were very nice and respectful. I had a lot of fun with the other volunteers and I highly recommend being outgoing and personable… it will make you life way easier if you can hang out with friends and commiserate after a long day of work. I had very good Spanish entering into the program, but after 2 weeks of immersion my Spanish is crisp and fluent; I truly valued the ABV experience as a life-changing event. I am willing to speak with others about my experience.

Global Leadership Adventures

Founded in 2004,  Global Leadership Adventures  provides teen and high school programs abroad that combine community service with hands-on learning and adventure. With an  emphasis on safety  – outlined in Global Leadership Adventures’  five-point safety system  – this organization sends thousands of travelers to nearly two dozen countries throughout Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America every year.

As a leader in youth development, Global Leadership Adventures has a database of nearly  2,000 references  willing to vouch for the impact of their programs – and in fact,  GLA’s co-founder was  recognized by President Obama  for making a positive impact in Africa.

Global Leadership Adventures Opportunities to Check Out

Dominican republic: spring break service adventure.

On this spring break program, you’ll volunteer with rural communities in the Dominican Republic and learn about their challenges in accessing daily necessities. A few projects you can take on include building schools and community centers, assisting in reforestation or water filtration projects, or building vertical gardens or clean-burning stoves. You’ll also have the opportunity to check out the beach, explore freshwater lagoons and caverns, and much more. This eight-day program costs $1,899 –  click here  to learn more and to register.

Dominican Republic: Global Health Initiative

Another amazing program you can sign up for in the Dominican Republic is Global Leadership Adventures’ Global Health Initiative. Perfect for students who want to pursue an education in medicine or public health, you’ll meet with community leaders to discuss health, sustainability, and education, assist traveling doctors and Peace Corps volunteers with their work, and lots more. On the adventure portion of your trip, you’ll zip line through the jungle, hike through waterfalls, and explore coral reefs on a snorkeling expedition. This 14-day program costs $3,399 –  learn more here .

Galapagos: Preserving Nature’s Wonders

If you’re passionate about protecting animals and their natural habitats, check out this program in the Galapagos Islands, where you can help to restore the habitat of native wildlife. On Isabela Island, you’ll volunteer in a tortoise breeding center, and on San Cristobal Island, you’ll help to clear invasive species to allow tortoises and birds to re-inhabit the area. You’ll also be able to go snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, and hiking during this two-week program.  Click here to learn more .

Ghana: Children of Africa

GLA also invites you to Ghana, where you’ll teach children in a village primary school or orphanage, make bricks for construction of new facilities, and play soccer and other team games and sports with the kids. You’ll also learn about Ghanaian culture through workshops in cloth dyeing, drumming, and local Ewe or Krobo language – and you’ll have the opportunity to meet with local tribe members and chiefs to learn about religion, social construction, and much more.

During the adventure portion of your trip to Ghana, you may have the chance to explore mountains, hike waterfalls, and explore outdoor markets. This 21-day summer trip costs $4,999, and is an amazing way to spend your summer break.  Click here to learn more and to sign up !

Raleigh International

Founded in 1984,  Raleigh International  offers volunteer abroad programs for youth and young adults in Nepal, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Tanzania. Programs focus on clean water and hygiene, sustainable use of natural resources, and community building. So far, 400,000 youth volunteers have traveled with Raleigh International, with another 800 expected to sign up this year.

With a commitment to youth leadership and engagement, Raleigh International helped design and currently holds the BS8848 Safety Standard for organizing and managing visits, fieldwork, expeditions, and adventurous activities outside of the UK. If you’re in high school or college, taking a gap year, or recently graduated and looking for a way to make a difference, Raleigh International offers a wide variety of volunteer projects with a real impact led by multicultural and multinational teams.

Raleigh International Opportunities to Check Out

Nepal expedition.

One of Raleigh International’s expeditions brings you to  Nepal . Based in a rural village in Gorkha, you will be able to make a difference by volunteering with an initiative to improve access to safe water and sanitation. This is especially important in an area where 85% of homes were affected by the devastating earthquake of 2015 – as a volunteer, you will help with digging trenches, laying pipes, and awareness-raising to help those living in this community lead healthy lives. As part of this expedition, you also will have the chance to go trekking in the foothills of the Ganesh Himal mountains.  Learn more here!

Naturally Africa Volunteers

Naturally Africa Volunteers (NAV)  coordinates sustainable, community-centered projects throughout  Kenya ,  South Africa ,  Malawi ,  Tanzania ,  Ghana  , and  Namibia . Their projects tend to run from two to twelve weeks and are perfect for volunteers who are seeking shorter term opportunities in Africa. Naturally Africa Volunteers seeks to solidify its change on two levels– by coordinating high-impact, well-researched volunteers programs and by supporting its international volunteers from the moment they join the project.

NAV is dedicated to making sure that each international volunteer has the best experience possible and is able to work in close conjunction with communities across the continent. Volunteers are currently  urgently needed in Malawi  to assist with  medical care ,  childcare ,  teaching , and  sports coaching .  Participants from Volunteer Forever are eligible for a reduced program fee  that starts at an affordable $925 for a two week placement, which includes your room & board, transportation (including airport pickup), and contribution to the host community.

Naturally Africa Volunteer Opportunities to Check Out

Naturally Africa Volunteers  supports programs in many areas of interest, including  volunteer teaching ,  medical volunteering ,  sports coaching ,  community outreach , and  wildlife and conservation . Volunteers who are interested in a short-term volunteer project (2-3 weeks) will especially be interested in  NAV’s Wild Coast School Project , which places volunteers in underfunded rural South African schools supporting full-time staff and volunteers. Volunteers will have the opportunity to work with students aged 6-14 promoting computer literacy, often through traveling through rural schools alongside state-of-the-art technology education equipment including laptops that the students usually lack access to.

Naturally Africa Volunteers Program Review

My time in Malawi was amazing. Meg, Sam and Aug were the main reason. They provided a balanced view on how to go about my role as a volunteer. I can not describe how inspired I was by the whole trip and the staff at the cottage. The structure of the project was brilliant.  You can clearly see the priorities. Keeping a good relationship with the village population and the elders was their main focus. Providing amazing support to the wound clinics, HIV support groups, nursery and home based care groups was incredible. I am very lucky I was part of the development of the different village I visited. At the weekends I got to experience other parts of Malawi. Like the landscape and culture outside the village.  I wish I could have stayed for longer. I hope to return to Malawi in the near future. – Maria, March 2015

Founded over 25 years ago,  Frontier  combines community development, capacity building, ecosystem protection, economic growth, and the development of civil society through collaboration between local communities, researchers, and volunteers of all ages.

From their first program in Tanzania – a marine park still operating today, developed in  partnership with the World Wildlife Fund  – Frontier has expanded to include more than 400 projects in 72 countries around the world.

This nonprofit scientific research organization employs dedicated staff who have been  published in more than 450 articles in peer-reviewed journals  – and whether you’d like to take on an internship abroad, volunteer project, gap year, or teach abroad / TEFL program, Frontier is a fantastic way to travel the world and make a positive impact.

Frontier Opportunities to Check Out

Costa rica: big cats, primates, and turtle conservation.

On  this program , you’re invited to gain practical research and conservation experience while helping to conserve the natural habitats of Costa Rica’s wildlife. Costa Rica has one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems, and your work will be vital to protecting it and ensuring endangered animals have a place to thrive. A few activities you’ll take part in include beach patrols to research turtle nesting habits, surveying and collecting data on big cats, walking primate transects to collect data on different species, and more. This program starts from one week at $1,445.

Fiji: Marine Conservation and Diving

Through this placement, you’ll have the opportunity to  aid conservation research  on Beqa Island, Fiji. You’ll locate and map coral reefs, conduct a reef census to discover which species live there, assess coral bleaching and damage, record marine life feeding habit observations, and much more. This research is provided to local stakeholders, research groups, and government entities to help develop plans for protection of the island and its marine ecosystem. This project starts from one week at $2,095.

Costa Rica: Animal Rescue Project

Costa Rica is home to more than 500,000 animal species in need of protection from deforestation, encroachment on natural habitats, and poaching. On Frontier’s  animal rescue project in Costa Rica , you’ll volunteer in a rescue center that provides a sanctuary to animals that have been injured or that have been rescued from captivity, with the goal of reintroducing them into the wild. You’ll work alongside local staff to care for the animals – such as monkeys, sloths, raccoons, and other wildlife – and educate visitors about wildlife protection and environmental conservation. This program starts from two weeks at $1,145, plus $395 for each additional week if you’d like to stay longer.

Madagascar: Marine Conservation and Diving

If you want to go off the beaten track, take a look at this  marine conservation program in Madagascar , where you can dive nearly-untouched coral reefs while studying marine life and providing valuable research into sustainable management of the island’s natural resources. A few tasks you’ll take on include charting coral reefs, recording healthy fish populations, identifying different species in the reef, studying how fishing communities utilize marine resources, and more. This volunteer program starts from one week at $1,745, with PADI Open Water and Advanced Open Water training available at an additional cost.

Big heart, but little wallet?  Check out our list of  free volunteer programs  and  affordable volunteer organizations .

P.S. If you’re still looking for a volunteer opportunity, check out our list of  gap year programs  and recommended volunteer projects in  Asia ,  South Asia ,  Africa ,  Central America ,  South America , and  Thailand . You can also read about 7  Great Medical and Veterinary Volunteer Abroad Projects ,  10 Dental Volunteer Abroad Program and Medical Mission Tips for Pre Dental Students , and  nursing volunteer abroad projects for students and nurse professionals . Or, if medical volunteer projects aren’t for you, be sure to read about our  sports and coaching volunteer abroad ,  wildlife conservation and veterinary  abroad,  teach abroad , and  intern abroad  programs. Lastly, if you’re under age 18, you may be interested in a  teen volunteer abroad  program from one of our many great partners.

Sarah Vandenberg · Director of Partnerships

Sarah has worked as a researcher and consultant in the volunteer travel world since 2004. With a BA from the George Washington University and background working with both public and private sector volunteer organizations, she enjoys exploring the world and collecting and sharing stories, trends, and advice with travelers who want to volunteer, intern, or teach abroad.

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Ever dreamt of a journey that not only broadens your horizons but also leaves a lasting impact on the lives of others? Well, you’re in for a treat! The world of international volunteering and travel abroad is calling, offering not just a chance to explore new cultures, but an opportunity to be a force for good. Let’s dive into the heart of it all and discover some incredible organizations that make these dreams a reality.

Table of Contents

Peace Corps:

Picture this: You, as a catalyst for positive change in communities around the world. That’s the magic the Peace Corps weaves. With programs tailored to your skills and passions in education, health, and more, your journey starts with a simple click: Apply Here .

Volunteer HQ:

Ever thought about making a real impact without breaking the bank? Volunteer HQ is your ticket to affordable and impactful volunteer programs in over 40 destinations. From healthcare to wildlife conservation, they’ve got it all. Ready to jump in? Apply here .

Imagine trading your skills for a room and board in some of the most beautiful places on Earth. Workaway turns this dream into reality by connecting volunteers with hosts globally. Whether it’s on an organic farm or an eco-retreat, your journey begins with a simple click: Workaway Adventure .

International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ):

Ever wondered what it’s like to make a difference on a global scale? IVHQ opens the door to a variety of volunteer programs in education, healthcare, and community development. Your chance to contribute to meaningful projects worldwide is just a click away: Apply Now .

Think of GoAbroad as your personal travel matchmaker. With a database bursting with international volunteer programs, you can filter through locations, durations, and focus areas. Your perfect adventure awaits – explore and apply here .

Conclusion:

In the grand tapestry of life, international volunteering and travel abroad are threads that weave unforgettable stories of personal growth and positive impact. Whether you’re passionate about education, healthcare, or preserving our planet, the opportunities are as diverse as the cultures you’ll encounter. Take the plunge, explore the links, and apply to the program that resonates with your heart and soul. Your journey of a lifetime is about to unfold, filled with new friends, incredible experiences, and a chance to leave your mark on the world. The adventure begins now!

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Most Helpful: Volunteer Opportunities in Psychology Clinic in Nepal »     Volunteer and Live in a Buddhist Monastery »     Vaccination Volunteer Opportunities Overseas »     International Medical Volunteer Opportunities for Students »     Volunteer & Travel Abroad Programs: What Fee Covers among Flight, Accommodation, Food and Other Expenses? »

Making Difference with Volunteers from Around the World Since 2014

Best International Volunteer and Travel Abroad Work, Opportunities, Programs and Organizations of 2024

Last Updated: January 1, 2024

Are you looking to get a break from your routine life? Are you looking to do something that creates difference? Do you believe in travelling with cause ? Then, international volunteer programs can be the right fit for you.

Volunteer and travel abroad can be the best choice to make yourself feel good with a new environment to explore, new people to interact and at the same time add new meanings to your life. International volunteer is not just you are creating difference into others’ lives but at the same time you are learning to make the world around you a better place. In its true significance, you get more than what you give.

There are of course free volunteering opportunities available. Then, the question exists why you should be paying even for your free service. volunteer and travel abroad withvolunteering organization is basically always free. You never pay for volunteering itself. It is only for the facilities and services, that you require to make your volunteering a better experience with right kind of volunteering program, you pay for.  Paid International Volunteer Programs explores and makes all arrangements for you to right fit with your volunteering interest and ensures quality experience right from the guaranteed pick-up at the airport and volunteering period to your drop-off. Choose to travel in Safe Hands!

What is International volunteer and travel abroad Program?

There is increasing interest of travelers not to limit their travel merely as a visit, but also increase the extent of their understanding and experience with hands-on opportunities available. This is for which the demand of International volunteer and travel abroad Program is trending up globally. International volunteer and travel abroad Program is a doorway to convert visits into meaningful experiences and reciprocate back as well at the same time.  The program is taken as an opportunity to recognize the cross-cultural differences, supplement values to the vacations and boost the career realizing the potentials. The program allows to communicate and think globally, and broaden your perspectives towards life.

Indeed, International volunteer and travel abroad Program today is considered to be the most promising trends in travel. Globalization is shrinking the world day-by-day in every aspects of communication, commerce, relationship and many more. This has gradually developed the feeling of being citizens of one single home – the Earth. Where volunteering was only confined to social service activities into the towns or states, within the span of few decades, the technological diffusion has elaborated the same definition to the corners of the globe. People want to serve as well as travel simultaneously. No doubt, International volunteer and travel abroad Program is the ideal choice.

Why should I join International Volunteer Program?

Everyone needs change in taste and International Volunteer Program is the platform you might be looking into. Travelling is beautiful with lots of fun, and think how would it be if your travelling can create difference – in your life and to some lives. Volunteering overseas brings a new eyesight to your living. Your nomadic visit not only becomes purposeful but also caters you in realizing a fresh approach towards your life after exploring, connecting, interacting and doing common things in an uncommon way with uncommon people. Travelling becomes not just fun, but learn with remarkable moments; not only sharing but caring along with.

Even little things that you do count. Volunteer work abroad allows you to explore the foreign land and learn the diversities among mankind. You will be learning new skills, and could be adapting career changing skills. You start to see with the eyes of local. You connect with new circles and create positive influence to others and the self. You will of course be learning to adapt with change as you will be getting off the couch. This will prepare you for forthcoming challenges in your life.Addition to these life skills, you will be adding strength to your career prospects with international exposure.

There are countries which are in dire need of volunteers, you can help the people of these countries as a international volunteer. For example, your role as a volunteer in Ukraine can be really helpful for the Ukrainian people.

Types of International Volunteering Activities

As a volunteer you can share and explore your skills in different areas. Here are some types of activities where you can contribute with your humanitarian side.

Childcare Volunteering

If you love spending time with the kids. If you believe that your spending time with some disadvantaged kids can uplift their lifestyles. If you can inspire the children to live better and dream bigger then joining a childcare volunteering can serve your purpose.

Psychology and Mental Health Volunteering

Psychology and mental health issues are looming around. Especially in the post pandemic world the issue sees to be predominant throughout the planet. To mitigate the situation, not only the professionals but also the volunteers are needed everywhere. Joining as a psychology and mental health volunteer , you can make valuable contribution.

Conservation Volunteering

Climate change is a global issue today. This issue should not be limited within the voices of few activists and within the table of few world representatives. Every individual should act against climate change. Joining conservation volunteer programs can be a step forward to this initiative.

Healthcare Volunteering

Just like a candy striper opened a door to explore a way for young women to learn about medical services in the mid-20th century, there are still multitudes of opportunities and causes where you can serve as a healthcare volunteer. We could see that the need of healthcare and medical volunteers has become more pertinent recently in the post pandemic era.

What is Paid International Volunteering?

The first question that comes into a layman’s mind is that why should he or she pay to volunteer and travel abroad when you are contributing your time and energy to help others for free. But, volunteers need to understand that on the grounds it is not for the volunteering service but for all the facilities and services you are provided by the organization, you are paying for. There are only countable international organizations which can sponsor your living and other expenses while volunteering, but getting enrolled or selected becomes very tough with hundreds of applicants applying every day.

On the other side, there are non-profit organizations that require you to pay nominal charge for the services rendered to you. Such organizations do not own any funding source to manage volunteers and have to employ for this purpose.  You can try independently but may find your experience disgraceful. Thus, almost volunteers looking to serve abroad look for a reliable organization to ease the process and finding out the right program during the right time. Such paid international volunteering comforts you and your family at every steps of your volunteering period.

Where should I pay for Volunteering?

You must now have clear view why and for what you will be paying for. Voluntary work is absolutely free. Paying for the volunteering means pay for the costs associated with travelling or any other services. Every voluntary activity run with some costs.

Some of the breakdown of the costs associated in the process are as follows:

Organization Cost

Most of the volunteer and travel abroad programs are offered by the Non-Governmental (NGO) and Non Profit (NFP) organizations operating around the world. These organizations need funds to operate, for the promotion of their campaigns and to manage their human resources. These organizations also need some funding for the proper management of the volunteers they accept. Some organizations are funded by government aid and INGO donations, whereas others may have to request volunteers for the program fees which would be used for the management of the program.

Non-Governmental and Non-Profits Organizations offer most of the volunteer and travel abroad program. Those works require funds to operate. Managing volunteers, addressing their concerns and finding the best-fit place to serve definitely requires capable staff to pay off. Only a handful organization may be funded by Government or International aids and are often packed with numerous applicants, whereas others request for program fees to volunteer, that is however used for management of the program. Any such organization require funds to operate, promote the campaigns and manage the human resources.            

Food and Accommodation

You could only volunteer when your basics are taken care properly. Do not compromise with your food requirements. Travelling to other parts could be an experiment with food having various cross-cultural dishes tasted, but may be not always good enough. It is always good to pre-mention your food requirements, and food allergies, if any. You can always surf and have better ideas on the food consumed in the area of visit as preparation of your journey. Likewise, accommodation is another major thing to be taken of. Check if the area is disaster prone or not, and ensure you do stay in a safe house with comfortable sheets and room during your stay.

This depends on the nationality you travel and the place of destination you choose to travel. The application process may vary accordingly. Travelers will need to pay specific visa fee as an entry requirement for the tourist, and again the cost depends on the destination. Visa process may not happen instantaneously. Hence, it is better to stay safe ensuring visa procedures and visa costs at least a couple of months before the estimated travel date.

To volunteer and travel abroad means to serve the needful in the country other than your country of residence. Of course, flight arrangements are the initial requirement to start your journey. Volunteer, in most of the cases, have to arrange themselves the air fare and other needful transports. There are very few organizations who finance the volunteers’ air fares.

In order to stay safe and secured and prevent financial losses that may be incurred due to travel changes, cancellation or interruptions, medical requirements, baggage damage or theft, hijack or whatever possible mishap of uncertainties, it is always better and highly recommended to have a travel insurance before signing up for any volunteer and travel abroad program. This will not only secure your trip but also saves you from sudden financial accident.

There are other concerns that you have to take care in singing up volunteer and travel abroad programs. It is always advisable to check the Immunization requirements in the country of destination to prevent from unexpected sickness. You can visit the website  of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to check the list of recommended vaccines. You can also inquire about the health centers and facilities in the area where you will be volunteering and ensure the authenticity to claim your travel insurance. It is always better to carry the necessary medicines that you have been used to or have a stock, if incase, you have been regular user.

You may have to travel from one place to another during your volunteering period, for which you ought to be prepared from before. Check if the place you are volunteering will have access to communication and internet or not. No doubt, you will be looking to enjoy your weekends – could be hike, explore areas nearby or famous tourist spots, party, theatres, local homestays, etc. These services may not be provided by your volunteering organization. You can always have additional amount of money carried to meet such of your desires.

Why should I pay for Volunteering?

Lots of beginners, like you, think that why should one pay even for providing social service free of cost in expense of his or her labor and time. Of course, there are a few international organizations that provide you such opportunities, but such organizations are always packed up with numerous applicantswilling to serve, and thus resulting very low acceptance rate. On the other hand, there are numerous organizations that seek for volunteer like you, but cannot meet up your food and accommodation expenses. These are two primary areas, where you are required to pay in the place where you will be volunteering.

The volunteer and travel abroad Organization works for you to look for the organization best fit as per your interest to serve and with best quality work for the volunteer at the desired time period. Such organization manages to pick you up, look after you and your needs during your service period and ensure your safe return. These organizations run from the nominal amount of fee you pay. Thus, it is only for what service you will be using or consuming, you will be paying for. Volunteering service is always free of cost.

Some of the best paid volunteer organizations

International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ)

International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) is the leading organization in the field of volunteer tourism. The organization has been operating since 2007 and has access to more than 40 countries Asia, Europe and North America. IVHQ provides a variety of range of sectors you can volunteer, some of which are teaching abroad, supporting wildlife or marine conservation, help in construction work especially in earthquake affected and prone areas, medical hospitals, monasteries, etc. It has suitable opportunities for every type of volunteer right from amateurs to highly skilled professionals.

Projects Abroad

Established about twenty-five years ago, Projects abroad has its international volunteer programs in about twenty-five countries across Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin American and South Pacific. The organization offers three different categories of programs, that are volunteer and travel abroad, intern abroad and cultural exchange. Volunteer abroad consists of archaeology, building, childcare, conservation, sports coaching and teaching. Intern abroad has business, international development, journalism, law and human rights, medicine and healthcare, microfinance, social work, veterinary medicine and animal care programs. Cultural immersion and learn a language falls under cultural exchange programs.

Cross Cultural Solutions (CCS)

Cross Cultural Solutions has been providing its service to volunteer’s applicant since 1995. The organization has four different types of program, that are international internships, gap year program, high school volunteers and group experiences. There are seven destinations across Africa, Latin America and Asia you can explore and work.

African Impact

The organization African Impact came into effect from 2004.  The organization works all over African countries like Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Kenya, Tanzania, Namibia, Zanzibar. There are community volunteering, conservation volunteering and groups volunteering schemes available as volunteering abroad options. You may also choose to intern based on your field of interest.

Global Volunteer Solution (GVS)

Global Volunteer Solution (GVS) is a US registered humanitarian volunteer program working around eightAsian countries like Cambodia, China, India, Nepal, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam; Africa Countries like Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania and Uganda; and Latin American like Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Peru and Ecuador.

In a nutshell: International Volunteer Works, Opportunities and Programs

Paid International Volunteer Program is an opportunity to serve in the field of your interest to get out of your regular schedule or fill up your gap years. The beauty of such programs is you get to do what you love to do by travelling around and exchanging the culture, language and traditions, and at the same time contribute to bring positive impacts in others’ life.

You never need to pay for volunteering purpose, only it is for all the arrangement and facilities you are equipped with, you pay for. The core purpose of such payment will be used to manage the staffs, logistics and other requirements. It means indirectly you will be contributing in volunteering management system, and ensuring an easy space for others who, like you, are also interested in travel volunteerism.

To volunteer means to commit your life in others’ benefits, irrespective of the length of time you will be spending. No doubt, the values you will experience and the positivity you will acquire in your life will make you feel and your life a worthy one. Whatever materialistic achievements we may achieve in life, but the inner satisfaction that we achieve through humanitarian services provides the bliss in life.

If you want to be a international volunteer, there are plenty of international volunteer opportunities to choose from. From helping the people in Asia to enroll in volunteer work in Africa, there are copious of options. Every year thousands of enthusiasts join volunteer programs in Africa, Asia and Latin America. There are multiple ways you can find volunteer opportunities abroad. You can make a memorable moment by picking best international volunteer programs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best country to volunteer in?

It depends on which project and community you want to volunteer for. If you are more interested for marine and conservation works, Costa Rica is very popular. If you are more into meditation and Buddhism then Thailand or Nepal can be your best country to volunteer.

Can I volunteer and travel the world?

Yes, you can volunteer and travel the world while living with the communities.

How do I volunteer to travel abroad?

To volunteer and travel abroad, you have to find the right organization and right project for you. Then, proceed with the application process, book your flights and participate in the project.

Volunteer Abroad Destinations

• Volunteer in Nepal
• Volunteer in Sri Lanka
• Volunteer in Ecuador
• Volunteer in Costa Rica
• Volunteer in Peru
• Volunteer in Guatemala
• Volunteer in Kenya
• Volunteer in Tanzania
• Volunteer in Uganda

Our Volunteers' Experiences and Reviews

I met calm, nice and good people. Thank you for welcoming me into this program.

- Marina Parejo

I would recommend this as it is a very full immersive experience in the beautiful Kenyan culture and there is a lot to be learnt.

- Anna Avataneo,

I was having a wonderful time, more than I could have hoped for.

- Marlene Baumann

In our journey of more than 9 years, we hosted and enrolled hundreds of volunteers. All the good reviews from our previous participants say it all.

Featured Volunteer Programs

• Buddhist Monastery program in Nepal
• Volunteer and Intern for the Counseling Center of Addiction and Mental Health Issues
• Buddhist Monastery and Temple Stay Program in Chiang Mai, Thailand
• Teaching Buddhist Monks in Sri Lanka
• Kenya Orphanage and Childcare Program
• Ecuador Conservation Program
• Peru healthcare program
• Nepal wildlife photography and bird watching program
• Group Medical Volunteer in Nepal

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The Best Volunteer Abroad Programs For 2024

Looking for the best volunteer opportunities to join in 2024? As the world’s leading volunteering organization, International Volunteer HQ provides top-rated volunteer holidays , and makes it easy for you to find the best volunteer travel opportunities. With feedback from more than 10,000 volunteer travelers and insight from our experienced volunteer abroad support staff, we’re sharing 25 of our most recommended volunteer trips for 2024.

Here are the highest rated and best volunteer abroad programs for volunteers of all ages - all of these programs are available year-round and are currently accepting volunteers for 2024, 2025 and beyond.

What are the best places to volunteer abroad in 2024?

Our volunteer programs in Africa , Europe , the Caribbean , North America , Central America , South America and the Middle East are proving very popular for 2024! Explore the best volunteer abroad programs as rated by past IVHQ volunteers in the following regions:

• Best Africa volunteer abroad programs
• Best Central America volunteer abroad programs
• Best South America volunteer abroad programs
• Best North America and Caribbean volunteer abroad programs
• Best Europe volunteer abroad programs
• Best Middle East volunteer abroad programs
• Best Asia volunteer abroad programs

Wondering how we measure the effectiveness of our volunteer abroad programs? Check out the scoring guide that past volunteers use to rate IVHQ programs.

What are the best volunteer abroad programs based on your travel style?

Wondering how to volunteer abroad and where to start? Whether you’re a high school student, college student, older adult, or a family, discover the top volunteer abroad programs for your travel style below:

• Best volunteer abroad programs for high school students
• Best volunteer abroad programs for college students
• Top volunteer travel abroad programs for adults
• Best volunteer vacations for families
• Best medical volunteer abroad programs for 2024
• Top volunteer programs for one week
• Top trending 2024 destinations from the Lonely Planet

Best volunteer opportunities abroad for 2024

As more people opt to travel in a more sustainable and meaningful way, IVHQ’s volunteer abroad programs across Africa, the Americas, Asia, and Europe are booking up quickly for 2024. You won’t want to miss out on these humanitarian volunteer opportunities!

To help you choose the best 2024 volunteer programs to match your personal interests and the causes you care about - we’ve collated the top programs below based on how past volunteers have scored them.

What Are The Best Volunteer Abroad Programs in Africa for 2024?

Volunteer abroad in tanzania.

As a country bursting with natural splendor, beautiful beaches, ancient villages, and local tribes - Tanzania is one of the best places to experience an authentic volunteer holiday. It’s also home to the astounding Mount Kilimanjaro and some incredible wildlife, making it a paradise for hiking enthusiasts and animal lovers alike!

Many choose to combine our volunteer programs in Tanzania with an epic weekend getaway, including safaris, Maasai village tours, hiking trips, or overnighters to see waterfalls, hotsprings, caves, and coffee plantations. These types of tours and experiences in Tanzania can be easily added on to your volunteer program and booked directly through IVHQ.

Volunteer opportunities in Tanzania range from Animal Welfare and Childcare to Medical , Teaching and Women’s Education . These programs tackle some of the greatest challenges faced by local communities in Tanzania by improving access to education and healthcare, as well as providing safe spaces for vulnerable populations.

Looking for a conservation volunteer program in Eastern Africa? Check out IVHQ’s Zanzibar volunteer program below, which you can easily be added to the start or end of your Tanzania trip.

Volunteer Rating

Volunteer abroad in zanzibar.

Looking to unplug from everyday life and reconnect with nature? Located off the coast of Tanzania, the idyllic island of Zanzibar boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, unique wildlife, charming locals, and vibrant culture.

IVHQ’s Zanzibar volunteer program is perfect for animal and nature lovers who are drawn to the ocean and want to get a taste of Africa. As a volunteer traveler, you can live in a beachside bungalow and regenerate wild turtle populations on the Turtle Conservation volunteer project . Alternatively, you can stay in a rustic forest camp and protect endangered species, such as the Red Colobus Monkey, snakes, lizards, and tortoises on the Rainforest & Coastal Conservation project.

This is a truly unique opportunity to go off the beaten track and volunteer in Africa to help protect delicate ecosystems, preserve natural spaces, and help tackle climate change. Volunteering in Zanzibar can easily be combined with IVHQ’s Tanzania program and many volunteers opt to split their time volunteering in Africa between these two incredible (but incredibly different) volunteer programs.

Volunteer Abroad in Victoria Falls

Imagine volunteering abroad in a setting where your backyard has breathtaking views over a zebra-filled savannah - Victoria Falls is just that. Not only is this one of the best opportunities to volunteer in Africa with animals , Victoria Falls offers one of the most unique wildlife conservation volunteer programs . Volunteers are based on a private game reserve near the magical Victoria Falls - a once in a lifetime experience for volunteering abroad with animals.

While the volunteer work is physically demanding, you’ll be rewarded for your efforts with night camping in the reserve with the other volunteers. If you are in search of animal volunteering abroad and are passionate about conservation and wildlife, IVHQ’s Victoria Falls program is sure to deliver an unforgettable experience.

Volunteer Abroad in Zambia

For those who want to explore the incredible area of Victoria Falls, but want to volunteer to help local people in the community, check out IVHQ’s much-loved Zambia volunteer program . Volunteer opportunities in Zambia include Construction & Renovation , Elderly Care , Childcare , Medical , Rural Teaching , and Teaching .

This is the perfect destination for adventure-seekers and adrenaline junkies - whether you want to swim on the ledge of a mighty waterfall, go on safari, or whitewater rafting, Zambia is the perfect spot to witness nature at its best while making a positive impact within the community. Check out some of the awesome free-time tours and experiences available in Zambia with IVHQ.

Volunteer Abroad in Kruger National Park, South Africa

Want to go into the wild and protect endangered species? Our Wildlife Conservation project in South Africa is based on one of Africa’s largest and most iconic game reserves - Kruger National Park.

Volunteers get to live amongst the ‘Big 5’ - lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo - and help preserve their spectacular home. A typical day on the Wildlife Conservation project includes game drives, vegetation sampling, camera trapping, habitat assessments, monitoring of rare and endangered species, and much more.

If you want to volunteer in South Africa on a community-focused project, we have plenty in and around Cape Town to choose from. Or, for the ultimate adventure, combine our Kruger volunteer project with volunteering in Cape Town with IVHQ !

Volunteer Abroad in Ghana

Volunteers on IVHQ’s Ghana program consistently rave about the immersive cultural experience and welcoming community vibes. The local people you’ll work with and the incredible support team will make you feel at home from the moment you land in Ghana. The local team here has a long history of providing dedicated support to ensure IVHQ volunteers achieve positive outcomes across the communities they work within.

As a volunteer in Ghana, you’ll develop a strong sense of connection to your host community and your contribution will be recognized with a great deal of gratitude from your local hosts. In your free time, you’ll be able to explore Ghana’s best kept secrets, thanks to the popular tips the local team has to offer. Explore our volunteer opportunities in Ghana below.

Volunteer Abroad in South Africa

If you’re a first time traveler , a solo traveler or have never been to Africa, volunteering abroad in South Africa is a popular choice. Set in Cape Town, IVHQ’s South Africa program is incredibly popular for those looking for a meaningful and social travel experience with easy access to surfing, hiking and even weekend safari tours. It’s also a sought-after destination for foodies so come prepared to sample the world-class cuisine and dining options!

The volunteer work itself in South Africa receives outstanding reviews from IVHQ volunteers, making it one of the best volunteer programs in Africa. With volunteer projects like Surf Outreach , Teaching English and Sports Development , there is a significant focus on youth development and increasing access to education in Cape Town.

Looking for a conservation project or want to go on safari in South Africa? IVHQ’s Wildlife Conservation project in South Africa is based in Kruger National Park and gives volunteers the unique opportunity to live amongst the ‘Big 5’ - lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo - while observing them on game drives and protecting their spectacular home.

Volunteer Abroad in Morocco

Morocco is a glowing cultural hub with a unique fusion of European, African and Middle Eastern influences that result in an upbeat lifestyle, perfect for travelers seeking an authentic cultural experience. IVHQ’s Morocco volunteer programs are based in the stunning regions of Rabat, Casablanca and Sale.

With volunteer projects ranging from the thrilling Amazigh Immersion in the Atlas Mountains to Sports Education , Women’s Education , and a range of Teaching projects - there’s a volunteer program to suit every skill set and interest.

Named one of the top countries to visit by Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel for 2024, Morocco is the hidden gem of Africa that everyone’s talking about this year.

What Are The Best Volunteer Abroad Programs in Central America for 2024?

Volunteer abroad in costa rica.

Known for its laid back culture and beautiful beaches, rainforests and volcanoes, Costa Rica is one of the best places to volunteer abroad and consistently a top pick for those looking to volunteer in Central America. IVHQ’s Costa Rica volunteer programs are located in a range of volunteer locations in Costa Rica, including the capital city of San Jose, and Manuel Antonio on the Pacific Coast.

Costa Rica is one of IVHQ’s most popular volunteer trip locations, with an incredible range of diverse and responsible projects that include Turtle Conservation , Eco-Agriculture Conservation , Childcare , Teaching English , Healthcare , and more.

Volunteer Abroad in Guatemala

Volunteering in Guatemala with IVHQ offers the ultimate volunteer holiday for those who like to go off the beaten track. With a rich fusion of Mayan and Spanish cultures, there are plenty of fascinating colonial towns, ancient Mayan ruins and quaint rural villages to explore. Guatemala’s incredible volcanoes, lush rainforest, beautiful lakes, and fascinating cultural cities make this country a hit with nature and city lovers alike.

IVHQ’s volunteer opportunities in Guatemala range from unique programs such as Mayan Cultural Immersion in the Highlands, Eco-Agriculture on a local coffee farm - to Medical , Childcare , and Teaching projects in the bustling city of Antigua.

What Are The Best Volunteer Abroad Programs in South America for 2024?

Volunteer abroad in peru.

For many volunteers, their experiences volunteering in Peru are some of the best of their lives. With an extensive range of projects to join, you can choose volunteer work such as Amazon Jungle Conservation or the Medical volunteer project .

You can choose take a volunteer trip to Peru’s capital - Lima (starting at just $275 for 1 week), or you could volunteer in Cusco - the gateway to Machu Picchu. During your weekends, you’ll have easy access from either location to iconic attractions such as Rainbow Mountain, Lake Titicaca and the Salt Mines. Make sure you check out the must-do trips in Peru for your IVHQ weekends before you depart.

Volunteer Abroad in Ecuador

As a volunteer in Ecuador with IVHQ , you can choose from a range of volunteer abroad projects, including Teaching English , Street Children Work , Childcare , Summer Project and NGO Support . Volunteer programs are based in Ecuador’s capital city of Quito and its hinterland. Nestled high in the Andes, Quito is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful cities in South America, however there is still a great need for volunteers to assist with the development of the city.

On IVHQ’s Ecuador volunteer program, you will be greeted and guided by an incredibly dedicated local team who will ensure you feel safe and supported throughout your volunteer experience. See what other IVHQ volunteers say about their experience volunteer with these IVHQ Ecuador reviews .

Volunteer Abroad in Argentina

Argentina draws in tourists from around the globe for many reasons - its natural beauty, delicious cuisine, vibrant culture and so much more.

IVHQ’s Argentina volunteer programs are located in the cultural hub of Córdoba and coastal capital, Buenos Aires.Volunteer projects include Childcare , Construction & Renovation , Elderly Care , Healthcare , Special Needs Support , and much more.

Both of IVHQ’s Argentina programs are within a short flight of the iconic Northeast Argentina region, making it an ideal weekend escape for volunteers. This is a stunning, untouched part of the country, home to the famous Iguazú falls and the rugged beauty of the surrounding National Park.

What Are The Best Volunteer Abroad Programs in North America and the Caribbean for 2024?

Volunteer abroad in belize.

IVHQ’s Belize volunteer program is based on a stunning private island - just 45 minutes from mainland Belize in the Caribbean, with a focus on preserving endangered marine life. Volunteers receive comprehensive training so they can assist local marine biologists to gather data, conduct surveys, and remove invasive species.

The Marine Conservation project involves going on 13 scuba dives a week to collect data and carry out surveying, so if you don’t have your open water diving certification, you’re able to get PADI qualified on the program. You can expect to see lionfish, corals, whale sharks, turtles, queen conch and many more fascinating underwater species on your dives.

Volunteers monitor the reef, whale sharks and other marine life, eradicate invasive species, help set sustainable fishing limits, and take part in weekly beach clean-ups to preserve the fragile reef ecosystem, protect against global warming, and remove harmful plastics from the ocean.

Volunteer Abroad in Jamaica

IVHQ’s Jamaica volunteer program is the perfect opportunity for you to immerse yourself in the pulsing culture of the Caribbean while making a positive impact in the local community. Beautiful beaches, mountain peaks, waterfalls, and laid back vibes - just a few reasons why IVHQ volunteers fall in love with Jamaica.

Our program is located by the ocean in St Mary, where you’ll be welcomed into a tight-knit community eager to connect with volunteers like you. Make a lasting impact through impact-driven projects that are run by locals, including Sustainable Agriculture , Sports , Youth Development , Childcare , Business Development , Teaching , and more.

Volunteer Abroad in Puerto Rico

A stunning island in the Caribbean, Puerto Rico is bursting with character and culture. The country is a unique melting pot of influences from South America, Europe, North America ,and the wider Caribbean, resulting in a laid back, tropical and Latin feel.

Volunteer work in Puerto Rico is focused on assisting with widely felt social issues resulting from Hurricane Maria in 2017, with projects in Youth Support , Environmental Sustainability , NGO Support , and Community Development . Puerto Rico is home to many things you can’t find anywhere else - from the brightly-colored Old Town in San Juan to some of the world’s only unique bioluminescent lakes!

What Are The Best Volunteer Abroad Programs in Europe for 2024?

Volunteer abroad in croatia.

A gem of the Mediterranean, Croatia is an amazing place to volunteer abroad and a glistening coastal country that has fast become a favorite for travelers to Europe - especially in the summer and fall. Our Croatia volunteer program is based in the popular city of Split, which is vibrant all year round, and has become iconic as the film set to a whole bunch of Game of Thrones scenes.

Volunteer projects include Marine Conservation , Youth Support , Animal Care , Special Needs Support and a unique Creative Technologies opportunity. There’s nothing like watching the sunset over the Mediterranean coast from an idyllic beach-side perch.

You’ll also find Croatia on Lonely Planet’s Best In Travel list for 2024 - just in case you needed another excuse to get there this year!

Volunteer Abroad in Portugal

Lisbon is the capital of Portugal, one of the most vibrant cultural cities in Europe, and home to IVHQ’s Portugal volunteer program . You’ll love its charming cobbled streets, quirky cafes, stunning surf beaches, funky bars, and delicious Portugese delicacies. The city is bursting with beautiful architecture, rich cultural history, incredible street art, and museums.

As one of the sunniest places in Europe, Lisbon benefits from balmy temperatures year-round with a lovely Mediterranean climate.

From Environmental Scuba Diving to Supporting the Homeless and Youth Support projects - there’s a multitude of impactful volunteer opportunities to help out in this part of the world.

By popular request, IVHQ has also opened a range of new environmental conservation-focused projects in Portugal, including Forest Conservation , Biological Park Conservation , and Upcycling for Social Good . So whether you want to restore native forests, help protect native species, protect precious ecosystems, or reduce plastics entering landfill in a creative way, Portugal is the ideal volunteer destination to make a hands-on impact.

Volunteer Abroad in Romania

Is the appeal of Europe drawing you in? Our Romania volunteer program is the stand-out option, with its misty mountains, vast forests and fascinating history. The IVHQ Romania volunteer program consistently gets fantastic volunteer feedback, with the in-country program support often singled out for special praise.

The local team in Romaina welcomes every volunteer into the community, giving you a rare insight into authentic Romanian life and culture. There is plenty to keep volunteers busy in their downtime, with the rest of Europe on your doorstep. The program is based in the town of Miercurea Ciuc in the distinctive region of eastern Transylvania. IVHQ has a wide range of top rated volunteer abroad projects available in Romania, including Teaching English , Sustainable Agriculture , and Animal Care .

Volunteer Abroad in Spain

Take a volunteer adventure in Barcelona with IVHQ to discover the ins and outs of this cosmopolitan city. You’ll be placed at the heart of the city while volunteering on meaningful community-driven projects among the world-famous art and architecture.

Volunteer placements include Marine Conservation , Youth Support , Special Needs Support , and more. As an IVHQ volunteer in Spain, you’ll be immersed in this iconic city, working alongside locals and other international volunteers, and making valuable contributions to projects that value your support.

What Are The Best Volunteer Abroad Programs in the Middle East for 2024?

Volunteer abroad in jordan.

Jordan is a beautiful country in the heart of the Middle East that boasts diverse landscapes and people - and it’s safe to travel around! You can experience the peaceful and humble Bedouin way of life in the desert, the fascinating ancient kingdom of Petra and the progressive vibrant city of Amman - where our volunteer programs are based.

We’re incredibly proud that the coordinator of our Jordan volunteer program , Masar, was once an IVHQ volunteer herself! Back in 2013, Masar volunteered with IVHQ in South Africa, India, Colombia and Kenya, which had a profound impact and inspired her to establish a volunteer program in her home country of Jordan. This program has also previously been shortlisted as a finalist for the Innovative New Volunteer Abroad Program Award in the GoAbroad Awards.

Volunteer opportunities in Jordan include Arts and Music , Special Needs Support , Teaching , Women’s Education , Youth Support , and a unique Ramadan project.

What Are The Best Volunteer Abroad Programs in Asia for 2024?

Volunteer abroad in nepal.

Volunteer in Nepal in 2024 or 2025 and experience it all! This is a country full of color, culture, incredible landscapes and friendly people. One of the highlights of the Nepal program is just how varied the placement locations are with volunteer projects located in Kathmandu, Chitwan, Chitlang and Pokhara. IVHQ’s 2024 Nepal volunteer program is perfect for volunteers looking for a wide range of volunteer opportunities in truly unique locations throughout the country.

Nepal is well known to be a safe option for volunteers traveling solo and IVHQ volunteers make the most of the incredible sightseeing opportunities and tours in Nepal to explore in your free time.

Volunteer Abroad in Bali - Indonesia

If you’re looking for the one of the top volunteer programs in Asia, look no further than Bali. As a volunteer in Bali , you can choose from two locations: Ubud - the cultural hub of Bali, or Lovina - the laid-back coastal beach town. ( Find out where you should volunteer in Bali ).

For travelers who want to volunteer in Indonesia, this is the perfect volunteer program for surfers, nature lovers or anyone looking for a volunteer opportunity off the beaten path. The Bali program is one of IVHQ’s best volunteer abroad programs, with between 40-80 volunteers starting each month. There are six different projects available, with everything from Turtle Conservation to Childcare Support , so there’s plenty of variety to customizes your meaningful volunteer trip to Asia.

Volunteer Abroad in India - Kerala

India has captivated travelers for generations, and for good reason! It’s mixture of vibrant sights, sounds and colors, spirited people, dynamic cultures and vivid atmosphere all combined to create a truly remarkable country to visit. As a volunteer in India, you’ll build authentic connections with locals by supporting volunteer projects that meet the needs of the local communities. It’s a rare chance to be immersed within the Indian culture and to get an authentic sense of what the country is about.

IVHQ’s volunteer program in Kerala, India is based in the coastal city of Kochi, an eclectic town that’s one of our favorite hidden gems. Come ready to experience India in a new light - tropical, laid back and without the hustle and bustle of the big cities. With a perfect mixture of cool, contemporary cafes and authentic cultural galleries and shows, Kerala is one of Asia’s best kept secrets.

IVHQ also offers a popular range of volunteer projects in Delhi, the fast-paced and exciting capital of India. Whether you choose to volunteer in Kerala or Delhi with IVHQ, you’ll have access to a trusted support network and the help of a 24/7 local team which takes the hassle out of organizing your India volunteer experience.

Volunteer Abroad in Vietnam

Vietnam is known for its culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. As a volunteer in Vietnam , you’ll get to experience a mix of all that, as well as many local secrets and traditional traveler highlights. At the same time, you’ll help make a positive and lasting contribution to the Vietnamese community that you’re immersed in, making it the best way to experience Vietnam.

Volunteers are highly valued by the local community and the welcoming nature of the IVHQ Vietnam local team makes this volunteer program a firm favorites with Vietnam volunteer program participants. You can volunteer in Vietnam teaching English or if you’re on the path to a medical career, this is one of IVHQ’s best medical volunteer abroad programs .

How do we measure the effectiveness of our volunteer abroad programs?

In case you’re wondering how we select the best volunteer abroad programs for 2024, here’s some context to understand the criteria IVHQ volunteer programs are measured against…

Program Support

As the world leaders in volunteer travel, IVHQ has a specialist support team to help you find the right volunteer program to match your motivations, skills and the causes you care about. Once you’ve found the right volunteer program and registered to volunteer overseas with us, you’ll be connected with a dedicated Program Manager to support you on your journey. You’ll also gain access to the full suite of preparation tools within your MyIVHQ account. Here, you can access your detailed program guide, online volunteer training and customized preparation checklist to ensure you’re all set to volunteer overseas.

Our local teams are also on-hand to support you throughout your volunteer experience, from the moment you step off the airplane. This includes organizing your airport pick-up, program orientation and 24/7 support while you’re abroad. IVHQ works closely with these local teams day in, day out to ensure that your volunteer abroad experience is the best it can be.

Volunteer Work

IVHQ’s locally-led programs are designed to ensure you can make a positive contribution to important causes through your volunteer work abroad, while enjoying a culturally immersive experience. With our huge range of 300+ volunteer projects to choose from, there are plenty of options that give you the opportunity to pursue your passions, explore a career path or even share one of your hobbies with others. You’ll also need to consider how active you are, as some volunteer programs are more physically demanding than others. Our team of Volunteer Travel Specialists can help you choose the perfect program based on these factors.

Accommodation

After a day of volunteering, nothing beats coming home to a comfortable home away from home. When volunteering abroad with IVHQ, you’ll be living in the company of like-minded volunteers from around the world. The accommodation options vary from country to country but you can be confident that you’ll always have a safe and vetted place to call home. You could be living in a homestay with a few other volunteers, a volunteer house with dormitory-style rooms or you may wish to request a private room if that option is available.

Depending on the volunteer program you choose to join, you can be served up to three meals a day. Volunteer meals are typically made up of local cuisine so you’ll have the opportunity to sample traditional home cooked meals that can often accommodate special dietary requirements. Check out our choice of the best volunteer destinations for vegetarians and vegans here .

The best volunteer abroad programs are the ones that deliver the biggest impact through mutually beneficial exchanges between international volunteers and their host communities. When volunteering abroad with IVHQ, you can feel confident that you’ll be contributing to locally-driven volunteer projects that are supporting important social and environmental objectives. This is achieved by working in collaboration with local people who are in the best position to determine where volunteer support is most needed. It’s crucial that when you’re looking for legitimate volunteer abroad programs, you consider how your time abroad will impact the community and that volunteer work is driven by their needs.

Best volunteer abroad programs for high school students in 2024:

We’ve got 15 volunteer programs around the globe that high school students can take part in. Whether you’re traveling as an individual or with a group, read our comprehensive High School Volunteer Abroad Guide which details the destinations and projects available for high school volunteering abroad, as well as the dedicated support that’s provided for teen volunteering.

Best volunteer abroad programs for college students in 2024:

Volunteering abroad as a college student is the perfect opportunity to broaden your career prospects and immerse yourself in a foreign community during your break period. If you’d like to learn more about how volunteering abroad can benefit you and discover our best volunteer abroad programs for college students, check out our helpful guide - Volunteer Abroad For College Students .

Whether you’re setting out for your first adventure abroad or you’re well traveled, here are some amazing volunteer destinations that are popular with college students because of their program price, flexibility and community impact.

• Bali - Ubud
• Peru - Cusco
• South Africa

Top volunteer abroad programs for older adults in 2024:

When we leave our youth, it’s all too common to lose our spirit for adventure and feel as though opportunities aren’t suited for us. Luckily, volunteering abroad has no barriers for older adults. If you’re looking for a new life direction or if you’re highly skilled at what you do, volunteering allows you to connect with a local community and provide meaningful support in your chosen field.

The best thing about IVHQ is that you can travel in your own style. Room upgrades are available in most of our volunteer destinations, so you can choose to have your own privacy or be immersed with other volunteers on your program. Take a look at our Best Volunteer Programs For Grown Ups Guide for all you need to know, or check out some of these recommended options:

Best volunteer vacations for families in 2024:

The family vacation has taken a different form this year, with more and more families looking for meaningful multi-generational travel experiences over traditional resort-style vacations. Volunteering allows families to work together in ways not possible on your average vacation, while still gaining all the perks of visiting a new destination, experiencing local cuisine and seeing the attractions. If you’re looking for recommendations for family volunteer opportunities, check out our helpful Volunteer Vacations for Families Guide and take the family on a trip they won’t forget.

Best medical volunteer abroad programs in 2024:

Volunteering abroad has long been a popular option for college students working towards a career in medical fields. Put your theory work into practice as you provide meaningful medical volunteer assistance to underserved communities around the world. Medical volunteering abroad is the perfect way to make the most of your semester break, gain international healthcare experience and give back to communities that value your support. Check out our extensive range of medical volunteer opportunities in our Medical Mission Trips article .

Top volunteer programs for one week in 2024:

Strapped for time, but still want to volunteer in other countries and do meaningful volunteer work? IVHQ offers fantastic volunteer opportunities to suit a range of travel styles. Take a look at our Volunteer Trips Abroad You Can Take For 1 or 2 Weeks Guide , which details more than 10 destinations and the type of traveler they would suit.

If you’re looking for something else, here are a few other top programs based on FAQs from volunteers:

Where’s the best volunteer abroad program based on accommodation? Volunteer in Madagascar or volunteer in Belize and experience living on a private island alongside other international volunteers.

What’s the best volunteer abroad program for vegans? Definitely explore volunteering in Jamaica or support our volunteer projects in Ubud, Bali .

Where’s the best volunteer abroad trip if you want a personalized volunteer experience? If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten track experience where you’re working will a close-knit group of volunteers, explore volunteering in Jordan .

What’s the best place to volunteer and then fill my weekends with adventures? You can’t beat spending your weekend on safari in Tanzania .

If you want to volunteer in other countries and are still having a hard time deciding which volunteer abroad program is best for you, IVHQ has 300+ volunteer programs in more than 40 countries around the world. So grab out the map and start planning your volunteer trip around the globe.

Lonely Planet’s Top Trending Travel Destinations for 2024

Want to give back to a community that really values your support while exploring one of the Lonely Planet’s top trending travel destinations for 2024 ? Check out IVHQ’s volunteer programs in the places that’ll be buzzing in the year ahead, according to the Lonely Planet:

Connect with the colorful culture of India: With new flight routes from America and Europe to IVHQ’s volunteer programs in Delhi and Kerala, now’s the time to volunteer in India ! You could be supporting community projects while igniting all your senses in the captivating city of Delhi, or making an impact in the laid-back coastal region of Kerala.

Find your adventure in Mexico: Combine a volunteer trip to Mexico with an epic new train journey to see ancient Maya Ruins in 2024! This is your chance to give back to community projects in Merida, connect with the local culture, and immerse yourself in the history of the mysterious Mayan ruins emerging from an enchanting jungle.

Discover why Morocco is like no place on earth: For an authentic volunteer adventure like no other, volunteering in Morocco will not disappoint. From connecting with the local community, sharing mind-blowing meals with your host family, to spending a weekend journeying through Sahara desert, this experience will redefine what it means to see the world!

Find your calling in Croatia: Picture this: You could be volunteering in the coastal city of Split , while spending your weekends exploring Croatia’s idyllic islands by ferry. Need we say more?

Can’t Decide?

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GoEco > How to Volunteer Abroad and have all Expenses Paid

How to Volunteer Abroad and have all Expenses Paid

When you volunteer abroad you learn to open your eyes to other nationalities, ways of living, and thinking, that you may not have the opportunity to be exposed to at home. Whether you want to help communities who are undergoing hardships or volunteer with animals, you are guaranteed to have a life-changing experience.

This will surely change the way that you view yourself and the world, as you see the tireless efforts of others who are trying to make a positive change to the lives of those around them, and you become a part of the process. In the words of Mahatma Gandhi “be the change that you wish to see in the world”, by volunteering you are doing just that.

So you want to be the change and offer your skills, time and comforts, but find that this can be a costly experience. Why? Google searches of ‘volunteer abroad for free’ turn up with thin results and you are left with a big heart and an even bigger decision to make: is your mere presence more beneficial than a monetary contribution?

The reality is that many organizations require both the hands on help from the volunteer and also a payment that will support both the volunteer’s stay as well as the continuation of the program. Without both, many will be in trouble as outside resources can be hard to come by. Let’s take a closer look at what it means to volunteer and ways that you can contribute in a sustainable manner.

Why do people pay to volunteer?

This question is sure to come up from friends, family and even yourself. You’re offering your time, flying halfway across the world, living in not exactly Hilton conditions, AND almost 100% of the organizations will request a payment from you to volunteer with them. It sounds contradictory and not exactly in the ‘spirit of things’, but there is a very good reason for it.

Let’s say you want to volunteer at your local soup kitchen. You call them up, say that you will be joining for a few hours this Thursday and then start counting your karma points at the end of the night. This can be considered free volunteering, however, it was far from free!

Here is what you would have paid for yourself to volunteer for free locally:

• Your breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Your home expenses i.e. rent, electricity, water, internet and the maintenance of the property, as well as items like toilet paper, soap and towels
• Travel expenses to get to and from the location
• Clothes and laundry
• Any sightseeing that you may do on the day

These are other costs that the organization would have incurred and paid for out of pocket or through donations:

• The meal ingredients (although usually food banks are used, there is often red tape to go through to gain access to them. They are also very limited in resources and rely on donations themselves)
• Cooking utensils including pots and coolers
• A kitchen with electricity, water, soap and rags (it all costs!)
• Transportation of ingredients as well as meals to the hand-out venue (if it’s not the same as the kitchen)
• Advertising for volunteer recruitment, fundraising activities and project awareness
• Office expenses. This includes everything from website upkeep and accounting to the office itself if it is not done at someones house i.e. if it is a larger organization

These are very short lists that don’t even touch on supporting local employees or providing any other services or resources to the people in need.

When you volunteer abroad, you will need to add a few more expenses such as airport transfers, cultural activities and field staff that are available to help international volunteers. You should also remember that donations in poorer countries may be more scarce and less available for charities to access.

What does it mean to volunteer abroad for free?

Volunteering abroad for free generally refers to volunteering abroad with free flights and accommodation included.   As you now know, ‘free’ is a relative term, with the only difference being of who picks up the bill for the trip and how any monetary donations are used: to house volunteers or to maintain/ improve current facilities and day-to-day expenses. In saying that, there are several organizations that do offer sustainable volunteer opportunities.

Examples of free volunteer programs

Willing Workers On Organic Farms/ WWOOF 

WWOOF is an organization that has been around since the seventies and aims to connect farmers with volunteers who are looking to gain experience in working on organic farms. Apart from a small registration fee, the service is free to use and involves farmers and volunteers adding their profile to a WWOOF website (each country governs their own website). The WWOOFers (volunteers) then request to stay at a farm and all further arrangements are made between the two parties. Food and accommodation is free and the host will usually pick the volunteer up from the closest city as they tend to be located rurally. There are many farms to choose from, both in terms of what is being harvested as well as if they are hobby farms or sell their produce commercially.

An au pair is essentially a nanny looking for a cultural exchange. Au pairs connect to host families in a similar way that WWOOFers do, although this service screens all profiles, and the volunteer travels abroad to live with the families. A small amount of pocket money is given to the au pair, as well as the opportunity to go to a language school (which is occasionally paid for by the host). Au pairs are expected to take care of young children, do some light housework and are generally treated as part of the family.

The United Nations 

The United Nations have the difficult task of bridging relations between countries, in an attempt to bring about international peace and security. Volunteers tend to be highly skilled and involved in policy making and their implementation in developing countries or those in the midst of crises. Volunteers are flown to their project and are given an allowance to cover their cost of living, as well as medical and general support throughout their stay. Although some opportunities exist for younger volunteers, most require the volunteer to be over 25 years of age and to have extensive work experience.

Is volunteering for free worth it? 

As you can see, there are a few volunteer programs abroad that are legitimately free for the volunteer, however, as with anything that’s free in life there are certain disadvantages. For example, the WWOOFing websites are unregulated, meaning that volunteers must determine the safety of the farms and their conditions, based solely on previous participant reviews. Farmers are also often inexperienced in working with volunteers, leaving them without the level of support that they may want when living in a foreign country.

For volunteers looking to have a very social experience, WWOOFing can be a hit and miss, as the properties are often rural and if the volunteer is there in low season or the farm isn’t very popular, then they may be left alone with just the farmer. Au pairs have a similar issue as the very nature of the project involves living with the family and taking care of their kids, so late nights out and meeting up with friends will be limited to what is permitted by the host parents. Like WWOOFing, as a third party isn’t involved in organising the trip, any disagreements between the host and the volunteer must be worked out independently, leaving the volunteer on their own if something were to go wrong.

Au pairs are also expected to be between the ages of 18-30, single and childless in order to participate. Conversely, United Nations volunteers can have families and may even be able to take them along on the trip, which is probably due to the fact that placements are a minimum of six months, with a general expectation that the project length will be closer to a year. Importantly, volunteers are not given the choice of where they want to volunteer, as the UN assigns them to a project based on their skills and the needs of the programs around the world. They will also only be given 4-6 weeks notice prior to their deployment, making this an unsuitable option for someone who is currently employed and not intending to resign.

Why you should want to pay for your volunteer trip?

We know that no one wants to pay, especially when they are offering their time through volunteering, but the reality is that supporting a volunteer and the project requires a financial contribution. Most programs that require volunteers simply would not be able to continue doing the work that they do, if it was not for the aid provided through volunteer program fees. Whether it be buying new books for children or fence material for an animal sanctuary , a portion of your money will go directly towards making these projects happen.

Training, housing and feeding you, as a volunteer, is another expense that is covered by the volunteer fees. Without a contribution towards covering volunteer needs, the programs would need to take funds away from completing either much needed upgrades or providing services to the communities or animals that they are intending to help.

How to volunteer for free with GoEco and get the best of both worlds

GoEco connects volunteers with meaningful volunteer programs all over the world, allowing them to participate in a wide variety of projects, such as working with children, animals and the environment as well as facilitating professional internships and language learning programs. GoEco offers 24 hour support to all volunteers, pre-screens all host organisations and offers projects for all age-ranges, skill levels and time frames, for an affordable project fee. As the organizations that GoEco partners with are experienced in working with volunteers, opportunities for travel, wildlife and animal conservation , social gatherings and volunteer satisfaction, are of high priority to them.

If you still want to travel for free, then check out the GoEco website, as we periodically offer scholarships. You can also have a look at the Ambassadors Scholarship Foundation to see if you are eligible for a scholarship through them, open a Fund My Travel profile and crowdfund your trip or, if you are a student, you can speak to your school or university for grants and assistance. The sky is really the limit when it comes to fundraising as you can do something as simple as a garage sale, to contact the local media and let them in on your plans to volunteer and the need for external funding.

Final thoughts

Whichever way you go, ensure that you register with a reputable organization and take the time to weigh up the advantages and the disadvantages of volunteering abroad for free, both for yourself and for the organization that you are hoping to make an impact with. Lastly, enjoy and thank you for making a difference in this world!

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21 Ways to Get Paid to Travel

Written By: The Planet D

Digital Nomads

Updated On: February 9, 2024

What? You can get paid to travel? Yes. You can travel the world and get paid! We are living proof that you can make money traveling.

We have been traveling around the world for the past 11 years. Working in travel is our full-time job and we get a lot of questions about how we make money. In this post, we want to peel back the curtain so you can benefit from our knowledge and start on the path to making money while traveling. The first half starts with how we make money traveling and then we branch out to different ways to make money in travel.

Table of Contents

Get Paid to Travel the World

Over the years of being professional travel bloggers , we have learned what works and what does not. What I know for sure is that working in travel is not a “get rich quick” kind of career. There is a lot that goes into building a business and brand that allows you to get paid to travel .

• If you want to get right into it becoming a travel blogger we have provided this quick reference for you: learn How to Start a Travel Blog

How we fund our travels

When we first started out by cycling the continent of Africa , we had no idea of how we were going to make money. We had a travel fund saved of $20,000 from working in the film industry and this is what we used for the first year to pay for our travels.

We made a base in India where we could stretch our dollar while building our expertise in travel. It was easier to grow our social media channels and blog views by constantly traveling to new and exotic destinations that didn’t break the bank.

Once our flights were bought to Asia, we travelled on a very cheap budget. For example 4 months into our travels, I remember sitting at a cheap guesthouse in Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka. We only had 2 months left in our travel budget and were worried about having to go home.

But since we had been updating on social media and writing blog posts every day, we had a small audience and a few days later we sold our first ad. They bought 4 ads at $40 a month for 12 months. We suddenly had nearly $2000 to fund our travels for another 2 months! After that, we sold more ads and as we travelled, we paid for them through our blog.

Today, most of our travels are funded through tourism boards, tour companies, and brands or destinations that want us to promote their regions or products. They will take care of our travel expenses including things like our hotel room, meals, flights, and activities.

• How to find free accomodation around the world  – Think you don’t have the means to travel? Be inspired by Thailand blogger, Petz who shows that even with a limited budget, you can travel the world.
• Tips for getting started as a house sitter – Professional The Travelling House Sitters Brit and Jay share their top reasons why you should start house sitting right now!

Ways We Make Money Traveling

Our income in 2020 took a nosedive in the travel space, but we still made a six-figure income. That is because we have multiple sources of income. Even though travel bookings ended, we had several ways to continue earning a comfortable living. In this post, we share pre-2020 numbers and posts. We feel confident that in time, we will be back to where we ended.

Note: Some blogging income streams are only available to you once you reach a certain traffic threshold on your website but most of them you can apply early on. The takeaway here is to focus on building your brand and expertise and do what you love. As you grow organically, the money you make grows with you.

1. Affiliate Marketing 

Affiliates marketing has become a larger part of our income in the past couple of years. You can start this at any time, but its success is dependent on a loyal audience and search traffic.

What is affiliate marketing?

Basically, when you click on the link to a product or service that we recommend and then make a purchase, we receive a small commission. This is at no cost to you and we always only recommend products and services that we believe in. This can range from booking websites for hotels like Booking.com or TripAdvisor to products that we like on Amazon or renting a car at Rentalcars.com.

Income: Monthly affiliate income ranges from $20,000 to $40,000 depending on the time of year.

2.  Display Advertising

If you are just starting out, Google Adsense is a great place to get your feet wet with display advertising. But there are many Ad Networks that bloggers work with.

What is Display advertising?

Display advertising is where a product or service is advertised on our website through visual images like banner ads and videos on our website. Display ads are easy to implement and you get paid a small amount of money each time someone clicks on the ad. It may not be a ton of money at first, but as you build your website it can be quite lucrative.

Once you have built your readership you can apply to work with an ad network where you can get a better price for your ad space Currently, we work with AdThrive who pays us out by the number of visitors that come to our website and see their banner ads. We make a fixed dollar amount per 1000 impressions.

Income: With display advertising, we make between $30,000 to $35,000 per month

3. Destination Campaigns 

Destination campaigns used to be the main way we made money traveling when we were on the road full time. But we still do many destination campaigns each year.

What is a destination campaign?

A destination will invite us to visit their region and cover all of our expenses. They also pay us a fee to help them promote their destination through social media, creating videos, writing blog posts, and creating photography content.

If you are just starting out you may be able to get your part of your trip subsidized or even all of it paid for. But, to charge a fee for the services you need to have built an audience and offer tangible value to the destination .

Income: Destination Campaigns can range anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000 per campaign. One-off social projects and smaller destination packages range from $500 – $5000.

4. Brand Partnerships 

We work with brands and tourism companies that we believe in and feel confident recommending.

What is a brand partnership?

These are usually year-long contracts where we discuss what the client’s needs are and what type of coverage we will give them. It can include social media coverage, blog posts, videos, T.V. appearances, speaking at conferences, or participating in ad campaigns. You are only limited by your imagination.

These are great if you have a brand or company that you already use and want to work with them. We have worked with brands like Allianz Global Insurance, UnCruise, American Express, Intrepid Travel, and British Airways, to name a few.

Income: Brand Partnerships can range anywhere from $5000 to $50,000 per campaign depending on length and deliverables.

5. Photography Sales

We license our photos for advertising and editorial use to Destination Marketing Organizations, (DMOs) magazines, books, and brands. This is always part of our larger packages with brands and when we do destination campaigns. We also sell prints to the general public through gallery shows and online.

Income: Print Sales can account for up to $10,000 per year. Photo and video licensing can range from $300 to $10,000 depending on the terms

6. Public Speaking

Once you build up your authority you can apply to speak at different conferences. We have traveled the world doing speaking engagements which usually offer free trips before or after a conference.

You don’t have to speak about travel to speak at conferences, think about what your expertise is, and create a session about it. Be it inspirational, informational, or about a particular subject, conferences are always looking for experts.

Public Speaking can account for up to $10,000 per year. This can range from $300 to $3,000 per engagement depending on the terms

7. Digital Products

Another way we monetize our travel blog is to make and sell our own digital products. Since we get a lot of traffic to different destination pages we decided to make downloadable travel guides . The creation of these can take a bit of time but it is one of those things that I look at as “passive income”. Once you make it once, it just needs to be updated once a year and it provides income all year long.

• We know people that strictly make money selling through Amazon and their store. They don’t use a blog and instead leverage Amazon for sales.

Income: From our City Guides we make $300 to $500 per month.

8. YouTube and Travel Videos

While making travel videos is always a part of our package when working with brands and destinations, we also make an income from YouTube and Roku advertising.

It takes a while to see money come in from YouTube, but once we built a solid base and subscribers list, we now make a decent monthly income off of videos. And, now companies find us on YouTube and offer to purchase video licensing and offer sponsorship which can add up quickly.

• YouTube: $1600 – $2000 per month
• ROKU – $200 – $400 per month

9. Freelance Writing and Photography

We accept freelance writing contracts a couple of times a year. And you can still pitch travel writing to many publications around the world.

The prices can really fluctuate. When working on a branded campaign for a publication we can make thousands of dollars for one project. But when writing an article for a publication, it can be just a couple of hundred dollars. As you gain expertise, you’ll be able to approach publications with confidence, and soon, editors will be approaching you.

• Freelance Writing: 5k – 10k per year
• Freelance Photography: 10k per year

The Planet D travel blog Revenue

Pre Pandemic we earned a very high 6 figure income. In 2020 even with travel plummeting, we still made 6 figures and bounced back to above 2020 income by Mid 2022. Having our hand in many revenue streams has helped us through these times. We never just focused on SEO, Social Media, or partnerships. We focused on them all.

By having several income streams, we have been able to weather the storm. We never put our eggs in one basket and that has worked well for 15 years. We suggest if you want to make money as a travel blogger or influencer, you focus on having several streams of income.

You have to remember this didn’t happen overnight and it is a ton of work.

I think if you are prepared for the monthly fluctuation in income, love traveling, writing, being creative, and are dedicated enough to be your own boss you too can get paid to travel.

Other Travel Jobs to Pay You to Travel

The ways we make money above is certainly not the only ways that you can make money traveling. We know plenty of other bloggers who do other things that we don’t. These are all great ways to add diversity to your income stream.

10. Teach English Online

We have met many full-time travelers that were doing just that. They make an hourly wage from $15-$20 per hour just by letting people practice their English over Skype, Zoom, or Google Meet.

If you are living abroad in a country that is cheap to travel to, this is an excellent way to supplement your travels and even live if you are staying in the right place where it is cheap to travel. Check out QKids and VIPKID to get started. Read Our full guide on How to Teach English Online

11. Teach English Overseas

If our travel blogging career didn’t work out, we were going to teach English overseas. If you have a college degree, you can make huge money teaching English. I know many travel bloggers started out teaching English overseas. When they had days off, they would go out and explore, write about and share their experiences and grow their audience. TEFL is a good place to start. read more: Fancy Teaching English Abroad in 2021? – Consider TEFL

12. Work on a Cruise Ship

I (Deb) have actually done this. I was a singer on a cruise ship and it was an amazing way to get paid to travel. There are many opportunities on a cruise ship from being a bartender, a waitress in the bars and restaurants blackjack dealer (I have done that as well and it’s a fun job) chef, barista, fitness coach, event coordinator. The possibilities are endless! The pay isn’t huge, but your room and board are covered and you will get to travel long term without breaking your wallet.

13. Work at a Resort or International Hotel

Looking to find a job in travel? Check out resorts where you can bring in your expertise. Get an education and you can work as hotel staff and management around the world! Whenever we visit high-end hotels, the staff is always international and constantly moving around. From teaching snowboarding (our Prime Minister of Canada did this for a season) to working in restaurants, being a part of the entertainment staff or fitness.

14. Spa Staff

Dave and I love to go to the spa and whenever we do, we notice that the staff is very international. Become a massage therapist and the sky is the limit. Resorts, cruise ships, and private spas are always looking for reliable staff.

15. Creating and Running your own Tours

We have many friends in the travel blogging and photography world who have designed and run their own tours for their readers. This can be quite labour intensive at the beginning but it can also be quite lucrative. The key to making this successful is to be an expert in the area that you want to focus on.

Once upon a time, only National Geographic Photographers and Lonely Planet or Travel and Leisure writers could get paid to travel the world. Now, the possibilities of getting paid to travel are endless.

16. Yoga Instructor

Many people are offering Yoga Instruction online. Use your time in isolation to become a certified yoga instructor and then look for schools around the world to apply. People go on yoga retreats all the time and this is an excellent opportunity to travel and get paid while doing it.

Unique Ways to Get Paid to Travel

17. Travel Nurse

Do you have a medical, or a nursing background – take your business abroad.

18. Social Media Assistant

Do you have Social Media skills? – become a social media assistant, virtual assistant or consultant. We have a Pinterest manager and we used to have someone help schedule our tweets and Facebook updates.

19. Website Developer and Maintenance

Know web development? – offer your expertise to help businesses and bloggers with their website maintenance.

20. Deliver Cars or Boats

Many people hire others to drive their car home from a vacation in the south or when moving across the country. If you have a licence, be a car delivery person and take a road trip!

Repositioning of boats is also popular . If you have sailing experience, you can captain a sailboat to its next port of call.

21. Work on a private yacht

I’ll never forget meeting Bobby in Nepal. He was an American working as a first mate on a private yacht in the Middle East. For his vacation, he decided to trek to Everest Base Camp. He said he made a lot of money as staff.

Do you know of another way to make money from traveling? We’d love you to share your ideas in the comments. 

Read Next More Ideas on how to live your dream

• How to Travel the World – The Ultimate Travel Resource
• Our best travel tips from years on the road
• How to Start a Travel Blog in 11 Easy Steps
• How to Be a Professional Travel Blogger – 12 Steps to Financial Freedom
• Discover Your Passion – How to Find Your Path to Success
• Travel Resources
• How to Make Money Blogging
• 7 Common Travel Mistakes First Time Travelers Make

We make money traveling through our ads and affiliates on our travel blog, as influencers on Instagram & YouTube, and as brand ambassadors. But there are many other ways to make money traveling.

We make a comfortable 6 figure income annually through these income sources.

As a travel blogger, you can earn money traveling by selling e-books or courses, freelance writing, affiliate income, and more.

Disclaimer: We do receive an affiliate commission from the books and courses mentioned. If you click through there is no extra cost to you. 

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

Most comprehensive Guide to Living As a Digital Nomad in the USA

How to Become a Digital Nomad – Tips for Getting Started

Best Travel Jobs – Ideas for Your Future Career

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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120 thoughts on “21 Ways to Get Paid to Travel”

Very Impressive…. Thanks for the post.

Every travelers has the same dream. But, very few make it to the lists.

Hello!!! I am Amy G. Despaigne and my passion is travelling and culture. I create content for Local Educational Tours/Facebook and you have been very inspirational for me. I just want to say THANK YOU! The article 20 Most Beautiful Carribbean Islands to put on the Bucket list is representative of all the diversity in our tourism. Colorful, varied and brief… just love it!

Lots of inspiration! Thanks. Look forward to following your travels and insights.

Great article!

Congratulations, guys! I’m a travel photographer and considering doing travel blogging. Thank you for sharing such a very informative guide.

Stay safe and cool!

It’s really an awesome and informative blog. We’re not just providing desert safari dubai but also providing city tours, water adventure tours and much more activities.

These job ideas were so helpful!! Teaching English online or overseas sounds like something that I would love to do. Working on a cruise ship also sounds like a dream and something I would love to do. Thank you again for the amazing ideas!!

This was really a helpful article to become a travel influencer

Great Article. lots of information use for all time with high strategy. great work with great content. Awesome work.

Hey Dave and Deb,

Great post about how travel bloggers make money through blogging. The point you make about earning huge amount of money through travel blogging resonates well, because it details that bloggers can earn profit in their travels through advertisement, photography, content writing, and even public speaking.

Thanks for sharing those amazing tips. I find that very helpful. I am trying to implement afiliate soon. I got advertisement covered for now.

I have found out that there is no sure way to find out whether you like people or hate them than to travel with them.

I’ve been following your blog since 2017. Over the years, you blog gain lot’s of fame. No doubt you’ve guys have done the hard work. It’s not easy to achieve what you have done. I also received so many inquires on my blog but mostly asking for free links >))P

Thanks for sharing the information and that is good idea to earn the money.

goodness, you visited awesome places everywhere throughout the world, I truly need to travel all around the globe.

I do agree with Dave Statment

Agreed on Dave and Deb Statement.

If you are passioned about about to Travel Around the world, You’ll never lose hope and Try to Do something different than others. hey The PlanetD Team you guys are really awesome in sharing such great photos. Thanks Regards, Umaymah

Recently, we wrote something similar: https://www.museuly.com/blog/highest-paid-travel-bloggers/

I appreciate how you were honest about the diminishment of the affiliate earnings because of the past couple of years. I hope you get it back in the groove!

Making money online is a beautiful labor of love, especially if you’re doing something that’s passionate to your heart. 🙂

Outstanding article…Hope to get paid to travel someday as well….

wow, i wish the same to be paid of my travel by others . btw nice article thanks

Wow! There’s so much to take in here! I think this is going to take a few sessions to digest. Thanks so much for the information though, so helpful xx

Thank for sharing this type of tips, really it was very helpfull to us .

well planet D you have done the right job at the right time well written article thanks for sharing with us

An amazing detailed article, you guys are amazing. Love from Dubai.

Very helpful guide for people who want to become a real travel blogger!!!

wow, you visited wonderful places all over the world, I really want to travel all around the world.

Hi Dave & Deb, great tips! Thankfully more and more companies realize nowadays that remote working can be a huge advantage, and there are sites like Upwork or Fiverr where people can easily find any type of freelance work.

Keep up the awesome work with this blog! 😉

Thanks a lot for sharing such valuable information!

Blog is perfect! Very good pic.

I always follow your articles, and you write terrific but this post get paid to travel is fantastic. Keep writing like this, keep working keep going I also have an excellent blog about travels and mystery lovers.

What an amazing compilation of tips! This is really good post for everybody starting an online business and a life of travel to realize it is possible to achieve dreams! Dream travels!

Travel blogging has become a very hot profession these days. What could be better than making some good money while staying in 5-star hotels, enjoying food, having best local tours? Very nice insights.

Hi Dave and deb, we will glag to offer yoy free desert safari trip whenever you visit to Dubai. thanks Dubai Adventures

So much information about traveling the world and getting paid for that on a single page. It has been a great pleasure to read your story and the videos and pics are excellent…… I hope someday I will be able to travel the world the way you have been travelling… very very inspirational indeed

This is very comprehensive list having great ideas.

Great article guys. It does take time and we are slowly getting there. It is great to know that we are on the right track. Look forward to seeing and listening to you at #TBEXEurop2017. You guys are such an inspiration.

Do what you know and perception is converted into character.

You guys clearly haven’t heard of the world’s coolest travel club. It also gives the opportunity to travel and get paid. After reading this, i’m more convinced that what i’m doing is the best way to get paid by traveling, ever.

We haven’t heard of the coolest travel club. But I am so glad that you have found a way to travel and get paid for it! 🙂

Very good way to deliver the ideas.

good article.

Thank you. It was awesome, I get to know lot of new things through this article. You guys are really doing a great job by sharing your personal experiences.

Thanks Tamal! All the best to you.

Great Post! It was very knowledgeable for me. Thanks for sharing.

Very useful tips. Excellent for the beginners.

That’s a full-blown list of possibilities to earn money whilst traveling. And they do work, I can imagine.

I was wondering if the travel on itself is considered as a holiday, working whilst on holiday is gonna be hard. It mainly depends on the mindset of course. It would get boring if every day was spent traveling only. And it would be tricky to travel without money later on, so eventually, the mind-shift should happen.

Thanks for sharing the great ways to earn money whilst traveling. Have a wonderful time. Hopefully, it’s not raining where you are right now.

New social networks becoming progressively more prominent. In short, you’re open to a lot of opportunities that I didn’t have

Very good advice, I have been dreaming of being a full-time blogger since long, just did not get anough coarage to start it. The main reason is my day job is very strict in timing and I became exhausted by the tie I finish it and do not have much energy to work at home. But in the other hand I am not sure will it ok to quit my day job first as I have Kid and wife that depending on me.

Overall its good advice, I have a blog also and i am getting good value through. You guys are awesome 🙂

thanks for sharing this information.and it was the great opportunity for travel lovers

Hire me!!! Lol I want to travel and work more then anything

Very interesting read.. .thanks for sharing..

I was lucky enough to work in the travel industry for various airlines, for 25 years +, which was a great way to see the world for free or low cost. There are still good travel concessions to be had if you work in the airline/travel industry, and there are lots of opportunities apart from being a flight attendant. I am still learning my trade as a travel blogger though, as no internet media existed when I first started travelling. I guess that means I have to re-visit lots of countries, which is great, and I am beginning to do that.

Thanks Dave and Deb. All my questions got answered. Wonderful and informative article.

My God!!! This blog is perfect! All happiness in the world!

I love to travel

Ohhhh this blog is perfect for the trip lovers, yours trips it´s very very crazy….I´m love trip.

Great list of info a resources! I think what is lost on most people searching this topic is, no matter what route you go, it boils down to putting in the work.

very intresting post! very helpful, thanks for share with us

Glad we could help! Cheers.

As a travel lover person I always used to think about I can get such money. truely, I was also very depressed at the present time. But this tips are really great for me and for the persons like me. Thanks for the great help.

Well thanks alot for these great tips, One of the biggest problem is how to make all the money for exploring the world, It would be best if we start earning while travelling, what a great advice, Thanks alot …

thanks for all the tips! very helpful, detailed & informative. happy travels!

Love it! You two are good!!

I’ve been going through your blog, FANTASTIC! What you two are doing is exsctly what my husband and I are working towards. I just started our blog and am SO inspired by you. Thank you! I traveled overseas as a child and have been missing it terribly, is been a growing hunger in my heart and soul. My best friend is my better half, we work together (he owns his own sign company), lately we’ve been in that rut and getting out and leaving is becoming more of a necessity for our sanity. I so glad to have found your blog and all your inspiration to push us along in our goals. We’ve been using kids and material things as excuses to hold us back from doing what we REALLY want to do with our lives. I will be signing up for the travel blog success courses and following you more closely (now that I’ve found my inspiration). Once again thank you, I hope to meet you both some day and exchange stories and laughter.

Thanks Tammy, so glad we could inspire you. Before we started ThePlanetD we were constantly scouring the Internet and magazines for inspiration, so I’m glad to see that we are doing our job of keeping the inspiration going. It’s great to see another couple that works together. If you already do that at home, you will settle nicely into blogging together. Plus it sounds like you are already quite artistic with running a sign company. I’m sure we will meet one day, you’d be surprised at how many people we’ve talked to online and then met somewhere out there in the world. In the 21st century, the earth is very small. Thanks for the comment and all the best to you!

Just wanting to let your readers know that they can find out what their rate of pay would be in Australia, if they are considering working while travelling to this part of the world. Thank you. http://www.workinaustralia101.com/2015/07/what-would-your-pay-rate-be-in-australia.html Safe travels, Sharon

Thanks for sharing, that’s some valuable information that I’m happy to leave on here 🙂

We saved $40,000 last year – just by 1) renting our Montreal condo, 2) Spanky continuing her job from a distance, 3) living overseas. And we got to ‘live’ in the Czech Republic, Thailand, and Croatia with lots of little side trips. And it wasn’t just about saving the money. It was about breaking that 9-5 home-work routine that drains the life out of everyone. It also made us realize just how darn expensive Canada is. We’ve spent the last month in Montreal catching up on admin stuff and will be leaving in a couple of weeks for Year 2 of our travels. Frank (bbqboy)

Very good job you always write very interesting articles and we can admiral amazing photos and video.

I really admire you for quiting your job, traveling and making money. I believe that this is what we all want to do, but very few of us have your courage to do it. Great post! Thanks for sharing.

Thank you for your tips. I have a question… I have a 7 year old son but I would still like to have a job traveling. How often do you come across someone with a small child with them in their adventures?

I like most of your ideas …… my feeling is like in all these occasions, the initial days are going to be the most challenging ….. i think travel blogging, freelance writing and looking for part time jobs while traveling are the best ways to do it…

Have you encountered any stories/problems with your carry-on luggage during all your travels?

Not really no.

Thank you for such a wonderful post. Your stunning photos and informative posts keep on bringing me back to your blog again and again. All the best for upcoming journeys. By the way, another way of making money while travelling is to draw and paint your way across the world 🙂 (Candace Rose Rardon). Opportunities are endless. ~Gaurav (India)

Thank you for the kind words. Thanks for mentioning Candace! We know her and I can’t believe I didn’t think of that. I appreciate you sharing. And you are so right, the possibilities are endless!

I love reading such posts where we talk about money-making to be able to travel. It’s always encouraging and helps us to think as to how we can spread our wings and look for newer ways to make money. Thanks so much for this post!

Thanks Renuka. It’s great to share stuff like this to help get the creative juices flowing. We always need a little motivation ourselves. Even we are always searching for something new to try. Thanks for the comment!

It’s my first time here and I love your blog!! and thanks so much for sharing your hints and tips on managing a travel blog :):) I’ve been working as a wedding photographer for the last few years and have fallen out of love with weddings! I’ve recently (in the last few weeks) started a travel and lifestyle blog as I love shooting travel photography and have travelled quite a bit over the last 20 years and have a 6 month trip to SE Asia coming up in November so seizing the moment. I have a VERY long way to go yet though until I gain some interest! Keep up the amazing work and happy travels 🙂

Best of luck to you Nicola. You are going to love South East Asia, it is a photographer’s paradise. Keep us posted on how things go!

@Shane, yes! Thank you, will look at this with my gf when she gets back to the room! Excited just to read about it!

I’ve just started blogging and working out my ways to facilitate both traveling and making money.Posts like these throw the light and show the ways to newbie’s like me!

Way to go! Bookmarking it NOW

Thank you Reshma, and glad we could give you some resources. Sometimes all we need are a few suggestions to get the creative juices flowing.

@Scott This isn’t a mega yacht but this yacht captain sent us this ad last week: http://www.jobsabroadbulletin.co.uk/cookhousekeeper-deckhand-for-luxury-private-motor-yacht/ . The position is a volunteer one but it might be a way to get some experience along with a free cruise around the Greek islands.

One another of our sites we interviewed a superyacht stewardess: http://www.the-working-traveller.com/worldwideworker-katie-wilter-superyacht-stewardess/ , while these agencies might also help with your research: Dovaston Crew, Silver Swan Recruitment, Super Yacht Crew, YPI Crew, Camper & Nicholsons International, Luxury Yacht Group, Bluewater, WilsonHalligan, Northrop and Johnson.

Thanks for sharing Shane, that’s really valuable information. I appreciate it!

Dear Deb and Dave, Sorry to be a bit negative, but why is erverybody always sharing those absurdly coloured, filtered pictures on Instagram? I find them horrible. Am I the only one? I hope, I didn’t offend you. But if a great picture on Instagram means to apply such a filter on a before normal picture … Well then, I might have lost touch with this world. 🙂 Maybe I should register for a therapy until I like such pictures? Best regards, Charles

No worries Charles, it’s definitely not for everyone. Our Instagram photos are quite different from what we post on our website. I look at Instagram as a form of artistic impression. I love looking at saturated colours and seeing what creative ideas and concepts people come up with. That’s the great thing about art and photography, it’s subjective. But you are right, we don’t put our Instagram shots on our website. Our photos on ThePlanetD are more true to life, crisp and real to the eye. But we like playing with both. And no, you haven’t lost touch with the world. I think it’s the people that bury their noses in their cell phones 24/7 liking and commenting on Instagram are the ones that have lost touch with the world…literally. They need to look up and explore the beauty around them, not only the things happening on the screens of their iPads and phones.

Being an au pair is a great way to not only travel the world but to completely immerse into other cultures. I spent 2 years in the US and 1 year in Germany. Thanks to that I could slowly discover the countries and cultures and not worry about paying bills or renting a house. I could definitely recommend it to anyone! My brother actually became an au pair too, because he got jealous of all the travelling I’ve done wiith my host families and friends.

Thanks for sharing Marta. Yet another way to get paid to travel. I love it! I had heard about that, what an amazing way to travel. And I am assuming that the people who can afford an Au Pair are quite wealthy, so you most likely get to travel and live in style!

@Noel – It’s definitely a win if you can make money in your home currency. @judykarwacki – Whaaaaat? I wanna work on a MegaYacht!

I think the crazy thing is like @shane said, there are so many opportunities and the more you travel the more you discover them. It’s a bit liberating to realize travel isn’t super expensive, and there are becoming more and more abundant opportunities. Again MegaYacht – will research this!

You are so right, this is just the tip of the iceberg. There are so many ways to make money while traveling now. It’s an exciting time to explore the world. Good luck with the MegaYacht research.

Great ideas, I think if you can take a profession that can travel abroad in the currency you make, then that really works well to your favor, along with scaling back or downsizing to afford this type of lifestyle.

That’s a great point too. Living remotely does offer that opportunity. A lot of people can be paid in their own currency while working abroad. Put that money into a lower cost of living and it’s win win! Thanks for sharing Noel.

Thank you for the wonderful ideas. I will follow some of the tips but others may not be applicable to mine. I have travelled 13 countries already but still I am using my own money for the travel expenses. I wish I can do what you have done. More travel to you soon.

Best of luck to you! It sounds like you are well on your way to a great travel career. Dave and I didn’t start really getting into travel until our 30’s, you’re probably well ahead of us already!

What an amazing place. It would be perfect to take my luxury car rental company over there

Thank you for the shout-out! Essential oils really changed my life, although I had been traveling 17 years before that. I think if there is a will to travel, there is always a way to make the money to do it.

Thanks for the inspiration at TBEX Katja, You looked so happy and content. Wow! 17 years of traveling amazing! I guess what I meant was that you weren’t focusing on a travel blog like us, you had an entirely different business model and made it work. It’s impressive! And I forgot to mention that Tom Cruise featured your product on Oprah. I must go and add that in!

thanks deb and dave as always! before we’ce learned about travel blogging my fiance and i are doing massage therapy and english teaching from asia to latin america.. would love to share story or tips on how to be a massage therapist on the road.. can i guest post on planetd since you’ve already mentioned it above!:)

Definitely send us an email. We’d love to share your story of how it goes!

these are all great tips! thanks for sharing! im thinking of freelance writing just dont know when to take the leap!

Good luck to you. Take it from me the sooner the better. As someone who didn’t know what I wanted to do for a very long time, I wish I figured it out earlier. But at the same time, you have to take the leap when you are ready, too soon can be overwhelming. Just follow your instincts.

Hi Deb and Dave,

This is good. Really good…..

I’ve been doing research on travel blogging and I love the suggestions you’ve provided on generating revenue.

I clicked the link for the inspiration series but the content of the page doesn’t load. https://theplanetd.com/inspiration-series/ Maybe it’s just an issue with the browser I’m using.

Again, thanks!

Thanks for the heads up, I’ll see what’s happening. I noticed it’s not loading either. We’ll get that fixed lickety split!

It’s working now, Cheers!

This is such a great and informative post. I’ve been working on getting more into freelance stuff, and eventually want to try out a couple more of these methods! Thanks for putting it all together

Thanks Dave, best of luck with your freelancing! There is still lots of work out there. I actually think there is more work than ever with the Internet opening up. It’s not a closed door mentality anymore. It used to be overwhelming trying to figure out how to get published, now there are many opportunities! Cheers!

What an amazing compilation of tips! This is really good post for everybody starting an online bussiness and a life of travel to realize it is possible to achieve dreams! Happy travels!

Thanks again for another instructive post Dave and Deb!

Travel bloggers who make a name for themselves can also become brand ambassadors, do consulting work for destinations and brands, attract sponsors, etc. There’s a variety of other ways to make money, especially if you become known for your niche. I always recommend that newbie bloggers develop a niche. Otherwise, it’s much harder to rise above the noise. Cheers, see you tonight!

I worked on a yachting tourism study in Antigua a couple of years ago and learned about a dream travel job that I wish existed when I was in my teens/20s. It is working on megayachts. It’s better than cruise ships because they are small so you work with a family and small group. A lot of the work is around supporting the guests in recreation such as snorkeling, SUP, fishing, picnicing, etc. Long hours but very good pay, especially tips, and lots of time off. The people I met were having a ball doing it. Caribbean during the North American winters and Mediterrean postings during the summers. Hiring generally occurs in Florida.

I can’t believe I didn’t include that! We have a friend of ours that is working on a Mega Yacht right now! We met Bobby in Nepal in 2010 and he is still travelling the world and working on yachts. Excellent advice, thanks Judy!

There are so many ways to get paid to travel: DJing in the Alps, managing a campsite in France, guest clergy onboard cruise ships, immersive English teaching in Germany or Spain, sea kayaking instructor jobs in Alaska, crewing a private motor yacht around the Greek islands, cleaning and readying a canal boat in the UK, becoming a dive instructor, holiday rep, airport transfer driver, or artist in residence, leading school tours or gap year programmes, driving an overland truck through Africa, looking after disabled holidaymakers, working for summer camps in America or winter camps in Switzerland, enticing customers into bars in Kavos, waiting tables in an Amsterdam comedy club, hairdressing on Europe’s waterways, volunteer surf instruction in Nicaragua, working in expat bars, picking strawberries in Denmark, advising holidaymakers on the best methods to avoid sunburn in Spain, kitchen jobs in Portugal, tour leading in Vietnam, catering stewards in Dubai, managing a hotel in the Falkland Islands…

Thanks for helping to spread the world about working abroad. I highly recommend a book called Work Your Way Around the World (written by a Canadian). I never did any of the things listed above, instead finding my own way to afford to travel, but this book helped me to realise it was possible to travel even when you have little money.

Thanks for sharing Shane. You are right, the possibilities are endless. People just need a little nudge to start thinking outside the box. So many people think that they can’t get paid to travel and yet, you can do anything.

Dear Dave and Deb: Always wonderful to learn from your experience, and appreciate that you are always willing to share your secrets. Wishing you the best for future travels. .. Prasad from India

Thanks Prasad. We thought it was a good idea to give people a one stop shop to build their travel careers.

also thanks for sharing and giving the response

It was really helpful for those who love to travel.

Volunteer Abroad in 2024

Find the best volunteering programs in 100+ countries worldwide. Search short and long term projects incuding structured, free and low cost opportunities. Apply today.

Best Volunteering Programs Abroad

Find highly rated affordable and free volunteering opportunities around the world.

Destinations

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Popular Programs

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Best Volunteer Programs

Get inspiration for a life changing trip today and read more information about applying to give back. We help thousands of people find and arrange volunteer trips every year and one of the best things about our website is you can have your pick of literally hundreds of programs and organisations spanning locations all across the globe.

As a volunteer you will get a rewarding experience, help others, meet new people and immerse yourself into a new culture. Arrange a life changing trip today. With One World 365 you can find rewarding placements all around the world and search by continent, country or specific location by using our search function.

If you are researching the best volunteer programs abroad our website is simple and effective directory helping you find the perfect placement.  There are placements for summer, Christmas, honeymoons and all year round for individuals, groups and families.

Why Volunteer Abroad?

There are no specific reasons why you might choose to volunteer abroad, maybe you are looking to do something different or you are planning a break and you want a rewarding experience which is totally different to anything you have ever done before.

You will get to explore a new region of the world and be far more than just a tourist. This is your chance to do something different, help other people and find out about yourself and have an experience more meaningful than just sunbathing. By applying you will get to live and immerse yourself in a foreign country, meet people from all around the world and be able to have a real hands on learning experience. 

Not only is working as a volunteer a wonderful experience, it’s also one that you can take home with you and show to your friends and families through the memories you have, friends you've made and pictures you have taken. There are hundreds of really amazing projects and organisations which need assistance all year, you could apply to help communities, conservation, wildlife, education and teaching initiatives or work on care projects.

Whether you are looking to gain experience for a future career or just spend a vacation doing something different there are projects for everyone. Some projects can be join for a short period of less than a week whilst on others you can stay for over a year meaning there are options to fit all time frames.

Is Volunteering Abroad Worthwhile?

Before a lot of people depart on volunteering placements abroad one popular question is 'who is this going to benefit?' and 'will I be able to make a difference'. By deciding to travel overseas and help a volunteer program you will be able to help others whilst helping yourself develop personally.

You will benefit personally and professionally, this will be a fresh new learning experience. Occasionally in the media there are negative stories about the effectiveness and how worthwhile programs are. Don't let this put you off, developing countries benefit from international help as a lot of places lack the people and skills to help make a difference.

New participants bring new ideas and skills and can also help programs develop overtime by working with local staff. By applying for educational, environmental, wildlife or community based placements you will be able to contribute and have a positive impact. Tourism is also a massive boost to any country, the presence of international volunteers provides money for destinations and for projects, of which a lot require a donation to keep projects operating.

By traveling and volunteering you will be buying local food or staying in accommodation which will boost others indirectly.

Group Volunteer Trips Abroad

Group volunteer programs are vert popular and everyone is welcome to apply, you can also join short and long term programs every month of the year.

If you are a student you could volunteer with a school group over the summer break or you can also volunteer with friends and family members. These group trips are popular with people travelling solo and who are worried about meeting new people, It is also a fantastic opportunity to help rewarding volunteer programs and communities around the world.

On group volunteer projects around the world you will be able immerse yourself into a new country, experience living in a different culture and really make a difference. Everyday is likely to be a new experience when volunteering, whether you are aer working with wildlife, people or teaching you will experience a unique experience with fresh memories everyday. 

Duration You can participate from as little as a day, to over a year. The minimum and maximum program length really depend on the organisation or program, some have a minimum of one week but a lot require at least 2 weeks or longer.

Most organisations prefer participants to stay long term 4 weeks or longer because you need to learn new skills and develop bonds with people you are working with. Please consider how being away from home on a long term volunteer program will impact relationships, holidays, and finances, these things should be considered before joining a year long placement for example.

Eligibility Most nationalities are able to apply but you will need to be eligible for a tourist visa for the destination you are interested in. You will find most organisations require you to be 18 to volunteer by yourself on a project overseas. But some companies specialize in trips for 15-17 year old's, these are usually structured and short term programs organized in conjunction with schools.

If you are under this age limit you might need to volunteer with your family, there are family trips available but certain restrictions apply. No previous experience is required for non skilled positions but if you are looking to help as a doctor for example you will need qualifications. You will need to be in good health, flexible, enthusiastic, adaptable, have a desire to make a positive impact.

A good level of English is needed for most placements and sometimes depending on the destination you might need to know the basics of the local language

What to Think about Before Applying Where would you like to go / do? What budget do you have available - this might determine your destination or program/organisations. Some programs can be challenging, if you are not prepared to actively help and put effort in, you might be best just going for a general holiday.

Remember locations can be in the  developing world meaning facilities and living standards might not be what you are used to. Buy travel insurance to cover all events and be sure to read past testimonials for tips and recommendations on how to get the most out of the experience. Read about your destination and see if you need any vaccinations or medication e.g. malari tablets

What to Expect You have the option to apply direct with local projects and NGO's or arrange your trip through an international company who will be able to arrange you a placement. Even if you apply by yourself you won't be alone volunteering, most organizations have lots of people helping at anytime but if you are worried please enquire direct before applying.

This is certainly no normal holiday, sometimes working hours can be long and exhausting so please beware of this before applying. Every day will be new and there will be lots of time for you to relax or travel and see more of the country you are based in. Usually when participating you will develop strong bonds with your fellow volunteers and you might make friends to last a life time.

You will take away lots of positive memories from volunteering in a foreign country, most people really enjoy the experience and are able to make a contribution to projects around the world. 

Paid Volunteer Work Abroad

To get a paid volunteer job you will need to be a skilled professional. Lots of international organisations and charities offer paid volunteer programs in countries all around the world, positions can include being a team leader, in-country support, logisitics, placement coordinator or working in an area like veterinary. You can search paid volunteering opportunities abroad on our directory.

How to Apply

Our directory should give you some really inspirational ideas on where you can go and what you could do. There is no deadline or best time to apply and please research all countries before signing up to a program. Some organizations allow you to book a program over one year in advance.

Sometimes its good to book the program early as this reserve your spot, some projects only need a limited number of volunteers so can fill up quickly. You should also be able to change your program dates if needed. Please contact us if you have any questions or need any help. Search the best low cost, fully funded & safe structured volunteer projects worldwide today.

Volunteer Abroad Reviews

Have you ever been to volunteer overseas? Would you like to provide feedback or review an organisation or project? Contact us today. If you browse our website you can find thousands of reviews for volunteer companies and programs worldwide. 

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• Hands On Medical Volunteer
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• College/University group program
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• Fee Cambodia - $420
• Fee China - $350
• Fee Nepal - $100
• Fee Nepal-Himalaya - $350
• Fee India - $250
• Fee India-Himalaya - $300
• Fee Sri Lanka - $110
• Fee Bali- $250
• Fee Thailand - $260
• Fee Ghana - $200
• Fee Kenya - $150
• Fee South Africa - $450
• Fee Tanzania - $205
• Fee Uganda - $150
• Fee Zimbabwe - $650
• Fee Argentina - $404
• Fee Brazil - $370
• Fee Costa Rica, Cortes - $260
• Fee Costa Rica, San Jose - $185
• Fee Costa Rica, Wildlife - $210
• Fee Ecuador - $266
• Fee Xela - $110
• Fee Antigua- $255
• Fee Mexico - $308
• Fee Peru - $209
• What is Volunteer Abroad?
• Why volunteer abroad?
• Is Volunteering really for Me?
• What is ethical volunteering?
• Volunteer Abroad Complaints
• What are the Most Popular Volunteer Abroad Places?
• How Can You Select the Best Volunteer Abroad Organizations?
• How can you make volunteer abroad experience rewarding?
• Skills/Qualifications
• Cost/Money Matter
• How can I find free volunteer opportunities abroad?
• Why do I need to pay to volunteer?
• Health and Safety
• Accommodation/Food
• Host family
• Applying/Booking
• How to prepare to volunteer abroad?
• Vaccination
• Gift for project/host families
• In-country support or when you will be in field
• What is the daily schedule for projects?
• What are popular volunteer abroad project?
• How can you reduce the cost of volunteer abroad?
• Free Volunteer Guide - Cambodia
• Free Volunteer Guide - China
• Free Volunteer Guide - Nepal
• Free Volunteer Guide - India
• Free Volunteer Guide - Sri Lanka
• Free Volunteer Guide - Thailand
• Free Volunteer Guide - Ghana
• Free Volunteer Guide - Kenya
• Free Volunteer Guide - South Africa
• Free Volunteer Guide - Tanzania
• Free Volunteer Guide - Uganda
• Free Volunteer Guide - Argentina
• Free Volunteer Guide - Brazil
• Free Volunteer Guide - Costa Rica
• Free Volunteer Guide - Ecuador
• Free Volunteer Guide - Guatemala
• Free Volunteer Guide - Mexico
• Free Volunteer Guide - Peru

Contribute to the growth of a part of a world by investing nothing else than your time .

• Understand why organizations charge volunteers
• Find out how can you still make an impact by bypassing financial strains
• Embrace the opportunity of making your volunteering dreams come true even if (apparently) you cannot fund them
• Decide what is best for you, for your pockets, and for the communities in need
• Learn about organizations who connect dreamers with their free volunteering dreams, today!
• Join one of the most affordable programs starting at $140 and trusted by over 22,000 since 2006

How to Volunteer Abroad for Free -Free Flight, Free Accomodation, Free Everything

Are you looking for a volunteer abroad trip ? Are you worried about high costs associated with volunteering abroad ? Are you wondering if there are any free volunteer abroad programs that will allow you to use your compassion to help make the world a better place at very little or no cost to you?

In this article, we will explore all aspects of free volunteering abroad, and at the end of this article we have added a comprehensive volunteer abroad guide for you to help you start your dream volunteer abroad journey.

This comprehensive Guide to Volunteering Abroad” is jam-packed with invaluable information so you can begin your life-changing adventure without any hesitation. From getting started to traveling overseas and then returning home, you’ll discover all the guidance you need to ensure it’s a seamless abroad adventure from the beginning to end.

You can also watch the video version of the guide or download it for free.

• Chapter 1: Introduction to International Volunteering
• What is volunteer abroad?
• What are the expenses associated with it?
• Why would you need to pay for volunteering abroad?
• Chapter 2: How to find free international volunteer programs
• What is a free volunteer program?

How can I find free volunteer abroad programs?

How can i check the legitimacy of an abroad volunteer organization.

• More information on volunteering abroad for free
• The world’s 10 best free volunteer organizations for free programs
• Chapter 3: Alternatives to Free Volunteer- Paid volunteering Abroad
• Popular paid volunteer opportunities
• Specialized paid international Volunteer Programs
• Teaching abroad
• Paid internships
• International seasonal work
• Chapter 5: Comprehensive mini-volunteer guide

What is volunteering abroad?

Let’s start the article first by understanding what volunteering abroad is .

Volunteering abroad is an opportunity where volunteers travel to developing countries to help and make difference. Volunteer opportunities are emerging as an alternative form of travel as it gives you the opportunity to travel, cultural immerse yourself, and development yourself as a person.

Unfortunately, volunteering abroad is not free , and if you do internet research you will find hundreds of companies offering abroad programs that cost between $200-$2000 for 2 weeks of volunteering.

What are the expenses associated with volunteer work abroad programs?

When you think of volunteering abroad , you may only think of the program fees that volunteer organizations charge which mostly covers your room and food . Unfortunately, in most of the cases, the program fee will not cover all expenses involved in your abroad opportunity. You still need to arrange extra money for your airfare, insurance, vaccination, visa, and other personal expenses.

Here’s a list of expenses associated with volunteering abroad:

Program fee : this is the fee charged by volunteer organizations for joining a volunteer program. The program fee mostly covers room, food, airport pickup, insurance and other minor expenses. How much you pay for the program fee varies by volunteer organization, duration of stay, volunteer project you join, country of choice, etc. It can cost anywhere from $200- $3000 for 2 weeks.

Airfare : Your program fee will most likely not cover airfare. Airfare is a major cost and depends on many factors like the destination you are travelling to, the season, airline, and booking date.

Insurance: A few volunteer companies who charge higher fees most likely cover your insurance as part of your program fee. However, the majority of companies who charge lower program fees do not cover travel insurance for the duration of your time away . Depending on the level of coverage an insurance company could cost you between $2 and $5 per day.

Vaccinations : While volunteering abroad, it is very important obtain both required and recommended vaccinations for your health and safety . Vaccinations also have a significant cost. How much it costs depends on the type of vaccination you need. You can do internet research to find the exact cost for countries your interested in traveling to.

Visa : Most international volunteer organizations run volunteer programs through a tourist visa . Your program fee won’t likely cover the price of the visa. The cost of the visa will depend on your stay in the country and where you are traveling to. You can generally expect anywhere between $1 and $5 per day for a visa.

Additional program costs : Most volunteer organizations offer airport pick-up service. However, you will still need to pay for your airport drop-off and other daily costs like commuting to your volunteer project.

Extra personal spending money : Most volunteer programs cover your room and food, so you do not need a lot of pocket money. However, when you travel over the weekend, plan to purchase personal food and drinks or have any other personal travel expenses – these do require extra money. You should expect to bring somewhere between $20 and $100 a week, depending on the country and how often you plan to do extra activities.

In-country transport Such as trains, buses, taxis, and airport transfers most likely won’t be covered by your placement, so you should budget for this for whole duration of your stay.

Why does it cost so much to volunteer abroad? Why isn’t it 100% free?

When you think of volunteering abroad, you may wonder why you need to pay . Why would you need to pay to give a helping hand? Shouldn’t your time and energy be compensated with free room and board?

These are very good questions. However, after doing careful research, you’ll realize that volunteering abroad programs are much closer to traveling abroad programs. Volunteer organizations do not get any external funding or Government support to run the program. Because of that, they need to charge you the program fee to cover the following expenses required to run volunteer programs:

Here are major expenses that incurred while running a volunteer abroad program:

Expenses associated with office/business

• Advertisement
• Travel to develop program
• Associate costs of businesses like taxes and accounting

Expenses associated with running a volunteer program

• Room for volunteers
• Food for volunteers
• Transportation for volunteers
• Project donation
• Expenses associated with running country office

Chapter 2: What are free volunteer programs and where can I find them?

What is a free international volunteer program.

First let’s define international volunteering: international volunteering is an abroad humanitarian trip usually to developing countries where you travel to volunteer your time, skills or labor to a local community project. These programs are normally a minimum of one week, and cost between $200 - $3000 for two weeks of volunteering + personal or additional expenses .

Free international volunteer programs allow you volunteer internationally at a low- or no-cost to you.

While free volunteering programs aren’t as common as pay-to-volunteer programs, you do have options available! You may skip this and the next few sections to read ahead about the ’10 best free volunteer organizations,’ which gives you a straightforward list of credible volunteer agencies who are sure to provide you with a quality experience.

However, if you would like to know more about how you can research free volunteer opportunities and what to look for in selecting a program – keep reading! We recommend you keep a list or create a spreadsheet to compare and contract volunteer agencies while doing your google research .

Here’s some tips for finding free international volunteer program through independent research:

Contact local organizations directly

You may venture to nonprofit directory websites like idealist.org. These websites list non-profit volunteer opportunities worldwide and allow you to contact local organizations directly.

Talk to your friends who have volunteered or lived abroad

You can ask your friends about local opportunities and get organization contacts from people they’ve worked with. What’s more, they will be able to give you a much better idea of what its like to volunteer in that country, area, or with that project.

Utilize social media or travel forums

Thanks to globalisation, the internet, and travel opportunities being made more accessible to people from all walks of life, it is a relief to know that money doesn’t have to stand in the way of your dreams to volunteer abroad. Now is the time to take your skills and passions abroad and make a positive impact in a local community without the hefty price tag. These types of adventures are priceless and the experiences you have while volunteering abroad are entirely worthwhile.

Take advantage of your Twitter account ! Ask people if they know of any opportunities. Even if your immediate first-degree contacts do not, they could connect you with some of their friends who do. You can also post on Quora or Facebook groups in search of opportunities

Network where you are if you’ve already started traveling

If you have already hit the ground running and you are currently traveling abroad, use your local contacts to your advantage. If you are staying at a hostel or hotel, ask the front desk if they have access to any local organizations that are looking for volunteers. This is a good way to get connected with a community and see how you can make a difference on a local level.

Narrow your search by searching for either country-specific or project-specific free volunteer opportunities

If you narrow your search in this way, you will discover lesser known programs that you may not have been able to find otherwise. It seems obvious, but even doing a simple Google search for your specific country or area of interest can make a world of difference in your abroad program search!

Look into websites that put you in touch with volunteer hosts There are some really great volunteer networking websites available, such as WorkAway , HelpStay , and WWOLF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms). For a small sign-up fee, these websites put you in touch with hosts in a variety of countries who are keen and willing to take on volunteers. In exchange for your skills and help, you get free accommodation and meals for a long or short term stay.

Consider Long Term Opportunities Through The Peace Corp

If you are ready to embark on a long term adventure , consider volunteering through organisations such as Peace Corp or something similar. These programs involve more commitment, but you will certainly be taken to places in the world you have only dreamed of before . You also receive accommodation, meals, transport, and a paid stipend for you work.

Be wary of free volunteer programs when doing research. While we’ve all heard the expressions “ the best things in life are free ” and “ money doesn’t buy happiness ” things generally don’t come free; if it seems too good to be true, unfortunately it probably is.

Before buying your plane tickets, it is very important to do some serious background checks on various aspects of the free volunteer opportunity you've chosen. Taking caution in your research will pay off in the long run as it will prevent you from entering dangerous situations . Failure to do enough research and just choosing the free volunteering abroad option without serious background checking, could endanger your safety, ruin your volunteer experience, or waste your time and money.

Here’s a list of things you immediately want to look out for when researching and selecting your volunteering organization.

Ask yourself how the organization is able to offer free volunteer opportunities

You may start your research by finding out why that organization is offering free volunteer abroad programs when other volunteer organizations need program fees to run operations and to host volunteers. You may ask the following questions: Where does this organization get their funding from? How do they pay room/food for volunteers ? What are the benefits of offering free volunteering abroad programs?

Double check what’s financially expected from you as a volunteer

Ask what parts of your experience are free, whether there are program or registration fees, and who pays for your housing and food. Ensure that there won’t be any unanticipated costs upon arrival or departure including expectations for donations or gifts. Be direct with your organization and ask specific questions. If they hesitate to give you information of have hidden fees, you likely don’t want to volunteer through them anyway.

You may also ask yourself: what will be the full cost of my experience once I’ve completed my program? When you look at your overall budget for a “free” volunteering abroad experience, it may be the same if not more than a fee-based program that includes housing, transportation, food, and more peace of mind.

Analyze the program’s mission and commitment to local causes

Any good volunteer agency should have a professional website with a clear mission statement and outlined values. They should tell you specifics about how their local projects, programs, and causes contribute to the community. If they don’t offer that information or can’t provide adequate details, chances are that there won’t be real impact in what you’re doing.

Research the organization’s history and legal standing

Most organizations that offer free volunteer overseas programs are small agencies, therefore it’s really important to know how long they’ve been established, whether they are registered with local government officials, and if they’ve hosted other volunteers successfully. They should have a website with a clear “About” section that includes a mission, vision, or organizational values. Look for affiliations with volunteer bodies, past awards, recommendations from trustworthy sources, and listings in volunteer directories.

Read reviews and travel blogs of the past volunteers

Reviews don't all have to be positive, but the majority should be. Think about the legitimacy of the online review – do the comments sound genuine, as if real people wrote them ? Are they written in natural English? Lots of errors could suggest the site owners paid someone else to write them.

Search for program and organization reviews on volunteer forums and feedback sites, as the volunteer placement provider cannot control the content of these. How recent, are they? What kind of response does the project provider make? A professional company will respond politely to most comments, whether they are negative or positive.

Check their website for up-to-date and clear information

A good and active organization keeps their website, blog, and other social media presence updated. This tells a lot about an organization. So before joining a free volunteer opportunity please make sure their blog, social media, and web presence are updated regularly and professional looking.

Evaluate the agency’s ability for communication

A good organization communicates fast and efficiently . Be aware that if your messages, questions or concerns are ignored or evaded before you travel, you have little chance of better service once you have left to begin your placement. A decent organization will make every effort to communicate with you as promptly as they are able.

Make sure that your organization has worked with other volunteers who have had good experiences

Search the organization’s website for pictures or testimonies from other volunteers. If they don’t have a website or their content is outdated, request previous volunteer information. They should give you this information without hesitation. If they can’t offer previous volunteer information, that’s a huge sign that they don’t have experience or can’t offer the program type they are suggesting.

Analyze the program’s organization and past experience

Volunteer agencies offering free volunteer programs may not have the experience or staff to provide an organized experience, which comes at a cost to you. Make sure you ask plenty of questions before committing to a program and decide for yourself if the agency seems like an experienced agency.

More Information On Volunteering Abroad For Free

Volunteer abroad is privilege and a blessing – and one that anyone who participates in does not take for granted in anyway. Many have dreams of volunteering the world in a positive and developmental way, by giving back to the communities visited.Volunteering abroad is the best way to get these cultural experiences that is entirely enriching to both you and the community you become a part of it. However, these dreams can easily be shattered when you realize that volunteering abroad comes with hefty price tag.

It seems ironic that in order to share your goodwill and positive vibes, you need to pay a whole heap of money. Larger international volunteering organizations have these fees in place to fund the programs they offer, covering costs from airport pick up with accommodation and meals. These all-inclusive programs can be convenient as they take care of all the in-country expenses in one easy go. Yet, not everyone can afford such as conveniences.

Fortunately, there are other ways that you can volunteer abroad for free, or for very minimal costs. And in this case, the reduced expenses do not at all result in a lesser experience.

We’ve all heard the expression that the best things in life are free and money doesn’t buy happiness. But we’re also quite aware that in life, things generally don’t come free and if it seems too good to be true, unfortunately it probably is.

This can certainly be the case when finding a program that allows you to volunteer abroad for free. If you think you’ve found the perfect program, you definitely need to read that fine print with a large magnifying glass to make sure there aren’t costly catches.

While it can feel disappointing that you need to be so wary about finding a good free volunteer abroad placement, being cautious will absolutely pay off in the long run. It is the same with any aspect of going abroad that you always need to have an extra layer of caution to keep yourself safe and from entering dangerous situations. After all, it is much better to be safe than sorry.

The following list is just some things to keep in mind while looking free volunteer programs abroad.

Unexpected extra cost

Such as housing or meal fares. It will happen with some programs that additional charges for food or bedding are outlined from the beginning.

This is reasonable, especially for long term free volunteer abroad placements in a developing community. However, you need to make sure that any of these charges are upfront and honest from your first contact with the program so that you avoid any nasty financial shocks at the end of your placement.

Gifts or requested donations

These are often expected by host organization or the site of your placement. It’s a good idea to prepare for this by having some fundraising events or donation rallies in your hometown before you go abroad. This way you can show up in the community with gifts and donations and make a positive first impression.

Disorganization in the program management

It often occurs in developing community. You need to remember that the program structures in place are very different from those in the western world.

Therefore you should expect some level of disorganization, but be cautious of programs that can’t offer you details on the daily structure and work expectations while you are there.

The world’s 10 best free volunteer abroad organizations

Legitimate volunteer organizations that offer free experiences may be harder to find than you expect. To help kick-start your research endeavors, we’ve listed some of the best organizations that offer free or low-cost volunteer abroad work opportunities.

The following are credible organizations who have given volunteers high quality experiences:

Help Stay connects hosts with international volunteers . The HelpStay agreement is this: dedicate a few hours a day helping out the hosts, and they will give you food and accommodation in return. They have a wide range of hosts looking for helpers in a variety of places: farms, households, art retreats, eco-villages, backpacker hostels, surf lodges, vineyards, ranches, schools, monasteries, kibbutzim, and more.

The only fee you pay is 30 Euros ($33) for one year of individual membership, or 50 Euros ($55) for one year of a dual membership (either a couple, two friends, or a family). Once you have paid this fee , the website is opened up to you completely. You will have access to the entire listings of hosts from all around the world, and you can view their offerings and descriptions. You won’t have to pay any more to be placed with someone; from that point on, the agreement is only between you and your host.

The beauty of this website is that it is simply a database – the organization itself will not be arranging anything for you, nor will they book your flights, pick you up from the airport, or baby you at all. This is why they don’t charge you for your placement – and this is also why you will have complete freedom to plan your free volunteering abroad however you like.

WWOOF, an acronym that stands for “Worldwide Opportunities on organic Farms,” is the pioneer of the work exchange world. As far as anybody knows, it is the original and the most extensive program out there for people looking to do work exchange programs. It makes for a fantastic alternative to free volunteering abroad .

WWOOF is so commonly known amongst the backpacking crowd. You may have even heard of people who volunteer in this program referred to as ‘woofers.’ Similarly to HelpStay, WWOOF offers an online database for free volunteering opportunities abroad, so your experience is all up to you. You can decide which hosts to contact, which countries to visit, and how long you would like to stay.

The main thing to remember with WWOOF, however, is the fact that it has an emphasis on organic farming – so if that is something you are interested in, then it is perfect. Additionally, rather than just paying one fee to access the site, you must pay an individual membership for each country you would like to visit. So, if you are planning on backpacking from country to country in a relatively short amount of time, this is perhaps not the best website to use.

If you are just going to be in one country, however, then WWOOF is a great choice. It usually doesn’t cost more than about 30 US dollars for one full year of membership, and sometimes couples’ membership options are also available.

MovingWorlds

Unlike many other free abroad volunteer programs, MovingWorlds will not send just anyone to their placement countries. In fact, they are looking only for a certain type of person: experts. Volunteers with MovingWorlds are referred to as “experteers,” and they volunteer with existing skills that will make the highest positive impact possible in their destination.

If you decide to embark on an experteering trip , you can filter your searches by country, by skill, or cause. Each project listed will include the specific benefits – for example, some come with provided accommodation, a meal stipend, or both if you’re lucky. You can therefore quickly and easily see which projects might be a good fit for you.

Luckily, you can basically turn any professional experience you have into a skill for an experteering program . The beauty of it is that it not only helps the destination and organization you are working for, but it also gives you a way to develop your own skills professionally. If you’re looking for the next best thing to an internship abroad, this is it.

Membership is more expensive for MovingWorlds than for the previous organizations: for a standard membership, it costs $125 (US dollars) for two years of being a full-access member. This includes an unlimited number of introductions to all the opportunities available as well as personal support from the company itself.

A “membership PLUS” account would include additional support. This one costs $300, but it is certainly worth it if you aren’t comfortable being completely on your own for a project like this, or if it is your first experience abroad.

If you purchase this membership option, you will have more highly specific opportunities (i.e. a specific skillset, a particular region of a country, or a specific time). This membership also allows you to do projects as a family or a couple, or to plan for more than one experteer experience on one trip. If you’re not happy with the service, there is a money back guarantee.

Free Volunteering

Free Volunteering has a wide array of free volunteer abroad opportunities available. Incidentally, it is powered by HelpStay (see above), and therefore always takes you to the Help Stay website when you click on an opportunity. That being said, Free Volunteering does offer a few added bonuses.

From eco projects in Canada to working in a preschool in Zimbabwe , from building houses in Tanzania to taking a teenager-specific trip to Spain for a week, there are a wide variety of options for free volunteering abroad with this site.

You will have to pay the same HelpStay fees when you actually get into a project you would like to partake in. These fees include about 30 Euros ($33) for a one-year individual membership or 50 Euros ($55) for a couple, pair of friends, or 2-person family. This one-time fee that allows you do to all their programs for free from then on.

Workaway is all about cultural exchanges. This organization emphasizes making a difference in the communities you are visiting , rather than only providing a low cost volunteer abroad program. Part of the appeal of Workaway is the massive network of hosts and “ workawayers ,” or other volunteers.

More than 155 countries have hosts, and the number of hosts in the world is more than a whopping 22,000. In other words, the variety of places you can go and things you can be doing is seemingly endless.

Like most other sites, there is a registration fee to volunteer through Workaway. For one person it costs $29 USD per year, and for two friends or a couple it costs $38 USD per year. Registering and paying this fee enables you to contact any of the hosts that you see listed – and that means infinite possibilities for your future of travel.

Whether you’re interested in helping in a tiny, remote village or supporting a family in the middle of an urban metropolis, whether you’d like to help out on an organic farm or help a hostel stay afloat, you will find something to do at Workaway. It is perfect for a person who wants to try new things with their free overseas volunteer program as most of the jobs don’t require prior expertise or experience.

Help Exchange, more commonly known as HelpX, is an expansive kind of work exchange very similar to WWOOF, Workaway, and HelpStay. While it is less specific and less regulated than other websites, HelpX has a hugely expansive network of hosts and locations.

HelpX requires just one paid registration per year to access all of its locations around the world. That makes it an extremely low-cost volunteering abroad organization, although it is technically a work exchange rather than a volunteer program.

Helpers can expect to work between three and six hours every day they are staying although ultimately this depends on a lot on the host. In exchange, you get a place to sleep and all your meals.

Again, the exchange itself can vary: some hosts will have you do less work and won’t give you free food, so it’s important to be extremely clear in your initial communications with the hosts. There are a few common sense rules set by HelpX, but beyond that it all comes down to what the host wants and what the helper agrees to.

In order to be able to contact the hosts directly, you will need to have a premier membership . This lasts a full two years, and any kind of membership you have (single or a pair) will cost you just 20 Euros ($22). In terms of the more established and better known work exchange websites out there, many will tell you that HelpX is the best for people looking for low cost volunteer work abroad.

Diverbo is different from the other free overseas volunteer organizations in that it only has programs in Spain and Germany. In fact, there is only one program offered to adults at all: participating in their free English “talkathons.” These talkathons involve the community coming together to practice their English with native speakers -- in this case, that native speaker would be you!

The catch is that they only want groups of native speakers (so people coming from countries like the US, Scotland, Australia, England, Ireland, Canada, New Zealand, and so on). These groups are generally between 15 and 25 people in size (all native speakers), and they help the locals learn and practice their English.

In exchange for the work of the native speakers, they are given a free weeklong stay in one of the hotel resorts. The setup is quite clever: visitors get to do a free abroad volunteer program , while the locals get exposure to native English and get to interactively practice with them.

It is more than just hanging out and speaking English, of course. Volunteers are expected to be active participants in the many activities, which rotate on an hourly basis. You might have one-on-one conversations with some English learners, or perhaps you would help out with a themed group session, or maybe even do part of the evening entertainment for everyone.

The timing of your group’s volunteer placement can also be quite flexible -- there are weeklong sessions throughout the year, generally ranging from 6 days to 8 days, with some variation mixed in. It’s important to remember (and is emphasized on their website) that this isn’t a teaching position. It’s a talking position , and volunteers are expected to talk a lot in order to have a free stay.

Hostel Travel Jobs

Hostel Travel Jobs is exactly what it sounds like. It is a platform that connects you with hostels around the world that need some temporary help. Although it does not exactly provide the free volunteer abroad opportunities that many of the other sites in this article do, it is still something to consider if you are looking for a way to afford an extended stay in another country.

You can check out the jobs they have posted under “Recent Jobs ,” allowing you to see what the newest opportunities are. The work available varies greatly, especially considering the fact that it advertises primarily hostel jobs. Most listings offer accommodation and some or all meals in exchange for their volunteers’ work.

Each listing on this website has simple and clear outlined expectations. For example, if the free volunteer work abroad includes accommodation and breakfasts, it will say it right there – you just have to glance at the listing to know. It’ll mention if it is part time or full time right at the top, and will say what your accommodation will be like.

Hostel Travel Jobs is likely one of the cheapest options for free volunteering abroad available out there – it only costs 6 Euros ($7) for a premium lifetime membership ! At that cost, it’s well worth giving it a shot.

True Travellers Society

This website is different from the others because it is written in the style of a blog. That being said, it has a tremendous amount of resources that will help any future volunteer find their perfect program. It is well-organized and informative without making you really search for all the details. For example, you can select lists of free volunteer opportunities abroad based on the geographic location – there is a list of organizations in Africa, Asia, Central America, and South America.

Each organization’s link comes with a brief description about the most important information about that program. If you need to be able to work with kids or ride horses, this website will mention it. If nothing else, it should help you easily short list your top ten possibilities when deciding on a free or low-cost volunteer program.

Volunteer Latin America

Volunteer Latin America is another free and low-cost abroad volunteer organization that is specifically focused on one region of the world: Latin America. Volunteer Latin America strives to do most of the work of organizing for you, giving you time to focus on what you are really interested in: volunteering and traveling. To help you understand this, they even list the difference of learning Spanish abroad verses volunteering abroad what the benefit of each program type is.

Volunteer Latin America’s mission is to do this without making you pay an arm and a leg for it. As soon as you go to the membership options, you’ll see that their philosophy holds true – membership is quite affordable ($12-25)

If you are someone who prefers to plan things on your own, a basic membership will give you full access to all of the low cost or free international volunteering projects. Premium membership is better for people who haven’t traveled much on their own or haven’t volunteered abroad before. Once you register and pay for your membership, you will have access to the full listings. You can easily search their information by choosing a specific country you would like to work in, a category of projects, or other kinds of keyword matches. Remember that different projects have different costs, perks, and duration requirements.

Once you find a listing that looks good to you, you can contact that organization directly. If they accept you, you can get started on making plans! Remember that different projects have different costs, perks, and duration requirements – for example, some may charge something like $10 per day to pay for your accommodation. Others might pay for everything – including your flights!

The variety of projects on Volunteer Latin America is really impressive – you can find just about anything, as long as you would like to work somewhere in the Latin American part of the world. Another great aspect to this site is their commitment to the environment – even the catch phrase on the top of every page is “volunteering abroad shouldn’t cost the Earth.”

Hopefully this has given you a good starting place for researching your own free volunteer abroad program, but it is by no means a comprehensive list of all the options that are available to you! For example, there are a number of country-specific or project-specific organizations that can offer you enjoyable experiences for free or at a very low cost.

For example, there are organizations that specialize in sea turtle conservation, but are located all over the world. On the other hand, there are organizations that are only located in New Zealand or Bolivia and have options for free or low cost volunteer opportunities abroad in a variety of different project areas.

In this way, it might be a better idea to narrow down your search that way. Begin by asking yourself, “what would I like to do as a free volunteer abroad?” Or even “what part of the world would I like to go to?” If you can answer one or both of these questions, you can open up a huge number of other options to choose from.

So, whether it’s protecting newly hatched turtles while they make their way to the safety of the ocean or it’s working in the tightly knit community of a kibbutz in Israel, your options are only limited by your own imagination and flexibility. It seems obvious, but even doing a simple Google search for your specific country or area of interest can make a world of difference in your search for free volunteering abroad.

In any case, this list is enough to show you that doing free volunteer work abroad does not have to cost you a very large amount. If you are working for free, after all, why should it be unaffordable to you? You don’t need to go through the huge companies that offer a vast amount of support and services to find a high quality, safe, and once in a lifetime experience.

In above chapters, we discussed the possibilities of free volunteering, its limitations, and provided you with a list of things to be wary of when selecting an abroad volunteering organization.

You’re not only limited to these free volunteering opportunities, though. There are also many paid volunteer programs out there in the world. In the following chapters, we will discuss different options for paid volunteering that may interest you.

Chapter 3: Alternatives to Free Volunteering - Paid volunteering Abroad

Let’s start this section by asking a few questions.

Do paid volunteer program really exist? If so, how can I find them?

Many paid opportunities to work or volunteer overseas do exist. They are often funded by the government or other large international humanitarian organizations. These programs offer the same exciting opportunities for volunteering, personal growth and skill-sharing as other volunteer projects, but they also cover all your related expenses and offer a salary or living allowance on top of everything else.

The catch is that particular qualifications and/or experience are usually required, and competition for places can be intense. There may also be a minimum time commitment.

Here’s a list of the popular paid volunteering abroad programs to help get your search started:

The Peace Corps

The Peace Corp is a paid volunteer abroad program that was created in 1961 to deepen cultural understanding between Americans and citizens of other countries. Their mission is achieved through the provision of technical assistance that contributes to economic and social development. Around a quarter of a million Americans have served in the Peace Corps, in over 130 countries around the world.

Return international travel costs are fully covered, along with medical/dental Insurance fees, and volunteers receive both a modest regular living allowance to cover daily expenses, as well as a decent lump sum of cash when they complete their service term.

Volunteers must make a long term commitment – 2 years plus an initial training period , which totals around 27 months. The screening process is very thorough and time consuming, so expect to apply at least nine months before you'd like to depart. Finally, many projects only recruit volunteers with specific qualifications, educational backgrounds or experience. Learn more >

Voluntary Services Overseas (VSO))

Since 1958 this UK based organization has been working to rid the world of poverty by providing people with a way to work together on development issues. Although it was once easy to get a place on a VSO scheme, regardless of your experience or background, since 1980 only skilled and professional applicants are considered for this paid volunteer abroad opportunity. However, an alternative program (ICS) is in place for undergraduates who would like to get involved.

A great chance to get directly involved with community work in several areas – education, the environment and agriculture – while gaining experience that will boost any resume.   Couples are welcome to apply, and all volunteers get to choose where they go and what they do. An allowance –around what a local graduate would earn – is paid to volunteers to spend on things like personal toiletry items or social activities, as both food and housing costs are covered by the organization.

Long term volunteer opportunities are restricted to professionals with relevant training and experience. (Potential volunteers aged 18-25 can apply for a place on the short-term International Citizen Service (ICS) program). Participants must pay for their own airfare.

UN Volunteers

UN Volunteers is the organization responsible for recruiting and placing willing helpers into development programs operated by the United Nations. Established in 1970, each year more than 7000 people participate. Around 75% of all volunteers are themselves from developing counties, some being local to the area where a project is running. This reflects the focus on promoting social, economic and cultural growth through volunteering at a grassroots level.

30 month placements allow volunteers to experience true immersion in a country and project, which they are carefully matched to, based on their professional experience, abilities and background. All volunteers get a settlement allowance, and a regular living allowance which covers housing, utility charges, daily living expenses, comprehensive insurance and return airfare.

Opportunities are limited for anyone without certain desirable skills or qualifications . (Currently: a university degree or equivalent; 2+ related work experience and a decent level of either English, Spanish or French, and personal qualities including an open mind and the ability to adapt to new situations easily). Although great for solo volunteers, here are fewer opportunities for those who want to bring their family along.

Other Organizations that offer paid volunteering abroad opportunities

Volunteering for International Development from Australia (AVID)

Deutscher Entwicklungsdienst (DED)

European Voluntary Service and

Specialized paid international volunteer opportunities

In addition to government programs like the Peace Corps, VSO and others, there are some special paid volunteer abroad programs funded by the government of the destination country to meet particular needs. Not only can you volunteer for free, but various costs related to taking part in this kind of project are covered. In return, a longer time commitment is expected.

The 'English Opens Doors' Program – Chile

The ' English Opens Doors ' Program is a joint venture between the Chilean Ministry of Education and the United Nations Development Program . It was developed to help improve the English language skills of children, which in turn should help to speed Chile's development in the 21st century.

The 'World Teach' Program – The Marshall Islands

In operation since 2002, this Pacific island based program was developed to improve the English language levels of students at all stages of the compulsory education system.

This is a challenging placement . Paid abroad volunteers go without the creature comforts or access to supplies you may be used to, especially if placed on the outer islands. Basic housing is provided, along with return airfare from the USA, health insurance, meals, a monthly stipend to cover daily personal expenses and full support from staff.

Chapter 4: Alternatives to Free volunteering – Paid travel& work programs

Besides government funded paid volunteer abroad programs, there are a few programs that are not technically volunteering programs, but give you opportunities to travel, help, and explore. Many of these programs offer free airfare and accommodations, in exchange for your work.

Teaching English abroad

English teaching abroad programs are similar to paid volunteer overseas programs in many aspects. If you yearn to immerse yourself in a foreign culture for a year or two but need a regular income, then teaching English as a foreign language is a great way to make that happen.

There are jobs available all around the world, and not all require previous experience or teaching qualifications. Second language skills are not usually essential, especially for entry-level jobs.

Most jobs expect you to commit to working for 6 -12 months, and many expect teachers to work very long hours, which may leave you short of time and energy to enjoy the country and culture you're living in. Also, be prepared for some pre-trip expenses, as more and more destinations now require foreign English teachers to have at least an undergraduate degree, while visa conditions may also need applicants to produce a (clean) national criminal record check and have this, plus their degree certificate verified as genuine.

Here are some of our top picks for alternatives to paid abroad volunteer teaching:

Paid teaching in China

China is a growing market for TEFL teaching, and salaries are rising to reflect this. Most jobs provide accommodation, and apartments tend to be larger than those on offer in other parts of Asia. If money or gaining good experience is your priority, look for work in a language school. If you prefer a lighter schedule and have a decent resume, look at university-based teaching positions.

Learn more: Teach Away- Teach English in China

Paid teaching in Korea

College graduates flock to South Korea to take advantage of the relatively low cost of living/taxes and high percentage of disposable income. Experience is not necessary for entry-level work that pays enough for the average teacher to save 30-50% of their monthly salary. Accommodation is generally provided. The TALK program is open to undergraduates who have completed a certain percentage of their degree. Most language school jobs use recruiters to screen candidates. Use as many as you can and don't be pressured into applying for every job they suggest.

Learn more: Teach English in Korea

Paid teaching in Taiwan

A fascinating country offering lots of great food, history and cultural adventure. If you want to embark on a paid volunteer program abroad in Taiwan, you may consider teaching abroad instead. Taiwan is perfect for teachers with a TEFL qualification. Accommodation is not always provided but rates are reasonable and affordable on the average salary. Cities can be quite polluted, but the countryside is clean and beautiful.

Learn more: EslcafeJoblist, Reach to teach recruiting

Paid teaching in Japan

Japan is a popular choice for both new and experienced English teachers as an alternative to paid abroad volunteering, attracted to the rich cultural landscape and amazing food. The cost of living is fairly high, especially if living in the capital city, but the average starting salary should provide enough income for some travel adventures and a social life. It is possible to pick up extra work in Japan, whether that is through private tutoring, modelling, acting and so on. Most large language schools (e.g. AEON, ECC, Shane) recruit only from western countries, so check their websites for details of any interviews planned for your region.

Learn more: TEFL Jobs in Japan

Paid teaching in other Asian countries

Teaching in Asian countries such as Cambodia, Thailand or Laos is a great way to explore, travel and fund a fantastic cultural experience, but it is difficult to save much on the salaries offered, Vietnam is becoming a good place to teach and save a little. Work permits are (officially) only issued to college graduates, and this rule is becoming stricter now.

Learn more: EslcafeJoblist, ESL Jobs in Vietnam, TEFL One

Paid teaching in the Middle East

Although this option is not as accessible for people looking for paid abroad volunteer opportunities, English teachers with previous experience and a relevant graduate degree have access to high paying tax-free jobs in the Middle East. Accommodation is usually either provided or paid for via an allowance. TEFL teachers without enough experience or education for the top jobs can still find well-paid work in Saudi Arabia. In many areas of this region male applicants will find it easier to find well-paid work and experience a more relaxed lifestyle than foreign female teachers will.

Learn more: Teachaway - Teach in Saudi Arabia

Paid teaching in South America

Look at South American locations if you are happy earning enough to cover your daily living expenses, have some kind of social life and travel domestically or to nearby countries. Though it's unlikely you'll save lots of cash, your monthly salary will be enough to guarantee a comfortable lifestyle.

Combine getting a TEFL qualification with paid work

If teaching abroad sounds like a good alternative to paid volunteer abroad work, you may consider working toward a TEFL certification. Although there are English teaching positions open to completely inexperienced native English speakers, securing a related qualification definitely opens more doors. If you'd like to get certified it makes sense to study while actually doing the job – especially as demonstrating your new skills in the classroom is often a part of the process anyhow. There are lots of companies around who offer either TEFL training followed by a guaranteed job or run the course alongside the work placement.

Learn more:

Experiential Programs -API

Teaching English Abroad -Transitionsabroad

Au pair : an alternative to paid volunteer abroad

If you are interested in spending some time abroad, want the opportunity to really immerse yourself in the language or culture, and also want or need to cover your expenses the best solution is to explore short term paid work options. These jobs may be temporary or seasonal but they offer you the unique chance to truly experience another country, in a way tourists cannot, along with practical experience to boost your resume and enough cash to cover your living expenses.

Work abroad as an au pair

If you are reliable, love children, find it easy to adapt to living with other people and have a sense of adventure this is a great option to consider. Working as an au pair abroad involves making a short-term commitment to care for a family's young children, and in some cases to do some light household chores. Au pairs work part time, leaving plenty of opportunity to go sightseeing, learn the host country's language – independently or in a language school, or pursue any other interests you may have.

There are thousands of positions available around the world, but specifically across Europe. This is great news for those nationalities - such as non-EU citizens - who have fewer opportunities to combine work and travel in that region. Au pairs are provided with a private bedroom and all meals, along with a monthly salary that could range from 75 – 450 Euros , depending on the country, and the hours they are contracted to work. Some au pairs will get the chance to travel for free with their host family. Both long and short-term au pair positions are available, so there's lots of choice and flexibility out there. From a few weeks to several months – you get to decide where and how long for you work.

Entry-level jobs – open to applicants without childcare experience and/or qualifications are harder to find, and pay lower salaries. Plus, if you choose to find work through a specialist recruitment agency you'll need to budget for the cost of their services – which include through checks on host families and support throughout your employment term.

Learn more:  InterExchange Working Abroad , Aupair World , Find Aupair

Paid internship abroad

If you have a clear vision about your future career path, and like the idea of getting some direct experience in an international setting then a paid internship offers the best of all worlds. Live abroad while gaining hands-on work experience and a salary to boot.

Internships abroad provide a unique opportunity to gain practical experience and make valuable contacts without losing out financially. Interns, who may be either under or post-graduate, are generally given an allowance that is more than competitive within the local economy. 

Places on paid internship abroad schemes are very popular, so be prepared to fight off a lot of competition. Plus, many are restricted to applicants with a high-achieving educational record. Compared to volunteer abroad programs, paid internships usually have longer working hours and a more demanding workload.

Work Experience Program - Allianceabroad

10 Paid Internships Abroad in Summer 2017 - Gooverseas

Paid seasonal work

Bartending at a tropical beach resort, running an activity program for children, picking fruit and working at a stunning ski destination – these are just a few of the fun seasonal work opportunities available around the world . Applicants with proven experience and/or qualifications in areas like childcare, cooking or sport have more choices, but there are less financially lucrative jobs available to unskilled workers too.

There are lots of jobs offering decent rates of pay, and many also offer related perks such as free food and accommodation, a ski pass or access to leisure facilities. Additionally, seasonal work is often available in regions like Europe, where volunteer opportunities are often thin on the ground.

Seasonal workers are generally expected to work hard for several days a week, so time off may be limited or non-existent. While accommodation and food will probably be provided it is likely to be fairly basic. Finally, there are fewer opportunities for workers without any particular skills to offer

Any work anywhere

Season workers

More information on flight, food, room while volunteering abroad

Flight is one of the biggest expenses when it comes to international volunteering. If you research online, you will realize that it is extremely difficult to volunteer abroad with flights included. There are only a few special group programs and high school summer programs that allow you to volunteer abroad with flights included. Additionally, some special programs such as the Peace Corps, VSO, and other long-term government programs allow you to volunteer abroad with free flights and accommodation.Below are some Frequently Asked Questions on flights to you understand how to volunteer abroad flights included:

Is there any volunteer abroad program where flights are included?

Except for some high school group volunteer programs and other special projects, most volunteer abroad programs do not cover airfare. If the airfare is included, please take note that the program fee would be very high as the organization has already included a pre-determined (usually high) cost of flight. If you research online about cheap volunteering abroad programs including flights, you will realize that some of them cost more than $4000! It is usually cheaper for you to book your own airfare as you will have the freedom to book cheap, budget airlines and make your booking during promotional periods.

Do I have to book the flight ticket by myself ?

Applicants that choose to not volunteer abroad with flights included often wonder how they can get the best airfare deal, especially if this is their first time traveling internationally. Please keep in mind that most volunteer organizations do not book air ticket for you. But worry not! This is due to the simple fact that you can easily find the best airfare by just doing some internet research. So, unless it is a volunteer abroad program including flights, you will have to spend some time researching among the airlines. Booking your flight ticket is very easy as you can do it online in just a few minutes!

Does the volunteer organization help to find cheaper airfare?

Please keep in mind that volunteer organizations usually do not have any special link with air carriers. They will therefore not be able to influence the price and get you a cheap airfare, even if it is with a local airline. You can find cheap airfare online just by doing simple internet research and comparing prices among different airlines, if you choose to not volunteer abroad flights included! There are also many websites such as Kayak and Trip Advisor, where you can compare the price of different airlines and save your time. These sites also sometimes offer you last minute deals for cheaper air tickets!!

How much does it cost for international flights?

The cost of an international flight is affected by many factors such as the season, airline, travel destination, and booking time. If you travel in high demand seasons such as Christmas or summer , the cost of airfare will go up as there will be a lot of people traveling for the holidays, including students. Your cost of flight will also go up if you book airfare at the last minute. It is best to plan carefully in advance to get the best flight deal possible and save up on your expenditure!

Where can I get cheap airfare?

Most volunteers that opt to not volunteer abroad flights included tend to book their airfare online. There are many websites that help you to compare prices between different airlines to go to your selected destination. Websites such as Trip Advisor and Kayak are excellent sources to compare flight deals.

Is there any airline that offers discount tickets for volunteers?

If you search for discounted airfare for international humanitarian workers, you will come across many sites such as Fly For Good , Safe Harbors , Wilcoxtravel , and to offer discounted flights for volunteers. You can check them out for the value deals prior to your trip preparation. However, our research shows that websites such as Cheap air, Kayak, and Trip Advisor are the best and most reliable sources to get the most excellent airfare deals.

How can I lower my airfare cost?

You can reduce your airfare cost significantly with careful planning and advanced booking. Never book at the last minute as flight costs will be very high as the departure date nears. It is highly advisable to compare the prices of different airlines online before choosing the best airfare. If possible, avoid planning your volunteer abroad trip in peak travel seasons as the travel costs will skyrocket! Some volunteers find it useful to create Google Alerts for last minute deals from airlines. You can also subscribe to fare alterations from sites such as Trip Advisor. You can find very cheap flight tickets from budget airlines such as Spirit to reduce your travel cost.

Is there any volunteer abroad program with free flights and accommodation ?

Unfortunately, there are rarely ever volunteer abroad programs with free flights and accommodation. Please understand that volunteer organizations often do not get funding to run their programs and their overhead costs are covered solely through donations and program fees paid by volunteers. However, there are indeed a few programs where volunteers are provided with free flight and accommodation! These programs often need a long-term commitment, so check them out if you have plenty of time on your hands! Read more : Peace Corps , VSO , and World Teach .

It is indeed possible to volunteer abroad flight included, but we hope that this section has managed to convince you that you will get a better deal for your money by booking your own airfare. Just give yourself sufficient time to compare prices between different airlines and book in advance, you will be all set to go!

Volunteer Abroad 101

Chapter 5 comprehensive mini-volunteer guide, download your free volunteer abroad guide ebook.

This comprehensive Volunteer Abroad Guide is jam-packed with comprehensive information so you can begin your life-changing adventure without a hitch. From getting started to living overseas and then returning home, you’ll discover all the guidance you need to ensure it’s a seamless process from the beginning to end.

• Volunteer Abroad
• Finding Programs
• Trip Preparation
• Safety & Cultural Shocks
• Project Completion

Comprehensive Guide to Volunteering Abroad

Welcome to IFRE Volunteer’s comprehensive guide for volunteering abroad! We have packed this guide full of invaluable information that will help you every step of your volunteer journey – from researching volunteer organizations to following through and continuing to support your volunteer project of choice.

In this comprehensive volunteer guide, we’ll cover the following topics:

• Chapter 1: Introduction: Volunteering abroad
• Chapter 2: Benefits of volunteer abroad programs
• Is volunteering abroadthe right choice for me?

Chapter 3: Most popular volunteer abroad destinations

Chapter 4: most popular volunteer abroad programs.

• Chapter 5: Finding your volunteer organization& applying for your program
• How to find a credible volunteer organization
• What to expect when you apply for your program
• Chapter 6: Preparing for you abroad experience
• Travel prep check list

Know before you go

• In-country support staff&what to expect upon arrival
• How to make your volunteer abroad experience rewarding
• Chapter 7: Safety and Cultural Shock While Volunteering Abroad

Safety recommendations

• Culture shock: what to expect
• Chapter 8 : Completing your project and returning
• Things to do and see while volunteering abroad
• Frequently asked questions

Further reading

Continue reading..., chapter 1: introduction to volunteering abroad.

Have you heard about abroad volunteering programs, but aren’t quite sure what they are? Do you want to learn more about the impact you can have as an individual when you travel internationally to donate your time to people in need?

Welcome to the first section of this volunteer abroad guidebook. Let’s start this guidebook with something simple by defining what exactly a volunteer abroad experience is:

When you join a volunteer abroad program, you travel to a third world country as part of a humanitarian initiative to donate your time, skills, labor, and experience to support a local project.

Although motivation may vary, people who embark on this type of trip have passion for serving those in need and love helping other. These trips combine travel, cultural immersion, and volunteering to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience that have both a positive impact on you and the community you serve.

Chapter 2: Benefits of volunteering abroad

You may be wondering why in the world people choose to work abroad without pay rather than obtaining an international job or just going on vacation? What kind of benefits does a volunteer program have, and what type of people choose to participate in these programs?

These are very good questions. People volunteer for a whole variety of reasons.

In general, volunteer abroad programs are more flexible than international jobs, they allow you to get a taste of a foreign culture without committing to leave your home country for a long amount of time, and these programs allow you to give back and feel good about yourself and the world you live in.

It may seem intimidating at first but stepping outside of your comfort zone to support local efforts in a foreign country has more benefits than you may think. Although everyone’s abroad experience will vary, the perks of volunteering apply to everyone.

Here are some other benefits that may inspire you to join a volunteer abroad program .

When you volunteer, you make the world a better place

When you volunteer abroad, you get the chance to make a real impact on the lives of individuals and their communities. Whether that’s by teaching English or helping children in need, you will help developing countries prepare for sustainable futures.

You’ll have the adventure of a lifetime!

Volunteering abroad involves finding communities in need and people to help, but it is also about making the most of your opportunity for adventure. – whatever that looks like for you. You will have the opportunity to explore exotic landscapes, see diverse flora and fauna, and eat foods completely new to your palette. You will tell stories from your volunteer abroad program for the rest of your life.

Volunteering makes you happier

You can feel like your time is worth more or that you have more of it

Donating your time to something meaningful rather than wasting your time being unproductive will help you feel like your time has more value. When you return from an overseas volunteering program , you will want to use your time more efficiently because you feel as if it’s worth more.

Volunteering promotes physical health

Many people work sedentary jobs or spend their free time on the couch watching television, but when you work abroad you commit to getting up and getting out. Not to mention that when you’re in a foreign country, you’re more likely to go on a walk to see the sites, hike a once-in-a-lifetime mountain trails, or take a swim in the ocean. Increased movement has been proven to lower risk for back pain, disease, stress, and mental illness.

You’ll expand your global awareness

Abroad volunteer experiences will expand your cross-cultural understanding and increase your global awareness. You will be more aware of the impact of global trends on local economies, which will enable you to appreciate your own cultural values and beliefs.

Encourage emotional well-being for yourself and others

Donating time to connect with people and work toward a common goal is scientifically proven to reduce anxiety and lower stress, which will improve your overall well-being and enhance your quality of life. Even if you are an emotionally stable person, volunteering overseas encourages other individuals’ emotional well-being by alleviating symptoms of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, low self-esteem, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Remember, other countries may not have access to the same quality of resources or education about mental health that you do.

Explore potential career paths

Whether you are a young person just beginning their studies or someone with experience in need of a career change, volunteer work abroad will give you practical experience and the opportunity to “try out” work in a given field without making a long-term commitment.

Discover hidden talents and gain new skills

There are many abroad volunteer opportunities that don’t require specific skills to contribute; passion, a good attitude, and an open mind are generally the only requirements! Volunteering in a field that is not familiar will allow you to gain and develop skills or new talents you may have never practiced before.

Advance your career by gaining unique experiences

Spending time supporting humanitarian efforts through overseas volunteer programs will allow you to practice important skills used in the workplace such as communication, team work, critical thinking, organization, and adaptability. Additionally, employer’s understand what abroad experiences entail, which will make you stand out amongst the crowd when competing for jobs.

Become more patient and flexible

Volunteering programs abroad allow you to take full advantage of cultural immersion . Each country has its own diverse cultural identity with methods of communication and social expectations that may surprise you. This will often times force you to become more flexible and patient as you navigate a new country’s way of life.

Become more proficient in a foreign language

In addition to cultural immersion, when you volunteer overseas you will be surrounded by a foreign language. You will have the opportunity to learn or practice a second language. Learning another language is not only fun, it’s also a really good way to get to know the real essence of the country. What’s more, you could take advantage of this opportunity to create a strong foundation that may allow you to keep advancing or even pursue fluency.

Sharpen existing skill sets

As the saying goes, practice makes perfect. When you volunteer abroad you can take advantage of an environment in which you can enhance and refine specific skills that you may not use in everyday life, but you’d like to make part of your career. You will also likely enhance your communication and teamwork skills as you work beside other volunteers and locals to work toward a common goal.

Set a good example

Too often we hear people say that just one person can’t make a difference, but when you contribute through an international volunteer program, you will join a community effort with individuals who share your desire to make a change. When you embark on a volunteer abroad adventure, you set a great example to your friends and family by reinforcing the positive message that YES! One person can make a difference. You may even inspire others to join or start volunteering abroad programs themselves.

You can boost your own self-confidence

There’s sense in the saying “when you look good, you feel good.” When you put positive energy into a volunteer abroad opportunity, that goodness is reflected on yourself . This notion can even create a positive feedback loop: you do a good deed, and then you feel rewarded, so you keep doing good deeds. Eventually you will feel confident enough to take on any challenge!

You will support building a strong community

One individual may not have the capacity to single-handedly change the world, but when you work together with other overseas volunteers and local contributors who share your passion and drive, you’ll learn that a small collective effort can make a huge impact and affect the community in overwhelmingly positive ways.

Grow a new appreciation for what you have

Weighed down by demanding schedules, we often do not realize how privileged we really are. When you join an overseas volunteer program in a country that may not have basic needs like sufficient shelter or clean water, you learn to appreciate things you may have previously taken for granted in life.

Make connections that will last a lifetime

The strongest and most enduring friendships grow from shared experiences. When you work alongside other people, you will grow bonds that cannot be broken. As a volunteer abroad you will meet people from all backgrounds and nationalities who will enrich your experience both on the project itself and your life.

Increase your social skills

Socializing improves brain function and lowers your risk for anxiety and depression . While some people are naturally outgoing, others are shy and have a hard time meeting new people. Volunteering overseas gives you the opportunity to practice and develop your social skills. When you are out of your comfort zone, meeting a group of people with common interests can feel comforting rather than intimidating.

Cultivate empathy for others

Empathy is the ability to understand life from another person’s perspective. People who are naturally empathetic will be drawn to travel opportunities because this allows them to embrace and explore this aspect of their personality. However, if you are not naturally empathetic, volunteering overseas can open your eyes through firsthand experiences as to the way people in other parts of the world lead their lives, and how they emotionally navigate the conditions where they live.

Break free of old thought patterns

As humans, we tend to get stuck in patterns… including thought patterns that affect our daily lives and careers for better or worse. Although this may be a beneficial asset for some, it also doesn’t necessarily create space for innovative ideas or promote creativity. When you take part in a volunteer abroad opportunity, you will revamp your daily routine which will allow you to gain new perspectives and be more mindful of your day to day thought patterns.

Enhance your global network

One of the most effective ways to connect with people is through personal interactions. When you create a whole-hearted human connection with someone, that bond will be much stronger than if you only know them in the virtual world. Strong international connections build from oversees volunteering can create opportunities for idea sharing, job leads, and international collaboration.

There are a lot of reasons for volunteering, but before you start planning your trip, you must ask yourself:

Is volunteering the right choice for me?

You must ask yourself this question, and really think about a genuine response because the truth is that volunteering abroad is not for everyone. Whether traveling to a developing country to work alongside locals is a good fit for you will depend on a multitude of factors, like your personality, cultural values, and life experience.

Here are some guidance questions that will help you discern if you should volunteer abroad:

• Do I enjoy working alongside others and meeting new people?
• Do I have a passion for helping those in need?
• How comfortable will I feel working with people who live in extreme poverty?
• Am I patient, kind, and teamwork oriented?
• How far am I willing to step outside of my comfort zone?
• Which creature comforts can I live without? For how long?
• Do I have skills that are worth contributing? What are they?
• Am I open-minded and compassionate?
• Can I maintain a good attitude when faced with challenging scenarios?
• Do I enjoy traveling?
• What kind of experience am I looking for?
• Do I have the money needed to fund a volunteer experience?

If you felt confident answering positively to many of these questions, that’s a great indicator that you will do well in a volunteer abroad program. If these questions made you hesitate, it would be wise to take a step back and re-evaluate if an abroad program is the best way for you to support those in need. You could also consider volunteering with a group for more emotional support or volunteering for a shorter amount of time so that you don’t step too far outside of your comfort zone. It is essential that you feel good about what you’re doing when you partake in a program to volunteer internationally.

Now that you’ve made a decision about whether or not volunteering abroad is a good fit for you, you’ll need to think about where you want to volunteer. What countries are you comfortable traveling to? What cultures intrigue you the most? Is there a certain destination you have always wanted to visit?

Volunteer abroad opportunities are a wonderful way to help others who desperately need assistance, while exploring some of the most breathtaking and fascinating countries in the world. You can provide support for people who are in need of resources while enriching your own life through travel and cultural immersion. But with so many amazing destinations in the world from tropical paradises to wild African grasslands –how do you decide where to volunteer?

IFRE Volunteers has been trusted since 2006 by over 22,000 people allowing us to facilitate their abroad experience. With 200+ volunteer opportunities in over 20 countries, we work with you to find a project that suits your budget, schedule, and travel companions in the destination of your dreams. As an introduction to some of these amazing possibilities, we have compiled a list of our 11 most popular volunteer abroad destinations.

Nepal, Asia

Characterized by culture steeped in spiritual traditions, Himalayan mountain landscapes, and charming villages, Nepal is undoubtedly one of the most popular volunteering abroad destinations . While safe for travelers - poverty, civil war, and government corruption make Nepal one of the poorest developing nations in the world, and Nepalese citizens need your help!

IFRE helps connect international volunteers with programs that suit their needs, interests, and (if applicable) experience. From exploring Buddhist religion through teaching English to monks , sharing your passion for children by working in an orphanage , or documenting Nepal’s vibrant culture and customs through photo journalism projects , there is a volunteer abroad opportunity for everyone in this spectacular country.

Thailand, Asia

Does the idea of a landscape framed by majestic temples and smiling buddhas, luxuriously long coastlines, and the exceptional flavors of savory cuisine sound appealing? If so, Thailand may be the right volunteer abroad destination for you. Although Thailand is known for its welcoming people (often referred to as the “land of smiles”), there are many communities who are not beyond the struggles of poverty. When you volunteer overseas in Thailand , you may find the perfect project working with elephants in conservation efforts, teaching Buddhist monks in Tibetan monasteries , or supporting orphanages through caring for children .

Kenya, West Africa

Volunteering abroad in Kenya will encourage limitless opportunities for personal growth, experiential learning, adventure, and compassion. You may witness the Great Wildebeest Migration, discover the culture and heritage of some of Africa’s best-known peoples (the Maasai, the Samburu, the Swahili), or experience landscapes such as savannah grasslands or majestic snow-capped mountains.

Unfortunately, overhalf of Kenya’s population still lives in poverty, and poor communities, children, and women are affected the most. You can make a real impact when you volunteer in Kenya by working with local organization to teach English in rural schools , support families and individuals affected by HIV/AIDS , or contribute to medical and healthcare outreach.

Guatemala, Latin America

Overseas volunteering programs in Guatemala will allow you to embrace heart-warming culture, enthralling landscapes, and fascinating architecture while using your humanitarian passion to support those in need. When you volunteer in Guatemala, you can show street children inspiration by working with them to realize their potential, make healthcare more accessible to rural communities without medical services, or empower women through handicraft projects that will allow them to gain financial independence and become more confident.

Ghana, East Africa

Even though Ghana is generally not as popular with the tourist crowds, it has boundless opportunities for abroad volunteers looking to share their passion and make an impact on the world. Ghana is one of the most peaceful African nations and as foreigner volunteer you will be treated with respect as you work alongside locals in programs such as teaching English in rural schools, supporting outreach and healthcare through HIV/AIDS programs , and working with orphaned children who are in desperate need of love and attention.

In your free time, you may learn more about Ghana’s musically infused and vibrant culture, discover historic castles and forts, or explore lush green national parks teeming with wildlife.

India, Asia

People travel from all over the world to experience India’s rich history and culture. Intricate architectural wonders, incredibly flavorful cuisine, and diverse cultural customs will leave you questioning what else this amazing country has to offer.

When you embrace a volunteer abroad program in India , you will experience all of these facets and feeling rewarded by giving back to those in need. Plagued by a corrupt government, lack of sanitation education, pollution problems, and economic inequality, you can help Indian residents by working with at-risk children and youth, teaching English to students in school , supporting healthcare efforts, empowering women , and much more.

Peru, Latin America

Peru has long been considered a popular tourist destination due to its amazing ruins reminiscent of one of the oldest civilizations in the world and unique lifestyle rich in tradition that still heavily reflects Incan roots. When you participate in a volunteering program abroad , you will have a chance to get to know this country in many ways other tourists do not.

You can utilize your unique talents and experiences to teach English so that children may have a brighter future with more opportunities to support their families, help clinics extend access to rural populations who may not be able to receive healthcare services , or support orphaned children who desperately need local and attention.

Sri Lanka, Asia

Sri Lanka is an island in the India Ocean that has something for anyone looking to contribute to a volunteering overseas program . Characterized by ancient temples, unique wildlife (including the endangered Sri Lankan elephant), and beautiful beaches, the country has a lot to offer. However, much of the country still lives in poverty with limited access to healthcare and education, which traps populations in poverty. Volunteer with IFRE to help change this by working in Elephant sanctuaries, teaching Buddhist monks, supporting children in orphanages, or contributing to health care programs.

South Africa

From South Africa’s beautiful scenery to exciting wildlife, South Africa has a lot to offer any volunteer work abroad . While there are a lot of ways to enjoy travel in the wonderful country, there are also a lot of ways to give back to those in need. More than half the population of South Africa still lives in poverty. Use your passion to support humanitarianism efforts in South African through contributing to projects in social welfare, teaching English to poor students in rural schools, helping care for children, and more!

Did you know that despite being one of the most politically stable countries in Africa, close to 70% of Tanzania’s population lives in poverty? Problems like wealth inequality, malnutrition, and lack of education affects impoverished communities lives daily.

When you travel to Tanzania on a volunteer abroad opportunity , you will have the chance to aid children, women, and families who are suffering while broadening your horizons through a cultural immersion experience. During your free time, you may also explore some of Africa’s most amazing natural wonders such as Mount Kilimanjaro, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti National Park.

Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse nations in the world, but this small country wasn’t always a leader in conservation. Many years ago, Costa Rica actually had one of the highest rates of deforestation. Since then (thanks to environmental education efforts) local people have fought to protect huge tracts that are home to over 500,000 species of plants and animals.

There’s no denying that Costa Rica is a traveler’s paradise, but many visitors may not realize that locals suffer from living in poverty. What’s more, large plantations encroach on wildlife habitat and threaten otherwise pristine natural areas. Use your skills and experiences on a volunteering overseas program to give back to those in need or support conservation efforts in Costa Rica . IFRE offers programs such as turtle conservation, working with underprivileged children, and volunteering on coffee farms all to support local efforts.

If you have a good idea of what countries you’d like to travel to, the next step is to think about the types of programs you would like to support. Where can you contribute your skills to make the biggest impact? Which programs have the biggest need for volunteers? What are you most passionate about?

These questions are incredibly important because if you don’t enjoy what you’re doing, you will likely not enjoy your experience.

IFRE Volunteers is a well-known and trusted company that was founded in 2006. We have facilitated more than 22,000 individuals’ abroad experiences and know a lot about which programs people really enjoy as well as what the safest, most affordable, and most life-changing projects are out there.

To help you in your search for the best international abroad volunteer program, I have compiled a list our 10 most popular overseas experiences. These range from specific experiences in a given country to programs in general that we offer in a variety of countries.

Working with children

One of our most popular volunteer abroad program types is children’s projects. We offer childcare programs through orphanages, day cares and working with street children. These projects aim to provide children with love, support, and education.

We strive to go above and beyond just providing them with basic needs (meals, shelter, attention), but work to empower the children so they may realize their potential – setting them up to be successful and happy humans later in life. When you provide these children the love and attention they so desperately crave and deserve, they will become motivated and inspired. Your efforts will give them hope for a brighter future.

• Brazil - Childcare Project
• Ecuador - Orphanage Project
• Guatemala (Antigua) - Work in an Orphanage
• Peru - Work in an Orphanage

Teaching English

Teaching is one of the most rewarding ways to give back to underprivileged populations. The purpose of our teaching overseas volunteering programs is to provide children in poverty with free, quality education. As an international teaching volunteer, you will provide a vital source of education and inspiration to local students who can utilize English skills to compete in the job market when they get older and need to earn a living for themselves.

• Tanzania - Teaching english
• Argentina - Teaching English Project
• Brazil - Teaching Project
• Ecuador - Teaching English in rural and urban schools
• Guatemala, Xela - Teaching English

Medical & Healthcare Programs

Volunteering abroad with one of IFRE’s medical or healthcare opportunities will allow you to improve people’s qualities of life on a daily basis. Many of the programs we offer work with local clinics and hospitals to provide basic medical care to rural or impoverished communities who may have limited or no access to medical services.

When you volunteer with one of our medical programs, you will assist medical staff and support community health outreach. Through these abroad medical volunteer opportunities, you will provide relief to the local doctors and nurses who may be overworked and underappreciated. You will also help individuals receive the care they desperately need.

• Cambodia - Health/Medical Project
• Tanzania - Health Projects
• Uganda - Health Projects
• Argentina - Medical Project
• Guatemala (Xela) - Healthcare

Women’s Empowerment

Women’s empowerment programs supports women in developing countries to overcome poverty and create a better life for themselves and their family. As an international volunteer, you will work with groups of women to help them create thriving businesses in their communities. Women’s cooperatives and small local businesses will allow them to generate additional income for themselves or their families. When you share your skills and love with these women, you will help them rebuild their self-esteem so they can lead their best life possible.

• Tanzania - Women Empowerment Projects
• Guatemala (Xela) - Women's Project
• Guatemala (Antigua) - Girl Empowerment Project

Buddhist Monk Teaching – Nepal

There is a great need and desire for young monks to learn English so they can help spread their import teachings to a modern and rapidly changing world. When you are volunteering overseas to teach English in Nepal, you will have the unique opportunity to work closely with Tibetan monks while learning about Buddhist culture and beliefs. This will make a huge difference in both the lives of the monks and of those that come to them to learn the message of Buddhism.

As a volunteer, you will assist in local monasteries, teaching English to monks ages 5 years and older. You will create your own creative lessons using existing resources and may also be asked to practice English with older monks in evening conversation classes.

• Nepal Himalayas - Teach English to Monks
• Sri Lanka - Teach English to Monks
• Thailand (Ayutthaya) - Teaching Monk

Elephant Conservation – Sri Lanka and Thailand

Another popular abroad volunteer opportunity is elephant conservation in Asia. Sadly, elephants suffer daily due to human encroachment on their habitats, exploitation, and poaching. IFRE’s goal is to connect you as an international volunteer with elephant orphanages and sanctuaries so you may contribute to local conservation education, support local economy through ecotourism, and of course aid with elephant care! You will show these magnificent creatures a kinder version of humanity by ensuring their health, well-being and survival.

• Sri Lanka - Elephant Volunteer (Kegalle)
• Thailand (Surin) - Elephant Project

Turtle Conservation

Turtle conservation is one of our most popular conservation volunteer opportunities. When you volunteer work abroad program with this type of project, you will work directly with the community to promote outreach in conservation education as many turtles and turtle eggs are still poached by locals.

As an intern, your responsibilities will vary, but they may include night walks to collect turtle eggs and re-bury them in protected areas (thereby ensuring a higher chance of survival), working alongside the community to create awareness of turtle conservation issues, or assisting researchers to tag turtles in open water so we can continue learning about these amazing creatures habits and behaviors.

• Bali - Turtle Conservation
• Bali - Turtle Conservation and English Teaching
• Costa Rica - Osa Sea turtle

Wildlife Rehabilitation

When you invest time and energy into volunteer work abroad in wildlife rehabilitation program, it will be an incredible and rewarding experience. Most wildlife rehabilitation programs aim to educate the public (locally and internationally) about species conservation and endangered wildlife. These rehab centers also provide a haven for unique African animal species that have been abandoned, injured, and poisoned wildlife in the area. Some programs may also have you facilitate and monitoring the breeding of endangered species.

• Sea Turtle and Wildlife Research
• Sanctuary Natuwa
• Wildlife Conservation Project (Port Elizabeth)
• Desert Elephant Project (Namibia)
• Big 5 Project(South Africa)
• Save Our Wildlife (Namibia)

China for panda conservation

China is well known for the giant, gorgeous Panda, but sadly this great creature faces extinction; there are only an estimated 1,000 left in the world. Many factors affect the panda's survival: poaching, habitat loss, and industrialization make it hard for the Panda species to sustain their population in the wild due to their low birthing rate.

This program will allow you to work directly with the pandas, helping the provide daily panda treatment, maintenance, and love in an effort to keep the panda species alive and prosperous.

Volunteering abroad through one of our HIV/AIDS programs is one of the most meaningful ways to support people affected by this terrible disease. In most programs, you can support volunteer efforts in one of two ways. You may focus on outreach to help spread HIV/AIDS awareness, educate to help prevent future infections, and teach communities about how to treat infected people with respect and compassion. Another way you could support this effort is by actually visiting HIV/AIDS victims in their communities to distribute food, clothes and medicine as well as provide comfort and counselling.

Make an impact by joining these groups as they work against cultural stigmas and try to make a better world for those unfortunate enough to be infected with HIV/AIDS.

• Cambodia - HIV/AIDS Awareness Project
• India - HIV/AIDS Project
• Kenya - HIV/AIDS Project
• Tanzania - HHIV/AIDS Project
• Uganda - HIV/AIDS Project

IFRE works with every individual to find the right volunteer abroad program for them. As you’ve just read, we have been able to connect individuals with organizations in various countries to make a real impact on communities and wildlife in need.

Whichever project you select, it’s important to remember that you should have passion. Did any of the projects listed above speak to your heart? Contact us today to learn more about abroad opportunities.

Chapter 5: Finding the best volunteer abroad organization& Filling out your program application

Searching for the best volunteer abroad organization.

There are hundreds of volunteer agencies out there ready to help you have the best volunteer abroad experience. So, how do you know which one to choose ? How you can be sure you’re selecting a trusted and credible organization that will offer you a good experience? How do you avoid companies who play the “middleman” or low quality free volunteer programs?

Selecting the volunteer abroad organization for you is extremely important because the decision affects your safety, budget and overall experience Here are few tips that should help you to choose a credible organization:

Check the organization’s website

The best organizations have clearly written information on their website without grammar or spelling mistakes, blogs with regular updates, and an “about us” section that explains the organization’s mission and goals. If they don’t have a website or are missing these key aspects, red flags should go up in your mind. You may also look for up-to-date photographs of previous volunteers and social media accounts where the company is actively engaging with its followers.

Check the program’s affordability and how they allocate program fees

Volunteer abroad organizations charge program fees ranging from $300.00 to$3,000 for a 2-week period. They should be clear about where those fees go – are they supporting the local project and host families? If the organization isn’t clear about where your money is going, you should probably second guess using them as your agency of choice.

Reviews and ratings of the organization

Do your research and see what people are saying! Try to avoid organizations which are getting a lot of negative reviews. If you aren’t sure that what you’re reading is legitimate, you can always ask for references from past volunteers.

Reach out to the organization to check how quickly they communicate

Send an email directly to the organization and see how soon they reply. This should happen within 24 hours and they should answer your questions or concerns in a sensible and professional way.

Analyze the organization’s commitment to local causes

Go to your organization of choice’s website to analyze how committed they are to local causes. The best volunteer organizations to volunteer abroad with are always coming up with ways to help local communities, perhaps by building a playground for children, sponsoring local events, or by planting trees and gardens for nature conservation. Look for photos and updates on their projects.

Check out their social media presence

The best form of marketing in today’s global community is through social media . If the free abroad volunteer company you are looking into has a strong presence on Facebook or Twitter or an up-to-date blog, this is a very good sign. This means that they are putting in extra effort to be part of the global world and reaching out to more volunteers.

While remembering that all volunteer organizations have their limitations, the best providers will have a good reputation with field-tested staff who care about your personal journey. They will provide a high-quality volunteer abroad experience at a reasonable and transparent price.

Filling out the application

Once you’ve decided on an organization, you will need to apply for your program of choice. Most applications are very straightforward online forms, although they may take a while to complete. This application may be quite extensive, so you’ll need to be prepared to supply your personal information, project of choice, reasoning behind wanting to volunteer, and more.

Sometimes organizations will ask you to do an interview or write a statement of interest. You will also most likely be asked to pay a deposit or booking fee ranging from $50 to $500 to hold your volunteer spot. The deposit is part of the overall cost of your program . For example, if your application fee is $299, and your deposit is $99, you will have $200 left to pay after you are accepted.

After you submit your online application, it is forwarded to your host country's main office, where the local staff will review it, assess your interest in the abroad volunteering program, and examine your educational and personal background to determine if you are a good fit for it.

Chapter 6: Preparing for your abroad experience

It may take a little while to hear back (normally between 1-3 weeks), but once you are approved to volunteer in your program of choice you will receive a confirmation of your acceptance and the details of your placement. This should include everything you need to know about pre-departure requirements , project details, itineraries and schedules, visa information, vaccination requirements, in-country office details, accommodation details, and more.

To help you out with your travel planning and ensure that you don’t forget anything during the planning period, I created this travel prep checklist just for you:

Travel Prep and Checklist

Visa :All countries with volunteer abroad programs require foreign citizens to have a visa before they can enter. Some countries issue these on arrival, but others don’t. In these cases, you must apply for the visa before you travel. If you are unsure about the visa situation for your destination country it’s best to check with their embassy website, or with the volunteer organization you are working with.

Passport : To enter another country for volunteering work abroad you are required to hold a valid passport with at least 6, (sometimes 9), months validity. Some require one or more pages to be blank and available for visa stamps, and most countries expect visitors to show proof of onward travel, such as a return air ticket or a bus ticket to a different country.

Vaccination : When travelling abroad it is best to protect yourself against any potential health concerns. Well before your travel date be sure to consult your doctor, the website of the Center for Disease Control or an official website for your destination country about which vaccinations you may need to have.

Flight : In most cases volunteers are responsible for sourcing and paying for their own airfare for volunteering trips abroad, so start looking for great deals as soon as you can. Set up alert notifications for cheap airfare comparison sites such as Orbitz, or Kayak as well as Google Flights and Skyscanner. Booking a round trip flight is generally cheaper, as is being flexible with your travel dates.

Funds: You’ll need to ensure that you have sufficient funds to support your adventure. If you need some ideas on how to pay for your volunteering program abroad there are lots of resources to draw on. You can use online funding sites such as GoFundMe , or GiveForward , as well as others for students, and large groups. You can also look to local churches, businesses or volunteer groups for help funding your trip.

Host country research : You should prepare mentally for your volunteer adventure by researching your host county’s history, government, and cultural norms. Find online blogs, or travel books which focus specifically on your country of interest. Examples of travel books or blogs that focus specifically on volunteer trips abroad are Mapping Your Volunteer Vacation by Jane Stanfield and the Nerdy Nomad blog.

Packing List: What to pack for volunteering abroad depends on many factors like country, season, projects, culture etc. It is good idea to travel light so traveling is easier. While packing is a very personal process, you should ensure to pack all important travel documents, appropriate work clothing, mosquito netting, sun protection, toiletries, personal entertainment (books, journal, music, etc.), and a gift for your project/host family.

You are packed, have the agenda for your volunteer work abroad, and your tickets are booked. Now it’s time to go over everything you should know and be ware of before your arrival.

Get all the information on the project and country

Make sure you have all the necessary information about the destination country including the exact location, whether it’s rural or urban, the name of the project, and the weather in the season you will be there. Get names, websites, email addresses, phone numbers; anything that will help you to transition easily and put your mind at ease.

Learn all about your host family

Your host family is very important to your volunteer abroad experience as they will be your local contact to both the project and the community. Try and get as much information about the family as you can. Names, how many are in the household, their jobs, their address and a phone number if available. Ask them about things like access to hot showers and laundry facilities, if you will you have a room to yourself, about the type of food and what time they eat. Check out the host families traditions and culture and the language they speak and learn a few key phrases. They will be your family away from home, so it’s wise to prepare well for a smooth acceptance into their household and lives when volunteering.

Learn about local culture and customs

Having a basic understanding of the customs, salutations, manners, and common religions of your host country will save you from unpleasant interactions and behaving in a disrespectful way. Fortunately, the internet has an incredible wealth of information to help you out in your research.

Don’t forget your motivation for volunteering

Remember that one of the main reasons that you are volunteering is because you felt it in your heart that you wanted to help to people and animals. You also had a yearning to experience a new culture and foreign land. Embrace the challenge and change of traveling outside of your comfort zone and remember that you are doing something extraordinary not only for yourself, but for others in need. Keeping this open-minded and heart-guided mindset will only further enhance your volunteer abroad experience.

In-country support & what to expect upon arrival

Your in-country support staff will be your lifeline on your volunteer abroad adventure. Build a strong connection with them by starting communication early and letting them know that you’re looking for their support. They will often be your sole contact for helping you resolve any problems or mishaps that may arise so make sure to get their information including names, email, an office address if they have one, and a phone number, and try to stay in touch at least once a week.

Before taking off for the airport make a final call to your volunteer agency to make sure all the details are clear, ask any last-minute questions, and ensure that no plans have changed. You’ll have complete peace of mind during the flight knowing that your in-country support staff will be there to meet you when you get off the plane, and that your agency knows exactly where you are in the country.

Once you land and meet with you support staff, you will receive some sort of orientation to both your accommodations and your host country. It is likely that you will experience a range of different feelings, senses and emotions. Beautiful and diverse landscapes and vibrant cities which are complemented by the warm hospitality of the people will leave you excited and full of energy. But you will also come face to face with poverty, city slums, and homeless people of all ages, low health and hygiene standards, and people that are in desperate need of love, care, support, facilities and resources. This, on the other hand, can feel desperately sad and overwhelming.

Remember these are developing countries you are going to in. While these emotions are normal, you should also arrive mentally prepared. You may skip ahead a chapter to read more about how to cope with culture shock.

How can I make my volunteer experience rewarding?

Once you are in your host country the trip really begins. Below are a few tips to help you get the most rewarding experience possible:

Understand your project

Make sure you have all the information about the country, and program, host family, transportation, language, and safety concerns relating to your destination country before arriving at your volunteering program abroad.

Build a strong relationship with your in-country coordinator

Notify your country coordinator immediately about any problems you may experience. Your country coordinator is a vital lifeline and a great resource when trying to sort out any difficulties which may arise. Use it.

Support and show passion for your cause and project

You’ve planned, researched and devoted lots of time to finding the right experience for you, so once in place it’s important to continue to immerse yourself in your cause. Show up with a smile, share your skills, hobbies, and passion for people and always be of service.

Stay positive and appreciate the experience

By being actively involved, going to new places, eating unfamiliar foods, saying yes to opportunities for adventure and exploring the country you’ll create a happy balance of both project volunteer work abroad, and fun travel experiences.

Embrace the culture

Learn the language, dress like locals do, eat the wonderful cuisine, respect the religions and traditions, indulge in some market shopping, art, music and festivals. Just have fun learning about your host country .

Discover the country

You have off-time, so what can you do? Why not explore your host country? Whether you like the idea of trekking through jungles, taking a moped ride through the marketplace, lazing on a beach, or visiting local historical sites, your trips abroad will be amazing and filled with wonder. Take the chance to experience the country you’re in fully.

Don’t expect luxury

Volunteer programs abroad in developing countries may not be able to offer the same standard of comfort in accommodation that you are used to at home, but you will always be housed in the best place they do have. Take the opportunity to embrace an alternative way of living without worrying about the differences. It will definitely make you appreciate what you may have taken for granted in the past.

Chapter 7: Safety and Culture Shock While Volunteering Abroad

Is traveling and working in a developing country actually safe? What should I do to take safety precautions? What will happen if I experience culture shock?

These questions are legitimate and so incredibly important. Once you are accepted into your program of choice, it is likely that your volunteer agency will send a specific list of safety recommendation to you for your country. If they don’t, do independent research and ask a lot of questions. To help get you started thinking about how you can be safe while traveling abroad, here’ my top safety recommendations:

• Read up on current news events and safety issues
• Buy a good travel insurance policy
• Don’t carry your original passport once in your country. Instead, make a photocopy.
• Obtain contact details for local emergency services. Carry them with you always.
• Register your travel details with your local embassy
• Inform family and friends of your travel plans.
• Don’t take any unnecessary valuable items with you.
• Be aware of your surroundings and who might be watching you
• Try to avoid standing around looking at maps and guidebooks
• Respect the culture and dress appropriately to avoid unwanted attention.
• Always carry your wallet and bags at the front of your body
• Never leave bags or possessions unattended in public places

Culture Shock: What to Expect

When you travel to another country, especially in a third world, your daily norms will be flipped upside down. New sights, sounds, sensations, and ways of life are part of what make your volunteer abroad program so rewarding. However, the initial adjustment period can be quite challenging, especially if you don’t speak the native language.

Here are 5 ways you can mentally prepare to mitigate the initial culture shock of abroad travel :

Research your destination before you arrive

Get a basic idea of what to experience while you’re abroad. Talk to others who have lived in or visited that country. Familiarize yourself with its customs, history, economic situation and laws and check out the living conditions, environment, education and health systems.

Embrace your Host Family

While volunteering in abroad programs, your host family provides your accommodations, but they can also act as a strong support system for you. Spend time getting to know them and have conversations with them about the differences you’re experiencing! Many people are eager to learn about different cultures and lifestyles.

Pay attention to your surrounding

Observe and explore! Take it all in. Get to know residents by visiting them for tea or coffee. When you slowly digest your environment through observation and mindful interactions, you will open your mind to a different way of living.

Prioritize social connections

Living in a new environment away from what’s familiar may make you feel quite lonely or disconnected. That’s why it is so important to make friends with your fellow volunteers and keep in touch with friends and family back home. Spending time with people who speak the same language and are sharing the same volunteering abroad experience as you help create life-balance, whether it’s inside or outside of your program.

Find a language outlet

One thing I have done in the past is to listen to English music or download Netflix episodes on my phone. At the end of a long day of speaking only broken Spanish, relaxing with a little English TV or music time really helped me feel like I could reset and keep utilizing my foreign language skills the next day.

Chapter 8 : Completing Your Project and Returning Home

How can I continue to support my abroad volunteering program? What are some common concerns other volunteers have had? Will I have a chance to see other parts of the country?

Your volunteer program abroad will be an experience to treasure forever. Remember to take lots of photos of the places you visit, your host family and the people you work with in order to keep the wonderful memories fresh. They are also a great way to share your stories with your friends and family.

If you’re wondering how to volunteer responsibly , contribute to the development of volunteer programs by providing your organization and project with positive and constructive feedback, and writing honest reviews to help future volunteers. Sharing your memories on social media sites, or by email to the organizations involved (for them to use as a review or testimonial) or adding your experiences to volunteer discussion boards will really benefit others.

Talk to people from your project or volunteer organization about how you can offer remote support and help develop the program further. Keeping in touch is also a great way to monitor your project’s progress, and perhaps plan another visit.

Things to see and do while volunteering abroad

Whether you are looking for good food, shopping, nightlife, history, cultural immersion, action, adventure or relaxation, you will not need to look far to find it in the country you have chosen to volunteer in. During your volunteer placement make sure you take the time to discover the many wonders your new location has to offer.

Most Frequently Asked Questions by Volunteers

How will I get from the airport to my host family/volunteer abroad housing?

Your organization will arrange “meet and greet” transportation to your accommodation. Be sure to inform your organization about your flight times and find out where you will meet each other.

Will I have support from anyone in the host country?

Yes, in most instances in-country support is available, but it’s always best to check with your organization directly, and if so, obtain all contact details for them.

How many other volunteers will be on the program with me?

The number of volunteers varies from project to project and may depend on the season you volunteer in with summer being the most popular. Some projects only allow a certain number of volunteers at any one time, so it’s worth asking your volunteer agency or organization if that is the case.

If I volunteer with my friend can we be placed in the same volunteer work abroad and be housed together?

In most circumstances there should be no problem with this, but it’s best to make such plans known to your volunteer organization well in advance so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

Are meals and housing provided?

Most programs’ fees will include accommodation and 2-3 meals a day. Check with your program to find out exactly what is provided.

I am a vegetarian; will that be a problem?

Host families want to look after volunteers in the best possible way, and they are usually more than happy to work around dietary requirements. It is best however to advise your organization and host family before arriving so they are aware of the situation and can prepare accordingly.

Will my host family be able to speak English?

Most host families accommodating those who are volunteering abroad will speak some degree of English. However, you are visiting their country and living with them, so it is the perfect opportunity for you to learn or practice their language too.

Can I travel to other cities during my days off?

Yes, while volunteering it is recommended that you visit and explore as many destinations as you can.

Do I have to bring my own bedding and mosquito nets?

If you are placed with a host family, then bedding will be provided for you. However, if you are joining one of the programs based in areas which experience high humidity, such as coastal areas or the rainforest, then it is recommended you take a mosquito net, just in case.

What if I don’t speak the language?

If you don’t speak the native language then you should still be able to get by, but even knowing a few words and phrases will make your experience more fun so why not take some lessons, or teach yourself the basics before you go? Some placements require volunteers to have a certain level of proficiency in the host country’s language, especially in Latin America, so be sure to check if this applies to your chosen volunteer work abroad.

How will I get to my project every day?

That generally depends on the project you are working on. For some placements you may be able to walk , while for others you may need to use public transport. Check with your project provider about the transportation options available to you.

Can I speak with a previous volunteer from my chosen project?

Check your organizations website or call them to see if they offer any networking opportunities with people who have previously been a worked with them. If you are unable to contact anyone then use online volunteer reviews as a useful guide.

Where will I be working?

This will depend on the volunteer program abroad that you have signed up to do. Project locations range from rural villages, towns and cities to remote jungles. Check with your organization for the possible options across regions and project types.

What kind of food will I eat while I'm there?

Staying with a host family probably means you will get to experience traditional dishes. These vary between regions, so once you know where you’ll be placed it’s easy to research local specialties and diet.

How many hours per day will I be work?

Daily schedules vary from placement to placement, but the average is usually between 4 - 6 hours. Some projects may involve working early morning or late nights, so be sure to check what is expected of you with your volunteer organization.

How much money do I need to bring?

This depends on what you plan to do during your volunteer abroad experience. When accommodation and meals are provided you only need cash to cover any transportation costs to your project , and personal expenses such as souvenir shopping, soft drinks and snacks and essential toiletries. On the other hand, if you plan to travel around the country after your project ends, go sightseeing in your free time, eat out, socialize, take part in adventure activities, go shopping or visit local attractions you should factor this into your pre-trip budgeting.

This free e-book has been written to help volunteers and should be used as a general reference or source of information, rather than as a definitive or authoritative guide. We cannot guarantee the validity of information included as any changes in the general field or individual situations will not be recorded here. We will not be liable for any damages that might resulted from using this eBook without independently verifying the information.

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Best Places to Visit in Nizhny Novgorod

What are the best places to visit in nizhny novgorod.

• For medieval history : The Novgorod Kremlin, the nucleus of the city and a beacon of Russian power. Visit the fortress’s 13 towers, walk its walls for views of the city and river, and visit the exhibitions inside
• For industrial history : Visit the Open-Air Locomotive Museum to explore steam trains from the first half of the 20th century, or the GAZ History Museum to learn about the Gorky Automobile Factory, where the first Russian tank was created
• For beautiful streets and buildings : Nizhny is a marvel of contrasting architectural styles. Explore Rozhdestvenskaya and Bolshaya Pokrovskaya Streets, admire the State Bank, merchant mansions and Main Fair, and keep an eye out for many quirky statues
• For waterfront relaxation : Explore the Lower and Upper Volga Embankments, admire beautiful views from the Fedorovsky Embankment and cable car, and visit Russia’s longest stairs at the Chkhalov Staircase
• For religious sites : Visit the spectacular Stroganov Church, the more austere Spassky Old Fair Cathedral, the famous Church of the Nativity, and the Pechersky Ascension Monastery, one of the city’s spiritual centres
• For artistic highlights : Visit the State Art Museum’s collection of 15th-20th century European art, and discover the National Centre of Contemporary Art in the Kremlin’s former arsenal For folk culture: See traditional village architecture and learn about folk life at the Shchelokovsky Farm ethnographic museum, and discover the famous folk handicraft, Khokhloma, at the Khokhlomskaya Rospis factory and museum

Founded in 1221, Nizhny Novgorod became one of Russia’s most distinguished political and economic centres. Although a closed Soviet city from 1945 until 1991, today it is the fifth largest city in Russia, a vibrant hub attracting visitors from all over the world. Walk the historical streets and wide embankments, visit cultural and artistic institutions, and learn about the industrial past and folk heritage of one of Russia’s oldest cities. What are the best things to see and do in Nizhny Novgorod?

Learn about Nizhny Novgorod’s medieval history

Address: Ploshad  Minina and Pozharskogo, Nizhy Novgorod

Discover Nizhny Novgorod’s industrial history

Address: 1V, Utitsa Gorokhovetskaya,  Nizhy Novgorod Opening hours: 09:00 - 17:00 Mon-Sun

For those more interested in four-wheeled vehicles, take a trip to the GAZ History Museum to learn about the Gorky Automobile Plant, a joint venture between the Soviets and Ford and the production site of the first Soviet tank. See over 35,000 exhibits, including cars and military vehicles.

Address: 95, Prospekt Lenina,  Nizhy Novgorod Opening hours: 09:00 - 16:00 Mon-Sat

Explore the city streets and architectural marvels

Must-visit spots include the lively Rozhdestvenskaya and Bolshaya Pokrovskaya Streets, home to many restaurants, bars, and historical buildings. Some of Nizhny’s most striking architectural wonders include the State Bank, Rukavishnikov Estate, and the Nizhny Novgorod Fair, an enormous Classicist structure. This building housed the largest fair in the Russian Empire, with thousands of stalls; inside the building today you’ll find exhibitions about the history of Nizhny Novgorod.

Keep an eye out for many interesting statues dotted around Nizhny Novgorod’s streets – in particular the Gromozeka book characters, the Veselaya koza (funny goat), the monument to author Jules Verne in his iconic hot air balloon, and the monument to Minin and Pozharsky, defenders of Moscow against the Poles (whose remains lie in the Kremlin cathedral).

Enjoy the peaceful waterfront

Visit the city’s religious sites

Discover Nizhny Novgorod’s artistic highlights

Address: 3, Kreml, Nizhny Novgorod

At the other end of the artistic spectrum, a visit to the Arsenal National Centre of Contemporary Art is highly recommended. Nizhny’s only museum dedicated to modern art is housed in the former Kremlin arsenal. More than a museum, it is a research and cultural centre dedicated to modern artistic development, offering not just exhibitions but concerts, theatre performances, film nights and more.

Address: 6, Kreml, Nizhny Novgorod

Get a glimpse of Russian folk culture and traditions

Shchelokovsky farm.

Visit this fascinating ethnographic museum to learn about the history of everyday life and folk customs of people living in the Nizhny Novgorod Volga region, and admire the wooden village architecture spanning from the 1600 – 1800s. While there, take a stroll around the surrounding forest and discover its wildlife, protected by local environmental programmes.

Address: 41, Gorbatovskaya Ulitsa, Nizhny Novgorod Opening hours: 10:00 - 17:00 Tue-Sun

Khokhlomskaya Rospis

Address: 18, Ulitsa Chkalova, Semenov, Nizhny Novgorod Oblast Opening hours: 08:00 - 17:00 Mon-Fri

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Nizhny Novgorod: A ‘Russian Detroit’ from 19th to 21st centuries (PHOTOS)

Dmitrievskaya Tower through the centuries.

Founded in 1221, Nizhny Novgorod (260 miles east of Moscow) is still one of the most visited and populated Russian cities (it has more than 1.2 million inhabitants). Its ancient kremlin, cozy paved streets with centuries-old buildings (a regular city plan was adopted after Empress Cathrine the Great visited the city in 1767) and scenic views of the Volga River warm the hearts of locals and tourists. By the way, many people confuse it with Veliky Novgorod (established in 859) in the north-west of Russia. In Russian, the word ‘Novgorod’ literally means “new city” and, luckily, there are only two in the whole country: ‘Lower new city’ and ‘Great new city’. One of the oldest and largest automobile plants that produces GAZ cars is still located in Nizhny (Russians often omit ‘Novgorod’) - and that’s why the city is often known as the ‘Russian Detroit’. In Soviet times, it bore the name of main Soviet writer Maxim Gorky , who was born there.

And despite its steel and metal history, today, Nizhny Novgorod has the poetic epithet of the capital of sunsets. We compared some vintage and recent photos of the city.

Dmitrievskaya Tower in 1913 and in 2021.

The stone citadel of Nizhny Novgorod was built in the 16th century around the Chasovaya (Sentry) Hill. Here is the most famous view of the fortress with the Dmitrievskaya Tower. Previously, a moat was dug in front of the tower, which was filled with water. At the end of the 18th century, the moat was filled and the tower sunk about 6 meters into the ground. The tower received its a-la Rus facade only at the end of the 19th century. 

2. National Unity Square 

Skoba square, 1957 / Monument to Minin and Pozharsky nowadays.

On Moscow’s Red Square, there is a monument to Minin and Pozharsky , who were the leaders of the people’s militia against the Polish intervention of 1611. Interestingly, exactly the same monument stands in Nizhny Novgorod! And all because the militia gathered there. City official Kuzma Minin called on all residents to fight and Prince Dmitry Pozharsky was chosen as the militia head. The date of Moscow’s liberation from the Poles (November 4) has been celebrated as National Unity Day in Russia since 2005. In the same year, Nizhny Novgorod’s Skoba Square, where the militia gathered, was renamed ‘National Unity Square’ and a monument to the two national heroes was erected there, as well.

3. Chkalov staircase

View on Nizhny Novgorod kremlin, Dyatlov hills and Chkalov stairs, 1886 and now.

With 560 steps, these are some of the longest stairs in Russia! The site where this staircase was built was called the ‘Volga Downhill’ and was very popular among locals, since it had one of the most picturesque views of the Volga. The stairs, named after a pilot named Valery Chkalov, connect the upper and lower embankments in the historical center of Nizhny Novgorod. Among the architects was Lev Rudnev , who worked in the Stalinist Empire style and designed the Moscow State University and the Palace of Culture and Science in Warsaw.

4. Kremlin funicular

Kremlin funicular in operation... and in ruins.

Amazing: At the end of the 19th century, in the center of Nizhny Novgorod, two funiculars operated near the kremlin. They literally worked on water. Imagine a water tank in the car: filled at the upper station, empty at the lower station. When one car went down, the lower one went up under its gravity. They would move at the same time. The funiculars were abandoned in the 1920s, when a tram line was completed. Today, only ruins remain in place of the historical funiculars, although the city administration has already promised to recreate this type of transport. There still is one funicular operating in Nizhny Novgorod, which connects it with the city of Bor on the other side of the Volga River.

5. Bolshaya Pokrovskaya Street 

Bolshaya Pokrovskaya street in 1880s and 2021.

The main street of Nizhny Novgorod has undergone many changes over the centuries. Before the revolution of 1917, it was the favorite area of nobles to settle. Along the street, you can still see old stone mansions, theaters, churches. One of the most beautiful buildings is the main state bank built in Neo-Russian style. It was opened for the 300th anniversary of the Romanov house in 1913. At the beginning of the 20th century, a tram line passed there - one of the first in Russia. But, since the 1980s, the street has become pedestrian only.

6. Rozhdestvenskaya Street

Rozhdestvenskaya Street in 1890s and 2020.

A historical tram line has been preserved on the other oldest street, Rozhdestvenskaya. However, now it’s a tourist transport and it operates only in summer. The street has also preserved its appearance since pre-revolutionary times. There, you can see almost all the same buildings that were in Tsarist Russia, including the Stroganov and Golitsyn estates, the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Blinov Passage - the first shopping center outside of Moscow and St. Petersburg.

Construction of the Burevestnik station, 1996 / Burevestnik station, 2009.

Nizhny Novgorod is one of the seven Russian cities with its own underground transport. The metro here was opened in 1985: In Soviet times, only cities with the population over 1 million residents had a subway. It consists of only two lines and sees about 115,000 commuters a day, which makes it less popular than ground transports. In the near future, there are plans to build new stations on the other side of the Oka River.

8. Referees Tower

Before and after restoration, 2021.

The Referees Tower built in the Neo-constructivist style on the embankment of the Grebnoy Canal was built in 1988 for the 2nd All-Union Youth Rowing Games. Over time, it was severely destroyed and only recently restored, for the 800th anniversary of the city. Of course, with cafes and places to relax. It’s beautiful, isn’t it?

9. GAZ automobile plant

The first car assembly plant, 1930 / Gorky Automobile Plant, 2021.

The GAZ (Gorky Automobile Plant) plant in Nizhny Novgorod became one of the first in Russia. Early models of trucks and passenger cars were produced under a Ford license. In the 1920s-1930s, American specialists also helped to build the plant itself and the socialist city for workers In the post-war years, the ‘Volga’ and ‘Chaika’ cars were the most expensive among Soviet cars - a citizen’s dream! These days, the plant still operates, but produces mainly trucks and minibuses.

10. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral 

High water in Nizhny Novgorod, 1890s/ The same district nowadays.

The Cathedral Church of Nizhny Novgorod is located in one of the most picturesque places of the city - on the arrow of the Volga and the Oka rivers. People used to call it ‘fair church’, since its parishioners were merchants who came to fairs from all over the country. It also was only open in the summertime. In the Soviet years, the iconostasis was dismantled for firewood to heat houses and then it was even planned to demolish it altogether and build a lighthouse and a monument to Lenin on the same site. Nevertheless, the cathedral was preserved (in the 1980s, it was restored by volunteers) and, in 2009, was reinstated as the city’s main church.

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