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 volunteers 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 2023, 2024 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, an 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 2023 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, Asia, Central America, South America and Europe are booking up quickly for 2023, 2024 and beyond. 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 selected 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 a volunteer holiday. It’s also home to the astounding Mount Kilimanjaro and some incredible wildlife, making it a nature and animal lover’s paradise.
Many choose to combine our volunteer programs in Tanzania with a safari tour, hiking or even a trip to Zanzibar during the weekends.
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 Abroad in Zanzibar
Looking to unplug from everyday life and reconnect with nature? Located off the coast of Tanzania, the island of Zanzibar boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, unique wildlife, charming locals and vibrant culture.
IVHQ’s Zanzibar program is perfect for animal and nature lovers who 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 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 unique opportunity to go off the beaten track to help protect delicate ecosystems, preserve natural spaces and tackle climate change. Volunteering in Zanzibar can easily be combined with IVHQ’s Tanzania program too.
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 itself. 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 Zambia 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 and was even named one of the Lonely Planet’s top trending destinations for 2023 thanks to its thrilling activities! Whether you want to swim on the ledge of a mighty waterfall or take a walking safari, Zambia is the perfect spot to witness nature at its best while making a positive impact within the community.
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 project with one from Cape Town!
Volunteer Abroad in Ghana
Volunteers on the Ghana program consistently rave about the immersive cultural experience and welcoming community vibes. And this has been reflected in the Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel for 2023, where Accra, Ghana (where IVHQ’s program is based) was named one of the top places to connect with the local community! 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 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 2023 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. This program is also a great option for foodies, as South Africa has been named one of the top places to eat in the Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel for 2023!
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.
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 12 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 10 different project options, 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 $250 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.
Volunteer Abroad in Ecuador
Volunteers on our Ecuador volunteer program can choose from a range of volunteer abroad projects, including Teaching English, Street Children Work, School Support, 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.
If you’re looking for volunteer opportunities in Ecuador in a more coastal setting, explore the volunteer project options in Santa Elena, based on the Pacific coast.
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
Our Belize program is based on a stunning private island 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 place for you to immerse yourself in the pulsing culture of the Caribbean while making a positive impact in the local community. Jamaica was named one of the best places to unwind this year in the Lonely Planet’s Best In Travel list for 2023, thanks to its beautiful beaches, mountain peaks, waterfalls, and laid back vibes!
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 the USA
Our USA volunteer programs bring people from all walks of life together under one common cause. This is a unique opportunity to support local organizations and NGOs that work to empower marginalized communities, minority populations and important environmental causes in two of the most vibrant cities in the US.
With volunteer programs in San Diego and New Orleans, this is an exciting chance for Americans to gain a new cultural perspective without crossing any borders, or international volunteers to get a taste of American culture and history while helping those in need.
Whether you want to help the homeless, combat pollution, build homes for those in need or provide safe spaces for young people - IVHQ’s volunteer programs in America empower you to help overcome some of the greatest social and environmental challenges of our time.
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.
Volunteer Abroad in Portugal
Lisbon is the capital of Portugal and one of the most vibrant cultural cities in Europe. 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 this part of the world get back on its feet.
As requested, IVHQ have opened an exciting new Forest Conservation project in Portugal. This involves helping restore native forests just outside of Lisbon to help tackle climate change and protect precious ecosystems.
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 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 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, you’ll be immersed in this historic Spanish 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. This has led to Jordan being named one of the top places to unwind in the Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel for 2023!
We’re incredibly proud that our Jordan program was shortlisted as a finalist for the Innovative New Volunteer Abroad Program Award in the GoAbroad Awards in 2020. Our local coordinator of this unique program 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.
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?
Please note: IVHQ’s Asia volunteer programs are due to open in early 2023, apart from Nepal which is already open and hosting volunteers. If you’re interested in one of our Asia programs, you can still apply and register now. Your Program Manager will let you know if it is not going to open in time for your chosen dates so you can change your plans for free thanks to our flexible booking policy.
Volunteer Abroad in Nepal
Volunteer in Nepal in 2023 or 2024 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 loacted in Kathmandu, Chitwan, Chitlang and Pokhara. IVHQ’s 2023 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 have found there’s plenty of sightseeing opportunities and local attractions to explore in your free time. A special one week program is also available if you’re looking for short-term volunteer opportunities in Asia.
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, which is an eclectic old town recognized by Lonely Planet as one of the world’s top 10 cities to visit in 2020. 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. Learn more about becoming a volunteer in Vietnam.
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 coutry 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.
Meals
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.
Impact
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.
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 abrod 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 2023
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 2023? Check out IVHQ’s volunteer programs in the places that’ll be buzzing in the year ahead, according to the Lonely Planet:
Connect with local communities in Ghana: Want to immerse yourself in African culture and connect with locals in an authentic way? IVHQ’s Ghana program is based in Accra, a city bursting with energy, bustling markets, creative spaces, and a vibrant music scene.
Unwind in Jordan’s vast deserts and lakes: Volunteering in Jordan gives you the chance to slow down, support meaningful projects, and reconnect with yourself. In your free time, you might find yourself unwinding in peaceful places like Wadi Rum or the Dead Sea.
Journey through Zambia with thrilling activities: Craving some adventure? How about swimming on the ledge of a mighty waterfall or a walking safari? Volunteering in Zambia is the perfect way to witness nature at its best while making a positive impact within the community.
Eat your way through South Africa: Want to volunteer and make a difference, while getting to sample some of the world’s best culinary delights? South Africa’s new generation of chefs is propelling the country’s foodie scene forward, so it’s time to get tasting (and volunteering)!
Unwind in Jamaica’s serene surroundings: The “glow” you get from giving back as a volunteer perfectly compliments Jamaica’s laid back vibes. And it’s impossible not to feel at peace when you’re surrounded by beautiful beaches, mountain peaks, and waterfalls!
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