Volunteer Abroad Programs | IVHQ | Award-Winning & Low-Cost

Zero risk booking! Free changes & full refund options 134,474 volunteers since 2007 Destinations Destinations Volunteer in North America Mexico USA Volunteer in Central America Costa Rica Guatemala Volunteer in the Caribbean Belize Jamaica Puerto Rico Trinidad and Tobago Volunteer in South America Argentina Brazil Colombia Ecuador Galapagos Islands Peru Volunteer in Europe Croatia Greece Italy Portugal Romania Spain Volunteer in Africa Ghana Kenya Madagascar Morocco Namibia South Africa Tanzania Victoria Falls Zambia Zanzibar Volunteer in the Middle East Jordan Volunteer in Asia Bali Cambodia China India Laos Nepal Philippines Sri Lanka Thailand Vietnam Volunteer in the Pacific Australia Fiji New Zealand Browse all destinations Projects Projects Increase access to education Childcare Teaching Arts & Music Protect animals & the environment Sea Turtle & Marine Conservation Wildlife & Animal Care Environment & Conservation Climate Action Improve health & wellbeing Medical & Health Dentistry Special Needs Care Sports Elderly Care Support community development Construction & Renovation Community Development Christmas Volunteering Women's Empowerment NGO Support Refugee Support Browse all projects Travel Styles Travel Styles By life stage Teens (16+) Gap Year University & College Students 20s 30s Over 40s Seniors / Retirees By travel style First Time Travelers Solo Travelers Budget Travelers Comfort Seekers Couples & Honeymoons Families Service Learning Study Abroad Medical Volunteers Mission Trips International Internships By group type Family & Friend Groups High School Groups College Student Groups Faculty-led Groups Corporate Groups Medical & Healthcare Groups Group Volunteering Browse all travel styles How it works How it works Getting started How It Works Find Your Perfect Program Pricing Zero Risk Booking Policy FAQs Preparing for your trip Travel Insurance Flights Training & Courses Free-Time Experiences & Tours Resources Guide For First Time Travelers Solo Female Volunteer Stories Information For Parents Travel Guides & Inspiring Stories Webinars Universities & Colleges Earning Academic Credit Information For Faculty & Staff University & College Students College Student Groups Faculty-led Groups Mental Health & Wellbeing Volunteer Health & Safety Pricing About About About IVHQ About Us Why Volunteer Abroad With IVHQ? Our Impact Ethical & Responsible Volunteering B Corporation Certification Volunteer Health & Safety Mental Health & Wellbeing Explore Intern Abroad HQ Reviews & awards Reviews & Testimonials Awards Trustpilot Reviews IVHQ Legends Contact Contact Us Get Program Recommendations Subscribe To Our Newsletter Contact us Apply Login 134,474 volunteers since 2007 Contact Apply MyIVHQ Popular IVHQ help tools: Project Search Tool My Wishlist Apply now Where can I go? What can I do? How much does it cost? Read our FAQs Home Destinations

Volunteer Abroad Programs

Discover the best volunteer opportunities abroad in over 50 destinations with International Volunteer HQ

International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) is the world’s leading volunteer travel organization - trusted by 134,474 volunteers since 2007. With volunteer abroad programs starting from just $20 per day including accommodation, you won’t find a more affordable and trustworthy organization for impactful volunteer vacations, gap years, volunteer trips abroad, or an alternative break.

You can volunteer overseas with IVHQ for durations ranging from 1 week to 24 weeks, with volunteering abroad programs available year round in Africa , Asia , South America , Central America , North America , Europe , the Caribbean , the Middle East and the Pacific .

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Belize Jamaica Puerto Rico Trinidad and Tobago South America ×

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Argentina Brazil Colombia Ecuador Galapagos Islands Peru Europe ×

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Croatia Greece Italy Portugal Romania Spain Middle East ×

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Ghana Kenya Madagascar Morocco Namibia South Africa Tanzania Victoria Falls Zambia Zanzibar Asia ×

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Bali Cambodia China India Laos Nepal Philippines Sri Lanka Thailand Vietnam Pacific ×

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Or explore by destination:

Australia Fiji New Zealand Africa Asia Caribbean Central America Europe Middle East North America Pacific South America

See the world. Immerse yourself. Make a difference.

300+ projects across 40+ countries

Volunteer programs running in more countries than anyone else

Most affordable & flexible

Fully hosted experiences from only $20 per day including accommodation

Ethical, responsible & regenerative

We're a Certified B Corporation

Impact driven programs run by locals

Supports long-term employment for local communities

Volunteer Abroad Opportunities

Volunteering abroad with IVHQ enables you to make meaningful contributions to community projects in the areas of education, healthcare, construction, childcare, community development, conservation, social enterprise, volunteering with animals, wildlife and more. Browse by project type .

Looking for inspiration on where to volunteer abroad? Here’s where you can make a difference with IVHQ:

All regions Africa & Middle East North & South America Asia Europe Pacific All regions All regions Africa & Middle East North & South America Asia Europe Pacific

Volunteer in Argentina

Buenos Aires Córdoba 1 - 12 weeks Ages 16+ and families Program Fees from $350 Projects Animal Care Childcare Community Outreach Construction and Renovation Elderly Care Healthcare Holiday Experience Medical Outreach Special Needs Care Sports Education Sports Teaching/Education Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Australia

Cairns 1 - 4 weeks Ages 18+ Program Fees from $1035 Projects Marine Conservation Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Bali

Lovina Ubud & Nusa Penida 1 - 12 weeks Ages 16+ and families Program Fees from $385 Projects Construction and Renovation Environmental Education Health Education Childcare Teaching Sea Turtle Conservation Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Belize

Private island off the Caribbean coast of Belize 1 - 8 weeks Ages 16+ and families Program Fees from $1050 Projects Marine Conservation Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Brazil

Rio de Janeiro and surrounding suburbs 2 - 24 weeks Ages 18+ Program Fees from $570 Projects Carnival Childcare Community Development Sports Teaching English Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Cambodia

Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Battambang 2 - 24 weeks Ages 18+ and families Program Fees from $430 Projects Animal Care Childcare Medical Special Needs Care Teaching English Working with NGOs Learn more Apply

Volunteer in China

Xi’an and surrounding suburbs 1 - 24 weeks Ages 18+ and families Program Fees from $335 Projects Special Needs Care Summer Outreach Teaching Teaching English Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Colombia

Medellín 1 - 12 weeks Ages 18+ Program Fees from $345 Projects Childcare & Youth Support Elderly Care Environmental Conservation Special Needs Support Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Costa Rica

Manuel Antonio San Jose & surrounding areas 1 - 24 weeks Ages 16+ and families Program Fees from $445 Projects in San Jose & surrounding areas Animal Care Childcare Construction and Renovation Dentistry Eco-Agriculture Healthcare Holiday Experience Medical Campaign Special Needs Care Teaching English Volunteer Summer Camp for Independent Teens Turtle Conservation Projects in Manuel Antonio Animal Care Childcare Healthcare Teaching English Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Croatia

The coastal hub of Split, located on the Mediterranean Sea 1 - 12 weeks Ages 16+ and families Program Fees from $1100 Projects Animal Care Bear Conservation Content Creator For Impact Marine Conservation Special Needs Support Youth Support Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Ecuador

Quito 1 - 12 weeks Ages 18+ and families Program Fees from $295 Projects Community Development Childcare Music NGO Support Physical Education School Break School Support Shelter Support Street Children Work Teaching English Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Fiji

Sigatoka on the Coral Coast of Fiji 1 - 12 weeks Ages 17+ and families Program Fees from $450 Projects Construction and Renovation Childcare Sports Education Teaching Learn more Apply

Volunteer in the Galapagos Islands

Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island 2 - 12 weeks Ages 18+ and families Program Fees from $1420 Projects Conservation Marketing & Social Media Environmental Conservation Giant Tortoise Conservation Sea Turtle Nest Monitoring Sustainable Agriculture & Gardening Teaching English Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Ghana

Greater Accra Region 1 - 24 weeks Ages 18+ Program Fees from $380 Projects Agriculture Childcare Construction and Renovation Healthcare Outreach and Education Medical Sports Teaching Teaching English Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Greece

Athens 1 - 12 weeks Ages 18+ and families Program Fees from $690 Projects Animal Care Community Support Content Creator For Impact Ethical Fashion Homeless Support Special Needs Support Sports & Arts With Refugees Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Guatemala

Antigua and Sipacate 1 - 24 weeks Ages 16+ and families Program Fees from $385 Projects Animal Care Childcare Construction and Renovation Dentistry Eco-Agriculture Holiday Experience Mayan Cultural Immersion Medical Campaign Medical Special Needs Care Teaching English Working with the Elderly Learn more Apply

Volunteer in India

Delhi Kerala 1 - 24 weeks Ages 18+ and families Program Fees from $330 Projects Childcare Dentistry Medical Medical Campaign Physical Therapy Slum Teaching Special Needs Care Teaching English Teaching Women's Empowerment Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Italy

Rome 2 - 12 weeks Ages 18+ and families Program Fees from $1635 Projects Animal Care Climate Action Content Creator For Impact Sustainable Farming Teaching English Youth Support Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Jamaica

Ocho Rios 1 - 4 weeks Ages 18+ and families Program Fees from $525 Projects Animal Care Business and Community Development Child and Youth Development Christmas Break Childcare Special Education Sports Development Sustainable Agriculture & Community Development Teaching English & School Support Veterinary Care Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Jordan

Amman 1 - 12 weeks 16+ accompanied or 18+ Program Fees from $854 Projects Arts and Music Ramadan Special Needs Support Teaching Women's Education Youth Support Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Kenya

Nairobi, Nakuru, Maasai, and surrounding rural villages 1 - 12 weeks Ages 18+ and families Program Fees from $375 Projects Childcare Special Needs Care Sports Education Teaching Women's Education Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Laos

Luang Prabang in northern Laos 1 - 12 weeks Ages 16+ and families Program Fees from $285 Projects Childcare Construction and Renovation Teaching English Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Madagascar

Nosy Komba, Nosy Be, Ampohana Beach and surrounding islands 1 - 12 weeks Ages 18+ and families Program Fees from $500 Projects Community Development Forest Conservation Island Outreach Marine Conservation Teaching Turtle Conservation Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Mexico

Mérida, Yucatán state on Mexico's Caribbean Coast 1 - 24 weeks Ages 18+ and families Program Fees from $345 Projects Animal Care Childcare Special Needs Care Sustainable Agriculture Teaching English Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Morocco

Rabat, Casablanca and Sale 1 - 24 weeks Ages 18+ and families Program Fees from $395 Projects Childcare Ramadan Sports Development Teaching English Teaching French Women's Empowerment Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Namibia

Wildlife sanctuary in the central highlands 2 - 24 weeks Ages 18+ and 12+ accompanied Program Fees from $1196 Projects Wildlife Conservation Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Nepal

Kathmandu, Chitwan, and Pokhara 1 - 12 weeks Ages 16+ and families Program Fees from $275 Projects Childcare Construction and Renovation Elephant Conservation Medical Campaign Medical Elective NGO Support Special Needs Care Sustainable Agriculture Teaching English Women's Education Learn more Apply

Volunteer in New Zealand

Auckland 2 - 12 weeks Ages 18+ and families Program Fees from $1070 Projects Coastline Conservation and Education Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Peru

Cusco Lima 1 - 24 weeks Ages 16+ and families Program Fees from $275 Projects Andean Immersion Animal Care Childcare Community Support Construction and Renovation Dentistry Eco-Agriculture Conservation Holiday Experience Amazon Jungle Conservation Medical Campaign Medical Medical Outreach Special Needs Care Teaching English Learn more Apply

Volunteer in the Philippines

Aborlan District on the island of Palawan 1 - 24 weeks Ages 16+ and families Program Fees from $380 Projects Construction and Renovation Environmental Conservation Childcare Teaching Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Portugal

Lisbon, Albufeira and Mafra 1 - 12 weeks Ages 16+ and families Program Fees from $615 Projects Animal Care Environmental Scuba Diving Food Rescue Forest Conservation Homeless Support Upcycling For Social Good Biological Park Conservation Wolf Conservation Youth Support Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico's coastal capital of San Juan 1 - 12 weeks Ages 16+ and families Program Fees from $625 Projects Community Development Environmental Sustainability Volunteer Summer Camp for Independent Teens Youth Support Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Romania

Miercurea Ciuc, Harghita 1 - 24 weeks Ages 16+ and families Program Fees from $504 Projects After School Support Animal Care NGO Support Special Needs Support Summer Camp Community Gardening Teaching English Learn more Apply

Volunteer in South Africa

Kruger Table View Cape Town 1 - 24 weeks Ages 18+ and families Program Fees from $275 Projects Animal Care Childcare Holiday Club Marine Conservation Sports Development Surf Outreach Surf, Skate and Swim Teaching Wildlife Conservation Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Spain

Barcelona, on the northeast coast of Spain 1 - 12 weeks Ages 18+ Program Fees from $780 Projects Animal Care Community Support Content Creator For Impact Food Rescue Forest Conservation Marine Conservation Migrant and Refugee Support Special Needs Support Youth Support Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Sri Lanka

Kandy and Wasgamuwa National Park 1 - 12 weeks Ages 16+ and families Program Fees from $380 Projects Childcare Medical Rural Community Development Special Needs Care Teaching Construction and Renovation Turtle Conservation Women's Education Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Tanzania

Arusha and surrounding suburbs 1 - 16 weeks Ages 16+ and families Program Fees from $295 Projects Animal Welfare Childcare Construction and Renovation Maasai Immersion Medical Sustainable Agriculture Teaching Women's Education Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Thailand

Hua Hin Chiang Rai 1 - 12 weeks Ages 16+ and families Program Fees from $305 Projects Animal Care Childcare Construction & Renovation Environmental Conservation Hill Tribe Support Outdoor Volunteer Work Teaching English Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Trinidad and Tobago

1 - 4 weeks Ages 18+ and families Program Fees from $620 Projects Animal Care Childcare Marine Conservation Sports Development Teaching & School Support Turtle Conservation Women's Empowerment Learn more Apply

Volunteer in the United States

New Orleans 1 - 12 weeks Volunteer groups of 8+ Program Fees from $635 Projects Community Development Construction and Renovation Environmental Sustainability Youth Support Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Victoria Falls

Private game reserve in Victoria Falls 2 - 12 weeks Ages 16+ and families Program Fees from $1045 Projects Wildlife Conservation Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City and surrounding suburbs 1 - 24 weeks Ages 16+ and families Program Fees from $300 Projects Food Outreach Childcare Medical Special Needs Care Teaching English Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Zambia

Livingstone and surrounding suburbs 1 - 16 weeks Ages 18+ and families Program Fees from $385 Projects Construction and Renovation Elderly Care Childcare Medical Rural Teaching Teaching Learn more Apply

Volunteer in Zanzibar

Matemwe and Jozani 1 - 12 weeks Ages 16+ and families Program Fees from $565 Projects Coastal and Marine Conservation Project Rainforest and Coastal Conservation Learn more Apply

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FAQs

What is volunteering abroad?

Volunteering abroad involves traveling to a foreign country or region with the purpose of dedicating your time, energy, skills, and efforts to assist local communities, organizations, or projects. It can encompass a diverse range of volunteer activities that contribute to the betterment of society, such as education, healthcare, environmental conservation, wildlife conservation, community development, and more.

Through volunteering abroad, you have the unique opportunity to truly immerse yourself in a different culture, broaden your global perspective, and make a positive impact on the lives of others. This experience enables you to step out of your comfort zone, acquire new skills, and create meaningful connections with local communities and other volunteers from around the world.

Why should I volunteer abroad?

There are a number of reasons why volunteering abroad can be a transformative and rewarding experience for international volunteers. These include:

Make a positive impact: To make a tangible difference in the lives of others and contribute to meaningful causes Cultural immersion: To immerse yourself in a new culture and gain a deeper understanding of different customs, traditions, and ways of life Explore new destinations: To explore exciting destinations around the world and travel with purpose Personal growth: To develop new skills, build self-confidence, adapt to unfamiliar situations, and overcome obstacles Make new friends: To build international connections and form long-lasting relationships with people from diverse backgrounds, including fellow volunteers and local community members Career enhancement: To showcase to future employers your commitment, adaptability, cross-cultural understanding, and ability to work in diverse environments

Learn about how volunteering abroad has supported the growth and development of previous IVHQ volunteers.

What are the requirements to volunteer abroad?

To volunteer abroad with IVHQ, you generally need to be at least 18 years old (with some programs available for younger participants), have a good command of English (knowledge of the local language may be beneficial in some cases), and meet any specific requirements for certain projects (ie. Medical projects).

What skills do you need to volunteer abroad?

Most volunteer programs do not require specific skills or technical expertise - all you need is a passion for making a difference and a willingness to learn. Beneficial skills for volunteering abroad can include communication, cultural sensitivity, empathy, flexibility, teamwork, problem-solving, and patience.

How long can I volunteer abroad for?

IVHQ offers you the flexibility to choose the duration of your volunteer abroad program with options ranging from 1 week to 24 weeks. Note that some programs may have minimum duration requirements so this is important to take into consideration when selecting your volunteer program.

Are there any age restrictions for volunteering abroad?

There is no age limit to volunteering abroad - IVHQ has hosted volunteers up to 88 years-old on programs. In fact, volunteering abroad is becoming an increasingly popular way for older adults to see the world, be immersed in new cultures, and engage in a regenerative form of travel. When choosing a volunteer program, older volunteers may wish to consider factors such as physical demands and accommodations to ensure a comfortable and fulfilling experience. These volunteer program recommendations for over 40s is the perfect place to start your search.

Where can I volunteer abroad?

There are numerous destinations around the world where you can volunteer abroad. IVHQ offers programs in 40+ countries across Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Pacific. When deciding where to volunteer abroad, you should consider the type of cause you want to support, your skills and interests, destinations you would like to visit, how long you can commit to, and your budget. IVHQ has a helpful volunteer program search tool that enables you to find the perfect program tailored to your unique requirements.

What are some popular destinations for volunteering abroad?

Some popular destinations for volunteering abroad include:

Tanzania South Africa Bali Thailand Costa Rica Guatemala Peru Portugal

You can learn more about IVHQ’s top-rated volunteer programs in the Best Volunteer Abroad Programs for 2024 Guide .

How does volunteering abroad work?

Volunteering abroad through IVHQ follows a guided process that ensures you feel supported every step of the way. Regardless of whether you’re a first-timer or experienced traveler, the IVHQ team is committed to ensuring you have access to superior tools and support services both before you leave home and after you arrive in country. The steps involved in volunteering abroad are:

Research and choosing a program Application Pre-Departure preparations Fundraising and financing Training and orientation In-country orientation and volunteer experience Reflection and post-volunteering activities

All IVHQ volunteers receive access to a comprehensive Pre-Departure Checklist, Program Guide and Online Volunteer Training Course so you can ensure you are properly prepared and have ticked off all the essential steps before embarking on a volunteer abroad trip.

How much does it cost to volunteer abroad?

The cost of volunteering abroad with IVHQ varies depending on factors like the program duration, destination, and specific project. Program fees start from as low as $20/day and include accommodation, meals, airport pickup, orientation, local support, and emergency assistance. IVHQ also requires a registration fee. Additional expenses may include flights, travel insurance, visas, vaccinations, and personal expenses. To find the cheapest volunteer programs and compare your options, visit the Affordable Volunteer Program Fees page.

Is it possible to volunteer abroad for free?

It is unlikely that you can volunteer abroad for free as most volunteer programs have associated costs, including flights, accommodation, meals and other living expenses. However, you may be able to minimize expenses through grants, scholarships, fundraising, or by participating in exchange programs. To learn more about offsetting your travel costs, see How To Volunteer Abroad For Free .

What types of volunteer work can I do abroad?

Volunteer work abroad encompasses a wide range of opportunities, including:

Teaching Childcare Medical and Health Dentistry Sea Turtle and Marine Conservation Wildlife and Animal Care Construction and Renovation Environment and Conservation Climate Action Community Development Special Needs Care Sports Women’s Empowerment

IVHQ has the world’s largest range of volunteer work opportunities with 300+ programs available in 40+ countries.

Are there any testimonials or success stories from previous volunteers?

You can find success stories from previous international volunteers through the IVHQ Blog or IVHQ Reviews .

How to get started

Pick a destination + project and apply for free Meet your personal volunteer travel expert Pay the Registration Fee to secure your place and upgrade your MyIVHQ account Get ready to volunteer abroad, we’ll support you every step of the way! Apply now

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Posted by Jack Read more Comments (15) 2024.02.07 21:06