Ecology Programs Abroad

Lying in the crystal-clear tropical waters of the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Tao’s abundant and diverse coral reefs offer some of the finest scuba diving found anywhere on the planet! The perfect location to maximize your diving and reef ecology experience, this exciting and in-depth program has been specifically designed for volunteers wishing to engage in marine conservation activities that protect, restore, and conserve Koh Tao’s coral reefs. With both 4 and 8-week programs available, get ready for a comprehensive marine conservation experience! If you're looking for a little more, join us for a full 12 weeks and complete an award-winning Divemaster training course, which is perfect if you wish to achieve a professional diving qualification that allows you to transform your passion into a paid job!

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservation, Medical Outreach, and Environmental Sustainability. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported over 155,000 volunteers on life-changing journeys. We specialize in fully-hosted volunteer trips that are safe, affordable, and accessible—starting from just $20 per day. Your experience includes airport pick-up, accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock support from our local teams. With flexible booking options and no change fees, planning your volunteer adventure has never been easier. Our programs run year-round and are available for 1 to 24 weeks across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, South and Central America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Volunteering with IVHQ is about more than giving back; it’s about growing, learning, and building genuine global connections.

Join this amazing project and work alongside top researchers and an experienced crew as the boat sails through the waters around Naples, Italy. As part of the team, you’ll take turns scanning the waters as you try to find dolphins, whales, and other marine life. You may be asked to monitor the audio equipment, video equipment, or photography equipment both on deck and below deck to see the animals’ behavior underwater. When the encounter is over, volunteers will help enter the data into the computer system. The research done in this project is analyzed to provide crucial data to agencies that protect marine life and evaluate the effects of shipping vessels and fisheries on the marine ecosystem.

It's the kind of ocean expedition that aspiring marine biologists dream of—17 days on a live-aboard floating classroom: sailing, diving, and exploring the fascinating waters of the Caribbean. Set sail for a one-of-a-kind adventure with a small group of marine science enthusiasts just like you. You'll be part of a crew of seafarers whose curiosity about the ocean, marine species, and the role of marine parks will lead the team deep into the Caribbean's underwater realm. Chart a course for St. Bart's where you'll earn your PADI Open Water or Advanced Open Water certification. After studying and refining your skills, it's time to hit the water and observe the underwater species and phenomena the Caribbean is known for. Lessons aboard the yacht truly come to life when you dive below the surface and witness what you've just learned. In Saba, marvel at pinnacles rising 100 feet from the ocean floor and dive among groupers, jacks, sea turtles, and alien-like corals. In just 17 days, you'll see and do more than you ever thought possible and leave with lasting friendships, incredible memories, and a desire to build upon all that you've accomplished.

Global Works specializes in teen service trips and educational experiences to Costa Rica for high school and middle school students. These student travel programs have been our most popular over the years for good reason. Incredible biodiversity and a welcoming culture make Costa Rica an awesome choice for a summer adventure. Global Works offers volunteer programs in different focus areas. We offer opportunities for community service, Spanish immersion, cultural exchange, pre-med and public health, wildlife, adventure travel, and a middle school-focused program to this special corner of the globe. Program Options: * Costa Rica: Service & Sand (15 days) * Costa Rica: Wildlife Adventure (17 days) * Costa Rica: Intro to Pre-Med & Public Health (17 days) * Costa Rica: Middle School Service Adventure (10 days)

Our next trip dates are as follows: June 10-17, 2023 (1 week) June 17-25, 2023 (1 week) June 10-25, 2023 (2 weeks) January 5-13, 2024 (1 week) Sustainable Action Costa Rica is an eight-day, intensive, and fun-filled program during your winter break or gap year. You'll experience social and environmental sustainability in action. We'll tackle questions like: - How did Costa Rica become a renowned example of success in environmental conservation? - What does it mean to move the world in a sustainable direction? - Is Costa Rica a fitting role model for sustainable development in larger nations? Along the way, we'll do some hiking, waterfall swimming, relaxing in hot springs, and a lot of other fun group activities! With more than 50 years of experience engaging students and young professionals in life-changing cultural exchange programs, InterExchange is your ideal guide for personal growth and adventure.

This beachside program in the Dominican Republic is designed for students who want their summer to feel both meaningful and unforgettable. Over eight days, you’ll live and travel along the country’s stunning coasts and vibrant towns while working with local communities on health, wellness, and small-scale development projects. You won’t just volunteer, you’ll collaborate with families, kids, and community leaders, building real connections and learning what daily life is like far beyond the tourist beaches. Between service days, the island comes alive through snorkeling in warm Caribbean waters, relaxing on golden sand, and exploring the colorful streets of Santo Domingo, the oldest European city in the Americas. Every part of the experience is designed to balance impact and adventure, giving you space to grow, try new things, and feel proud of what you contributed. You’ll return home with new friends and a deeper understanding of the world.

Experience an enriching 15-day summer program in Belize that blends marine biology and conservation with hands-on adventure. This immersive trip focuses on protecting the Western Hemisphere’s largest barrier reef by removing invasive lionfish and earning your SCUBA certification on a private Caribbean island. Students dive into marine biology activities, including reef fish identification, guided by local experts. Beyond the ocean, go on a guided visit to ancient Mayan ruins and help crocodile biologists safeguard the local marine habitats. This program doesn't just deepen your understanding of marine ecosystems but also equips essential skills in environmental stewardship. It offers a profound, lasting impact on your knowledge of global conservation efforts.

Uncover the spirit of Central America on a 10-week journey through Mexico, Guatemala, and Costa Rica. Trek lush rainforests, hike volcanoes, raft wild rivers, and explore ancient Mayan ruins. More than just adventure, this program invites you to live alongside local communities, learn Spanish through immersion, and engage in meaningful sustainability projects that leave a lasting impact. Designed for students and young adults seeking growth, clarity, and purpose, Pacific Discovery blends challenge with support. You’ll gain confidence traveling with a small group and experienced instructors who mentor you through guided reflection and leadership activities. Days balance cultural exchange, service, and personal exploration—so you’re not just passing through, but truly connecting. Whether you’re taking a gap year, looking for an alternative to study abroad, or craving a deeper cultural experience, this program helps you grow, give back, and discover your place in the world.

This program goes beyond ordinary high school travel programs and build cross-cultural community service summer trips perfectly geared to your interests and curiosities. Whether you’re looking to contribute to authentic service projects, experience exhilarating adventure, or develop your language skills, GoBeyond will immerse you in a new culture where you can make a meaningful difference while on the journey of a lifetime. Our high school community service summer programs proudly serve in many under-resourced communities and environments throughout the world. Explore our journeys in the British Virgin Islands, Costa Rica, Galapagos & Ecuador, Peru, Iceland, Spain, China, Thailand, India, Sri Lanka, and Australia. Beyond experiencing the adventure of a lifetime and creating lasting memories, we believe our community service summer trips enable lasting positive change in the world. For over forty years, we’ve been transforming communities, environments, and students’ lives through meaningful, collaborative adventures and service that develop skills and a more sophisticated worldly outlook—ultimately shaping the person you become.

Immerse yourself in local life in northern Tanzania on this high school service program. Collaborate with local residents on construction, agriculture, and education projects, learning firsthand about Tanzanian culture and community life. Play soccer with local children, practice Swahili, and explore your host village on hikes and craft workshops. Conclude your journey with a guided safari through Tarangire National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, and visit a traditional Maasai boma to connect with pastoralist life in this iconic East African landscape.

Designed specifically for ambitious high school students (ages 13-18), Go Abroad China’s Cultural Immersion Program offers a structured and safe gateway to mastering Mandarin and understanding China. Since 2003, we have crafted immersive experiences that blend intensive language instruction at leading schools with authentic cultural engagement. Our curriculum is balanced: mornings focus on classroom learning and one-on-one tutoring, while afternoons are dedicated to cultural workshops, tours, and exchanges with local Chinese high school students. Students live the language through carefully vetted homestays, shared apartments, or campus dormitories, ensuring daily practice and a deep connection to local life. With round-the-clock supervision and support from our dedicated coordinators, safety and guidance are paramount. This transformative journey builds more than language skills—it fosters global citizenship, enhances university applications, and creates lifelong international friendships. Choose from flexible short-term summer camps or semester-long programs, all tailored to fit individual academic goals.

Discover the ultimate Himalayan journey combining the classic Everest Base Camp trek with a spectacular helicopter return to Kathmandu. Designed for international travellers seeking comfort, efficiency, and unforgettable mountain views, this premium package offers the perfect balance of adventure and luxury. Trip Overview Destination: Everest Region, Nepal Duration: 11 Days Max Elevation: 5,545 m (Kala Patthar) Trek Style: Tea House Trek + Helicopter Return Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging Best Seasons: March–May | September–November Detailed Itinerary Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu – Hotel transfer & briefing Day 02: Fly Kathmandu–Lukla (32 min) & trek to Phakding (2,600 m | 3–4 hrs) Day 03: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,410 m | 6–7 hrs) Day 04: Acclimatization at Namche – Hike to Everest View Hotel (3,800 m) Day 05: Namche to Tengboche (3,800 m) Day 06: Tengboche to Dingboche (4,400 m | ~6 hrs) Day 07: Acclimatization day at Dingboche Day 08: Dingboche to Lobuche (4,910 m | ~5 hrs) Day 09: Lobuche to Gorakshep & hike to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) Day 10: Kala Patthar sunrise (5,545 m) & Helicopter flight to Kathmandu Day 11: Final departure

Seeds of Change seeks to train young biology students in comparative microbial bioinformatics to give them a leg up in this burgeoning field. Students study microbial bioinformatics because microbes are central to all environments on the planet, drive biogeochemical cycles, and perform functions vital to all life forms. Before students travel to Costa Rica, they are introduced to the Joint Genome Institute’s (JGI) Integrated Microbial Genomes and Microbiomes (IMG/M) platform, a gateway to sophisticated genome databases and analysis tools. The five interactive pre-trip modules present a seminal case study that applies the fundamentals of genetics (DNA structure, replication, transcription, translation and gene regulation) to an insect-bacteria symbiotic relationship. Once in Costa Rica, students work with a partner to generate their original research question and use their new-found expertise in microbial bioinformatics to develop a poster of their research. Students engage in off-site activities that include guided hikes in the cloud forest, a zipline adventure in the cloud forest, a coffee tour, a horseback ride in the cloud forest, and a sea turtle marine research experience.

Join us this summer for some sun, sand, and sea turtles as we explore the Hawaiian Islands on this adventure designed especially for younger teens (aged 12-14)! From vibrant Honolulu to laid-back Maui, this middle school program covers some of the best highlights of Hawaii, including postcard-perfect beaches, turquoise water, and plenty of adventure! Plenty of action-packed adventures will complement our service projects. Hike to the top of a volcanic crater, take a surf lesson, snorkel and kayak through pristine waters, and more on this incredible journey to discover the best of the Aloha State! On our Younger Teen trips, you will find smaller group sizes, outstanding staff who connect on the same level as this age group, and itineraries that perfectly inspire a passion for travel and a greater understanding of the world for all who join us!

A true tropical paradise with breathtaking nature, stunning views, world-famous white-sand beaches, rainforests, waterfalls, and incredible biodiversity—Hawaii is a dream destination for young people from all over the world. This exciting adventure program will take our students to some of the best destinations on the Hawaiian islands, introducing them to one of the most diverse and most awe-inspiring ecosystems in the world. They will marvel at the natural beauty of Honolulu – washed by the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean, with colorful seaside villages, and some of the world’s most spectacular beaches. Students will learn about Sustainability, Biodiversity, and Aquatic Ecosystems in a fun and engaging way, based on our Experiential Learning Method. They will also participate in community service projects with our Hawaiian partners, protecting animal habitats and fighting deforestation, sea pollution, and climate change.

This program offers a full 8-week "All In" experience combining adventure and cultural exchange in Costa Rica and Cuba. Spend one month in each country embracing the lifestyle, enjoying the best activities, and making a positive impact by supporting local communities. Start in Costa Rica with Spanish classes, surfing, and yoga in the beach town of Santa Teresa, as well as an overland cloud forest exploration in Monteverde. Then, travel to Cuba to continue improving your language skills, enjoy some salsa dancing, participate in volunteer projects, and travel around the country to learn all about its history and culture. This is an ideal program for those seeking a blend of education, cultural immersion, and unique activities in two of Latin America's most vibrant countries. Plus, you get the chance to stay in a “jungle surf camp,” nestled in a paradise setting surrounded by wildlife. Imagine spotting a howler monkey hanging on a tree branch!

Learn Spanish in Malaga, Spain, with Agualivar. Participants are welcomed into the school where they experience the local way of life as part of a warm, friendly family. Besides living together with teachers, participants speak only Spanish every day. Teachers and the rest of the Agualivar staff help students find the right words to say in daily conversations. Courses are specifically designed to meet individual needs. The school is not a traditional academy; it is a beachfront village where students enjoy an unforgettable holiday while learning Spanish. Classes have a maximum of four students and lessons tackle all language skills: reading, writing, listening, speaking, vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, and culture. The tuition is usually in the morning, leaving the afternoons and evenings free for activities, visits, excursions, and/or private study. The great advantage of this program is that participants live in the house with teachers so that learning does not stop at the end of the lesson.

Experience an unforgettable adventure with fellow Girl Scouts from across the United States! Our GSUSA Destinations courses in Costa Rica and Panama will give you an opportunity to visit remote rainforest villages with family homestays, serve local communities, scuba dive among the colorful coral reefs of the Caribbean Ocean, protect the region’s fragile ecosystem, catch waves on famous warm water breaks and offers many other adventure opportunities with each course. Immerse yourself in a new language and culture while discovering your inner strengths and leadership skills. Create life-long friendships along the way. Our GSUSA Destinations courses are open to current members of Girl Scouts of the USA. Girl Scouts must apply to participate through the GSUSA Destinations program and be between 13-18 years old at the time of course. *Please note that, for the health and safety of our participants, OBCR has made program adjustments to these courses. Please visit our website to view our COVID-19 considerations.*

This 10-day program is open to Loop Abroad alumni (students and staff) and their partners, family, and friends. We are so excited to show you our favorite people, places, foods, and activities in Chiang Mai, Thailand. We first offered this trip for our 15th anniversary, and it was such a hit that we’re doing it again! We offer this trip at a VERY discounted price, hoping it can be accessible for most people. You can stay and travel on your own after, or skip activities and do your own thing (at your own expense). You will still need to fill out enrollment forms, including the medical form that needs to be signed by a doctor. This program is for alumni of Loop Abroad or CELA Belize programs (in-person or virtual, students or staff, any location). Alumni enrolling in this trip may also bring their partner, friends, or family members. Please note that many activities are outdoors, in hot weather, and require participants to be able to walk moderate distances on their own. Some activities may not be accessible to young children. If you have questions about particular activities for your family, please ask!