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Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!

Contact ProviderProgram Costs
VerifiedProvider
4.7 / 5Student rating
830Reviews
220Programs
2007Year established

Program Overview

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.

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Program Highlights

CHOICE: Choose from the world’s largest range of volunteer programs, available year-round - IVHQ’s impact-driven projects are run by locals within your host community
MOST AFFORDABLE: Enjoy a fully-hosted volunteer experience with top-rated programs starting from only $20 a day!
TRUSTED: Join a global network of 155,000+ volunteers backed by a team of leading volunteer travel experts - IVHQ’s unmatched safety record make us the world’s most trusted volunteer organization
FLEXIBILITY: Flexible booking and free changes so you can book with confidence
ETHICAL & SUSTAINABLE: IVHQ is the first and only certified B Corp volunteer travel provider and member of the Volunteer Groups Alliance (VGA), aligned with the United Nations’ sustainability goals

What's Included

Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
Some Accommodation
Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Some Meals / Partial Meal Plan
Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
Pre-Departure Orientation
Training
Cultural Training / Program / Orientation
Certificate of Completion
Emergency Support

Quick Details

Location
Buenos Aires, ArgentinaCairns, AustraliaBelgiumRural Areas, BelizeRio de Janeiro, BrazilXi'an, ChinaSan Jose, Costa RicaGalapagos Islands, EcuadorAccra, GhanaAthens, GreeceAntigua, GuatemalaNew Delhi, IndiaBali, IndonesiaNaples, ItalyOcho Rios, JamaicaAmman, JordanMombasa, KenyaMalaysiaMerida, MexicoMarrakech, MoroccoKathmandu, NepalAuckland, New ZealandCusco, PeruPuerto Princesa, PhilippinesLisbon, PortugalMiercurea Ciuc, RomaniaCape Town, South AfricaBarcelona, SpainBangkok, ThailandNew Orleans, United StatesHo Chi Minh City, VietnamVictoria Falls, ZimbabweSplit, CroatiaMultiple CountriesArusha, TanzaniaPhnom Penh, CambodiaSuva, FijiVientiane, LaosNosy Be, MadagascarKandy, Sri LankaTobago, Trinidad & TobagoLusaka, Zambia
Availability
Year(s) Offered:Year Round
Duration:
  • 1-2 Weeks
  • 2-4 Weeks
  • 5-8 Weeks
  • 3-6 Months
  • 9-12 Weeks
Age RequirementAll Ages
Types & Subjects
Adventure Types:
  • Backpacking
  • Cooking
  • Eco Tours
  • Ecology
  • Homestay
  • Nature Tours
  • Photography
  • Scuba
  • Snorkeling
  • Soccer & Football
  • Sports
  • Student Tours
  • Summer Camp
  • Tours
  • Trekking
  • Vacation Packages
Fields:
  • Agriculture
  • Business
  • Dentistry
  • Education
  • Medicine
  • Nursing
  • Sustainable Development
Causes:
  • Agriculture
  • AIDS
  • Animal Welfare
  • Arts
  • Biological Research
  • Building & Construction Projects
  • Business
  • Childcare & Children
  • Community Centers
  • Community Development
  • Computer Training
  • Conservation
  • Culture
  • Dental
  • Eco-Tourism
  • Economic Development
  • Education
  • English Teaching
  • Environment
  • Festivals
  • Grassroots Organization
  • Health
  • Health Care
  • Health Education
  • Hospital
  • Human Rights
  • Marine Conservation
  • Marketing
  • Media
  • Medicine
  • Music
  • Nursing
  • Nutrition
  • Organic Farming
  • Orphans
  • Public Health
  • Reforestation
  • Refugee Relief
  • Senior Citizens
  • Small Business Development
  • Social Work
  • Special Needs
  • Sports
  • Teaching
  • Tourism
  • Translation
  • Tree Planting
  • Water Projects
  • Wildlife
  • Women
  • Youth
  • Youth Development
Types:
  • Adventure Travel
  • Animals
  • Experiential Learning
  • Internships
  • Language Immersion
  • Medical
  • Music
  • Scuba Diving
  • Self-Discovery
  • Spanish
  • Sports
  • Study Abroad
  • Teach Abroad
  • Volunteering
GuidelinesAll Nationalities
Inquire about this program

Updated May 20, 2026

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Buenos Aires, Argentina
  • Cairns, Australia
  • Belgium
  • Rural Areas, Belize
  • Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
  • Xi'an, China
  • San Jose, Costa Rica
  • Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
  • Accra, Ghana
  • Athens, Greece
  • Antigua, Guatemala
  • New Delhi, India
  • Bali, Indonesia
  • Naples, Italy
  • Ocho Rios, Jamaica
  • Amman, Jordan
  • Mombasa, Kenya
  • Malaysia
  • Merida, Mexico
  • Marrakech, Morocco
  • Kathmandu, Nepal
  • Auckland, New Zealand
  • Cusco, Peru
  • Puerto Princesa, Philippines
  • Lisbon, Portugal
  • Miercurea Ciuc, Romania
  • Cape Town, South Africa
  • Barcelona, Spain
  • Bangkok, Thailand
  • New Orleans, United States
  • Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
  • Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
  • Split, Croatia
  • Multiple Countries
  • Arusha, Tanzania
  • Phnom Penh, Cambodia
  • Suva, Fiji
  • Vientiane, Laos
  • Nosy Be, Madagascar
  • Kandy, Sri Lanka
  • Tobago, Trinidad & Tobago
  • Lusaka, Zambia

Available Terms / Availability

  • Years Offered: Year Round
  • Duration: 1-2 Weeks, 2-4 Weeks, 5-8 Weeks, 3-6 Months, 9-12 Weeks
  • Teach Duration: Short Term, 3-6 Months
  • Intern Duration: Summer, Winter, Short Term, Spring, 1-3 Months, 3-6 Months, 1 Year
  • Gap Year Timing: After College, Post High School, During College, During High School, Career Break / Mid-Career

Eligible Nationalities

  • All Nationalities
  • This Program is also open to Solo, Couples, Families, Group

Education Levels & Language

  • Any/All Education Levels Accepted

Accommodation Options

  • Apartment/Flat
  • Group living
  • Home-stays
  • Independent living
  • Other

Application Procedures

  • Online Application

Age Requirement

All Ages

Duration

1-2 Weeks, 2-4 Weeks, 5-8 Weeks, 3-6 Months, 9-12 Weeks

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

4.7
830 reviews

Rating breakdown

5
580
4
243
3
4
2
0
1
3

Top categories

Day to Day Life
4.7
Program Administration
4.6
Volunteer Placement
4.6
Community Engagement
4.6
Health & Safety
4.6
Living Situation
4.5

Participated in this program? Share your experience now.

Review this Program

Showing 1-20 of 830 reviews

Matteo Vinicio ViccardiItaly · September 2026

Zanzibar IVHQ

I had an amazing experience with IVHQ during the Coastal and Marine Conservation programme in Zanzibar. From the application process to the end of my stay, everything was well organised and I always felt supported. The application process was simple and straightforward, and the IVHQ team provided all the information I needed before travelling. Communication was clear and any questions I had were answered quickly. The pre-departure information was especially useful because it helped me understand what to expect and prepare properly for the experience. Once I arrived in Zanzibar, the local team was welcoming, friendly and helpful. The orientation was well organised and gave me a good introduction to the local culture, the area and the programme. I always felt that there was someone I could rely on if I needed help. The Coastal and Marine Conservation project was definitely the highlight of my experience. I had the opportunity to take part in activities focused on marine conservation and learn more about the importance of protecting Zanzibar’s coastal ecosystems. It was very rewarding to see how our activities could contribute, even in a small way, to the local environment. The experience was not only educational but also practical, allowing me to get involved rather than simply learning about conservation from a theoretical perspective. The accommodation was comfortable and suitable for a volunteer programme. Living together with other international volunteers was also a great part of the experience. I met people from different countries and backgrounds, and many of them became good friends. Sharing everyday life, activities and free time with other volunteers made the experience even more memorable. The meals were another positive aspect. The food was generally tasty, fresh and varied, with a good opportunity to experience local flavours and dishes. The staff were also very attentive and accommodating. I also really appreciated the opportunity to experience Zanzibar beyond the project itself. The island has incredible beaches, landscapes and a unique culture, and having the opportunity to interact with local people made the experience much more meaningful. Overall, I would absolutely recommend IVHQ and the Coastal and Marine Conservation programme in Zanzibar. It is a great opportunity for anyone who wants to combine travelling, meeting people from all over the world and doing something meaningful for the environment. I came home with new knowledge, unforgettable memories and a much greater appreciation for marine conservation. Thank you to the entire IVHQ team and the local staff in Zanzibar for making this such a special experience. I would definitely consider doing another IVHQ programme in the future!

Photos

Liel NaumovIsrael · September 2026

My best weeks

I had the time of my life. At first i was a really scared kid, afraid to even speak and then one night i sat with Sarah, my Coordinator and she let me feel that talking with other people is not that scary even if u have a thick accent. And i’ll never forget that night because it gave me the push to talk with people. Everybody were heartwarming, always listening. The day care was amazing, i cried so hard when i had to leave the school and also when i needed to leave the house it self. Best weeks of my life.

Photos

Raphael Nacionales-RowlandUnited Kingdom · August 2026

Volunteering in Split

Throughout my placement in Croatia, IVHQ provided me with the relevant help and support needed to make my stay as stress free as possible. I would highly recommend this company and encourage anyone contemplating a placement.

Daniel AbdullaUnited Kingdom · August 2026

AMAZING

I was, probably like some of you, a bit sceptical when initially applying due to the low price compared to other organisations. However, the experience I had was absolutely amazing and I have learnt so much about not only myself, but about different cultures and etiquettes. My program manager, Marissa, was absolutely fantastic at answer all of my questions and adjusting any mistakes I submitted onto my application such as flight number and pick-up time. Despite the huge time difference between Marissa and myself, she was able to reply to my email promptly and with extreme care - I was really at ease throughout the whole process and that made the experience a bunch better. Everything on my volunteering was as described on the program guide and there were no surprises when I landed, everything that happened during my week I was prepared for. I would really recommend this company and I want to thank them once more for the fantastic and truly life-changing experience they provided for me.

Nicole BoduchAustria · August 2026

An unforgettable experience in Split!

I had such a wonderful experience in Split! I met so many amazing people from different countries and made memories that I will definitely never forget. The Youth Support program gave me the opportunity to connect with the local community, experience a different culture and grow personally at the same time. The local team was very welcoming and supportive and I always felt comfortable asking questions or getting help when needed. I especially loved the international atmosphere and meeting people with completely different backgrounds and stories.besides volunteering, I had enough time to explore Split, enjoy the beautiful beaches and nature and experience Croatian culture. This experience helped me step outside my comfort zone, become more independent and see things from new perspectives. I’m really grateful for all the people I met and everything I experienced during my time here. I would definitely recommend this program to anyone who wants to travel, volunteer, meet new people and create unforgettable memories abroad. ❤️

David CannonUnited States · August 2026

Amazing Family Experience

The support and organization of IVHQ was strong and great. Traveling and volunteering with a family of five, with 3 Jr High School kids but was amazing. Very comfortable and things were laid out well, we all felt extremely safe and comfortable the entire experience.

Raquel Paz BergiaSpain · August 2026

HIGHLY recommend volunteering with IVHQ

It was very easy to go through the application process, complete all the steps, and be ready to volunteer in Costa Rica. All the support we received throughout the process made sure that we felt safe, prepared, and were making an impact on the local community. I would highly recommend IVHQ, and hope to do future volunteer missions with them.

Marie-Hélène LessardCanada · August 2026

An unforgettable experience in Ecuador

I had an amazing experience with International Volunteer HQ in Ecuador. Everything was well organized from the beginning, and I felt supported throughout the entire program. The local team was welcoming, helpful, and always available when needed. I especially appreciated the opportunity to immerse myself in the local culture, meet wonderful people, and contribute through volunteering. It was an unforgettable experience, and I would definitely recommend IVHQ to anyone looking for a meaningful experience abroad.

Yuange LiuJuly 2026

Preparation before trip

The preparation before trip was so detailed that I don’t have anything to worry about. It got everything listed and made it so much easier to tick off what I’ve done and what they need. The communication with the manager for the volunteer was so smooth and fast, and I was able to get a reply current evening or next morning (due to different timing in different countries). I wanted to change my volunteer from rural teaching to turtle reservation, it was so fast that there wasn’t any problems with the money nor arrangements, everything just went so smoothly, really impressed. The local team there really helped a lot, the driver, the leader, everyone was just so nice, even the cook and the receptionist. This volunteer as itself also helped me a lot on raising awareness for the sea turtles, learnt a lot and really hope to help them consistently. This is such a memorable trip and I hope to do these volunteers with IVHQ next summer with my friends.

Steph CinkUnited States · June 2026

More Than a Trip: A Life-Changing Experience in Jamaica

My Jamaica experience was great because it allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone, connect with new people, and make meaningful memories while serving others. I loved being able to learn about the culture, build relationships with the local community, and see the impact that small acts of kindness can have. The experience challenged me to grow in my faith, gratitude, and appreciation for the opportunities I have. It was rewarding to work alongside others who shared the same passion for helping people and creating a positive difference. IVHQ does a great job of creating opportunities for volunteers to make a meaningful impact while also providing support and guidance throughout the experience. They help connect volunteers with local communities, organize programs, and make it possible for people to serve in a way that is safe and structured. I appreciated how they allowed us to experience the culture of Jamaica while still focusing on helping the community. Their organization made the trip feel purposeful and helped create an environment where volunteers could learn, serve, and grow.

Photos

Jaz EcclestonAustralia · June 2026

Volunteering in Thailand

My experience with IVHQ absolutely exceeded my expectations and was so amazing, the staff were so friendly and really created a positive and welcoming environment, i felt safe and included by all the other volunteers, my only regret is not staying longer! I will definitely be back in the future!

Photos

Veronica CuraCanada · June 2026

Teaching, Cape Town South Africa

Overall I had an amazing experience with Ivhq. I volunteered in Cape Town South Africa and I have never been so in love with a place. The culture and the people are truly amazing. I volunteered in a town ship with grade three and loved every minute of it! The kids are so kind and you can tell they truly love the help you have to offer. This experience will forever have such a big impact on me and changed me as a person. I would definitely recommend this to anyone:)

Photos

Candice SimmonsUnited States · May 2026

Food for the soul!

I have already done 3 programs with IVHQ, and this is just the beginning! Costa Rica to teach English, Fiji for childcare, and Thailand to teach. Each program has been magical! The experience is supported, from the application process through post program reflection, and everything in between. Safety, support, encouragement, insight, and perspective are all the things IVHQ provides and more! You get to meet people from around the world, and then come together for a common purpose. Already planning my next adventure, and I can't wait!

Photos

Abby TootillEngland · May 2026

I had the best experience of my life!

I havnt got any complaints from my trip through IVHQ. Every single part of the trip was perfect from the organisation to the welcoming coordinators. I’m only 17 but I felt so safe and supported through the whole process. Thank you for this opportunity!

Photos

Marcos MendezSpain · May 2026

Teaching in Hua Hin

My experience in Hua Hin teaching children was truly amazing. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed and supported by a wonderful team. Special thanks to Hannah Yule, Tukkie Khudseesai, and Noah, the coordinator of my teaching team, who made the experience even more enjoyable and well organized. Teaching the children was incredibly rewarding, and the environment was positive, friendly, and motivating every day. The accommodation provided was very comfortable, and the food was also excellent throughout my stay. Overall, this was a memorable and enriching experience that I would highly recommend to anyone interested in volunteering and teaching in Hua Hin.

Thinula KarunarathneSri Lanka · May 2026

Meaningful and rewarding experience

My volunteer experience in Thailand was truly rewarding. The program was well-organized, and the staff were supportive throughout. What stood out most was the real impact—even small contributions made a difference in the local community. It also helped me grow personally by becoming more adaptable, independent, and open-minded. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone considering volunteering abroad.

Regina FuentesMexico · May 2026

More than Teaching:Kindness I would never forget

Teaching in Ubud, Bali was one of the most beautiful and meaningful experiences of my life. I came expecting to help and give, but I ended up receiving so much more. The children were incredibly kind, respectful, and full of joy. What impacted me the most was how grateful they were for everything;even the smallest things. They would smile constantly, show affection in the purest ways, and even gift me candies as a way to say thank you. Those small gestures meant more than they probably realized. Every day felt special. Being able to connect with them, teach them, laugh with them, and see their excitement to learn was something I will never forget. The environment was welcoming, and the staff made everything smooth and supportive, allowing us to truly focus on making a difference. This experience changed my perspective in the best way possible. It reminded me how powerful kindness, gratitude, and human connection can be. I will always carry these memories with me, and I’m beyond grateful to have been part of something so real and meaningful.

Photos

Maxwell SturmUnited States · April 2026

Mourning my departure from Galapagos

The local guides informed us of a beautiful name for their islands, “The Enchanted Islands”. Given on account of their difficulty to find back in the days of ships and nautical exploration (pre-flight). Such an incredible opportunity to care for unique and endangered gentle creatures. Work was meaningful and rewarding, play time was abundant and fulfilling. One of the most beautiful places I have encountered on this Earth. IVHQ does a tremendous job preparing the traveler for what to expect.

Photos

Adriana EncarnacionApril 2026

A thorough and amazing experience

I enjoyed meeting new people from around the world and the fact that we were in the middle of the city like a local which gave it very realistic feel. A Medical internship with Intern Abroad HQ is such a thorough and amazing experience for those who want to travel and learn in their field.

Jordan WashekUnited States · April 2026

I had the time of my life!

It was by far the best volunteer experience I have done I only wish I could have stayed longer. The culture and food was so amazing and everyone was so welcoming and friendly. This experience I will remember for the rest of my life and have made so many amazing friendships.

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Recognitions & Awards

Awards and accreditations earned by this provider

Top Rated Provider Volunteer Abroad 2025
2025 Finalist - Innovative Volunteer Abroad Program
Notable Mention - GoAbroad Top Rated Volunteer Abroad Providers 2024
Top Rated Provider 2023 - Volunteer Abroad
Top Rated Volunteer Abroad Organization 2022
Zero Carbon
Notable Mention 2021 - Volunteer Abroad
Innovative New Program – Volunteer Abroad 2021 Finalist
Innovative Student Video 2020 Finalist
Top Rated Volunteer Abroad Organizations of 2020
Innovative New Program Volunteer Abroad 2020 Finalist
2019 Notable Mentions
Top Eco-Traveling Enthusiast of 2017 - Sustainable Voluntourism
Certified B Corporation
GoAbroad Top Volunteer Abroad Organization 2018

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