Ecology Programs in Australia

I was really nervous before coming on program about how i was going to make friends and what the people would be like and it was everything i’d hope for the people were amazing and my instructors made sure everything was perfect this trip truly changed me and i am so grateful i went no matter how scary it seemed at first

This program implements so many elements of self discovery and growth. I did the Australia mini semester and I have learned so much in such a short amount of time. Not only about the culture and activities here in Australia but myself as well. I faced many positives, a few challenges, and I am equally grateful for both! As I wouldn’t be who I am now without the hardship. I have come out of this program with a better sense of self and for that I am very grateful!

I grew up in New York City surrounded by bright lights and skyscrapers. I found myself longing for nature. I wanted something new: I wanted to immerse myself in a new way of life. I was drawn to Australia’s unique culture and breathtaking landscapes. I decided to sign up for Pacific Discovery’s summer program in Australia. I was really nervous before my trip because I had little experience hiking and camping. Looking back on my experience, I had nothing to worry about. I was welcomed with open arms and nothing but positive smiles. My group traveled up the coast of Australia, starting in Sydney and ending in Cairns. My favorite memories include surfing in Crescent Head and skydiving over the Great Barrier Reef. My group worked alongside National Parks staff in endangered landscapes. We participated in bush regeneration projects and numerous beach cleanups. We also learned about Australia’s unique environmental and ecological history, emphasizing the lasting presence and influence of aboriginal people. The trip would not have been the same without our amazing group leader, Tari Kumari. She is a constant source of positive energy. She pushed me outside my comfort zone and helped me grow to become the individual I am today. I could not have asked for a more perfect mentor. Her enthusiasm, selflessness, and kind heart are inspiring. When I grow up, I hope to be like Tari. I can truly say that I came back from Australia as a more open-minded and open-hearted individual. The trip gave me a positive outlook on life that I carry with me every day. I long for adventure and more experiences like the one that Pacific Discovery gave me. Thank you for everything Tari and Pacific Discovery. I highly recommend this trip!

I volunteered at Nakavango in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, as part of the IVHQ Wildlife Conservation Project. It truly was one of the highlights of my life. And I’ve had some pretty remarkable experiences so that says a lot. The staff a Nakavango was incredible and extremely knowledgeable. They create the perfect balance of hard work and joyous moments playing with the children at Masuwe School, observing wildlife in the bush, and taking in the sights of one of the seven wonders of the world. We each had our own room, were provided three yummy meals a day with great care to accommodate those who have special diets. Highlights of my stay included morning and evening game drives, sitting around the fire pit under the stars, camping out in the bush, and completing a work task feeling that we had made progress on a project. Yet, the most outstanding aspect of this experience for me, was bonding with my fellow volunteers. Prior to arriving at Nakavango, I thought I’d be the senior member of the crew so I was a bit apprehensive even though I had worked for weeks to get in shape physically so I could contribute equally. Well, I wasn’t the most senior. In fact, we had a wonderful range of ages, nationalities, and personalities. We became a family, caring for and respectful of all. That truly blew me away. And now, we continue to stay in touch. I am so grateful for the IVHQ program at Nakavango. It changed my life!

My son went to Australia with GoBeyond when he was 15. He had an unforgettable experience. GoBeyond is an amazing company, extremely well organized. They even help with booking the flight and all the details, and I didn't have to worry about anything. I can't say enough good things about them.

I volunteered in Bali- Ubud, through IVHQ. Bali was an incredible experience. I made life long friends, taught a class of 6th graders, and got to experience a beautiful new culture. The staff were amazing, and helped out all the volunteers with whatever needs they had. The location was beautiful, we were situated in a village 20 minutes outside the town of Ubud. This allowed us to integrate in a real Balinese community. The people (the volunteers, locals & staff) were second to none. I volunteered for five weeks- by the end of those 5 weeks I was wishing I had 5 more! The only downside to this programme is missing the children you taught and the friends you made after you leave! A member of the IVHQ team was on hand from the minute I booked the trip. She answered any questions I had, and checked in with m to make sure everything was going well during the volunteer programme. Volunteering with IVHQ in Bali was absolutely the best thing I ever done. I thoroughly recommend anyone interested in volunteering abroad to consider IVHQ Bali. You wont regret it.

This was the best experience of my life! I have always wanted to travel and volunteer abroad and IVHQ made this so fun and easy. During the week we were able to volunteer and take in the experiences we wanted while leaving plenty of time to explore the country for the weekend. Highly highly recommend this organization if you want a new way to travel and give back.

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ] responded to this reviewJuly 03, 2018

Hi Deanna. Thanks for such an awesome review! It's fantastic to hear our program offered you one of the best experiences in your life and that we made the process of volunteering easy and fun for you. Thanks for being a great volunteer and please join us on another program soon. ^Claire - IVHQ South Africa Program Manager

I went to Cusco in June-July, for 5 weeks! I volunteered 3 weeks in a school with kids and 2 weeks in the zoo of the University. Both of programs was so much fun ! Just a little warning : don't accept the food at the school , the kid and the teacher can put some pression but it's important to say NO! I said yes and i've made an indigestion 2 hours after, for 5 days... nice ! Additionally, the staff is really amazing and always there if you need help! My host-family was really cool and we were 13 volunteers in the same house , so its easy to make activity with them during the evening! In perou, I've discover some wonderful people, amazing places, good food and a different culture! My best memories was to visit Plaza del Armas, the Macchu Picchu, rainbow mountain, moray, salt mines and the lake Titicaca during the weekend. The organisation American Inca Trail is a great staff to organize your tour! Finally, Just do it !

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ] responded to this reviewMay 21, 2018

Hi Florence, It's nice to hear from you! It sounds like you had a wonderful experience across your projects and exploring the wonders of Peru. Thanks for your feedback and for being a wonderful volunteer. We hope you'll join us again in the future. ^Andrea - IVHQ Peru - Cusco Program Manager

I had an absolutely amazing time in Australia! However I received a lot less guidance than was promised. While staff was very kind and tried to help, the temp jobs try offered were few and far between. I was not satisfied with the money I paid for this company, but I will say that being able to partner with someone was a big reassurance when moving across the world. So for that, I say thank you. Thank you for giving me the little push I needed to get out and go!

InterExchange responded to this reviewApril 13, 2018

Thanks so much for your comments! We're glad the program was able to offer reassurance and even more glad that your time in Oz was amazing. :-) We're always eager to add further value for future travelers so we'd welcome the chance to speak if you feel there's anything specific that you would have liked on your program. Feel free to be in touch and in the meantime, all of our very best to you in your next adventure! ~InterExchange

I was able to volunteer at a special needs orphanage in Lima, Peru. I helped the Physical Therapist do range-of-motion with the children. It was wonderful to get the kids out of their wheelchairs and help them loosen up and relax. The best was seeing smiles on their faces from just having more stimulation. I traveled on the weekends with the other volunteers. Such an awesome experience making memories with new friends. We went sand boarding in Huacachina, hiking in Huaraz, and exploring in Cusco and Machu Picchu.

My time in Madagascar was amazing! Could not have asked for a better 3 months. All the staff are all open and welcoming and the people are just the coolest! Im glad i did the 3 months because i cant imagine doing anything shorter. The huts on camp are really nice along with the living area and the beach right below. But yea either way would highly recommend!

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ] responded to this reviewDecember 04, 2017

Hi Nathan, We are stoked to hear that you had an amazing 3 months in Madagascar! Thanks for sharing and for recommending IVHQ.<br/>Claire - IVHQ Madagascar Program Manager

Even if I dont speak their language the time I spent with the kids in Rio de janeiro was amazing. The smiles on their faces showed how much they apreciated what we did. I truly enjoyed the time playing soccer/football with them. Before I volunteered in Brazil I went to Colombia (Cartagena and Bogota) with IVHQ. I wanted to help these kids, but I didnt expect that they have an impact on me. I learned that there is always a reason to be happy no matter how hard life is. This time gave me so much that I took the chance to volunteer with IVHQ for the third time. If you are open minded, volunteering is the best way to travel. Living in the volunteer house felt like beeing part of a family. The work with the kids gives more experiences about culture and life than sightseeing can ever give. Brazil and also Colombia were amazing. Thank you IVHQ, I had the time of my life!

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ] responded to this reviewNovember 22, 2016

Hi Leon, What a wonderful review! Smiles are universal and we are thrilled to hear that you had an amazing time connecting with the children at your placements in Colombia and Brazil. Thanks for being an awesome volunteer and we would love to have you join us again in the future.