Birdwatching Programs Abroad

Join us for a wild photographic adventure in South Africa! You'll have close encounters with big cats, elephants, rhinos, and plenty more wildlife while exploring a stunning private game reserve in the Greater Kruger Area. You'll be accompanied by a professional wildlife photographer, who will offer tutoring – both in theory and practical sessions – throughout the workshop, so you can expect to end up with an impressive portfolio of wildlife images. This wildlife photography workshop is based in Timbavati, an exclusive collection of private game reserves, where game viewing is among the best on the African continent. We'll have the freedom to go off-road. With the guidance of expert guides and trackers, you're guaranteed to find animals such as leopards, lions, and buffalo. You can also observe and photograph them up close. We work in small groups (a maximum of 5 people), which means you'll enjoy personalized photographic tutoring and you can make sure to improve your skills along the way. It's a dream trip for any (aspiring) wildlife photographer!

Saddle up for Africa's most exhilarating horse-riding safaris, set against the backdrop of Namibia's magnificent and hauntingly beautiful landscapes. With over two decades of expertise in guiding equestrian expeditions across these rugged terrains, this program promises the ultimate experience for those seeking the thrill of the wild and the freedom of the open plains. Your possessions are transported by truck which sets up camp, allowing you to sleep beneath the African night sky, making memories that last a lifetime. Each day starts with the sunrise, departing around 8 am. You'll spend 4-5 hours in the saddle before lunch, followed by a 1-3 hour break, then another 2-3 hours of afternoon riding across diverse terrains, including tough stretches that test your spirit. Step into a world where the desert becomes your playground and the vast horizons of Namibia's Damaraland. These true adventures take you through ancient craters and prehistoric remnants, revealing the delicate yet intricate tapestry of colors that paint these extraordinary landscapes. Create meaningful connections with other riders and the horse you'll be riding throughout the adventure.

Whether you’re a pro surfer or just a beginner, join this Surf Outreach Project and provide structure, learning and new skills to children from disadvantaged neighborhoods. Divided into two parts, you'll first work independently with a surf instructor to develop your own surfing skills, and then work with children from the community to help improve both their surfing abilities and general life skills. This fully-hosted, life-enriching volunteer program is provided by International Volunteer HQ - the world's leading volunteer travel organization, trusted by more than 120,000 volunteer travelers. Ranging up to 24 weeks and starting at just $320 for 1 week, your fully hosted experience includes airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 support. You’ll be accommodated in a volunteer house with the opportunity to meet other like-minded, impact-driven travelers. Thanks to IVHQ's affordable fees, flexible booking and free changes, you can register for your volunteer program in South Africa with confidence.

Travel to a country known for its equatorial climate and enter a year-round summer in Seychelles. Spend your days diving in the supreme clear waters of Mahe visiting different dive sites and islands. On your expeditions, you could see an array of marine life, such as dolphins, manta rays, octopus, whale sharks, varying fish species, coral reefs, and the endangered hawksbill and green sea turtles. In collaboration with local partners and GVI staff, you’ll collect data, develop marine and environmental education programs, and survey for critical local governmental marine efforts. This is an opportunity to contribute to sustainable conservation efforts and level up your marine conservation knowledge and practical skills. GVI works alongside local partner organizations to ensure the successful outcome and longevity of all our programs. Use weekend trips to visit other islands and cities, explore botanical gardens and add recreational diving to your list. Start to better understand local traditional culture and meet fellow volunteers with varying national backgrounds.

On the Ecuador: Galapagos & Andean Service Adventure program, immerse yourself in a meaningful homestay with local families on mainland Ecuador. Participate in impactful community service and cultural exchange. Work alongside community members, as well as visiting and learning from an indigenous community. Then, explore the biodiverse and historic Galapagos Island. Snorkel with penguins, sea lions, marine iguanas, and colorful tropical fish. Learn about the conservation efforts of a unique ecosystem! Hike one of the largest volcanic craters on earth at Isabella Island. Visit and interact with a giant tortoise breeding center. Traveling to Ecuador is truly the adventure of a lifetime!

Marrying the best-loved locations of both countries provides a unique and exciting experience that can be tailored to suit your interests and budget. From safari lodges and tented camps to luxury boutique accommodation, this is your tour, and we want you to feel comfortable and engaged every step of the way. If you have designs on observing the great migration, when millions of wildebeest cross the Mara River and attempt to evade top predators, then any time between June and October is going to draw dramatic displays. Game drives in the Masai Mara, close to the Serengeti in Tanzania, are unforgettable. It’s important to note that a Kenya and Tanzania safari Tour can be tailored, starting with 1 night in Nairobi with a half-day free city tour, and completing in Arusha via Lake Manyara or Lake Nakuru. However, this is your trip, so if you fancy journeying in the opposite direction, then just let us know. The Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Amboseli National Park can all be experienced on a safari tour of Kenya and Tanzania.

Set out on an unforgettable middle school journey through Iceland’s dramatic landscapes, where glaciers, geysers, waterfalls, and volcanic plains shape everyday life. Explore Reykjavík’s innovative approach to renewable energy and discover Viking history beneath the city streets. Trek across glaciers with expert guides, climb basalt cliffs, and soak in natural hot springs. Along the Ring Road, meet local communities, watch for whales off the northern coast, and experience firsthand the culture, geology, and natural wonders that define this remarkable island nation.

This small but incredibly vibrant country offers a rare blend of ocean exploration, cultural immersion, and rainforest discovery you won’t find anywhere else. Your adventure begins on the shores of Caye Caulker, where you’ll snorkel the world-renowned Meso-American Barrier Reef—home to sea turtles, nurse sharks, rays, and brilliantly colored coral. Then, trade sandy beaches for lush jungle as you head inland to uncover the secrets of Belize’s thriving ecosystems. Track wild animals with expert guides, band tropical birds like a real ornithologist, and immerse yourself in local culture through farm tours, cooking workshops, and spirited Kriol drumming around the fire. Along the way, you’ll meet conservation leaders and learn how communities across Belize are working to protect their environment. This is more than a trip—it’s a hands-on journey through the wild heart of Central America.

Explore an 18-day adventure in Costa Rica, a global leader in biodiversity. This program is for high school students who are passionate about wildlife conservation. It provides hands-on experience in one of the world's most ecologically rich countries. Assist scientists at the Monteverde Institute, protect endangered sea turtles, and volunteer at a wildlife rehabilitation center. Explore the rainforest on a nocturnal hike, contribute to reforestation for migratory birds, and zipline through the cloud forest canopy. With 20 hours of service learning, this adventure blends environmental stewardship with cultural immersion, equipping you with skills in conservation and global citizenship. Dive into Costa Rica's natural wonders and develop a deep, lasting connection to the environment.

Embark on a 10-day Annapurna Trek – Ghorepani & Poon Hill with Adventure Walkways, exploring the heart of Nepal’s Himalayas. This moderate trek combines nature, culture, and breathtaking mountain panoramas, passing through traditional Gurung and Magar villages, terraced fields, and lush rhododendron and oak forests. Witness the iconic sunrise from Poon Hill (3,210 m) and, for adventure seekers, optional excursions to Annapurna Base Camp (~4,130 m). Relax in the soothing hot springs at Jhinu Danda and enjoy comfortable tea house accommodations throughout the trek. Along the route, take in stunning views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and surrounding peaks. Perfect for first-time trekkers, small groups, couples, and foreign travelers, this itinerary offers a well-paced, immersive Himalayan experience. Adventure Walkways ensures experienced guides, porter support, and safe trekking, providing a seamless and unforgettable journey through Nepal’s iconic landscapes.

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.

Discover China Through Language & Culture. Founded in 2003, Go Abroad China (GAC) offers immersive Mandarin programs for international high school students. This program combines intensive classroom learning with real-world practice, cultural workshops, and social activities. Program Types: Short-Term (2-8 weeks): Summer/Winter camps. Long-Term (Semester/Year): Study at top Chinese schools. Customized Programs: Tailored to individual needs. What’s Included: Mandarin instruction at leading schools. Homestays, shared apartments, or dorms. One-on-one tutoring and language exchange. Cultural tours, networking, and excursions. 24/7 support for safety and guidance. Why Choose GAC? Achieve Mandarin fluency with certification. Gain cultural fluency and global exposure. Enhance college applications and career prospects. Build lifelong friendships and professional networks.

Travel to Costa Rica with GoBeyond to help improve the harsh conditions of the local community and its people. GoBeyond students participate in variety of humanitarian projects led by Gail Nystrom, head of the Costa Rica Humanitarian Foundation. As an ex-Peace Corps worker, Gail has established herself and her organization in communities all around Costa Rica. Through her partnership, GoBeyond students will work to empower impoverished communities through cultural immersion and meaningful service, all while experiencing the "Pura Vida" lifestyle that Costa Rica is known for! Adventure, service, and cultural immersion blend seamlessly in this three week excursion from coast to coast.

Join this hands-on internship and help low-income Indigenous communities revive ancestral building techniques to create sustainable housing for all. THE CHALLENGE Before construction industrialization, Andean communities built with rich clay soils. Globalization shifted practices to single-skin concrete buildings—faster and “modern,” but colder, costlier, less ecological, and more earthquake-prone. Hundreds of adobe homes now lie in ruin, and as these traditional methods vanish, so does their cultural and architectural heritage. THE SOLUTION We’re helping restore these buildings to preserve heritage and provide future benefits, from dignified homes to income through tourism. With support from our experienced team, join a design or build project to learn how adobe houses are made in the Andes and help restore those that might otherwise collapse. OUR METHODOLOGY Our internships use Design Thinking to co-create solutions with local partners. You’ll learn to observe, ideate, and prototype in real contexts, building skills while driving sustainable change. On weekends—or before and after your stay—you can explore Ecuador, from the Amazon to the Galápagos.

Based in Queenstown, this program blends outdoor skills with a true immersion into Kiwi culture. Picture yourself summiting snowy peaks, navigating off-trail tracks, and climbing epic crags. It is perfect for those seeking a semester abroad, looking for a gateway into working and exploring New Zealand’s landscapes, or those looking to learn technical outdoor skills. Over 12 weeks, you'll hike, rock climb, complete an avalanche course, and camp in iconic spots like Milford Sound and Aoraki / Mt. Cook National Park. This New Zealand adventure is ideal for anyone passionate about traveling, outdoor education, and building connections in the adventure capital of New Zealand. Join us for a small group tour in New Zealand, where you will travel throughout the South Island, visit iconic New Zealand sites, and embrace Kiwi culture. Our New Zealand Winter itinerary will see you blending hiking, rock climbing, travel, and a winter avalanche skills course with community living and winter activities.

Travel to the beautiful island of Bali and work directly with an impoverished community. You will be assisting in the development of local villages through various work projects. Volunteers have the chance to pick from a selection of projects such as construction work and health care education. This is an amazing project to volunteer in because you will witness the transformation of communities as your work progresses. As a rural and secluded community, Ubud has difficulty accessing assistance and support in developing their neighborhoods. From teaching English to young children, to construction work in the local villages, to educating about health and hygiene, this project aims to help Ubud build a strong infrastructure and improve their education and healthcare systems. This project is divided into several categories, all designed to provide security to the members of this impoverished community.

Take advantage of discounts on lodges and safari bookings during the low tourist season in Tanzania, in April and May. These months are typically rainy, resulting in fewer visitors. Some call it the green season, with the rains helping keep landscapes verdant. Our partner lodge reduces prices during the low season, applying to safari bookings, too. The rainy months and fewer tourists usually lead to huge discounts. On the other hand, our safari package prices are minimal during the shoulder season in March and November, which are great for witnessing wildebeest migration in the Southern Serengeti and Ndutu. We also offer safari trips in the high season, from June to December, when the weather is pleasant and there is a high visibility of wildlife animals. No matter which month or season you travel to Tanzania, we can guarantee a tailor-made safari itinerary based on your preferences. We have flexible packages varying in price and trip duration.

Join a 10-day expedition covering natural, cultural, and historical attractions while supporting IPBio´s biological field research activities and much more! This experience encompasses volunteering, learning, and immersing yourself in Brazil's culture and natural surroundings. - Train in biological field inventory techniques: Research mammals using camera traps and conduct a general inventory of flora, insects, reptiles, and anything we can find. Participate in night research activities such as searching for amphibians, mushrooms, insects, and bioluminescent and fluorescent organisms. - Learn about medicinal plants through our partners at Ervanaria Marcos Guião. - Reforestation with seedlings from the State Institute of Forests (IEF): Learn about different species of flora native to the Cerrado, the importance of reforestation efforts in Brazil, and practical reforestation techniques to ensure the successful growth of species planted. - Learn about culture, history, and local cuisine. - Explore a waterfall, a stunning landscape, and cave paintings.

Discover the soul of South America on a 10-week journey through Peru and Ecuador that blends adventure, purpose, and connection. Hike through the Andes, explore the Amazon, and immerse yourself in rich Indigenous cultures and living traditions. This program goes beyond travel; you’ll engage in hands-on sustainability and community projects led by local partners, learning through experience, not from a classroom. Designed for gap year students, alternative study abroad seekers, and values-driven travelers, this journey offers leadership development, guided reflection, and deep cultural exchange. You'll build confidence, develop real-world skills, and gain clarity for your next steps all in a supportive, close-knit group of like-minded peers. Whether you're looking to grow personally, earn credit, build your resume, or simply see the world through a more intentional lens, this is more than a semester off—it’s a transformative step forward. Travel with purpose. Return inspired. Reach Out to Learn More!

Join this gap year program designed for your adventurous soul and the part of you that craves out-of-the-box experiences alongside a group of fun-loving friends. We offer the chance to be seen and accepted for who you already are as well as see the world for what it is and what it could be. We inspire rather than coerce. We challenge you to be real. We get dirty. We think big. We work on organic farms, build using sustainable materials, make our own bread, and hike our brains out. As a group, we go on a road trip through the southwest down to Oaxaca, Mexico, looking for adventure and learning about what makes these areas rich and interesting. In the process, you learn the skills of self-sufficiency, community, and quality living. At the end of the program, you will possess new options for living the good life and experiencing the richness of the world. Fall '25 Where: Colorado, Mexico, and the Southwest When: 8/06 – 11/17 Spring '26 Where: Colorado; Utah; Arizona; Bordercountry When: 3/10 – 5/17