Freepackers
Why choose Freepackers?
Freepackers specializes in finding volunteer and work abroad placements to provide meaningful and rewarding travel experiences worldwide. Whether for a gap year or short vacations, we offer personalized advice to help each traveler build his or her own unique international experience. Join the latest travel trends and turn a holiday into a unique experience. Become a surf instructor in Australia, harvest the fruits of New Zealand's finest vineyards, teach English in Argentina, or learn about endangered species in a South African wildlife reserve. We provide free advice and free mediation service in language programs, exclusive partnerships with more than 200 educational bodies and non-government organizations, and flexibility on travel dates, activities, and working hours.
Freepackers specializes in finding volunteer and work abroad placements to provide meaningful and rewarding travel experiences worldwide. Whether for a gap year or short vacations, we offer personalized advice to help each traveler build his or her own unique international experience. Join the latest travel trends and turn a holiday into a unique experience. Become a surf instructor in Australia, harvest the fruits of New Zealand's finest vineyards, teach English in Argentina, or learn about endangered species in a South African wildlife reserve. We provide free advice and free mediation service in language programs, exclusive partnerships with more than 200 educational bodies and non-government organizations, and flexibility on travel dates, activities, and working hours.
Freepackers Reviews
Hear what past participants have to say about the programs
Overall Rating
Total Reviews
Swimming with a Giant
February 21, 2026by: Zak LongerstaeyWhen we first saw the whale shark from the surface, it was even bigger than I could’ve ever imagined and to think it could get 3 times bigger was ridiculous. Swimming alongside it felt like a fever-dream.
Very welcomed
April 25, 2025by: Linda Chevrolet - FranceWe were touched by the warm welcome of the Balinese, their simple lifestyle shaped by religious rituals, their joy, and serenity. Caring for turtles was a real pleasure for the whole family! Releasing some into the ocean was incredibly emotional. It’s the perfect mission for families and for those who love turtles, nature, and a deep cultural immersion.
Awesome time
April 25, 2025by: Ambre Ance - FranceProgram: Wildlife Volunteer in Namibia
This project allowed me to discover new things, both about the country’s culture and the animals at the farm and reserve. It also boosted my confidence and introduced me to a new way of traveling while being helpful. The encounters and memories will stay with me forever!
This program meant so much
April 25, 2025by: Ivanka Juricic - FranceProgram: Wildlife Volunteer in Namibia
This project meant a lot to me personally, as it was my first solo and eco-volunteering experience. I learned a lot about myself and gained confidence. It brought me closer to my lifelong passion for animals. Professionally, it confirmed my desire to find a job more aligned with my values. Even though my field isn’t related to wildlife, I plan to do more wildlife eco-volunteering or get involved with animal protection organizations.
Opened new horizons
April 25, 2025by: Paola Daher - FranceProgram: Wildlife Volunteer in South Africa
This experience was truly eye-opening. I learned a lot about animal and environmental conservation, which sparked a strong interest in this field. I also discovered much about myself and my abilities. In short, it opened up new horizons and helped me grow personally and professionally. I recommend it 100%. It’s a unique opportunity to grow and learn while being immersed in an incredible world. I’d give it a 5/5 without hesitation!
animal reserve
April 25, 2025by: Stephane Bendellali - FranceProgram: Wildlife Volunteer in Namibia
This project gave me a new perspective on my daily life, allowing me to see things from a different angle. I had the chance to participate in many varied and enriching tasks, such as exploring the reserve, supporting the local community, helping at the camp, and accompanying the anti-poaching unit. I highly recommend this mission because it’s a unique experience. The people I met there moved me deeply on an emotional level. Freepackers were exceptional in their support from start to finish. Their involvement was total, and I have nothing but praise for their constant support and professionalism.
truly uplifting
April 25, 2025by: Sarah Chakor - FranceProgram: Wildlife Volunteer in South Africa
This project was truly uplifting personally, thanks to the people involved in the project and volunteers from around the world. Also, being in contact with animals and in a peaceful environment allowed for deep self-connection. It was the most beautiful trip of my life. If you love animals and meeting new people, it’s the best place to go.
This experience was incredible
April 25, 2025by: Arthur Humeau - FranceProgram: Wildlife Volunteer in South Africa
This experience brought me so much. Every day was an adventure, discovering new aspects of life there and sharing moments with volunteers and animals. The memories are precious, and it was hard to return to Europe. This mission is unforgettable for any nature lover. Freepackers were fantastic throughout our project. Their availability and attentiveness were invaluable, and they provided exceptional follow-up. I highly recommend them!
Opened my eyes
April 25, 2025by: Raymond Ostertag - FranceThis program in the wildlife refuge really opened my eyes to how much work is needed to care for hundreds of animals. I was also deeply enriched through exchanges with passionate people. Tasks were quite varied. I was responsible for cleaning cages and enriching them with forest branches. I also helped move animals like macaws, parrots, sloths, and howler monkeys in and out of their enclosures. Duties also included monitoring animal health and feeding. I was well-matched with centers that suited me. The guidance was sufficient and flexible, which helped me stay organized. I also appreciated the help with administrative tasks, which can be tedious. Once on site, there was nothing left to worry about!
Extraordinary
April 25, 2025by: Melody Maynard - FranceThis experience was extraordinary, both for the help provided locally and for the human connections. I recommend it to anyone wanting to immerse themselves in Laotian culture and live unforgettable moments. The integration is incredible, and the construction project gives immediate results—each day, you can see the fruits of your labor, which is very rewarding, especially with the smiles of the children and teachers. Freepackers helped me take the leap and embark on my first volunteer experience. As an intermediary with the local NGO, their availability and responsiveness were key to reassuring me about my commitment. A big thank you to the Freepackers team!
Amazing from start to finish
April 25, 2025by: Victoria Chiche - FranceProgram: Wildlife Volunteer in South Africa
This project amazed me from start to finish. Everything was absolutely incredible: the animals, the environment we lived in. Without a doubt, it was the best experience of my life. I participated in walks with elephants and cheetahs, regularly cleaned their enclosures, and ensured their upkeep. I fed giraffes, zebras, and other animals while doing headcounts to ensure everything was okay. I also prepared and distributed food for the big cats, cleaned vehicles, and prep rooms. This mission is perfect for those wanting to be close to wildlife while contributing to their well-being. It’s an incredibly rewarding and beautiful experience. I highly recommend Freepackers. They were responsive and answered all my questions (and I had a lot!). Their professionalism and efficiency helped me organize this trip in just one month under the best conditions.
Personal Growth
April 15, 2025by: Adéle Jaume - FranceFrom a personal perspective, I learned the importance of contributing to this cause. I also got to meet local people and other volunteers, as well as discover Indonesia. It was great to learn about these turtles and contribute to helping them live full lives.

Grow your knowledge
April 15, 2025by: Straus Lydie - FranceOn a personal level, this project was very enriching. You, of course, learn a lot about turtles, but really deepen your understanding of environmental issues and the real problems with waste and plastic in oceans. I also really appreciated the internaction with the locals and NGO, Green Lion, staff. The kindness and culture will forever remain a memorable part of my trip.
Discover a new culture with wonderful encounters
April 15, 2025by: Hugo Hamelin - FranceProgram: Building and Renovation in Bali
In this project, we constructed an infirmary for a school. I had some technical knowledge in the construction field, but it was an incredible way to gain hands-on experience. It was also a great social experience with some wonderful encounters, discovering the culture of a country and culture that fascinated me. I loved this project and recommend this experience, which has made everlasting impressions on me. I discovered the beauty of Bail and gained experience in a field of my interest.
Hands-on experience
April 15, 2025by: Thomas Antherieu - FranceProgram: Building and Renovation in Bali
Along with other volunteers and supervisors, we renovated a school premises and helped build an infirmary in an elementary school. This project allowed me to discover local life, Balinese culture, and local construction methods. During this project, I was able to improve my English by speaking it every day. I recommend this project to anyone wishing to discover a new country, culture, and a way of living and working while seeking a certain level of security and guidance. Freepackers was also great, especially as an intermediary between the NGO, Green Lion, and myself. I was supported by Freepackers throughout the whole project, and everything went as planned. Great trip!!
Simply incredible!
April 15, 2025by: Valentine Vanacore - FranceProgram: Protecting Wildlife in Kenya
This project enabled us to share the lives of the locals, rangers, children, and the families we worked with. For me, it was the best way to understand their way of life and customs. I learned a lot about the Rothschild giraffes and the time spent with them, and their young was incredible! This was my first time traveling with this organization, which I recommend for its professionalism and support. They were very responsive and were able to answer all my questions before leaving for this mission.
Grow and learn
April 15, 2025by: Charles Delloye - FranceProgram: Wildlife Volunteer in Namibia
Throughout this project, I got the experience of feeding the animals, maintence of enclosures, and other activities with the animals. I learned so much from this mission. You leave with a changed mind. The way of life is completely different from the one I am used to in Europe. Each person has their own story and lessons to learn from when you listen. I met so many amazing people and learned a lot. I would definitely recommend this project for its beautiful scenery, for the animals, and for meeting wonderful people. Also, I definitely recommend Freepackers as they offer a wide range of options for volunteering in locations, each more majestic than the last.



Protect the Turtles!
April 11, 2025by: Juliette Drumain - FranceThroughout this mission, I learned to be more open to people and to discoveries. I discovered I love traveling alone because you meet so many people. I can learn from everyone, people are truly incredible. Everyone should do this as it is a great way to meet new people with genuine connections, all while being in close contact with the beautiful sea turtles. The missions/work tasks don't change often, so I recommend staying for three weeks as some might get bored. However, I took my extra time to explore the area and create new, forever friends.
Bali experience
April 11, 2025by: Laetitia Toulemonde - FranceThis project has only left me with nice encounters and lifetime memories with the team and other volunteers. Discovering how a sea turtle protection center works was a wonderful experience as my goal is to become a Veterinarian later on. Discovering Bali, its beautiful landscapes, and the richness of its culture was amazing. I recommend this 100% as we had real connections with turtles while meeting wonderful people, all while being on the beautiful island of Nusa Penida. It was breathtaking, and the activities varied, keeping us engaged and curious. I can't wait to go back.
wonderful experience
April 10, 2025by: Heckmann Marine - FranceThis mission made me feel useful in my assistance, knowing I was helping a good cause, both animal and environmental. I met so many people from many different cultures which opened my eyes a lot!. I loved this mission and recommend it wholeheartedly. It was an unforgettable and life-changing experience that I will never forget.
Environmental project in Bali
April 10, 2025by: Gwendoline Jooris - FranceI was caring for the turtles, feeding them, cleaning their tanks, cutting their fish, and making pollution prevention signs. At the end of the trip, we went and released turtles into the ocean, which was a really awesome thing to experience. This project brought me community life and culturally as many volunteers were from all over the world. This trip allowed me to push myself both physically and mentally grow. This trip was awesome, and I recommend it to everyone. It allows you to discover many things: turtles, Balinese culture, and yourself.
Sea turtle protection
April 10, 2025by: Raphael Mroz - FranceI was able to clean turtle ponds, beaches, and local streets. I even caught live crabs and helped feed turtles. I really enjoyed being able to conduct awareness campaigns and theoretical courses on turtles. In this project, I was able to discover a new culture and talk to locals. Being able to talk with volunteers of 15 different nationalities, I was able to grow my cultural as well as environmental protection. This project was really cultivating and open-minded.
Save the Turtles
April 10, 2025by: Aurélie Straus - FranceI learned a lot about environmental awareness and the turtle life cycle. It was really interesting learning how to preserve them, which made me question our lifestyles and how we can be more conservative in our daily lives. My responsibilities when I was there were beach cleaning, crab catching, cleaning the turtle tanks, and feeding them. I would recommend this project as all the coordinators were kind and passionate. I felt like a shorter trip would be good, especially if this is your first time volunteering, as the tasks are easier.
The most extraordinary mission ever
April 10, 2025by: Lucie Genest - FranceProgram: Wildlife Volunteer in Namibia
Throughout my project, I did various missions such as cleaning the carnivore enclosures, building enrichment elements for the animals, walking in the sanctuary and researching how to spot animal tracks, taking the baboons, and walking with the cheetahs. I also prepared the animals' food and learned anti-poaching methods. This project was amazing and taught me a lot about myself. If you are thinking about traveling alone...DO IT. I am very proud of myself for being able to go alone. It was a challenge at first as it was my first solo trip, but I was able to fulfill one of my dreams with an organization that is extremely dedicated to animal welfare. I grew confident in myself, my English, and my career. I would 100% recommend this program. It was an extraordinary and truly unique experience. Volunteering rather than tourism brings a whole new dimension to this trip. I've never seen a lion or cheetah so close! This mission with the rangers will remain etched in my memory forever. I met wonderful people who are passionate about protecting and defending wildlife. Not only that, but Freepackers was very professional and attentive. They were always available when needed, which was really reassuring, especially for my first volunteer experience alone.
Once in a lifetime experience
April 09, 2025by: Ludivine Klimek - FranceProgram: Protecting Wildlife in Kenya
I loved every second of this project. I was able to track giraffes, inspect fencing, plant seedlings, create watering pots, plant trees, and remove cacti. This project allowed me to share a lot with the local population and other volunteers and feel useful while discovering a new culture and beautiful landscape. I would recommend this project 100 times if I could. It is an awesome way to vacation responsibly and discover a new culture.
Wildlife in Kenya
April 09, 2025by: Oumaima Zizoune - FranceProgram: Protecting Wildlife in Kenya
My experience was fantastic! I tracked giraffes, removed toxic plants for animals, and identified different plants and animals. I discovered a new culture while learning about wildlife and their different habitats. I learned the importance of why it is so necessary to protect these animals as they keep ecosystems working. This experience is so unique, and being so close to wild animals and being able to help the rangers on their daily missions allowed me to learn a lot about myself. It is an experience that allows you to push yourself both mentally and physically.
Best volunteer program
April 09, 2025by: Martine Gabillé - FranceProgram: Protecting Wildlife in Kenya
During my program, I monitored, counted animals, collected rubbish from a river, cleared a road to allow elephants to pass, and detected signs of poaching. I learned the knowledge of animals and improved my language. This mission was awesome and a great way to vacation as it serves a good cause. It's a great change of scenery and a lot of fun. Freepackers was very well-organized and very professional.
Marine Conservation: Tenerife
April 09, 2025by: Johanna Mahieux - FranceThis trip was one of the most incredible experiences of my life! Everything was perfect: the research work as well as living with several people passionate about the same subject. Freepackers supported me throughout my internship. They were there for me before I arrived and supported me a lot during my first week. Afterwards, they checked in on me and followed my adventures via social media. I felt like I was very well supported.
Bail Sea Turtle Conservation
April 09, 2025by: Justine Orsonneau - FranceThis project taught me so much culturally and brought me a lot of personal enrichment. It was a timeless moment and a wonderful way for personal discovery. My favorite part was feeding the turtles and helping with beach cleanups. This project taught me a lot, and I recommend it for everyone, but it wasn't without the help of Freepackers as they guided me through the whole process. They made it easy to access help with clean and concise communication.
Best experience ever: Sea turtle protection in Bali
April 09, 2025by: Pauline Lacroix - FranceMy tasks during this project were cleaning the tanks, the turtles, and the beaches. My favorite part of the project was getting to help release the turtles into the wild. This project is so fun, but also an opportunity to learn how to manage yourself and to force yourself to socialize. It is an opportunity to get to know new people from all over the world. We also had a lot of free time, which was great for Bali and relaxing on the beach. Freepackers was awesome and always present and reassuring when needed exploring.
Turtles in Bali Project
April 09, 2025by: Laurie Sivel - FranceDuring my time, I was assigned to create a journalistic video to present the association's mission. I also participated in fishing, cleaning the habitats, shells, and feeding the turtles. This project allowed me to understand the importance of the fight for the protection of endangered species and to learn more about turtles. I loved this project and found it very interesting. The coordinators were so passionate, which inspired me a lot. Freepackers has so many diverse and important projects and is very transparent in spending, and a serious approach to helping you every step of the way. This project was unforgettable.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why Should I Choose Freepackers For My Humanitarian Project?
At Freepackers, our mission is to travel with purpose, and we are proud to be recognized for our award-winning commitment to ethical and impactful humanitarian projects. With a wide range of secure and sustainable programs, we ensure that volunteers make a real difference while gaining an enriching experience. Dedicated to responsible travel, community empowerment, and long-term impact, we provide full support at every step.
What is the Application Process?
Choose Your Project – Select the humanitarian program that aligns with your interests and goals.
Submit Your Application – Complete the application process to get started.
Connect with Freepackers – Our team will review your application and guide you through the next steps.
Confirm Your Booking – Finalize your placement and prepare for your journey.
Embark on Your Mission – Travel to your chosen project and begin making a meaningful impact.
How Can I Get Involved?
Hands-On Action – Join ethical, secure humanitarian programs, in construction, education, environmental conservation, animal care, social action, or communication. Make a real impact by supporting projects that drive lasting change.
Ambassador Program – Become part of our humanitarian association, promoting sustainable development, responsible travel, and social commitment while inspiring others to take action.
Interviews
Read interviews from alumni or staff

Amélie Colonval
Participated in 2024
Amélie Colonval is a volunteer who joined Freepackers’ Building and Renovation program in Bali, Indonesia in 2024. Driven by a passion for cultural im...

Amélie Colonval
Participated in 2024
I was inspired by the opportunity to make a difference in underserved communities. I wanted to step outside my comfort zone, experience a whole new culture, and contribute to a cause that would leave a positive impact on a community while also helping me grow personally and professionally.

Anaelle Audebaud
Participated in 2023
Anaelle Audebaud is a sustainable travel advocate, animal lover, and supporter of ethical wildlife practices. She volunteered with Freepackers' Wildli...

Anaelle Audebaud
Participated in 2023
I was deeply inspired by the desire to make a positive impact on wildlife conservation, especially after learning about the harmful practices like canned hunting.

Pauline Trotabad
Participated in 2022
Adventurer, creative, and passionate about events, travel, and motorsports! Pauline took a gap year to get involved in causes close to her heart: turt...

Pauline Trotabad
Participated in 2022
I wanted to make a difference in wildlife conservation while getting to experience a new culture. Going abroad allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and immerse myself in hands-on conservation work. Being surrounded by incredible big cats and other rescued animals while contributing to their care and rehabilitation was an opportunity and experience I could not miss.

Justine Trembicki
Interviewed in 2025
Passionate about purposeful travel, Justine founded Freepackers in 2010 after years of global exploration, volunteering, and working in youth travel. ...

Justine Trembicki
Interviewed in 2025
What inspired you to travel abroad?
There is no typical day for directors and entrepreneurs… What I am trying to achieve on a daily basis is to find new ways of making travel a force for good, to look for people with the same mindset, and to get them involved in our mission.
Awards
Check out awards and recognitions Freepackers has received







