International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

I did an animal care project in Portugal with IVHQ and I'm glad to say it was smooth from start to finish. The application was simple and the team always answered any questions I had about the placement itself or any issues I had with documents etc. Before I left there was a group call with my coordinator and other volunteers I'd be working with which made leaving home alone for the first time less daunting. At the placement I would feed the dogs, clean cages and have loads of cuddles and play time with them! The local team were very friendly and easy to approach as well. I had a great time and really felt like I actually made an impact. I would recommend IVHQ to anyone who would like to volunteer abroad

My experience was amazing. Definitely would describe it as one of my favorite and most memorable trips. I bealive the impact was truly felt and delivered. Along with an amazing trip and life long new friends.

My time volunteer teaching in Zambia was unbelievably fantastic. I met such lovely fellow volunteers, staff at my volunteer house, teachers and of course kids at my school. The program was really well organised from pre departure to arrival home with plenty of time for sight seeing. I felt so safe in Zambia and received a warm welcome. I felt relaxed at all times and really did not want to come back. I plan to do it all again next year and hopefully catch up with the children a year on in their studies. I'm missing everyone in Zambia!

I Took my first trip alone with IVHQ as a 17 year old last month. It was an amazing first trip where I was supported the whole way and made many friends from all over the world. I loved the volunteering and I learnt so much about the culture. I am already planning my next trip!

Volunteering in Zanzibar was an amazing and unforgettable experience. I had the opportunity to meet wonderful people from different countries, discover the local culture, and take part in meaningful activities that made every day special. The staff and coordinators were always welcoming, supportive, and friendly, which made me feel comfortable from the beginning. I also created strong friendships with the other volunteers and shared many great moments with them. This experience taught me a lot, both personally and culturally, and helped me grow as a person. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a unique, rewarding, and meaningful experience abroad.

the place was beautiful, the people were so kind, the children were wonderful and so well behaved, the food was incredible, two weeks felt too short !! the green lion made me feel at home and I can’t thank them enough for that. Definitely a once in a lifetime experience. Loved every second of it, I didn’t want to leave.

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My experience with IVHQ in Tanzania was truly unforgettable! 🇹🇿🤍 From the application process to arriving in Tanzania, I felt like I had clear information and guidance throughout the process. The application was straightforward, and having the details about accommodation, transportation, volunteering, and what to expect before arriving made preparing for the trip much easier. The coordination once I arrived was also very helpful. I appreciated having people available to help with the transition into the program and being able to connect with other volunteers from around the world. The highlight, of course, was my time volunteering at a daycare in Sakina. The children and staff welcomed me with so much love and made me feel like part of their family. It was such a meaningful experience, and I left Tanzania with memories and connections I’ll carry with me forever. I’m so grateful to IVHQ for making this experience possible and giving me the opportunity to step outside my comfort zone, give back, and experience Tanzania in such a meaningful way. I would definitely consider volunteering with IVHQ again! 🌍❤️

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I really liked my experience with IVHQ because everything was planned and guided where any questions were answered, any anxiety was calmed. This was my first solo trip as by the title you can see I have epilepsy. Living with that makes it hard to have certain experiences and in a comfortable manner. IVHQ helped immensely with that, the company of others, the accommodation, everything was well planned and helped myself travel solo and have a very joyful experience.

It was so impactful, I made memories of a lifetime and learned so much about coming out of my comfort zone, protecting the turtles and the environment and the beautiful culture. I’d love to do this again ❤️❤️

My experience volunteering in Tanzania with IVHQ has been absolutely incredible and has exceeded my expectations in many ways. From the very beginning, everything was very well organized, which made the whole experience much easier and more enjoyable. The staff were always available to help, answer our questions, and make sure that we felt comfortable and supported throughout our stay. Their organization and dedication made a big difference and allowed us to focus on the most important part of the experience: helping and connecting with the local community. One of the things I enjoyed the most was meeting so many amazing people. Everyone we met was incredibly welcoming, kind, and friendly, and they made us feel at home from the moment we arrived. Being able to interact with local people and learn about their culture, traditions, and daily lives was one of the most valuable parts of the trip. It was a great opportunity to step outside of my comfort zone, experience a completely different environment, and see things from a new perspective. During our volunteering experience, we were able to do a lot of meaningful work. It was very rewarding to see that our time, effort, and energy could contribute in a positive way. Even though some tasks were challenging, they were always worthwhile because we could see the importance of what we were doing. Working together with other volunteers also made the experience even better. We supported each other, shared responsibilities, and created great memories along the way. Another aspect that made this experience so special was the feeling of being part of something bigger than ourselves. Volunteering gave me the opportunity not only to help others but also to learn from them. I realized that even small actions can make a difference, and that sometimes the most important thing we can offer is our time, enthusiasm, and willingness to help. The experience also taught me to appreciate things that I sometimes take for granted in everyday life. Overall, my time volunteering in Tanzania with IVHQ has been one of the most rewarding experiences I have ever had. I am very grateful for the opportunity to meet incredible people, experience a new culture, and take part in work that felt meaningful and impactful. I have learned a lot, grown as a person, and created memories that I will never forget. I would definitely recommend this experience to anyone who is looking for an opportunity to make a difference while also challenging themselves, discovering a new place, and creating genuine connections with people from different backgrounds. I am leaving Tanzania with a very full heart, a greater appreciation for the world around me, and many unforgettable memories that I will carry with me for a long time.

My volunteering experience in Sri Lanka with International Volunteer was truly one of the most rewarding and enriching experiences of my life. From the very first moment I expressed interest in the program, the organization supported me step by step until my departure, making the entire process smooth, clear, and stress-free. The team was always available to answer my questions, provide guidance, and ensure that I felt fully prepared for my journey. Their professionalism, dedication, and genuine care gave me confidence and peace of mind throughout the whole preparation phase. The teaching project I participated in was absolutely wonderful. It was an incredible opportunity to work with enthusiastic students, immerse myself in the local culture, and make a meaningful contribution to the community. Every day was filled with learning, personal growth, and unforgettable moments. I am extremely grateful to International Volunteer for creating such a well-organized and impactful experience. I highly recommend this organization to anyone looking for a volunteer program abroad. Their support, commitment, and the quality of the projects they offer make them an outstanding choice for volunteers. Thank you, International Volunteer, for helping me live such an amazing adventure and for making a real difference in the lives of others while also changing my own life for the better.

I have traveled extensively and participated in many different programs over the years, but this one completely takes the top spot! You give a little, but what you receive in return is beyond words. From the moment we arrived, the staff was amazing and so deeply welcoming. We learned so much about conservation, local culture, and the country itself. Our daily routine included morning and afternoon work activities, ranging from helping out at the local school to clearing roads and removing invasive species. Age doesn't matter at all here—everyone pitches in and helps to the best of their ability! Everything is taught clearly, and you’ll learn how to use any tool needed with complete confidence. The wildlife experience is unbelievable. While we went on official safaris, literally every single drive to work felt like a safari of its own! We saw zebras, rhinos, giraffes, hippos, antelopes, tons of bird species, and so much more—we even learned how to track animals by their footprints! Our group ranged from 18 to 70 years old, and the camaraderie was incredible. Everyone worked as a cohesive team, got along wonderfully, and had an absolute blast together! Now, let's talk about the food: I never thought of Africa as a major food destination, but the chefs were FANTASTIC! As a vegetarian, I can honestly say I ate some of the best meals of my life here. They cater seamlessly to every single dietary need. The accommodations exceeded all expectations: * **Rooms:** Simple, private, clean rooms that are refreshed daily. * **Bathrooms:** Convenient shared bathroom set up between adjacent rooms. * **Amenities:** A great pool on-site to relax by during downtime! You get a nice break every day between 10 AM and 2 PM, which is perfect for reading, playing games, or heading into town (the staff will happily help you arrange a taxi). On weekends, you have free time to explore! We took an unforgettable group trip to Victoria Falls, but you can also book extra excursions through the program or TripAdvisor. **Pro tip:** Do not miss Chobe or the Zambia side of Victoria Falls! I truly cannot say enough good things about this program, the breathtaking location, and the incredible people. Do not hesitate for a second—book it! You are going to have the absolute time of your life!

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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!

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It was the most important and significant experience of my life which allowed me to know sides of myself that I didn't know. Contact with nature, animals and local culture is what I will remember most happily

it was great! mostly because you have the chance to partecipate to more than the program you apply for and you get the chance to help even more people and do a lot more things! you also get the chance to participate to more than the program you apply for and you get the chance to help even more people!

My experience with IVHQ was overall amazing, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone interested in volunteering abroad. The accommodation was lovely, the local team was incredibly kind and helpful, and I felt safe and supported throughout my stay. The volunteering itself was a really cool and meaningful experience, and I loved getting to experience a new country and culture. My favorite part was getting to play local games with the kids that are commonly played in Zambia but that I had never seen or played in my own country. It was such a fun way to connect with them and allowed me to get to know the kids on a deeper level. Being able to spend time with them, make them laugh, and hopefully help them feel loved and cared for was one of the most rewarding parts of the experience. I think two weeks was a great amount of time for the program I chose in Livingstone. After about two weeks, I felt like I had experienced most of what the area had to offer, so I think a longer stay could be difficult unless you enjoy a slower pace. I also wish the local team had given us a little more information about things to do during our downtime, such as local coffee shops, nail salons, affordable transportation options, and other things to do around town. I ended up figuring a lot of that out on my own, although I definitely could have asked more questions! Overall, I had a great experience and am very grateful I chose to volunteer with IVHQ. I left feeling like I had learned a lot, met some wonderful people, and had an experience I’ll remember for a long time.

Volunteered in Arusha, Tanzania with IVHQ and had a great experience from start to finish. Booking and pre-departure prep were clear and easy, so I knew exactly what to expect before I left. Arrival logistics were sorted, and the in-country team was responsive the whole time — any question I had got answered fast. Teaching English and math there was challenging in the best way and genuinely rewarding, and I left with a lot more than I expected to. Highly recommend IVHQ to anyone thinking about it.

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.

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My experience was amazing. Through IVHQ I got to meet people from all over the world. I left Portugal with friends from India, Mexico, Spain, Italy, and England. I felt true my immersed in the Portuguese culture and learned so much. The staff was also super kind and helpful. I loved working with my local team at the food bank, they were very welcoming. I was nervous at first because I didn’t speak any Portuguese, but everyone was super kind! I also had a lot of free time in this program to explore Lisbon.

I did sports education volunteering in Kenya for 7 weeks, and the program was everything I was looking for and more. The hostess at the apartment was super kind, the other volunteers were really friendly, and the volunteer placement was awesome. I really felt that I was able to immerse myself in the Kenyan culture, and I learned a ton. Go in with an internal locus of control, and you will have an amazing time!