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Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide

VerifiedProvider
4.3 / 5Overall Rating
17Reviews
2015Year established

Program Overview

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller grassroots NGOs and local specialists in more than 80 countries. All these with just one click!

Find projects in wildlife, teaching, community development, and several other areas. Simply choose your desired destination and desired travel date, and our search engine will compare the best volunteer abroad programs on your behalf. Whether you wish to gain experience at a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa or teach English at a monastery in Nepal, we've got you covered.

Volunteer World guarantees a quick and easy application. We will guide you through this process, as well as help plan your next meaningful trip. We provide free access to quality-checked projects and flexible options. And if anything goes wrong, we've got your back with our qualified support team and our refund guarantee.

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Jump to the full breakdown of dates, costs, eligibility, and more.

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Program Highlights

Gain hands-on experience in your choice of field through our volunteering programs abroad.
Experience local cultures and get to know different ways of life.
Broaden your professional skills and gain new knowledge all together.
Make lifelong friendships with people from all over the world.
Travel and discover the country in your free time and experience it in an absolutely unique way.

What's Included

Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
All Program Activity Costs
Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Some Equipment
On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
Pre-Departure Orientation
In-Country Orientation
Certificate of Completion

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Yerevan, Armenia
  • Bariloche, Argentina
  • Atherton, Australia
  • Punta Gorda, Belize
  • Cochabamba, Bolivia
  • Florianopolis, Brazil
  • Sofia, Bulgaria
  • Rural Areas, Canada
  • Antofagasta, Chile
  • Beijing, China
  • Alajuela, Costa Rica
  • Havana, Cuba
  • Fakse, Denmark
  • Cabarete, Dominican Republic
  • Cotacachi, Ecuador
  • Cairo, Egypt
  • La Libertad, El Salvador
  • Finland
  • Montpellier, France
  • Berlin, Germany
  • Accra, Ghana
  • Athens, Greece
  • Antigua, Guatemala
  • Rural Areas, Hungary
  • Iceland
  • Agra, India
  • Bali, Indonesia
  • Ireland
  • Eilat, Israel
  • Ischia, Italy
  • Kingston, Jamaica
  • Rural Areas, Japan
  • Eldoret, Kenya
  • Latvia
  • Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
  • Malta
  • Merida, Mexico
  • Casablanca, Morocco
  • Rural Areas, Namibia
  • Bhaktapur, Nepal
  • Christchurch, New Zealand
  • Diriamba, Nicaragua
  • Niamey, Niger
  • Rural Area, Norway
  • Bocas del Toro, Panama
  • Arequipa, Peru
  • Rural Areas, Philippines
  • French Polynesia, Polynesia
  • Lisbon, Portugal
  • Galati, Romania
  • Irkutsk, Russia
  • Bloemfontein, South Africa
  • Barcelona, Spain
  • Rural Areas, Sweden
  • Bangkok, Thailand
  • Los Angeles, United States
  • Montevideo, Uruguay
  • Caracas, Venezuela
  • Hai Phong, Vietnam
  • Harare, Zimbabwe
  • Funtana, Croatia
  • Bogota, Colombia
  • Multiple Countries
  • Dhaka, Bangladesh
  • Arusha, Tanzania
  • Cofradia, Honduras
  • Angola
  • Andros, Bahamas
  • Minsk, Belarus
  • Bosnia & Herzegovina
  • Maun, Botswana
  • Battambang, Cambodia
  • Bamenda, Cameroon
  • Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
  • Nadi, Fiji
  • Rural Areas, Gambia
  • Tbilisi, Georgia
  • Saint Patrick, Grenada
  • Port-au-Prince, Haiti
  • Iran
  • Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
  • Luang Prabang, Laos
  • Beirut, Lebanon
  • Liberia
  • Fort Dauphin, Madagascar
  • Malawi
  • Hoadedhdhoo, Maldives
  • Causeni, Moldova
  • Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
  • Inhambane, Mozambique
  • Mandalay, Myanmar
  • Ilorin, Nigeria
  • Lahore, Pakistan
  • Pilar, Paraguay
  • Kigali, Rwanda
  • Castries, St. Lucia
  • St. Vincent & Grenadines
  • Victoria, Seychelles
  • Makeni, Sierra Leone
  • Somalia
  • Ambalangoda, Sri Lanka
  • Lobamba, Swaziland
  • Kpalime, Togo
  • Trinidad & Tobago
  • Entebbe, Uganda
  • Democratic Republic of Congo
  • Katete, Zambia
  • Rarotonga, Cook Islands
  • United Kingdom
  • Sal, Cape Verde
  • Juba, South Sudan

Available Terms / Availability

  • Years Offered
  • Year Round

Eligible Nationalities

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

Education Levels & Language

  • Education
  • Any/All Education Levels Accepted

Accommodation Options

  • Apartment/Flat
  • Dormitory
  • Group living
  • Guest House
  • 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
  • 1-2 Years
  • Multiple Year
  • 9-12 Weeks
  • 7-12 Months
  • Summer
  • Alternative Spring Break
  • After College
  • Career Break / Mid-Career
  • During College
  • During High School
  • Post High School

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about Volunteer World

4.3
17 reviews

Rating breakdown

5
9
4
6
3
0
2
2
1
0

Top categories

Volunteer Placement
4.4
Day to Day Life
4.4
Program Administration
4.3
Health & Safety
4.2
Community Engagement
4.1
Living Situation
3.9

Participated in this program? Share your experience now.

Review this Program

Showing 1-17 of 17 reviews

Yusuf CelikJanuary 2026

I would recommend to people who need Social Media detox!!

I enjoyed some of the activites , but not others. The rivre walk and the walk to the koppies was 10/10. No intrenet was challenging , so 7/10. Jane , Precious , Patrick and Lucas were 10/10. I woul recommend this project to anyone who needs a detox from Social media.

Dignae Peter Tanzania · October 2025

Mrs

New culture, new people, New Life. When we exchange our perspectives, ideas and plans to make a world better place for everyone. It's good to go different places it helps me view life in many directions

Raul enrique Higuerey MontesVenezuela · October 2025

Mi vida en haiti

Hice 5 años en haiti, me se su idioma, se toda su cultura, me gustaría volver y apoyarlos en todas las dificultades que tienen, ya que ameritan mucha ayuda de todos nosotros, para ellos poder sobrevivir

Fanny ClaassenNetherlands · August 2025

A Disappointing Experience – Concerns About Volunteer Safety and Organizational Accountability

As an experienced volunteer and development professional with a background in projects across Africa, South America, and Asia — including living and working within local communities — I approach every new opportunity with open eyes and realistic expectations. However, my recent experience through Volunteer World in Rwanda left me concerned and disappointed. The local project I was placed with was poorly organized, and at times, I did not feel entirely safe. Despite these challenges, I remained committed and contributed actively by visiting project sites and developing several strategic documents for the local organization, including an investment proposal, a crowdfunding plan, and a volunteer-to-ambassador strategy. The local team even invited me to join their board, a generous offer I respectfully declined, having concluded that I could not, in good conscience, support their operations long-term. Upon returning home, I reached out to Volunteer World and invited them to have a conversation about my experience — not to complain, but to provide constructive feedback and help prevent future volunteers from encountering similar situations. I stressed how important this would be, especially for less experienced or younger volunteers, for whom this could have been a very distressing experience. To my surprise, Volunteer World declined the invitation for a dialogue. Instead, they asked me to submit a bullet-point list of concerns for internal review. I responded with a kind email explaining why a context-sensitive, personal conversation would be more appropriate — especially given the complex and potentially vulnerable nature of the issues raised. They declined again, with no willingness to engage in meaningful discussion. Because of this, I cannot in good faith recommend Volunteer World. An organization that is unwilling to listen to feedback — particularly when it concerns volunteer safety and well-being — fails one of the most basic responsibilities of any organization in this field. I sincerely hope they reconsider their approach for the sake of future volunteers.

Tabitha MainaKenya · June 2025

Volunteer from Kenya

I would really like to volunteer. I am passionate about charity and showing kindness to the world. Please, give me a chance. Kindly provide Certificate of sponsorship too since I'm not able to provide for myself at the moment. Kindly put my request into consideration.

Bakare GbolahanNigeria · December 2024

Time for what I like doing most and also my work

This an increasingly popular way for individuals to make a meaningful impact in communities around the world. With numerous organizations offering volunteer programs, it's essential to review and research these opportunities to ensure a safe and rewarding experience. *Pros:* 1. *Cultural Immersion*: Living and working with local communities provides an immersive cultural experience. 2. *Skill Development*: Volunteers can develop new skills and gain experience in areas such as teaching, conservation, and community development. 3. *Networking Opportunities*: Volunteers can connect with like-minded individuals from around the world. 4. *Personal Growth*: Volunteering abroad can be a transformative experience, fostering personal growth and self-awareness. *Cons:* 1. *Cost*: Many volunteer programs come with a hefty price tag, which can be a barrier for some. 2. *Safety Concerns*: Volunteers may face safety risks, such as health concerns or political instability, depending on the destination. 3. *Cultural Differences*: Adapting to local customs and way of life can be challenging for some volunteers. 4. *Quality of Programs*: Some volunteer programs may lack structure, support, or meaningful work, leading to a disappointing experience. *Recommendations:* 1. *Research Thoroughly*: Investigate the organization, program, and destination to ensure a safe and rewarding experience. 2. *Read Reviews*: Look for reviews from past volunteers to gain insight into the program's quality and challenges. 3. *Choose a Reputable Organization*: Select an organization with a proven track record, transparent policies, and adequate support for volunteers. 4. *Prepare Yourself*: Culturally, emotionally, and physically prepare yourself for the experience to ensure a smooth transition. By being aware of the pros and cons, doing thorough research, and choosing a reputable organization, volunteers can have a safe, rewarding, and life-changing experience abroad.

Namutebi Hadijah MatovuUganda · October 2024

Social worker

As a Social worker i often meet with clients to assess their needs, provide counseling, and develop individualized plans to address their challenges. This could involve sessions with individuals, families, or groups.

Photos

Silvia S. TerratizSpain · March 2021

Do not hesitate! Best experience of my life!

I probably had one of the best experiences of my life in Natuwa for a month, feeding the many animals that live there, taking care of them, discovering a different way of life than mine, more minimalist and peaceful. Rodolfo is an extremely understanding man who cares about the well-being of his voluntarios. We had the chance to do several extra activities outside the centre, such as snorkeling near to Isla Tortuga, or swimming at night with bioluminescent planktons, which were dazzling. The workteam is really friendly and allows you to feel integrated quickly and easily. However, you have to expect to work hard sometimes, for example planting trees, doing work to maintain the infrastructure, but this is only a part of the day. outside the centre

bertrand marinelFrance · December 2020

Trip cancelled by the COVID for my daughter in July 20- Volunteer world doesn't' refund the deposit

Everything is explained in the title... Considering that the covid is not of their making, Volunteer World refused any reimbursement. I strongly advise against working with this company, which is nothing other than a travel agency with unacceptable commercial methods.

Michael OjemeNigeria · February 2019

A wondrous experience

The time I spent in Dubai, Oman and Abdul Dhabi, I have a wonderful and experiential Joy with the people and I was able to showcased my skills and the people explore my knowledge to their satisfaction Little details of my experience Dubai Falcon Ballroom Hotel which was so great. Even more perfect was the fact that they had thought of everything in advance, I didn’t need to remind them I needed a fresh bed shread in the room (which I did have to do twice at the local hotel I stayed in my country, more on this later) as they had already taken care of that prior to our arrival. The bed, oh the bed! It was dreamy in every way, the most comfortable place I’ve ever laid in, and the most restful sleep I had had in years, and sometimes teary nighttime awakenings. some things can’t be helped…oh, the joys of travelling with flight Emirate is spectacular. A night between those bed-sheets really restores and rebalances you. I had excellent views directly facing the Mall of the Emirate and part of the pool below (if you stretched your neck). Everything in the room was spotlessly clean and looked brand new. The desk was comfortable for planning my daily routes on our my map.

zhongxuan yangChina · January 2019

Self Challenge in Thailand

August 8th, 2018, I went to Thailand for the highest skydiving constitution in Asian. At the time, when I put on heavy equipment, I was super nervous, so I paid hundreds percent concentration on training. All set down, I followed the coach to get on the helicopter and had a big swallow before taking off. On the way to five thousand inches high, my hand still stuck the edge of seat tightly. It's the real time when I hardly moved right to the open door, my foot suspended in the midair and smash wind make me hard to breathe. Without struggle, I was pushed to jump with closing eyes and opening mouth. Actually, I screamed loudly but heard nothing. The parachute opened in seconds successfully and everything went as well as training. When I stood steadily on the cloud, I touched the soft clouds, astonished by the beautiful view of Phuket Island---golden-green fields are surrounded by the sea blue, trail of the train intersect through the landscape, cars running on the roads are as tiny as ants moving foods. Swinging back to the ground, I was so proud of myself and at the same time, I was so excited about the astonishing views in the sky.

Videos

Maria Enelia EcheverryColombia · November 2018

Giving my knowledge in health

In my 30 years of experience as a professional nurse I have worked in comprehensive patient care and I know everything related to the area of health. Now I am retired and my great desire is to help people in need.

Jennifer HeinenBelgium · August 2018

Surely a life experience

Volunteer World gave me the opportunity to find a project that suited me. They have plenty of projects and there is something for everyone! You meet amazing people. You get to know the country and the culture through te locals. You connect immedeatly with the other volunteers and experience this amazing trip together. I'm already looking for my next experience with them.

AMINEMorocco · May 2018

Rich experience

Hey , I'm Amine , I would love top inform you that I have had a good experience in voluntary work that's why I want to share it with you by helping people in need . In fact , I have made great relations when I was teaching either children or adults , it was really a good time when dealing and socializing , I really learnt many thing from such experience and thus could cope with many problems and situations . I also learnt many things when curing my father for about 16 years , he is in special need and I have learnt numerous things and even got more open with wide heart when dealing with sick people , indeed , I'm that kind person by nature who loves to offer something to others

KaempfFrance · January 2018

I really enjoyed my trip

During three months, I’m volonteer in community project for GVI in Silana Village and I really enjoyed my trip. It’s very likely to help the NGO and the villagers in the waste management and the recycling activities. Gvi permits to me, to discover a new lifestyle with my fijian familly in Silana.

Olatosu GabrielNigeria · December 2017

Quality of culture

I'm Olatosu Gabriel, I was so touched when I travel to Tanzania, with a lots of unexpected surprises, really enjoyed my tour over there, especially in Zanzibar, their masquerades where so fine, they moved out with voodoo, flames of fire coming out of their head, women half naked dancing on their toe. Some strong men holding their masquerades that held cutlasses, I had a lot of time watching their festival, I enjoyed the way of their greetings, prostration and two hands on their head, I also visited a port, where I saw some animals, some that I have never seen in my life, also visited Kenya, I enjoyed their meal and their women so cheerful and lovely, most are black but beautiful, also visited Ghana in Accra, really enjoyed the cool place, with lots of fun, clubbing and enjoyed their women hospitality,. So amazing,...

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SteffiNetherlands · December 2017

Life changing experience

The service was exceptional. I had many technical difficulties and someone was always there to help me out. Thank you so much! So easy to get in contact with organisations and tailor a search based on what my interests or travel requirements are for the experience. Love the range of filters and ease of contact and booking. I especially appreciated the transparent ethical guarantee on the website when looking at programs. Really great site! I've spent two weeks at a horse sanctuary and I had an amazing time! It is a nice project, you learn a lot about horsemanship and respect towards the horses.

Photos

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