GoAbroad

Spring Break Volunteer Abroad

While flowers are blossoming and the sun is starting to peek out from the clouds, you too can do your part to beautify the world and make it a better place. Divert your spring fever energy to a good cause by signing up for an alternative spring break trip abroad! Whether it’s running around barefoot with children, taking care of wild cats, or hammering together new homes, there are alternative spring break volunteer opportunities waiting for your eager pair of hands and active mind. The time slot might be short, but the impact and memories will be eternal.
Read More
IVHQ - jump shot - VA

Featured Provider of the Month

457 Alternative Spring Break Volunteer Abroad Programs

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

9.77

13

Volunteer on the Kindergarten Project in Fiji

Volunteers on the Kindergarten project work in a rural school environment with children aged between 4 and 5 years old who are at the start of their education. Volunteers on this project are involved in informal teaching activities, as the children are more responsive to play learning than in a formal sense. Your classroom assistance will help grow their confidence and assist them with learning English, which will be invaluable for their future education. Volunteers are welcome to bring any tactile and creative ideas they have to the classroom, and discuss these ideas with the local team. Volunteers on the Kindergarten project work from 9.00 am to 2.00 pm during the school week (Monday to Friday) and have the afternoons free to prepare lesson plans for the following day. The Kindergarten project is ideal for participants who love working with children and are new to the world of volunteering, as all volunteers work alongside local placement staff who can guide volunteers in daily tasks and activities.

See All 25 Programs

MAXIMO NIVEL

9.5

487

Top-Rated Volunteer Abroad Programs in Latin America

Maximo Nivel is a locally based organization in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru. Volunteer abroad—get involved, make an impact, and learn to serve by working on local projects: - Working with Kids - Teaching English - Conservation - Construction - Animal Care - Eco-Agriculture - Medical and Healthcare To qualify: - Volunteers must be 18+ years of age or accompanied by a parent or guardian. - We require background checks from our volunteers. - Come with a great attitude and a willingness to pitch in. Since 2003, Maximo Nivel has been a leader in educational travel and study abroad. Our work-study-travel programs host more than 4,000 people per year. We are a professional, ethical, and hard-working organization that is completely dedicated to providing a great experience to every participant, student, traveler, and client! Every day, we strive to set ourselves apart and provide the best volunteer, education, and cultural experiences in Latin America, along with top-notch client service and great home-based facilities. Live it!

Volunteer for the Visayans

9.78

9

Volunteer and Intern in the Philippines

Find out why it's more fun and meaningful to volunteer with us! Volunteer for the Visayans (VFV) provides a wide range of program choices for people wanting to Volunteer Abroad in the Philippines through our local community partners and our very own community centers. VFV endeavors to improve the quality of life of the community by providing responsive, efficient, and high-quality community service through our programs and projects that promote self-efficiency, well-being, and prosperity of individuals, families, and communities throughout the Visayas Region. VFV has initiated programs to address issues in social welfare, education, public health, and community development in rural areas surrounding Tacloban City. The design of our programs allows prospective participants of varied skills and professions to get involved with various projects. We require that all volunteers are flexible, self-motivated, open-minded, sensitive to other cultures, and desire to challenge themselves in an unfamiliar environment!

Top Rated Program Volunteer Abroad in South Africa 2025

African Impact

9.23

520

African Big 5 Wildlife Conservation Project in South Africa

Join our Wildlife and Research Conservation Project and immerse yourself in the captivating wilderness of South Africa’s Greater Kruger area. Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or an aspiring conservationist, this enriching volunteer experience will unveil the many wonders of the African bush. No matter your skill set or expertise, this wildlife conservation program in South Africa will immerse you in the African bush alongside a skilled and qualified team that includes Field Guides and Research professionals. Contribute to meaningful wildlife research and conservation projects by participating in animal tracking, monitoring, and data collection initiatives during daily game drives. Your contributions will directly support the protection of incredible South African wildlife and their habitats.

See All 12 Programs

GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

9.45

11

Costa Rica – Sloth and Wildlife Rescue Center

Join the Sloth and Wildlife Rescue Center in Costa Rica, a renowned wildlife organization dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of local animals. The center includes an on-site hospital and comfortable living quarters for volunteers. The enclosures, surrounded by nature, provide a habitat-like environment for the animals as they recover. As a volunteer, you'll work in a team to provide care for over 100 animals – including sloths, birds, and monkeys – in a sanctuary nestled in nature's lap. You'll take on a hands-on role that involves tasks like preparing food, feeding animals, maintaining clean enclosures, and assisting the on-site vet when possible. You'll also take part in educational community projects, raising awareness about wildlife conservation.

See All 11 Programs

Kaya Responsible Travel

10

1

Teaching and Community Work in Zanzibar

Come to Zanzibar and volunteer on this teaching and community development project located on the island. The project works with a number of different schools and community institutions where you will be volunteering and doing a variety of different task. Volunteers will work in a range of different schools including preschools, primary and secondary schools where you will support local teachers in educating and playing with children. You will also have the opportunity to work with adults by teaching life skills at the local tourism institute. Volunteers may also have the chance to get involved with the local beach and marine conservation programme. The activities you undertake will depend on the time of year of your visit, school holidays and the needs of the project, but there is always plenty to do. This project is ideal for volunteers with a keen interest in education and who work well with children. For volunteers who wish to lead lessons, a teaching qualification will be needed, such as a TEFL or TESOL certificate.

See All 7 Programs

Impact Gap Year

9

3

South Africa, France and Thailand Gap Year Exploration

Explore the dream destinations of South Africa, France, and Thailand on a comprehensive 6-month journey. Experience an exceptional blend of cultural immersion, wildlife conservation, and community involvement. You'll start your journey by contributing to wildlife conservation in South Africa amidst the Big 5 conservation area. Next, you'll hop on to France where you will immerse yourself in French culture and language during an unforgettable summer in Loire Valley, studying at one of the country's oldest universities. Finally, venture to your third country - Thailand - where you will volunteer as an English teacher in the scenic Hua Hin island. The entire experience offers invaluable cultural insights, skill development, and lifelong memories; igniting passions for social and environmental causes as you embark on a journey toward becoming a dedicated global citizen effecting positive change.

See All 2 Programs

Intercultural Outreach Initiative (IOI)

9.79

70

Giant Tortoise Breeding Center Volunteer in Galapagos

Volunteer at the Galápagos National Park and get the chance to assist at the tortoise breeding center. You will be a member of the research and zookeeping staff. Take responsibility for taking care of and measuring the shells of tortoises for their growth charts, as well as informing tourists of rules and regulations and other necessary tasks at the center, depending on individual skillset. Requirements for this program are: - Basic to intermediate level of Spanish - A genuine passion for animal conservation - An ability to openly communicate rules and regulations to tourists and follow instructions - Ability to work independently as well as in a team - Physical ability to work outdoors with a potentially high allergen, sun, and temperature exposure IOI encourages all volunteers to stay as long as possible to maximize local and personal benefits. We encourage longer commitments by heavily discounting each additional week. The minimum stay is two weeks, with a maximum stay of three months. All volunteers must arrive in Isabela on Mondays.

See All 5 Programs

International Medical Aid (IMA)

9.96

160

Global Health & Pre-Medicine Internships Abroad | IMA

IMA offers an opportunity to enhance your medical and healthcare knowledge with International Medical Aid's Pre-Med and Health Fellowships. Crafted for pre-med undergraduates, medical students, and high school students, these fellowships offer a unique chance to engage deeply with global health care in East Africa, South America, and the Caribbean. Shadow doctors in underserved communities, and immerse yourself in diverse healthcare systems through our extensive network of public and private hospitals. IMA, a nonprofit organization, is deeply invested in the communities we serve, focusing on sustainable health solutions and ethical care practices. You'll be involved in community medical clinics, public health education, and first responder training, addressing the root causes of disease and illness alongside local community leaders. Beyond clinical experience, explore the beauty of your host country through cultural excursions and adventure programs during your free time. Join IMA's fellowships developed at Johns Hopkins University and step into a role that transcends traditional healthcare learning, blending clinical excellence with meaningful community service.

See All 6 Programs

Roots Interns

10

1

Marketing & Fundraising Internship in Ghana

Join an inspiring sports focused charity for a greatly varied internship. You'll be part of a small but fast-growing nonprofit organization that uses basketball as a tool to bring upliftment to the lives of kids in and around Accra, the capital of Ghana. The organization's mission is to offer professional coaching to talented youth. On top of this, the team works with kids in a number of communities in an effort to to boost their confidence, offers health education, and equip them with relevant life skills. As an intern, you will be joining this nonprofit at their training center just outside of Accra. Your role will be focused around marketing, fundraising, and communications. Depending on your skills, experience, and interests, you can expect to do fundraising research, write grant applications, help build key partnerships, and coordinate fundraising events. You might also help develop and implement marketing and fundraising strategies, and assist with monitoring and evaluation systems. This internship is an excellent opportunity to enjoy a multifaceted work experience in a thriving nonprofit organization.

See All 3 Programs

help2kids

9.64

39

Inspire Young Lives with help2kids: Volunteer in Tanzania

As a volunteer with help2kids, you can choose from different educational projects in Tanzania! Make a difference in the lives of local children through various ways: * Teach small and big groups of students * Spend one-on-one time with a child * Assist teachers * Supervise children in the class and during break time * Help the cook with the preparation and distribution of porridge and lunch * Teach basic computer skills Connect with children through teaching, playing, and listening. Our dedicated team of local and international staff supports volunteers to help children excel in school and build a path to success. You will stay at our secure and welcoming Volunteer House on the scenic help2kids campus. Here, you’ll live alongside fellow participants and staff members, fostering community and collaboration. We offer dormitory-style accommodation with options for single and double rooms, daily breakfast and lunch, a fully equipped kitchen, a cozy living room, and a spacious outdoor area for socializing. We also provide visa administration assistance to ensure a smooth experience. If you need more information about our program, please feel free to contact us.

Constru Casa

10

4

Travel, Build, and Transform lives in Guatemala

Join Constru Casa and become part of a life-changing mission to build safe and affordable homes for families living in poverty. This volunteer program is based in stunning Guatemala, where vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm communities provide an unforgettable backdrop to your experience. No prior construction experience? No problem! Our team will guide you every step of the way, ensuring you feel confident and valued. As a volunteer, you’ll work with local families and professional builders to construct sustainable, durable homes. Your efforts will directly improve the lives of families by giving them access to safe shelter, reducing health risks, and creating opportunities for a better future. Beyond the construction site, you’ll have the chance to connect with the families you’re helping, explore Guatemala’s rich traditions, and make memories that last a lifetime. By joining our program, you’re not just building houses—you’re building hope, stability, and brighter futures. Make a tangible difference in the world and be part of something truly meaningful!

Jakera: Learn Spanish, Volunteer and Adventure

0

0

Cuba & Costa Rica – 8 Weeks Travel Adventure

This program offers a full 8-week "All In" experience combining adventure and cultural exchange in Costa Rica and Cuba. Spend one month in each country embracing the lifestyle, enjoying the best activities, and making a positive impact by supporting local communities. Start in Costa Rica with Spanish classes, surfing, and yoga in the beach town of Santa Teresa, as well as an overland cloud forest exploration in Monteverde. Then, travel to Cuba to continue improving your language skills, enjoy some salsa dancing, participate in volunteer projects, and travel around the country to learn all about its history and culture. This is an ideal program for those seeking a blend of education, cultural immersion, and unique activities in two of Latin America's most vibrant countries. Plus, you get the chance to stay in a “jungle surf camp,” nestled in a paradise setting surrounded by wildlife. Imagine spotting a howler monkey hanging on a tree branch!

See All 3 Programs

Projects Abroad

0

0

Dentistry Placements in Tanzania with Projects Abroad

As a Projects Abroad Dentistry intern in Tanzania you can work alongside skilled medical professionals, learning about the dentistry profession in a different culture. You will be working in dental clinics that have few resources and you will learn a lot about how the dental profession works in a developing country. You will be placed in clinics in either Dar es Salaam or Arusha. Your role will be to observe the dentist and their staff throughout the day. By shadowing the staff, you will have the opportunity to ask questions and review cases. If you have dental experience and are enthusiastic and willing you may be given more responsibility. This could be helping set up the instruments for the dentists and assisting them while they treat patients.

See All 22 Programs

Excellence Center in Europe

9.28

110

Volunteer to Teach English & Study German (1-12 Weeks)

Volunteers taking part in short-term volunteer projects in Germany will be responsible for teaching one-to-one conversational English courses to students at the Center, as well as instructing small groups (anywhere from 2 – 5 students). Students come from a plethora of backgrounds, with ages ranging anywhere from 12 – 70 years old. However, most students will be migrants or the children of migrants, hailing from various Arab countries. Volunteers will not only serve as teachers, but also as cultural diplomats who represent their home country to the community in Halle (Saale). They play an important role in helping with communal activities meant to increase cross-cultural exchanges. In addition to teaching, volunteers will enroll in German language courses (3 hours a week). The advent of additional language courses is meant to further immerse them in local Arabic/German culture, allowing them to better communicate with their students, as well as locals in Halle. The Volunteer to Teach English and Learn German language program spans anywhere from 1 – 12 weeks, with volunteers staying with local host families during their time in Halle (Saale).

See All 3 Programs

The Excellence Center in Palestine

9.51

49

Volunteer Projects In Palestine In 2025

Volunteer Projects In Palestine In 2025: The Excellence Center/Engage in Palestine offers short-term volunteer programs for 2025 in Hebron, Palestine. Volunteers will work with Palestinian children, refugees, women, youth, university students, and families, helping them practice conversational English, organize workshops, and teach within the vibrant community. These programs are designed to be immersive, authentic, and comprehensive. In addition to language teaching, the Center offers programs focused on human rights, women's rights, Palestinian refugees, Palestinian culture and politics, the Palestinian legal system, and the political history and current situation of Palestine and Israel. These volunteer and internship opportunities are ideal for students and individuals seeking meaningful experiences in the West Bank, Palestine, Israel, or the wider Middle East. The programs provide a unique chance to engage with local communities, learn about the region’s complex political landscape, and contribute to social causes, especially during the summer months. Whether you seek cultural immersion or to support human rights efforts, these programs offer a deeply enriching experience.

See All 5 Programs

GVI

9.64

33

Women’s Empowerment Volunteering In Cambodia

Travel to the magnificent Asian country of Cambodia to assist our local partners as we work towards gender equality in the Phnom Penh region. Volunteers will get involved in a range of different women's empowerment activities, depending on the needs of the community at the time. These activities typically teaching English lessons and life-skills workshops to help the local women develop personally and professionally. Your contribution will play a significant role in increasing the local females’ access to education while improving their employment opportunities and quality of life.

See All 4 Programs

Volunteering Journeys

9.47

15

Medical Electives and Internships Abroad

Sign-up for our medical volunteering programs abroad if you are a medical or healthcare student who is aspiring for a medical career but needs real-time training and mentoring. You don’t necessarily have to have a medical degree, as requirements are different for each program. There are even pre-med volunteer abroad programs specifically for school leavers who are considering studying medicine in the future. We also offer customised placements for those seeking medical electives or medical internships abroad. Most of our medical electives abroad placement require that you spend 5-7 hours at our partner hospital or clinic as an observer of the daily routines of medical staff. You will be assigned a doctor or a department who will mentor you and may call upon you to assist with basic tasks such as taking vitals and treating minor wounds under the supervision of the local doctors. Our medical electives are offered in developing countries such as Philippines, Vietnam, India, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Peru and Costa Rica.

See All 23 Programs

Global Leadership Adventures

9.79

63

GLA Costa Rica - Volunteer Programs for Teens

Travel to Costa Rica and make a difference in a subject area you are passionate about! Choose from program themes ranging from Public Health and Medicine to Animal and Wildlife Conservation to Language Immersion and everything in between. GLA's offerings include: - Animal Rescue & Veterinary Project - Beachside Service Adventure - Marine Conservation & Sea Turtle Expedition™ - The Ultimate Adventure - Medicine & Healthcare Discovery - Middle School Service Adventure - Ocean & Wildlife Conservation Adventure™ - Sea Turtle Initiative™ - Spanish Service Adventure - Surf, Sports & Sustainability ™ - The Initiative for Children ™ - Spring Break Service Adventure - Costa Rica Internship: Career Exploration In Environmental Stewardship Costa Rica is known for its serene tropical surroundings and leading ecological conservation efforts. It comprises five percent of the world's biodiversity, making it Central America’s "crown jewel" and an unbeatable location for natural and cultural exploration.

Involvement Volunteers International

9.6

5

Turtle Conservation in Bali

Volunteer in this project and help protect the endangered sea turtles of Indonesia. You’ll be whisked away by boat to an island 45 minutes from mainland Bali. Depending on the time of year, you’ll collect turtle population statistics, identify species, gather eggs, monitor nests, or release hatchlings into the sea. Project tasks Educate locals on the importance of environmental issues Clean, feed, and look after various turtle species Assist with beach cleaning, collecting crabs, and tidying the turtle center Learn valuable knowledge on caring for turtles and the best way to ensure these animals are looked after The project base is on the beautiful island of Nusa Penida. Think bright blue waters, private caves, a lush jungle, waterfalls, incredible marine life, and a laid-back vibe. The island offers many adventure activities, such as trekking to stunning viewpoints, diving, snorkeling, and island hopping. Participants stay in a dedicated volunteer house in the village, only five minutes from the harbor.

See All 79 Programs

A Guide to Alternative Spring Break Volunteer Programs

Why Volunteer Abroad in Spring

Spring break can be a lot more than selfies in new swimwear, all-inclusive beach resorts, or lazy days in pajamas and boxes of cold pizza. Put life into perspective with an alternative spring break program abroad, and come back home with a few extra credentials and a lighter peace of mind (instead of a hangover).

Deciding to spend spring break pursuing a righteous activity isn’t a huge time commitment, yet its benefits don’t fade quickly. If you don’t want to miss out on any semesters or summer back home, pack a punch with two week (or less) alternative sping break trips. Not only will the weather be gorgeous as hibernation is coming to an end, but crowds will be smaller and prices cheaper. Since each country has spring break during a different week, there will also be less competition for accommodations and flights. Plus, who doesn’t want to see how iced teas compare across the world?

Working with people, animals, and the land in another country is a humbling experience, full of potential for personal development. Instead of a week-long party, you’ll learn that some countries employ pura vida (in moderation) year-round. Instead of listening to your friend’s boyfriend issues, you’ll learn that there are real issues out there that take real commitment and innovation to solve. Learning from new cultures will expand your perspective of the world (and of yourself!), and make you a global citizen that is sensitive to the needs of others. 

In addition to warm, fuzzy feelings, participation in alternative spring break programs can convey a lot on resumes and applications. Not only does it show that you are passionately interested in something, but it shows that you are a go-getter, stepping outside of comfort zones to tackle the unknown. It also hints that you are a master communicator, not selfish, and a team leader. Who doesn’t want to hire a candidate like that?

Popular Providers

Latest Program Reviews

2 Weeks in Halle at the Excellence Center.

December 16, 2025by: Rory A - EnglandProgram: Volunteer to Teach English & Study German (1-12 Weeks)
10

I came to the Excellence Center for two weeks at the start of December to take part in their media programme. Immediately when I arrived, I was welcomed warmly by Rafat who made a lovely home cooked breakfast for me and the rest of the volunteers. The atmosphere at the center is incredible: welcoming, supportive and friendly, so it is very easy to settle in at the start of your time in Halle. In my time here I met loads of amazing new people, and learned so much as a person and about the language. During my time in Halle the center ran their first Erasmus project, welcoming a huge number of people from 6 different countries for a workshop on diversity and discrimination. I was initially nervous at the prospect of meeting so many new people, but but there was so much support from the center and regular check ins to make sure I was doing well. I ended up having an amazing time, learning a lot and meeting lots of amazing new people to the point where the project was the highlight of my trip. At the excellence center there is an amazing atmosphere where you will meet lots of amazing new people from many different places, incredible language support and teaching from Muaz who is an amazing teacher and the opportunity to be a part of a community doing incredible work all across the world and help so many people.

Deals Banner Image
Apply for Scholarships & Deals on GoAbroad

to get exclusive discounts on meaningful travel programs!

Apply Now

Recent Volunteer Abroad Articles

Challenges of Volunteering
How Does Volunteering Help Communities Abroad?
Travel Inspiration
camel caravan through the desert
50+ Travel
volunteer hand touching small girl’s hand
Health & Safety Tips
sea turtle on a white sand beach
How to
Vintage red phone booth in New Zealand
Before You Go
Three adult volunteers working outside
For 30-Somethings
old woman taking a picture using an old camera
50+ Travel