Volunteering in Goa won’t be a cakewalk, and may very well be one of the most difficult experiences of your life. However, it will also be one of the most defining! Choose carefully where in Goa you would like to volunteer, as there is a well-known variance between the booze-soaked north versus the more peaceful south.

Popular causes and program types in Goa. When you volunteer in Goa, you can choose a cause that’s close to your heart, or go where you’re needed most and potentially discover a new passion. All over India, volunteers are needed in education and teaching, and for helping orphans in local shelters — the situation is no different in Goa. Closely related and equally as important are programs in child care.

Another area where your time and dedication is in high demand? Health care, and working with AIDS in particular. While HIV infections thankfully continue to decline in India, Indians still make up the third-largest HIV/AIDS population in the world.

Amongst the lush jungles and azure sea, animal welfare, wildlife, and conservation could all benefit from your time in Goa. Stray dogs sadly run rampant across the country, while the environment continues to suffer from pollution, lack of public sanitation services, and tourist activities.

Short term volunteer programs in Goa. Programs ranging from two to four weeks, and up to three months, are the most available for volunteer work in Goa, India, and downright affordable. They are also popular options for those who can only commit to a short-term visa, and may still want to leave enough time to see the rest of India on their own. A carefully-timed project during shoulder season in April or September would mean avoiding pesky tourists, and getting to experience a more authentic Goa.

Long term volunteer projects in Goa. Programs of a longer duration are limited, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take your talents elsewhere once your placement in Goa ends! India is in dire need of selfless volunteers who will truly commit themselves to making a difference in the country, and the easiest way to achieve this is by spending seven to twelve months (or longer!) working on your project. Don’t forget that a year in Goa also means enduring monsoon season from June to September.