While there are volunteer projects in all corners of the world, different geographic areas need different sets of hands. Each region comes with its pros and cons, so balance weather, food options, types of placements, scenery, and wildlife accordingly.

Caribbean & Central America. Golden beaches, blue skies, thick jungles, mighty mountains, and fresh fruits are just a couple of the things that await volunteers in this region of the world. Since there are many different types of landscapes and cities within a compact area, there are volunteering opportunities for everyone in these two regions. A multi-country volunteer program could start with a week in Granada, some time in Haiti, and end with a stay in Guatemala or Costa Rica. As the getaway paradise of the world, it won’t be difficult to indulge in vacation views and activities while doing something meaningful for mankind, the animal kingdom, and Mother Nature.

Southeast Asia. There are plenty of picturesque do-good volunteer opportunities in Southeast Asia that should be included on any traveler’s bucket list. Great weather, Buddhist temples, and the best curry in the world combine to make any trip fantastic. In Thailand, there are beach resorts in the south, Bangkok in the middle, and an old cities with amazing ruins in the north. Cambodia gives volunteers the option to hike through Angkor Wat and help out with projects that are still combating the consequences of the Khmer Rouge. In Vietnam volunteers can bike from place to place, visiting Hanoi and then taking a break in Halong Bay.

East Africa. Countries in this part of the world have recently been struck by disaster and are in need of aid. Nations like Rwanda and Tanzania provide many volunteer opportunities in food programs and education, but keep in mind that conditions are not always easy and volunteer placements can be a little more challenging. If you’re more about nature and animals, the jungle, savannahs, and coastal scenery provide incredible opportunities for encounters with animals (lions, elephants, and flamingos, oh my!) in environmental and animal conservation projects.