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Reforestation Volunteer Programs

“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” The Lorax doesn’t lie; in fact, he speaks for the trees. Since you found your way to this page, it's clear you care an awful lot about our planet. But is "caring" and "doing something about it" the same? By volunteering to help with reforestation efforts abroad, you will add some serious credibility to your mere “interest” in a meaningful cause. You'll get your hands a little (ok, a lot!) dirty, hug trees a little tighter, make our air a little cleaner, and keep our Earth a little greener (and ultimately please the Lorax).
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Featured Provider of the Month

171 Reforestation Volunteer Programs

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

9.55

795

Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally—from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservation, Medical Outreach, and Environmental Sustainability. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported over 147,000 volunteers on life-changing journeys. We specialize in fully-hosted volunteer trips that are safe, affordable, and accessible—starting from just $20 per day. Your experience includes airport pick-up, accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock support from our local teams. With flexible booking options and no change fees, planning your volunteer adventure has never been easier. Our programs run year-round and are available for 1 to 24 weeks across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, South and Central America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Volunteering with IVHQ is about more than giving back—it’s about growing, learning, and building genuine global connections.

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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!

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Adelante Abroad

9

9

Volunteer in Oaxaca, Mexico - Adelante Abroad

Make a positive impact in Mexico! Adelante Abroad offers affordable volunteer programs in a wide variety of fields and sectors in Oaxaca, Mexico. Put your time towards helping those in need. Volunteer in sectors such as ecology, social work, arts, or NGO, just to name a few. Oaxaca is one of the most biodiverse areas in Mexico, known for the craftwork of local artisans. It is also home to warm-spirited people, and there are plenty of opportunities to give to the community. If you're looking to make a difference, volunteering in Oaxaca, Mexico, with Adelante is the perfect opportunity! Volunteers can choose to go abroad for 1 to 6 months. Programs are offered year-round with customization options. You'll be paired with organizations in need of specific skills while allowing you to reach your volunteer goals. Eligibility for this program is: * 18 years of age or older and possess a desire to learn about and live in another culture * Some Spanish is helpful, although we can place beginner Spanish speakers * Applicants can be Gap Year students, enrolled in a university, or college graduates. Visit our website for more information.

GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

9.5

6

Spain – Marine Conservation in Barcelona

Dive into a life-changing adventure with the Marine Conservation program in Barcelona! This unique opportunity lets you explore the underwater wonders of the Mediterranean while actively contributing to preserving its delicate marine ecosystem. As you immerse yourself in Barcelona's vibrant culture, you'll gain invaluable scuba diving skills, connect with like-minded volunteers from around the globe, and make a tangible difference in the fight against ocean pollution. Join us for an unforgettable journey where every dive is a step towards a cleaner, healthier ocean.

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Kaya Responsible Travel

7.67

3

Turtle and Marine Conservation in Costa Rica

Be a part of the conservation and protection of sea turtles in Costa Rica! Join Kaya on its Turtle and Marine Conservation Project located near Bataan in the Limon Province of Costa Rica. This is an opportunity to help protect sea turtles and their eggs while learning more about these magnificent creatures alongside a dedicated marine biologist. You will assist a local team with the conservation and protection of up to four of the seven different species of sea turtles: loggerhead turtle, hawksbill turtle, green turtle, and leatherback turtle. As a turtle sanctuary volunteer, you will help in caring for injured animals, moving eggs to safe hatcheries, and collecting and processing biometric data. Your tasks will largely depend on your level of experience and the time of the year. This placement is aimed at those who have a good level of scientific knowledge. You must be adaptable, enthusiastic, and don’t mind getting your hands dirty. A basic level of Spanish is also helpful for this project.

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Impact Gap Year

10

2

Conservation Explorer Gap Year

Visit three different continents in a single program, traversing South Africa, Peru, and Sri Lanka. This 8-month adventure starts in the Kruger area where you'll engage in wildlife conservation efforts to protect Africa's iconic Big 5 (lion, tiger, elephants, rhinos, and buffalos). Next, you will transition to False Bay where you will contribute work in a marine research center helping towards underwater conservation. The third pit stop is in Peru where you will help plant trees, discover sustainable farming methods, and support local communities in protecting their environment. The last stop is an internship in Sri Lanka, where you will help conserve the endangered turtle species’ nesting sites and monitor turtle activities along Sri Lanka’s beautiful coastline. This program offers diverse experiences, ranging from marine exploration to teaching to professional growth—all while making lasting impacts on diverse communities. Join us on this life-changing journey of learning, cultural immersion, and meaningful contributions across continents.

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Intercultural Outreach Initiative (IOI)

0

0

NEW PROGRAM! Endemic Plant Species Nursery in Galapagos

IOI plays a strategic role in supporting the conservation efforts of Isabela’s endemic flora. Volunteers on this project will have the opportunity to assist the Galapagos National Park in operating and maintaining its plant nursery in the highlands. You will be involved in ecological restoration projects in rural and urban areas of Isabela, learn about their ecology, and contribute in a tangible way to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs)! Some tasks include: Transplanting seedlings, pruning, and prepping nursery beds Maintaining the irrigation system Assisting in the management of plagues and invasive species Answering questions from tourists or locals visiting the plant nursery This program is an excellent opportunity for participants with ‘green hands,’ experience in landscaping, and an interest in ecological restoration. Support rangers and increase your knowledge of effective ways to cultivate the endemic and threatened Scalesia plant. Learn about Isabela’s endemic flora in an impactful way!

Raleigh International

9

1

Volunteer in South Africa - Expeditions With Purpose

A Raleigh South Africa Expedition is your chance for Adventure. In the stunning Kruger region, you have the chance to take action on some of the world's most pertinent issues through immersive Community projects, and impactful Environmental work. Through our life-changing Adventure Leadership Trek you will develop skills and experiences that will last a lifetime. What are you waiting for? The Greater Kruger area is located between Mozambique, Eswatini, and the world-famous Kruger National Park itself. In comparison to Cape Town, this area encapsulates Africa at its heart, not to mention boasting year-round sunshine. It is a wildlife haven with natural beauty unlike anywhere else in the world. You'll most likely spot plenty of wildlife while you're on our environmental project and trek. You'll be with experienced guides if you're in areas with any of the big 5. Whether you are taking a gap year or want to do something meaningful in your summer, join young volunteers from across the world and a community of thousands of Raleigh Alumni.

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Gapforce

8.8

5

Costa Rica Adventure with Gapforce

Adventure and animal lovers rejoice! Alongside its stunning jungles, beaches, and volcanoes, Costa Rica is known for its astonishing biodiversity. The country accounts for as little as 0.03% of the earth’s surface yet contains nearly 6% of the world’s biodiversity. Although such a small country, Costa Rica has ample opportunities for adventure, offering everything from surfing to hiking and from snorkeling to zip-lining! Our adrenaline-inducing adventure will take you from the spectacular cloud forests of Monteverde to the sandy shores of Puerto Viejo for an array of conservation work and cultural exposure. Get ready to assist in various inspiring volunteer projects, and, to top it all off, spend a week at a Turtle Conservation Project in Tortuguero. With a fantastic balance between guided excursions and sustainable volunteer impact, Costa Rica has something for everyone!

Roots Interns

9

6

Fundraising Internship in Cape Town, South Africa

Be part of a dynamic environmental organization in Cape Town, South Africa, on this fundraising and business development internship. This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in the nonprofit sector, social entrepreneurship, and environmental development. You'll gain a great amount of practical work experience, and you'll get to see the ins and outs of running a social enterprise. Be part of a nonprofit organization that runs urban greening, reforestation, and eco-education programs across Africa. They are driven by a small but hugely dedicated team, and as an intern, you'll be an integral part of it. Your tasks will include the following: - Help drive fundraising and growth strategies for this self-funded organization - Conduct market and fundraising research - Help write funding proposals and reach out to potential partners - Help manage donor databases & stakeholder relations - Assist with digital fundraising campaigns You'll stay in the center of Cape Town, a hugely fascinating and vibrant city. During weekends off, you'll have a chance to explore the city and its stunning surroundings.

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Jakera: Learn Spanish, Volunteer and Adventure

10

1

Learn Spanish & Volunteer 2 or 4 weeks

The lively beach town of Santa Teresa in Costa Rica is world famous for surf breaks across pristine, uncrowded, and seemingly endless beaches. After surfing and sunbathing are over for the day, it's time for Spanish lessons and volunteering! – The town comes alive with funky surf shops, cafes, restaurants, and nightspots for every taste and budget. Your experience will be based at ‘Jakera Jungle Surf Camp’, where we have created a jungle paradise complete with a swimming pool overlooked by a rich tropical forest bursting with wildlife, including red squirrels, howler monkeys, and tiny magical hummingbirds. We are a 5-minute walk from the cool cafes, bars, and shops that line the 6km stretch of road and beach that make up Playa Santa Teresa/Playa El Carmen. Throughout the volunteer projects – approximately 20 percent of your time will be turtle conservation – you’ll assist in preserving precious ecosystems and help local people raise their quality of life. However, there is still free time to enjoy a great social life and participate in the many other activities to be enjoyed here.

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GVI

9.6

296

Volunteer with Elephants in Thailand | GVI

In Northern Thailand, support local community members and elephant mahouts to reintegrate these intelligent land animals into expansive forest grounds. You’ll live in the rolling hillside province of Chiang Mai among local Karen communities, where you can learn about the diversity of Karen culture and gain cross-cultural skills. Guided by local mahouts, you’ll go on hiking expeditions to record elephant behavioral data and take note of their sensory reactions to their environment and food sources. You’ll also learn how to identify the biodiversity in the area, conduct insect and stream surveys, and gain camera trapping skills. GVI collaborates with local partners to ensure ethical best practices are measured against the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). This is an opportunity to expand your skill-set for animal conservation and knowledge of one of the world’s most cognitively advanced land animals. In your free time, trek through jungle landscapes, hike up nearby mountains, view contoured rice terraces, and meet like-minded people from all around the world.

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Projects Abroad

9.41

296

Global Leader In Meaningful Travel. Trusted By 130,000

At Projects Abroad, we’re passionate about travel with a purpose. Since being founded in 1992, more than 130,000 volunteers have traveled to over 20 destinations around the world. Our programs will make you step out of your comfort zone and engage with your new friends from around the world. These are long-term projects, led by local people and aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. By taking part in our programs, even for a short time, you will be contributing towards a sustained effort to support the communities that host us! We believe no other provider offers the safety and security to their volunteers and interns that we do. You'll receive 24-hour staff support from our trained staff, alongside a gold standard of safety planning of your trip - so you don't have to worry about a thing. Choose a project you are passionate about from working with children to medical internship, conservation, and wildlife volunteering. We offer projects starting at one week in over 20 stunning destinations across Asia, Africa, Latin America & The Caribbean, South Pacific & Europe. Ready to make a difference? Follow the link to visit our website!

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Love Volunteers

0

0

Environmental Protection Program in South Africa

This amazing project was created to preserve the beautiful natural environment of Cape Town and its surrounding areas. Activities include hands-on conservation work in parks and reserves or initiatives revolving around educating future generations on the environment. This aspect is run through educational camps and activities established to promote sustainability for the future. Most projects are highly structured and well-managed, with most funded by the government or subsidized through donations. Volunteers should love the outdoors. They must be prepared to get their hands dirty and work in unpleasant weather conditions. Those who love working with children and would like to work as part of a team can join awareness camps and activities.

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IPBio- Biodiversity Research Institute

9.58

66

Top Rated Program Volunteer Abroad in Brazil 2025
IPBio Amazon Biodiversity Research Assistant

We are a non-governmental, non-profit organization that develops and supports projects in environmental education and scientific research on biodiversity, ecology, as well as on the behavior of fauna and flora of Brazilian ecosystems. Volunteers can participate as Biodiversity Research Assistants and help us conduct long-term inventories essential for understanding trends in wildlife patterns and monitoring the effects of climate change. These activities are done in a group and are related to field research, wherein repetitive data collection is required to understand trends over long periods. This role is for individuals who like to be outside and enjoy physical activity. Projects all volunteers participate in: -Forest Inventory and Flora Survey -Bird Inventory -Fish Inventory -Search for Bioluminescent and Fluorescent Organisms -Mushroom Inventory -Camera Traps for Mammals We have a role for photographers and videographers as well! This program is also open to individuals who want to take on an internship.

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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.

Eco Caminhos

9.83

23

Short-Term Volunteer - Bioconstruction & Permaculture in Rio

Eco Caminhos is a sustainable eco farm that follows the principles of permaculture and works to produce our own food, energy, and building materials. Our international community in Brazil is located in the peaceful and stunning mountains of Nova Friburgo, Rio Janeiro. Here, we learn to co-live, co-work, evolve, and resolve our problems together. This program is meant for those who have a limited amount of time and still want to experience a sustainable and community life, and learn about bioconstruction (natural building), agroforestry (syntrophic farming), and renewable energy through hands on training. Throughout the week volunteers have free time to go sightseeing, relax, and deepen their connection with nature. Volunteers can choose to focus on permaculture or bioconstruction or have a wider experience participating in all the projects we run. It's generally a hands-on experience for three days each week and plenty of organized activities to choose from (such as Portuguese classes, outdoor activities, trekking, and mountain biking) on other days. This program doesn’t require any experience; only the motivation to learn, enjoy, and get your hands dirty.

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GoBeyond Student Travel

9.75

8

GoBeyond - Global Community Service Adventures for Teens

This program goes beyond ordinary high school travel programs and build cross-cultural community service summer trips perfectly geared to your interests and curiosities. Whether you’re looking to contribute to authentic service projects, experience exhilarating adventure, or develop your language skills, GoBeyond will immerse you in a new culture where you can make a meaningful difference while on the journey of a lifetime. Our high school community service summer programs proudly serve in many under-resourced communities and environments throughout the world. Explore our journeys in the British Virgin Islands, Costa Rica, Galapagos & Ecuador, Peru, Iceland, Spain, China, Thailand, India, Sri Lanka, and Australia. Beyond experiencing the adventure of a lifetime and creating lasting memories, we believe our community service summer trips enable lasting positive change in the world. For over forty years, we’ve been transforming communities, environments, and students’ lives through meaningful, collaborative adventures and service that develop skills and a more sophisticated worldly outlook—ultimately shaping the person you become.

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Volunteer World

8.69

16

Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide

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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Terra Sylvestris

9.43

14

Kalamos and Kastos Sustainable Development Program

Are you interested in collaborating with a local community, focusing on the development of a permaculture initiative as well as protection of biodiversity in an off-the-beaten location known for its global importance? In that case, sign up for a Sustainable Development Program - a field volunteer program that aims to help educate and inspire people from around the world about sustainability and nature conservation. It is based in the Kalamos Island biological field station, and you will work according to a pre-agreed plan. Throughout the program, you will immerse in one of the few grassroots biodiversity conservation projects in Greece, in an area of outstanding natural beauty. You will gain hands-on experience in monitoring wildlife and plant populations as well as in the field of permaculture and sustainability in a Mediterranean but also international context.You will also get to see how it is like to be part of an organization working towards achieving a variety of sustainability goals and be part of a multicultural environment and at the same time be a member of the local community of our islands.

A Guide to Reforestation Volunteering Abroad

Why Volunteer Abroad in Reforestation

Reforestation projects serve to restore and reverse the effects industrialization and development have had on forests across the globe. Although reforestation initiatives differ by location, all of them have similar goals: reconstruct forests in order to improve quality of life, rebuild natural habitats and ecosystems, and mitigate the impact of global warming.

Turn over a new leaf (pun intended) as you volunteer with reforestation projects abroad. For the outdoor enthusiast or anyone studying environmental science or sustainability, reforestation volunteering placements are ideal. Reforestation volunteers will able to explore some of the world’s most beautiful, rugged landscapes while protecting them for future generations to enjoy.

While we’re sure your home country has no shortage of beautiful areas in need of reforestation, taking your talents abroad will expose you to a wider variety of flora and fauna, and really challenge you to comprehend the immense biodiversity of our planet. You might not get a spandex suit and matching cape, but you’ll certainly be saving the world. 

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Latest Program Reviews

Great experience volunteering in HuaHin

December 17, 2025by: Judith Hibbert - United KingdomProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
10

I had a great time in Thailand volunteering through IVHQ. Their pre departure checklists and videos were really helpful, and gave me confidence. The handover to the local team was seamless, with pickups and transport working really well. During the placement, the accommodation was great, with a good range of extra activities to get involved in during our downtime. In my third week, I transferred to a private room, as my boyfriend joined, and this again was seamless, with local pickups and drop offs only a whatsapp away. And the placement itself was sooo rewarding! I did construction and renovation which was sometimes tough in the heat, but well worth it to see the gratitude on the faces of the pupils and teachers at the kindergarten.

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