Volunteer Abroad Programs
Make an impact on the world! Participate in meaningful projects, gain new skills, and follow your passions.
Top Volunteer Abroad Providers

Featured Provider of the Month
Featured Volunteer Opportunities
This Month’s Recommended Volunteer Abroad Programs

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
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 fro...

MAXIMO NIVEL
Turn your passion into action with Maximo Nivel’s top-rated Volunteer Abroad programs in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru!Volunteering abroad is an incredible way to immerse yourself in a new culture, build essential life skills, and meet like-minded tr...

Teach Explore Asia (XploreAsia)
Xplore’s Buddhism Immersion Program offers volunteers a transformative opportunity to explore Buddhist culture and religion while making a meaningful impact. Volunteers will teach English to monks, nuns, orphaned children, migrant youth, and disadvanta...

Intercultural Outreach Initiative (IOI)
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...

Spanish Gap Year
Our program in Barcelona offers students and young professionals meaningful international experience in one of Europe’s most dynamic cities. It is designed to strengthen CVs, explore career pathways, improve Spanish, and immerse participants in authent...

Doctors in Italy Fellowship Program
Our Animal Care Program is a unique opportunity to explore the breadth of careers in veterinary medicine and animal science, while immersed in Italian culture and stunning natural landscapes. Whether you're on the pre-vet path or simply curious about w...
How to Volunteer Abroad
Overview
How to volunteer abroad
If you want to volunteer abroad and you're not quite sure where to start, here’s exactly what you need to do:
- Choose which cause you want to support. Most people who decide to volunteer abroad have been inspired by a social or political issue in the world. Whether it’s climate change, LGBTQIA+ rights, refugee displacement, or beyond, it’s important to know what exactly it is you want to lend your time and effort to. There are hundreds of causes out there, but think about which one truly speaks to you?
- Decide where to support your chosen cause. Once you know what it is you want to do, it’s important to figure out where you’re most needed. Many organizations around the world lack the staff and resources required to do their important work, hence they promote volunteer opportunities to get more human capacity to make their missions possible. You might already have some place in mind, but don't forget to open your mind to unique options you may not have heard of before too!
- Find a program. Once you know what you want to do and where you want to volunteer, then it's time to find a program that can make your dreams a reality. We have vetted dozens of programs and gathered thousands of reviews through our platform to make choosing a volunteer program as easy as possible for you. Filter volunteer programs by the causes, destinations, and even duration you're looking for, and you'll narrow down your options to the programs most suited to your interests and goals.
- Save up for program fees. Although we'd love to tell you volunteering abroad is free, it's not that simple. It costs money to travel to the destination, and the organization will incur costs to run their programs and accommodate you during your stay. Just think of your program fees as part of your donation to the cause! In addition to saving up your own money, finding ways to fundraise for your trip is very common for volunteering abroad, since you'll be contributing to a meaningful cause that your community and personal network will likely be excited to support too!
- Prepare all the essentials. Once you've selected your program and start pulling together the funds for your trip, make sure you understand all the essentials you'll need for your trip. And you'll also want to prepare yourself mentally for the challenges you'll experience in a new place, culture, and maybe even language.
Why
Why volunteer abroad
It sounds cliche, but volunteering abroad will likely be a truly life-changing experience. There are a multitude of benefits of volunteering abroad, from mental health to professional growth to life experience. We couldn't possibly list out all the reasons you should volunteer abroad in this space, but we have loads of resources to help you understand the value it will have for your own life, as well as how you can make your own impact on the world too.
No matter how you decide to volunteer abroad, when you choose a reputable program and go in with the right mindset to immerse yourself in the local projects and support your chosen organization in every way you can, you are sure to walk away with memories and experience you'll never forget.
Volunteering abroad is your chance to experience the world in one of the most meaningful ways possible!
Locations
Where to volunteer abroad
No matter what cause speaks to you, there are going to be multiple locations to consider for your volunteer program abroad. First off, make sure you consider the distance you're willing to travel. Don't be surprised that flights to the other side of the planet are a little more pricey than a direct flight away. You should prepare yourself for the travel costs and actual travel time before narrowing down your top picks for where to volunteer.
There are many popular destinations for volunteering abroad, but that doesn't mean those will be the best locations for you, it all depends on what you want to do during your time abroad. You can't support sea turtle conservation in Canada or help conserve rainforests in Europe, but that doesn't mean there aren't unique places to volunteer either! Take time to research locations that have volunteer programs that align with your interests, and compare each destination to see which one will be the best fit for you. Here are a few of the top places to volunteer abroad we'd recommend giving a try:
Getting started
Need more help?
Don't worry - that's what GoAbroad was built for! We have plenty of resources, and experience, to make your volunteer abroad program planning go smoothly. Here are a few places to get started:
- Get Handpicked Programs Matches - fill in a few quick questions and we'll automatically match you with a few of the best programs for you.
- Read Volunteer Abroad Articles - there are hundreds of resources to answer all your questions.
- Apply for Deals & Scholarships - by filling out one single application, you can gain access to dozens of discount offers!
- Find Travel Essentials - whether you need a passport still, you're confused how visas work, or you're ready to secure travel insurance, we've put together a list of the best travel resources to compliment your volunteer experience.
Popular Providers
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I volunteer abroad for free?
Here’s the deal—you probably can’t volunteer abroad for free. Although this immediately sounds counterintuitive, there’s actually a great reason for it, and that reason is: resources.
Accommodating you during your time abroad, coordinating projects for you to work on, and buying materials for the programs you'll contribute to all take resources! By paying for your volunteer program, you'll help contribute to the continued efforts of the projects and organization!
Why is volunteering abroad so expensive?
Organizations that are working in areas of great need are typically strapped for funds. It’s expensive for organizations to help you find a placement, secure housing, provide support, and coordinate logistics on the ground. If a program were free, that would mean all the money required to host volunteers would be funneled out of the local economy and away from the issues you’re there to help solve.
On that note, however, you should be wary of volunteer organizations that are primarily businesses. Before choosing a program, you’ll want to do your due diligence and ensure you’re not indirectly perpetuating harmful voluntourism practices. This can start with reading reviews about the program, and you can also look for our GoAbroad Verified green check mark as a signal of a vetted program.
How can I find volunteer abroad scholarships?
You may know why it costs money to volunteer abroad, but that doesn’t mean you can necessarily afford it. We hear you! Believe it or not, there are scholarships for volunteering abroad. You can also try to secure funding for your trip through a Facebook Fundraiser or crowdfunding platforms like FundMyTravel.
What are the requirements to volunteer abroad?
The requirements to volunteer will depend on the program or organization you’re interested in volunteering through. In general, though, you’ll need to fill out an application or interest form online, have an interview with a coordinator, and have a valid passport.
Additionally, you’ll need to apply for and pay for your visa and purchase your flights. Your program will also provide pre-departure support to assist you with the logistics and final requirements before departure.
What are some benefits of volunteering abroad?
There are many benefits of volunteering abroad! Of course, there are the usual benefits that are involved with traveling abroad, like broadened horizons and a better understanding of the world at large.
However, the primary benefit of volunteering abroad isn’t for you, but for your host community. When volunteering abroad is done right and sustainably, the work you do during your placement will have a lasting impact on your host destination.
What are the best volunteer abroad programs like?
With so many volunteer opportunities around the world, how do you choose the best one for you? First, you’ll want to narrow down your goals and plan accordingly. Which issues abroad are the most important to you? How much time can you commit to volunteering abroad? (Hint: The longer the better!)
However, the best volunteer abroad programs also come down to their impact. The best organizations are run sustainably, which means they aren’t perpetuating local issues in order to make money. That would in fact be the antithesis of meaningful travel. Do research on your top program choices to make sure they’re adhering to ethical policies, and don’t be afraid to ask questions about their practices. Then you’ll know you haven’t only chosen the best volunteer program for you, but one of the best volunteer programs for the world.
Here's a step-by-step process to help you choose the best volunteer program for you!
Latest Program Reviews
A Meaningful Experience in Marine Conservation
September 21, 2026by: Kennedy james - United StatesMy experience with the Marine Conservation Volunteer Project in Kilifi was both educational and rewarding. As someone passionate about the marine environment, I appreciated the opportunity to take part in practical conservation activities and learn more about the challenges facing coastal ecosystems. The local team was welcoming, supportive, and knowledgeable, and I enjoyed learning from their experience. I also loved interacting with the local community and experiencing the beautiful Kenyan coast. The program gave me a deeper appreciation for marine conservation and showed me how volunteering can contribute to protecting the environment while creating meaningful cultural connections. It was an experience I will always remember.



Would recommend!
September 21, 2026by: Kozimo Vanmarcke - BelgiumProgram: Volunteer to Teach English to Children in Rural China
The process of becoming a volunteer for Stepping Stones is very straightforward and convenient. I had no prior teaching experience and taught two classes of about 40 children together with another Stepping Stones volunteer near Quanzhou, Fujian. Great amenities and lovely local coordinators. Volunteering through Stepping Stones is a great way to make an impact for children in rural China
Together, we inspire
September 21, 2026by: Sagarie Govender - South AfricaProgram: Women Empowerment Volunteer in India
I was humbled by the grace, kindness, strength and joy I received from the young woman of the WEP. Their determination to become skilled and more of themselves, was truly inspirational to me! So we danced, laughed and learnt from each other. They embraced the creative, and educational and empowerment activities and enriched it with their life experience. I returned home with wonderful memories and a warmth in my heart - Thank you❤️ Many thanks to Pradeep and Mr. Thotiram who made the daily trip to the project fun and adventurous🤩
Together, we inspire
September 21, 2026by: Sagarie Govender - South AfricaProgram: Women Empowerment Volunteer in India
I was humbled by the grace, kindness, strength and joy I received from the young woman of the WEP. Their determination to become skilled and more of themselves, was truly inspirational to me! So we danced, laughed and learnt from each other. They embraced the creative, and educational and empowerment activities and enriched it with their life experience. I returned home with wonderful memories and a warmth in my heart - Thank you❤️ Many thanks to Pradeep and Mr. Thotiram who made the daily trip to the project fun and adventurous🤩
Together, we inspire
September 21, 2026by: Sagarie Govender - South AfricaProgram: Women Empowerment Volunteer in India
I was humbled by the grace, kindness, strength and joy I received from the young woman of the WEP. Their determination to become skilled and more of themselves, was truly inspirational to me! So we danced, laughed and learnt from each other. They embraced the creative, and educational and empowerment activities and enriched it with their life experience. I returned home with wonderful memories and a warmth in my heart - Thank you❤️ Many thanks to Pradeep and Mr. Thotiram who made the daily trip to the project fun and adventurous🤩
Portugal
September 21, 2026by: Isabel Estrada Garcia - SpainMy experience was amazing. Definitely would describe it as one of my favorite and most memorable trips. I bealive the impact was truly felt and delivered. Along with an amazing trip and life long new friends.
Life-changing experience in a unique ecosystem
September 21, 2026by: Anna Snyder - United StatesProgram: Amazon Rainforest Conservation Volunteer Program in Peru
Participating in ASA's volunteer program was an experience I will cherish for the rest of my life. The jungle at Finca Las Piedras is stunning, and I saw so much wildlife. The trail system is well-maintained and beautiful to explore. The staff is extremely knowledgeable and supportive. While the accommodations are basic, they are clean and safe. I loved waking up every morning to the sounds of the jungle. Supporting the protection of this important ecosystem while learning about the region’s unique wildlife was a life-changing experience. I would highly recommend this volunteer program to anyone considering it.
Really nice experience.
September 20, 2026by: Kristyna Charbaka - Czech RepublicProgram: Medical Volunteer Program
I did medical volunteering program in Jaipur. The experience was great. The house had a great location, the family was very kind, food was great. In the hospital I had the oportunity to listen to the different cases as well as try some practical things. The only obstacle was language, but doctor tried to explain everything to me. On the weekend I also had the oportunity to go sightseeing, we visited Amber Fort and other famous places in Jaipur. All in all the stay was pleasant and I had a really great time.
Amazing Time during my volunteering - women empowerment
September 19, 2026by: Celeste Falanga - ItalyProgram: Women Empowerment Volunteer in India
I had a wonderful time during my women's empowerment volunteer stay in Jaipur! The girls were fantastic and the cultural exchange with them was truly special; plus, the staff was very kind and welcoming. My host family made sure I had everything I needed and made me feel right at home. On top of that, Jaipur is a gorgeous city full of vibrant colors and incredible history. I'm so grateful and satisfied with this experience as a solo traveler, and I will carry these precious memories in my heart forever. :))

The best experience of my life!
September 19, 2026by: Helen Picton - WalesProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
My time volunteer teaching in Zambia was unbelievably fantastic. I met such lovely fellow volunteers, staff at my volunteer house, teachers and of course kids at my school. The program was really well organised from pre departure to arrival home with plenty of time for sight seeing. I felt so safe in Zambia and received a warm welcome. I felt relaxed at all times and really did not want to come back. I plan to do it all again next year and hopefully catch up with the children a year on in their studies. I'm missing everyone in Zambia!
Best journey of life and to be continued
September 19, 2026by: Shaowei Fang - AustraliaProgram: Volunteer to Teach English to Children in Rural China
I wanted it before it started. And I want more after it finished. The experience is priceless and soul touching. Regardless of lacking comfort, the gains are more satisfying than anything other pleasures. I had the time to devote myself into a life meaning-seeking journey and to enjoy the feedback of it. The place ,the people , the doings during the period uncovered the unseen and hidden side of myself and bring this to the light gives me tremendous amount of pride and peace. I will continue doing this.
I volunteered so hard I decided to stay !
September 19, 2026by: Wendy Smith - EnglandProgram: Volunteer in Latin America! Costa Rica, Guatemala, & Peru
After only 2 weeks I decided I wanted to live and work in CR. So I think this says it all. I’m now going from volunteer to employee. Maximo / my host family and my volunteer project have now become friends.
Maximo Nivel Peru Volunteering
September 19, 2026by: Seth Ravid - United StatesProgram: Volunteer in Latin America! Costa Rica, Guatemala, & Peru
Great experience. This was my first time paying to participate in an overseas volunteering program, and I was afraid I would get scammed. No such occurrence. All arrangements from homestay to the work itself were exactly as described. My Peruvian family took great care of me and my work (medical volunteering in a local community clinic) was fulfilling. Maximo Nivel maintains a relationship with a reputable tourism company (American Inca Trail) that has an office in their same building, and I took full advantage of this for some amazing hiking trips. The services Maximo Nivel provides (arranging accommodation, placing you with host family, placing you in volunteer project, etc.) aren´t cheap and you might think you can do it cheaper on your own, but in my opinion, they´re worth the price you pay. Let them handle some things for you so you can focus on enjoying your experience abroad, not dealing with shady travel companies, lodging/logistics that aren´t what you were promised, etc.
Unforgettable experience in Kenya
September 18, 2026by: miguel amelia - MexicoProgram: Colobus Monkey Conservation volunteer project in Kenya
I had a really great experience volunteering with the Colobus Monkey Conservation Project in Diani. The team was friendly, welcoming, and very supportive throughout my stay. I enjoyed learning about the colobus monkeys, taking part in conservation activities, and seeing firsthand the work being done to protect them and their habitat. What I loved most was that it wasn’t just about volunteering; I also got to interact with the local community and learn more about conservation in Kenya. The experience was simple, hands-on, and very rewarding. I would definitely recommend this project to anyone interested in wildlife and conservation. It was a memorable experience, and I left feeling like I had made a small but meaningful contribution.

Great trip!
September 18, 2026by: Heidi Robinson - United KingdomProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
I Took my first trip alone with IVHQ as a 17 year old last month. It was an amazing first trip where I was supported the whole way and made many friends from all over the world. I loved the volunteering and I learnt so much about the culture. I am already planning my next trip!
Mambo
September 18, 2026by: Vladimir Lauria Pinter - ItalyProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
Volunteering in Zanzibar was an amazing and unforgettable experience. I had the opportunity to meet wonderful people from different countries, discover the local culture, and take part in meaningful activities that made every day special. The staff and coordinators were always welcoming, supportive, and friendly, which made me feel comfortable from the beginning. I also created strong friendships with the other volunteers and shared many great moments with them. This experience taught me a lot, both personally and culturally, and helped me grow as a person. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a unique, rewarding, and meaningful experience abroad.
The best experience I had so far and I travel a lot. Would 100% recommend And would definitely do it again in a heart beat.
September 18, 2026by: Valeria Alvarez - United Statesthe place was beautiful, the people were so kind, the children were wonderful and so well behaved, the food was incredible, two weeks felt too short !! the green lion made me feel at home and I can’t thank them enough for that. Definitely a once in a lifetime experience. Loved every second of it, I didn’t want to leave.



An unforgettable internship
September 16, 2026by: Xinyue HU - ChinaI had a really unforgettable summer with The Intern Group. For the internship, it's my first real industry working experience, I learned so many new things, solved the problems that I have never met before. Thanks so much for my colleagues and mentors, they were always so patient and supportive, helping me whenever I have troubles. I really enjoyed the working environment, everyone is doing their own things, but the meetings and communication let me felt strong connection. And also thanks a lot for the events from Intern Group. I met people from different background, sharing opinions with each other. And the activities also led us to look into the English culture, experienced the life in London. It's such an unforgettable summer. I made new friends, had an experience of internship, broadened my horizon for different cultures. Thanks for meeting everyone.
Unforgettable trip
September 16, 2026by: Ghina Zeineddine - CanadaMy experience with IVHQ in Tanzania was truly unforgettable! 🇹🇿🤍 From the application process to arriving in Tanzania, I felt like I had clear information and guidance throughout the process. The application was straightforward, and having the details about accommodation, transportation, volunteering, and what to expect before arriving made preparing for the trip much easier. The coordination once I arrived was also very helpful. I appreciated having people available to help with the transition into the program and being able to connect with other volunteers from around the world. The highlight, of course, was my time volunteering at a daycare in Sakina. The children and staff welcomed me with so much love and made me feel like part of their family. It was such a meaningful experience, and I left Tanzania with memories and connections I’ll carry with me forever. I’m so grateful to IVHQ for making this experience possible and giving me the opportunity to step outside my comfort zone, give back, and experience Tanzania in such a meaningful way. I would definitely consider volunteering with IVHQ again! 🌍❤️
Traveling Solo with Epilepsy
September 15, 2026by: Veronica Garza - United StatesI really liked my experience with IVHQ because everything was planned and guided where any questions were answered, any anxiety was calmed. This was my first solo trip as by the title you can see I have epilepsy. Living with that makes it hard to have certain experiences and in a comfortable manner. IVHQ helped immensely with that, the company of others, the accommodation, everything was well planned and helped myself travel solo and have a very joyful experience.
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We were inspired to go abroad because we wanted to combine travel with something more meaningful. Instead of just visiting a new place, we were lookin...

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Josephine Populin
Kar Geno-Center for Hope, Kenya
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Samantha Fei
Joinki
I've always loved travelling, and after completing my bachelor's degree, I wanted to go on some solo adventures—especially since my original exchange ...

Maren Kateraas
Fundación Bolívar Education
A desire to learn Spanish and be able to see a part of the world and experience a culture and life philosophy different from my own. My hope always wa...

Saboor Zeeshan
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A goal of mine, ever since I developed an affinity for altruism and human compassion, has been to serve in underprivileged parts of the world.

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International Medical Aid (IMA)
I have always been raised in an international context in countries like Argentina, Bolivia, Trinidad and Tobago, Spain, and the USA. Throughout my lif...

Judy Ross
Mondify
I felt inspired to travel to Cordoba because Argentina's history of human rights activism is powerful and deeply moving. I wanted to learn directly fr...

Razain Alhassein
Fundación Bolívar Education
My ultimate goal is to go to a Physician's Assistant School, and I had the opportunity to live in Ecuador for 8 months because my mom is Ecuadorian.

Sung Suhr
Fundación Bolívar Education
What inspired me to go abroad was a desire to step outside familiar routines and experience life from a more grounded, human perspective. I wanted to ...

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Mondify
I had been dreaming of doing a volunteering project abroad for many years. This dream probably started when I was a teenager. But perhaps like many wo...

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