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Volunteer Programs in Koh Samui, Thailand

There are plenty of reasons why Koh Samui is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand, yet few visitors really experience life on the island, as lived by the locals. Volunteering abroad in Koh Samui will allow you to do just that. Immersing yourself into their culture, as a volunteer, means you’ll contribute something meaningful to the local community and still have the chance to enjoy all of Koh Samui’s coconuts highlights. A volunteer abroad on Koh Samui island can have their Pad Thai and eat it too—probably whilst watching the sunset from a stunning white sand beach
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A Guide to Volunteering Abroad in Koh Samui

Popular Ways to Volunteer Abroad in Koh Samui

Most volunteer abroad programs on Koh Samui focus on community development through infrastructure and education projects. A range of program durations and styles are available, so it is important to do some research before you dive in (scuba diving being a great weekend option!).

Popular causes/program types in Koh Samui. With a focus on community development there are a range of education projects for volunteers on Koh Samui. This reaches from English teaching in the classroom, to summer camps and less formal options. Those looking for something more manual can make a tangible contribution through infrastructure development, contributing to improved living standards for the local population. Through all of these programs you will have the opportunity to interact with and learn from the people you work alongside, immersing you into the culture in a way you would never experience as a tourist.

Summer/short term volunteer programs in Koh Samui. If you don’t have too much time to spare, it is possible to volunteer abroad on Koh Samui for just a few weeks in your summer vacation or a break from school. Although volunteers are generally encouraged to stay as long as possible in order to maximize their impact and better understand the local challenges, some programs, such as educational summer camps are well suited to a shorter visit.

Long term volunteer stints. If you have the time available, a longer volunteer abroad experience is definitely beneficial as you will get to know the people with whom you are working better. The longer you stay, the more impact and change you are likely to see as a result of your contribution as well, not to mention extra time to enjoy life in paradise! English teaching is a great option for long term volunteers who have time to build relationships with their students.

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Latest Program Reviews

Teaching in Chiang Mai

October 30, 2025by: Charli r - AustraliaProgram: Volunteer in Thailand with IVI - Affordable Programs!
10

The trip was the most fulfilling, enriching and inspiring experience I have ever embarked upon 😊 It is my second time volunteering with IVI and each time I embark on a new teaching journey I seem to learn more, take new things away from the program and leave with new friends from all over the world! I was fortunate enough to volunteer in Chiang Mai, Thailand for 2 weeks wherein I got to teach at 2 schools within the local area. Each day was filled with joy, excitement, friendship, compassion and new opportunities to which I grasped with both hands. One of the most awesome things about volunteering abroad would be the everlasting friendships you create. I adored spending many of my afternoons exploring the local culture with both our coordinators and other volunteers as well as spending many late nights learning new languages, cultures and travel stories from across the world. These friendships hold a very special place in my heart and continue to flourish outside of the volunteer space. My favourite part of the volunteering had to be the lesson planning as it was the most rewarding experience when the lessons and games I had planned were so well received and enjoyed by the kids! If you are considering volunteering … this is definitely your sign as it is an unmatched experience that has countless affordances ❤️ The local team made my stay like home wherein I became apart of this close knit family. We were all so well looked after, with all facilities well maintained, drivers readily available, existing connections across all of Chiang Mai and major attractions we all wanted to visit as well as endless resources to utilise within the classroom setting. The food was definitely locally sourced with many dishes being traditional to Thailand however the food was well prepared and delicious. A few more Western dishes would have been adored but not necessary! It was awesome! I’m so very grateful! THANK YOU 🥰

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