Thinking outside the box for your volunteer abroad trip?
We know it’s easy to run into popular destinations, such as Costa Rica, South Africa, and Thailand when researching volunteer abroad programs. So, we’re going to discuss other destinations that aren’t as commonly covered in volunteer and teach abroad articles.
Regardless of whether you wish to make a difference in Latin America or do some good in Australasia and the Pacific, there are tons of volunteer projects in unique destinations. And you don’t have to be a legendary explorer to qualify! Just come with an open mind and eagerness to help, and you’ll have a wonderful time.
Now, let’s talk about what you can do when you volunteer off the beaten path and highlight a few of the reputable organizations that can offer you an adventurous volunteer experience.
Where You Can Go And What You Can Do
Some examples of wonderful destinations that aren’t among the most commonly chosen include:
- Zanzibar: A semi-autonomous region of Tanzania, Zanzibar is an exciting volunteer destination thanks to its unique culture and marvelous location in the Indian Ocean. Through International Volunteer HQ you can take part in Coastal Conservation initiatives in Zanzibar.
- Malawi: Known as the “Warm Heart of Africa,” Malawi boasts stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and friendly locals. Its breathtaking Lake Malawi offers exceptional wildlife and water activities. With GoEco, you can participate in Wildlife Conservation efforts.
- Guatemala: Rich in Mayan heritage, featuring stunning landscapes, vibrant markets, and ancient ruins, Guatemala’s diverse culture, lush jungles, and beautiful Lake Atitlán attract adventurous travelers. Maximo Nivel has a great Agriculture Volunteer Program where you can learn about ancient Mayan Permaculture practices.
From teaching English in Romania to community outreach in Argentina to helping kids through surfing in South Africa, there are so many places you can go and so many ways you can help. Common volunteer program types are:
- Education: Teach English, provide basic education at childcare centers, run jobs skill training workshops, work on women’s empowerment initiatives, give indigenous communities better access to education, and more.
- Environmental and wildlife conservation: Contribute to the protection of important ecosystems, like rainforests and coral reefs. Or, research and preserve precious wildlife, such as great white sharks, big cats, and elephants.
- Healthcare: Raise public awareness of diseases like HIV/AIDS, provide basic medical services to disadvantaged communities, and/or serve as a medical intern or volunteer, helping with everything from delivering babies and caring for new moms to taking vitals and doing sugar tests.
- Community development: Construct schools, health clinics, and community centers. Or, assist with job skills training, help entrepreneurs build sustainable businesses, work on promoting human rights, and support communities affected by diseases.
In addition to these types of volunteer abroad programs, there are also intern abroad opportunities in delightful destinations like Colombia, volunteer travel expeditions like those offered by African Impact, and language immersions through organizations like Maximo Nivel.
Now, let’s get into our featured programs so you can explore all possible volunteer and teach abroad destinations and programs. Read on!
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Launched in 2007, International Volunteer HQ has become one of the most popular volunteer abroad organizations worldwide. By the end of 2018, IVHQ sent more than 97,000 volunteers abroad.
In addition to offering high-quality, safe, and affordable volunteer opportunities, IVHQ attracts many people thanks to their wide array of unique volunteer destinations, such as:
Volunteer in Madagascar for sea turtle conservation, forest conservation, and teaching and community development. Based in Nosy Komba, a volcanic island off the northwest coast, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the beaches and immerse yourself in the culture of Madagascar. You’ll also be able to see lots of lemurs!
Sound exciting? Register here.
Is Bali looking a bit overcrowded? Experience the untouched paradise of Lombok with IVHQ’s volunteer programs. Enjoy white sandy beaches and a rugged landscape, perfect for making a difference in local communities. Located in Senggigi, IVHQ offers trusted projects, including Turtle Conservation, Construction, Health Education, and Teaching. Highlights include year-round project options, airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals, and 24/7 in-country support.
Recognized as a Top Volunteer Abroad Organization by GoAbroad in 2015, GoEco has more than 150 community, education, and environmental initiatives, which means plenty of selection if you want to go off the beaten path. GoEco is known for its affordability, commitment to making a difference, and great volunteer support.
GoEco has programs in volunteer destinations you might not have considered, such as:
Want to go somewhere neat in the Americas? Volunteer in Belize on a marine conservation project. Tasks include whale shark research, coral reef monitoring, and invasive species removal. This is a great program if you’re studying and/or planning to work in environmental science, marine biology, or related fields.
During your free time, you can relax on the beautiful private island where you’ll be based and explore mainland Belize. Already picturing yourself in the Caribbean? Sign up and be on your way!
Volunteer in Nepal and engage in meaningful projects like teaching English to Buddhist monks, empowering women, construction and rebuilding, and educational outreach.
Experience a unique cultural exchange in Buddhist monasteries, support women’s education and life skills in Kathmandu, renovate community infrastructure, and assist with teaching children. Begin with a cultural week in Kathmandu to fully immerse in Nepalese culture and traditions. Make a positive impact and explore the vibrant culture of Nepal.
Maximo Nivel, established in 2003, offers affordable volunteer abroad programs in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru. With year-round start dates, professional support, and all-inclusive packages, participants can engage in volunteering, internships, TEFL certification, and Spanish immersion while making a positive impact and experiencing local cultures. Perhaps the most untouched location to explore with Maximo Nivel would be Guatemala.
Volunteering in Guatemala offers a unique opportunity to make a difference in a country with rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes. Maximo Nivel’s programs in Antigua allow volunteers to teach English, empower women, engage in construction, provide medical assistance, and more. Volunteers can experience the vibrant culture of Guatemala while addressing issues like poverty, education, and healthcare. From working with children to supporting sustainable agriculture, volunteers help create positive change in local communities.
Founded in 1992, Projects Abroad sends more than 10,000 volunteers overseas each year. Featured by publications like The New York Times and Time, Projects Abroad is well-regarded and is known for its meaningful projects and top-notch in-country support.
If you want to volunteer in a more unique location, consider going with Projects Abroad to one of the destinations below:
If you want to volunteer in Mongolia, Projects Abroad may just be your go-to choice. You can volunteer with children, teach English, or serve as a medical volunteer/intern at a hospital. Perhaps the most unique experience is the chance to live and work with nomads (from $2,720 for one week); stay with a nomad family in the serene Töv Province and immerse yourself in the traditional nomadic way of life as you help with day-to-day tasks, like milking cows. How amazing does that sound?
Projects Abroad also has numerous internships in Mongolia if you want to gain international work experience, including in human rights, medicine, business, and psychology. So, want to hear more about volunteering in Mongolia? Check out Project Abroad’s site!
Volunteering in Romania with Projects Abroad allows you to support communities in need while experiencing the charm of Transylvania. Living with a local host family, you’ll enjoy delicious home-cooked meals and immerse yourself in the culture. Choose from various volunteer options and in your free time, explore Romania’s grand palaces in Brasov or visit Dracula’s Castle. Projects Abroad staff provide 24/7 support, ensuring a safe and enriching experience. Check them out here!
African Impact offers transformative volunteer programs across Africa, focusing on community development, wildlife conservation, and education. Established in 2004, they collaborate closely with local communities to ensure sustainable and impactful projects. Volunteers can engage in diverse activities while experiencing the rich culture and stunning landscapes of Africa.
With comprehensive support and a commitment to real, measurable change, African Impact provides a life-changing volunteer experience that benefits both volunteers and local communities.
One of the most off-the.beaten-path locations to explore with African Impact is Zambia.
Volunteering in Zambia with African Impact offers diverse opportunities to make a significant impact. Engage in projects like female empowerment, education, conservation, and community development. Volunteers work in primary schools, teach sports, implement sustainable initiatives, and promote gender equality. Experience Zambia’s welcoming communities and natural beauty, including Victoria Falls.
Enjoy weekend adventures such as safaris and boat trips on the Zambezi River. Projects in Livingstone provide a rich cultural immersion and a chance to contribute meaningfully to local communities.
Involvement Volunteers International (IVI) is a non-profit organization established in 1989, dedicated to providing meaningful volunteer opportunities abroad. IVI operates in over 15 countries, offering a wide range of programs that focus on education, poverty alleviation, healthcare, and community empowerment.
IVI ensures all projects are ethical, sustainable, and beneficial to local communities, providing 24/7 support, quality accommodations, and a comprehensive volunteer experience. With over 25,000 volunteers placed globally, IVI is committed to making a positive impact through sustainable volunteer work.
Here are a couple of unique locations you can explore with IVI:
Volunteer in Vanuatu with IVI and experience the rich local culture and beautiful landscapes. Engage in vital nutrition and mental health support projects, assisting with health checks and counseling. Volunteers stay in shared accommodations close to the beach, enjoying local cuisine and vibrant community life. Explore Port Vila, the capital, with its multicultural heritage, and immerse yourself in traditional dances, music, and art. IVI provides comprehensive support, ensuring a meaningful and enriching experience.
Volunteering in Laos with IVI offers a unique opportunity to make a positive impact while immersing yourself in the local culture. Engage in projects like teaching English, assisting in kindergartens, and renovating community facilities. Experience the stunning landscapes and rich heritage of Luang Prabang, including the Mekong River and historic Buddhist temples. Volunteers stay in shared accommodations with amenities, enjoying local Laotian cuisine. Comprehensive support ensures a rewarding and enriching experience in this beautiful Southeast Asian country.
Volunteering Solutions offers a variety of affordable and impactful volunteer programs and internships worldwide. The organization aims to provide meaningful experiences for volunteers while making a positive impact on local communities. Participants can choose from projects in over 25 countries, gaining valuable skills and cultural insights while contributing to sustainable development initiatives.
A unique destination to explore with VolSol is Ireland.
Located around Cork City, projects include community development, charity shop work, and community art centers. Volunteers immerse in Irish culture, live with host families, and engage in impactful projects. Programs run year-round, lasting 3 to 12 weeks. Participants receive comprehensive orientation and a certificate upon completion, making a positive impact on local communities while exploring Ireland’s beautiful landscapes.
Global Vision International (GVI) offers impactful volunteer programs worldwide, focusing on conservation, education, and community development. GVI ensures ethical practices and provides comprehensive support, including accommodation and meals. Volunteers gain valuable skills and experience while contributing to sustainable development and exploring unique locations.
Two of GVI’s most unique locations are:
Volunteer in Nicaragua with GVI’s Sea Turtle Conservation program. Work on one of the Pacific coast’s most secluded beaches to protect endangered sea turtles. Participate in beach patrols, nest monitoring, hatchery maintenance, and community engagement. Stay in eco-conscious accommodations surrounded by a mangrove estuary. Enjoy free time exploring volcanic landscapes, surfing, and visiting nearby Leon. This program offers a rewarding hands-on conservation experience, contributing to sustainable tourism and local awareness.
Volunteer with desert elephants in Namibia’s vast Damaraland desert, helping protect water sources, tracking elephants, and monitoring local herds. Stay in mobile tented camps and a treehouse under the stars, surrounded by unique desert wildlife like lions, giraffes, and rhinos. Engage in hands-on conservation work, build protective walls, and collect data. Enjoy free time exploring Namibia’s dramatic landscapes, including the iconic Skeleton Coast and Sossusvlei dunes.
Off The Beaten Path: Where True Adventure Awaits
Beyond commonly chosen volunteer abroad destinations, such as India and Peru, you have lots of exciting destinations. Whether you want to contribute to island conservation efforts in Seychelles or work with NGOs in Naples, Italy, you can find a program that will enable you to do some good and learn about a new culture.
When selecting a program and destination, factor in things like your preferences and budget. Also, look at where you can have the most rewarding experience and the biggest impact. Go off the beaten path, and you’ll be amazed by what you discover.
Ready to plan your volunteer adventure? On top of reading this article, check out our fundraising tips. This way, you can fundraise your trip with ease and lower travel costs. And you’ll be packing your bags before you know it!
Nick Callos ยท Writer
With a BA in English Literature & Writing from Boston College, Nick researches and writes about volunteer, intern, and teach abroad programs worldwide. He has studied abroad and taught English in Chengdu, China, and aims to help fellow travelers make a lasting impact on the communities they visit.