International Volunteer HQ has been running the world’s best summer volunteer abroad programs for more than 15 years. These summer programs are designed to help you immerse yourself in some of the world’s most sought after travel destinations and give back through community-led initiatives.
During your time on IVHQ’s summer volunteer abroad programs, you will have the opportunity to help local communities and give back through a series of community development and conservation initiatives. Summer break is the perfect time of the year to see the world, make a difference, get out there and truly experience some of the best summer volunteer opportunities in 2023.
The best part? IVHQ’s summer volunteer opportunities start at just $20/day and include your accommodation, meals, airport pickup, 24/7 in-country support, and much more!
To save you time, we’ve compiled 20 of our top-rated summer volunteer projects. These programs are open year-round and taking applications right now!
What are the Best Summer Volunteer Opportunities for 2023?
- Turtle conservation volunteering in Zanzibar
- Childcare volunteering in Costa Rica
- Wildlife conservation volunteering in South Africa
- Medical volunteering in Peru - Cusco
- Construction volunteering in Guatemala
- Youth support volunteering in Spain
- Food rescue volunteering in Portugal
- Agriculture volunteering in Romania
- Teaching volunteering in Tanzania
- Surf outreach volunteering in South Africa
- Kindergarten volunteering in Kenya
- Medical volunteering in Ghana
- Marine conservation volunteering in Croatia
- Animal care volunteering in Costa Rica
- Forest conservation volunteering in Portugal
- Health education volunteering in Bali
- Medical volunteering in India
- Childcare volunteering in Nepal
- Construction volunteering in Fiji
- Special needs volunteering in Vietnam
Remember, this is just a small selection of our favorite summer volunteer projects, so feel free to explore our full range of volunteer programs, which are available year-round.
Why do summer volunteering abroad?
The summer months are approaching and you’re faced with the exciting decision of how you’re going to make this your most memorable summer yet.
You’ve either been hard at study or working yourself into a frenzy over the past six months since you last felt the positive energy and good vibes that comes with the summer sunshine. Naturally, you want to spend the summer months with friends, gaining new life experiences and feeling the sand between your toes. So, how does a summer volunteer abroad program provide you with a life changing opportunity? It lets you…
- See the world and gain a new global perspective
- Make new friends and share incredible experiences with like-minded people from around the world
- Gain career insights and the opportunity for self discovery
- Make a positive impact through volunteer programs within a short-term, flexible timeframe
You can spend your summer volunteering in Central America, South America, Africa, Asia, Europe, the Caribbean, the Middle East or the Pacific.
All the continents you already wanted to travel to can now benefit from your valued volunteer contributions and meaningful travel. Summer volunteering enables you to immerse yourself in the local culture, interact with locals and make new friends through community-focused initiatives. This experience allows you to see a country away from the sometimes artificial lens of tourist travel and provide you with a new-found understanding of what makes a country beautiful.
Can’t decide where you want to volunteer abroad this summer? Take our quiz to find out which IVHQ program best suits your budget, travel style and the causes you care about!
What 2023 summer volunteer opportunities are there?
We aren’t exaggerating when we say volunteer programs are for everyone! What it really comes down to, is the type of volunteer work you’re best suited to and the country that fits your overall travel goals. With that in mind, we do have some handy tips regarding summer volunteer opportunities based on the type of traveler you are:
Summer volunteer programs for college students
Volunteer programs in the summer months are perfect for college students who are looking to get hands-on career experience and see a different part of the world.
College students can gain a lot from a summer volunteer program, especially if it’s your first volunteer experience. It represents an opportunity to get out of your comfort zone and provide hands-on assistance to local communities and gain a unique insight into local languages and culture.
Should you need any assistance in planning your summer volunteering abroad, our team of experts are here to help you get the most out of your college volunteering opportunity. You can fill out this quick form to get personalized program recommendations based on your goals.
We recommend you do further research on volunteering abroad as a college student by reading through this helpful guide which outlines how to make it a rewarding experience for both you and the local community.
What are the best summer volunteer abroad programs for college students?
Volunteer in Costa Rica
Volunteer in South Africa
Volunteer in Guatemala
Summer volunteer programs for high school students and teens
Traveling and volunteering abroad at a young age can have major benefits, especially when it comes at a time in your life when your outlook of the world is just taking shape.
In this environment, teens and high school students get the opportunity to grow and gain a new perspective by providing meaningful hands-on assistance to local communities and also get the chance to build lasting relationships with each other and local volunteers.
IVHQ has created summer volunteer abroad programs for teens and high school students with these goals in mind. Historically not all of IVHQ’s volunteer programs were available to those under 18, IVHQ now offers special summer volunteer abroad opportunities for teenagers that include hosting specific youth adventures, featuring only teenage volunteers taking part in a safe, tailored youth experience.
You can read more about our approach to high school volunteering here and find a full list of suitable opportunities. Feel free to give us a call to talk through your options or if your parent/guardian would like a chat with us.
What are the best summer volunteer abroad programs for high school students and teens?
Volunteer in Tanzania
Volunteer in Croatia
Volunteer in Ecuador
Volunteer in Portugal
Can I volunteer solo or with friends this summer?
If you are volunteering solo in Summer 2023, IVHQ has your back! Traveling alone with IVHQ is a safe and affordable way to explore the world as an independent traveler while being fully supported at every stage of your summer volunteer program. You will receive 24/7 support from our local team and have the opportunity to meet like-minded volunteers from across the globe, forming fast friendships with your fellow IVHQers. So while you may arrive alone, you’ll never actually be alone.
If you’re organizing a summer volunteering trip in 2023 with your friends, you’re in luck! IVHQ has a team dedicated to supporting groups of volunteers travelling together. They will be able to work with you to make sure your group gets everything you want from your summer volunteer abroad trip.
With all of that in mind, here are the 20 best 2023 summer volunteer trips:
1. Summer Turtle Conservation Volunteering in Zanzibar
Start dates: Programs start on the first and third Wednesday of every month
Duration: 1 - 12 weeks
Costs: Registration Fee (US$329) + Program Fee (US$610 for 1 week)
Fully hosted experience includes: Airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support
Average temp: 77°F
Best weekend activity: Snorkeling with wild dolphins and sunset boat trips
Summer break doesn’t get much dreamier than living in a beachside bugalow and making an impact on this paradise island! June through October is the dry season and the perfect time to visit Zanzibar with balmy temperatures averaging at 25°C (77°F).
The new Turtle Conservation project in Zanzibar enables volunteers to regenerate wild turtle populations in the stunning coastal location of Nungwi. By helping nurse and treat injured sea turtles, collecting food, feeding turtles and looking after their lagoon and pools, you’ll help protect the lives of these endangered creatures.
Fill your free time in Zanzibar:
Zanzibar is famous for its world-class beaches and marine life, so as a volunteer in the beautiful Nungwi region, you’ll have plenty of snorkeling, diving, sunset boat trips and exploring the local villages to do. Just an hour and a half away is the historic Stone Town, which is worth checking out for its narrow streets, quirky markets, and arts and crafts.
You can easily combine your Zanzibar program with volunteering in Tanzania or a stop-over at the start or end of your trip to go on safari, climb Kilimanjaro or visit the Maasai tribes. Explore our summer 2023 volunteer program in Zanzibar below.
2. Summer Childcare Volunteering In Costa Rica
Start dates: Programs start every Monday
Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
Costs: Registration Fee (US$329) + Program Fee (US$380 for 1 week)
Fully hosted experience includes: Airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, breakfast and dinner each day and 24/7 in-country support
Average temp: 82°F
Best weekend activity: Manuel Antonio National Park
Nothing can warm your heart more than the joy of a child. A summer volunteering with children in Costa Rica on IVHQ’s childcare project in Costa Rica leaves volunteers with the same lasting impression.
Our focus is to improve outcomes for children who face difficulty in life in the San Jose region. You’ll be working alongside local staff on the childcare placements which take place in community centers, daycares and schools.
Whether you’re currently training in education or have a genuine passion to improve the lives of others, the Costa Rica childcare project is the perfect opportunity to put your enthusiasm to use. Tasks can be based around education exercises, hygiene and physical education.
Fill your free time in Costa Rica:
During weekends, you’ll have the opportunity to explore San Jose and travel further afield. You’re spoilt for choice with volcanoes, rainforests and beaches all easily accessible from your volunteer accommodation. Opt for a city tour around San Jose or tackle the Pacuare River and go white water rafting!
Monteverde, famous for its biodiverse cloud forests, is also packed with activities to fill a weekend, including hiking, zip lining and an array of delicious restaurants to sample. Discover our 2023 summer Costa Rica volunteer program below.
Learn moreApply for Costa Rica
3. Summer Wildlife Conservation Volunteering in South Africa
Start dates: Programs start on the first and third Monday of every month
Duration: 2 - 12 weeks
Costs: Registration Fee (US$329) + Program Fee (US$825 for 2 weeks)
Fully hosted experience includes: Airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support
Average temp: 59°F
Best weekend activity: Safari in Kruger National Park
African summers can be very hot, but if you’re living in the Northern Hemisphere and coming to South Africa over your summer break - it will be winter there. That means a cooler and drier climate with daytime temperatures averaging at a pleasant 15°C (59°F).
This incredible new wildlife conservation project is based in the world renowned Kruger National Park, where you’ll get the chance to live amongst and protect the ‘Big 5’ animals - lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo. A typical day for volunteers can include game drives, vegetation sampling, camera trapping, habitat assessments, monitoring of rare and endangered species and much more!
Fill your free time in South Africa:
As a volunteer in Kruger National Park, you’ll have plenty of incredible wildlife, hiking trails and beautiful natural landscapes to explore on your weekends.
To make the most of your time in South Africa, it’s also worth checking out the wonderful Cape Town, Table Mountain and surroundings areas. You can easily add on an IVHQ volunteer program in Cape Town to the start or end of your trip with a range of community driven projects available in the area. Find out more below.
Learn moreApply for South Africa
4. Summer Medical Volunteering In Peru - Cusco
Start dates: Programs start every Monday
Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
Costs: Registration Fee (US$329) + Program Fee (US$330 for 1 week)
Fully hosted experience includes: Airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, daily breakfast and dinner and 24/7 in-country support
Average temp: 46°F
Best weekend activity: Machu Picchu
Contributing to a 2023 summer medical volunteer program in Peru - Cusco is an extremely rewarding experience that’s perfect for college students and healthcare professionals alike.
On your volunteer program you will be shadowing local health professionals providing healthcare appropriate for your level of study or qualifications. Tasks can include distributing medicine and rehabilitating patients, check ups, triage and, if you’re more qualified, taking vitals for those who are more qualified. Cusco volunteer work is based in local clinics and hospitals and volunteer work typically takes around 3 - 5 hours per day (Mon-Fri) depending on your exact placement.
Access to healthcare can be difficult to come by in these communities and volunteer support provides a necessary supplement to current healthcare in Peru. This opportunity can provide you with valuable insight and experience in the field.
Fill your free time in Peru:
No trip to Peru is complete without seeing Machu Picchu with your own eyes. It’ll leave you spellbound. It takes just over four hours on the train from Cusco, or for the more adventurous, a four day hike along the Inca Trail will get you there. Further afield, you have the Peruvian Amazon, Lake Titicaca (South America’s largest lake), or Huacachina - a tiny picturesque oasis town in the desert to explore. Read more about our 2023 summer volunteer programs in Peru - Cusco and Lima below.
5. Summer Construction Volunteering In Guatemala
Start dates: Programs start every Monday
Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
Costs: Registration Fee (US$329) + Program Fee (US$330 for 1 week)
Fully hosted experience includes: Airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, breakfast and dinner each day and 24/7 in-country support
Average temp: 46°F
Best weekend activity: Pacaya Volcano
Sometimes you just need to get stuck into life. Why not consider a 2023 summer volunteering opportunity in Guatemala? What better way to do that than join a hands-on construction program!
If you’re experienced in construction work or simply love getting stuck into a DIY project, our summer construction volunteer project in Guatemala is the perfect opportunity to put your skills to use. You will be placed alongside a local foreman to deliver community-focused projects. This means if you don’t have past experience that’s okay too, as long as you bring a positive attitude and willingness to work.
Depending on the length of your volunteer program over the summer months, you will either play a part in an ongoing project, or stay long enough to see something through from start to finish. Project can include working on community buildings, school playgrounds and basic dwellings.
Fill your free time in Guatemala:
No trip to Guatemala would be complete without a trip to the Pacaya Volcano. Located only 19 miles from the volunteer base in Antigua, it’s perfect for a weekend getaway. Go solo and meet fellow tourists along the way or take one of your new-found volunteer friends on an epic adventure. Read more about our 2023 summer Guatemala volunteer program below.
6. Summer Youth Support Volunteering In Spain
Start dates: Programs start every second and fourth Monday of the month
Duration: 2 - 12 weeks
Costs: Registration fee (US$329) + Program fee (US$1,030 for 2 weeks)
Fully hosted experience includes: Airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support
Average temp: 72°F
Best weekend activity: La Sagrada Familia
Summer youth support volunteering in Spain might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you’re planning a potential trip, but a summer volunteer program in Spain can be a rewarding experience that provides an impactful and authentic Spanish experience.
This project is perfect for those dedicated to social work or with a passion to improve outcomes for youth. Volunteers are placed in Barcelona, working with underprivileged children that require personal development and assistance in key life skills.
Working alongside education professionals, your tasks can include teaching English, education activities and physical education. The cultural exchange that takes place is also a key driver for the youth and an incredible part of the experience for you as a volunteer!
Fill your free time in Spain:
Barcelona is a city that has no limits to its exploration, from ancient heritage sites through to modern architecture, so you’ll need a few weekends to see it all.
No matter your interests, there is something for everyone. You can spend your summer days at the beach or you can take in the art and local cuisine. You will not be disappointed by the beauty of Barcelona. Read more about our summer 2023 volunteer program in Spain below.
7. Summer Food Rescue Volunteering In Portugal
Start dates: Programs start on the first and third Monday of every month
Duration: 1 - 12 weeks
Costs: Registration Fee (US$329) + Program Fee (US$445 for 1 week)
Fully hosted experience includes: Airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support
Average temp: 70°F
Best weekend activity: Cascais
We can all agree that food should be readily available to those that need it. Taking a summer abroad on the Food Rescue program in Portugal enables you to work within the local community and give back to locals who sometimes have to go without.
For this program, all that’s required is a love of helping others! If you have Gordon Ramsey cooking talents, we’ll accept those too. Tasks typically revolve around eliminating food waste and distributing leftover food packages from restaurants to locals in need.
This is an evening-based program, so you’ll have the day to explore and build your local knowledge. By night, you’ll be moving around like a local in no time. The scope of work provides a good variety and will keep you busy and on your feet.
Fill your free time in Portugal:
You can’t make a trip to Portugal without some time in the beautiful area of Cascais. Located west of the capital, Lisbon, a weekend getaway is a must-do! Check out the glorious town of Sintra nestled up on a hill with its quirky and colorful mansions.
You can also spend your free time chilling on the beach, exploring local museums or getting out in the countryside. No matter your preference, you’ll gain some truly breathtaking lasting memories. Learn more about 2023 summer volunteer opportunities in Portugal below.
8. Summer Agriculture Volunteering In Romania
Start dates: Programs start every first and third Monday of the month
Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
Costs: Registration fee (US$329) + Program fee (US$360 for 1 week)
Fully hosted experience includes: Airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support
Average temp: 78°F
Best weekend activity: Bran Castle
Taking a summer agriculture volunteer program in Romania might sound remote and surprise people - but that’s the beauty of embarking on a volunteer program in Romania - there’s no well trodden path here. You’re setting out to experience a new part of the world adorned with fairytale castles, magical forests and charming locals, all whilst giving back through meaningful community projects!
If you’re interested in sustainable agriculture, organic farming, or simply want to go off the beaten tourist trail, immerse yourself in the local culture and live like a local, then you’re looking at the right program.
Tasks on the summer program include planting and harvesting to create further produce for the local community and general helping perform maintenance on surrounding infrastructure.
Fill your free time in Romania:
It won’t take long before you’re captivated by the under-rated natural beauty of Romania. With landscapes that range from mountains and lush countryside, through to churches and castles from yesteryear, Romania is a unique country ripe for volunteers looking to explore something different.
You won’t be disappointed in the breath of fresh air that Romania provides in comparison to your cliche summer destinations. Check out the full Romania volunteer program below.
9. Summer Teaching Volunteering In Tanzania
Start dates: Programs start on the 1st and 15th of every month
Duration: 1 - 16 weeks
Costs: Registration fee (US$329) + Program fee (US$270 for 1 week)
Fully hosted experience includes: Airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support
Average temp: 72°F
Best weekend activity: Go on safari
Tanzania is fast becoming one of IVHQ’s most popular African volunteer destinations, with its authentic culture and laid-back approach that allows you to contribute to the community at an easy pace.
Set in the shadow of Mt Kilimanjaro, volunteers get to experience life in the heartland of Africa and can also opt for weekends further afield, assisting in rural Maasai villages and experiencing life in a more traditional setting.
Volunteers on the Teaching project help out at local schools by teaching a wide range of subjects in low-income parts of Tanzania. You’ll get the opportunity to support local teachers and lead classes of up to 80 students, delivering more focused education for underprivileged children.
Fill your spare time in Tanzania:
No trip to Tanzania is complete without going on safari. Arusha is based near iconic wildlife reserves such as the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park, which more than live up to their world-renowned reputations! IVHQ offers convenient and affordable tour and activity add ons for these safaris, as well as opportunities to trek Mt Kilimanjaro and visit local Maasai tribes. Read more about our 2023 summer Tanzania volunteer program below.
10. Summer Surf Outreach Volunteering In South Africa
Start dates: Programs start every first and third Monday of the month
Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
Costs: Registration fee (US$329) + Program fee (US$320 for 1 week)
Fully hosted experience includes: Airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support
Average temp: 57°F
Best weekend activity: Table Mountain
It does sound too good to be true, but summer Surf Outreach volunteering in South Africa is an amazing project that enables you to support children in the community and see the real side of South Africa.
You don’t have to be Stephanie Gilmore or Kelly Slater to provide support on the surf outreach program. All that’s required is a love of the ocean and a genuine desire to improve the lives of others.
Working with children from disadvantaged backgrounds near Cape Town, you will play a key role in building children’s confidence in the water and facilitating activities to develop personal growth.
There is never a dull moment on the beach, so come prepared for some high energy volunteer days. Just don’t forget to pull a shaka!
Fill your free time in South Africa:
You’ll be living and working in an area renowned for its cafe culture and vibrant nightlife, and you’ll have the iconic Table Mountain on your doorstep.
Plus, the beach is so close to the volunteer accommodation that a day on the sand is a go-to option for volunteers. It goes without saying that it wouldn’t be a trip to Africa without a weekend safari! Read more about our 2023 summer South Africa volunteer program below.
Learn moreApply for South Africa
11. Summer Kindergarten Volunteering In Kenya
Start dates: Programs start on the 1st and 15th of every month
Duration: 1 - 12 weeks
Costs: Registration fee (US$329) + Program fee (US$280 for 1 week)
Fully hosted experience includes: Airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support
Average temp: 65°F
Best weekend activity: Go on safari
Kenya: where it all started for IVHQ, and where your summer volunteer journey can begin!
If you have previous experience in childcare work it will be a real advantage, however, if you have an outgoing nature and initiative then you’ll be well supported by local staff to deliver the required support in community centers.
Kindergarten volunteering in Kenya takes place in daycare and community centers, where tasks involve teaching basic English, math, activities and games, as well as general care for the children.
Fill your free time in Kenya:
You won’t be short of options during your free time in Kenya. From safari, through to cultural immersion and city tours. There is an opportunity to see the many sides of Kenya during your summer visit.
Our top recommended tour is without a doubt a weekend safari! Take a three day tour with friends from the volunteer program, or join other like minded tourists. You will be blown away by the sighting of wildlife and you may even get a chance to see the Big Five (Lion, Elephant, Buffalo, Leopard, and Rhino)! Read more about our 2023 summer Kenya volunteer program below.
12. Summer Medical Volunteering In Ghana
Start dates: 1st and 15th of every month
Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
Costs: Registration fee (US$329) + Program fee (US$270 for 1 week)
Fully hosted experience includes: Airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, a daily breakfast and 24/7 in-country support
Average temp: 80°F
Best weekend activity: Cape Coast
The west coast of Africa is home to some of the most resource rich land in the world and it can be your summer home on our medical volunteer program.
If you’re in your third year of medical school or fully qualified in a medical field then you’re eligible to take part in the medical program in Ghana. For those with less experience, you can get involved in our Healthcare Outreach and Education program, which involves working alongside qualified professionals to provide malaria treatment to locals who wouldn’t otherwise have access.
Volunteering takes place in small rural clinics where you work closely with healthcare professionals - the specifics of your work will be determined by how long you’re volunteering for. Tasks range from observational work, through to more hands-on patient care for those with appropriate qualifications and spending more time on the program.
Fill your free time in Ghana:
You won’t regret getting out on the coast during your time in Ghana. Most volunteers are pleasantly surprised at the vibrancy and history that comes with the Cape Coast and one experience we truly recommend.
You can travel by bus for a few hours before hitting the Cape Coast, where you’re free to roam and explore the beaches and historic buildings. This is best enjoyed with other volunteers, so definitely bring a friend! Read more about our 2023 summer Ghana volunteer program below.
13. Summer Marine Conservation Volunteering In Croatia
Start dates: Programs start on the first and third Monday of the month
Duration: 1 - 12 weeks
Costs: Registration Fee (US$329) + Program Fee (US$905 for 1 week)
Fully hosted experience includes: Airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support
Average temp: 85°F
Best weekend activity: The Diocletian Palace
If summer on the Mediterranean sounds good to you, then look no further! Croatia is a must-see for those spending summer in Europe, with its idyllic coastlines, traditional architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Volunteers are based in the popular town of Split, based on the coast and with easy access to the beach and wider Europe.
By joining the Marine Conservation program in Croatia, you’ll get plenty of time in the water, helping to keep the Mediterranean crisp and clear. Volunteers can learn or use their scuba diving skills in helping to keep the marine ecosystem as pristine as possible.
It involves helping with ocean clean ups, species monitoring and data collection to enable continued conservation efforts in this stunning natural environment.
Fill your free time in Croatia:
As a volunteer in Croatia, you’ll be one of many travellers spending their time there over summer. The atmosphere is alive and the nightlife has plenty to offer.
The Old Town in Split is popular for its unique, clay-roofed architecture and the Diocletian Palace is world-renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site. Read more about our 2023 summer volunteer program in Croatia below.
14. Summer Animal Care Volunteering In Costa Rica
Start dates: Programs start every Monday
Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
Costs: Registration Fee (US$329) + Program Fee (US$380 for 1 week)
Fully hosted experience includes: Airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, breakfast and dinner each day and 24/7 in-country support
Average temp: 82°F
Best weekend activity: Manuel Antonio National Park
If you’re an animal lover or an aspiring vet, then this is the volunteer opportunity for you! Spend the summer volunteering on our Animal Care project in San Jose or Manuel Antonio, depending on where you’d like to be located in Costa Rica.
Volunteer in animal shelters and work alongside local vet clinics and animal welfare organisations to provide care and companionship to abandoned dogs, cats, and other domestic animals. You’ll get the chance to help nurse injured animals back to health, assist with obedience training, take the dogs for walks, help with rehoming and much more!
The main goal of this summer animal volunteering program is to protect these dogs and cats, and provide them with medical treatment, companionship, and playtime in hopes they will be adopted into new, loving families.
Fill your free time in Costa Rica:
During weekends, you’ll have the opportunity to explore either the capital city of San Jose or the coastal city of Manuel Antonio, depending on where you choose to volunteer.
Costa Rica is renowned for its lush rainforest, cloud, forests, dramatic volcanoes and spectacular beaches, so there’s plenty to explore! There are also many wildlife reserves and national parks to check out, where you can spot some truly unique animals and plants. Read more about our 2023 summer Costa Rica volunteer programs below.
Learn moreApply for Costa Rica
15. Summer Forest Conservation Volunteering In Portugal
Start dates: Programs start on the first and third Monday of every month
Duration: 1 - 12 weeks
Costs: Registration Fee (US$329) + Program Fee (US$455 for 1 week)
Fully hosted experience includes: Airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support
Average temp: 70°F
Best weekend activity: Ride the waves at Caxias
If you feel passionate about protecting our planet and fighting climate change, and you’re looking to travel in an eco-friendly way - then this is the program for you! Our Forest Conservation volunteer project in Portugal is based in a natural park that surrounds Lisbon.
Help restore Portugal’s native forests by aiding the ecological recovery of degraded areas and protecting precious ecosystems. This project aims to enhance natural heritage, reduce environmental damage, regenerate and recover natural spaces, and therefore promote biodiversity. You can expect to help with planting different species, maintaining planted areas and walking trails, controlling invasive species and protecting unique ecosystems.
Fill your free time in Portugal:
The city of Lisbon is a wonderful place to explore with its quirky cafes, bustling bars, incredible street art and architecture. Make sure you check out the Torre de Belém, Alfama District, St George’s Castle and, of course, ride a tram!
You can’t make a trip to Portugal without catching a few waves - and where better than on the surf beaches of Caxias. Make sure to take a day trip to the vibrant, historic town of Sintra on your weekends too. Learn more about 2023 summer volunteer opportunities in Portugal below.
16. Summer Health Education Volunteering In Bali
Start dates: Programs start every Monday
Duration: 1 - 12 weeks
Costs: Registration fee (US$329) + Program fee (US$325 for 1 week)
Fully hosted experience includes: Airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support
Average temp: 82°F
Best weekend activity: Lombok
We wouldn’t be surprised if you were already planning a summer vacation to Bali. Now you can upgrade those plans and add a meaningful volunteer project!
Our Health Education volunteer program in Bali is one that’s perfect for those who are focused on a proactive approach to healthcare. You can be studying in health fields or just have a genuine desire to improve education with young people.
Volunteer days will have you working with teachers in schools to educate students on hygiene and general health. Depending on your prior healthcare knowledge, there’s also the opportunity to run your own creative workshops.
Fill your free time in Bali:
Volunteers are based in Ubud, which is a wonderful town to explore with its amazing food, vegan cafes, rice paddy fields, beautiful temples and excellent yoga classes.
There’s also an array of white sand beaches and weekend activities, such as a sunrise climb of Mount Batur or island hopping to Lombok, Bali will keep you busy.
17. Summer Medical Volunteering In India - Kerala
Start dates: Programs start every Monday
Duration: 2 - 8 weeks
Costs: Registration fee (US$329) + Program fee (US$570 for 2 weeks)
Fully hosted experience includes: Airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, a daily breakfast and 24/7 in-country support
Average temp: 82°F
Best weekend activity: Alleppey
If you’re focused on getting the most out of your medical career, then taking a summer medical program in India will have you placed amongst some of the best healthcare professionals in south India.
Depending on your level of study or qualifications, you will shadow local doctors and nurses in your chosen department. Tasks can be a mix of observational work for those less qualified, through to hands-on work in local clinics and hospitals.
With a minimum duration of two weeks you have ample time to become accustomed to a new environment and become confident in your role. Trust us, you’ll feel like a local in no time.
Fill your free time in India:
The Kerala coastline provides you with an amazing range of options to explore during your free time. For the water lovers, there are surf beaches and canals.
If you want to get in touch with your wild side there is a whole range of wildlife around Kerala to see. Learn more about our summer India volunteer program below.
18. Summer Childcare Volunteering In Nepal
Start dates: Programs start every first and third Monday of the month
Duration: 1 - 12 weeks
Costs: Registration fee = (US$329) + Program fee (US$250 for 1 week)
Fully hosted experience includes: Airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, breakfast and dinner each day, and 24/7 in-country support
Average temp: 72°F
Best weekend activity: Trekking in the Himalayas
Depending on your summer ideals, it may be a foreign idea to head to the hills (literally) in the summer months. But, as soon as you touch down in Kathmandu, you’ll quickly realize why this is your calling.
If you believe the children are the future, then you can put that enthusiasm and effort to volunteer with children in Nepal on a childcare program and really make the most of your summer.
Whether you’re training in childcare or have a natural ability to work with children, you can expect to be placed in childcare centers where you will be supported by local teachers to deliver teaching activities, assist with homework and other recreational activities.
Fill your free time in Nepal:
It would go without saying that you need to take a weekend in the Himalaya mountains if you’re taking part in a summer volunteer program in Nepal. The beauty of it is you can do it all at your own pace!
Depending on your length of stay, trekking can be done for one day or up to a week. Everest Base Camp and the Annapurna Circuit are popular options, plus there are plenty of shorter day hikes available! With so many options there is something for all fitness levels.
If trekking isn’t your cup of tea, exploring Kathmandu is a worthy experience for anyone looking to immerse themselves in rich Nepalese history or soak up day to day living.
19. Summer Construction Volunteering In Fiji
Start dates: Programs start every Monday
Duration: 1 - 12 weeks
Costs: Registration fee (US$329) + Program fee (US$370 for 1 week)
Fully hosted experience includes: Airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support
Average temp: 74°F
Best weekend activity: Scuba diving
It doesn’t get much more summer-esque than a volunteer program in the pacific. Fiji is well known for its resort islands, however this isn’t where its true beauty can be found. Take a summer construction program in Fiji and discover why!
If you’re outcome-focused and have initiative, you will be right at home on the construction volunteer program. Working with a local foreman, your daily tasks can vary between construction on community buildings through to painting, gardening and landscaping in local villages.
It won’t take long for you to be fully immersed in the Fijian way of life. It’s one of relaxation and enjoyment, which you will feel throughout the program. This enables you to take part in your set volunteer work and relax during your spare time. If you want to do more, you can take further initiative and continue your Fiji volunteer work with the community.
Fill your free time in Fiji:
With 333 beautiful islands, you’ll have plenty to explore in your free time. Volunteers can spend the weekends visiting Suva, or Colo-I-Suva, an oasis of lush rainforest, teeming with tropical plants and featuring 6.5km of walking trails to explore.
It is also easy to head to the Coral Coast, which is a stretch of beaches and bays between Nadi and Suva. Along this southern coastline is the Pacific Harbor (approximately 2.5 hours from Suva), which is the self-proclaimed ‘Adventure Capital’ of Fiji. Read more about our 2023 summer Fiji volunteer program below.
20. Summer Special Needs Care Volunteering In Vietnam
Start dates: Programs start every Monday
Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
Costs: Registration Fee (US$329) + Program Fee (US$275 for 1 week)
Fully hosted experience includes: Airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, three meals each weekday and 24/7 in-country support
Average temp: 82°F
Best weekend activity: Visit the Mekong Delta
Vietnam is a hotbed of amazing food, friendly people and remarkable history. The culture is something that can surprise you on every street corner, with an incredible fusion of French and Asian influences.
Travel in Vietnam is also incredibly cheap. You can get lunch from as little as US$1, and pretty much guarantee it’ll be amazing!
As a volunteer on the Special Needs Care volunteer project, you’ll help hospitals and clinics to support children and young people, some of whom are still dealing with the effects of Agent Orange from the Vietnam War. Your care and compassion will be well rewarded in helping with therapy, education, activities and meal times.
Fill your free time in Vietnam:
Markets in Vietnam are a hub for the local community and have an electric buzz to them. Markets can be home to food stalls, clothing, sports goods or souvenirs, and are as much an experience as they are a chance to grab a bargain. The Cu Chi tunnels are a remarkable eye-opener to war-time in Vietnam, and doing a scooter tour with a local guide is a great way to see the city.
The Mekong Delta is a network of rivers, farms and rice paddies. Many Vietnamese live traditional lives here, but it’s also well set up to host visitors interested in seeing the floating markets and local villages. Find out more about our summer Vietnam volunteer program below.
If you still don’t know which is the best 2023 summer volunteer program suited to you, try taking our interactive quiz to find the perfect program!
