Are you ready to travel the globe, get out of your comfort zone and find your place in the world? It’ll change you forever - as you explore different cultures, tackle new adventures, tick-off world wonders and meet incredible people who’ll challenge you and open your mind to different ways of thinking and living. Travel is one of the most life-altering things you can do while you are young or young-at-heart.
You can go beyond typical travel by actually giving back to the communities you visit and make a positive impact. Between our team of volunteer travel experts, we’ve explored 100+ countries around the world and we can tell you the places you won’t find on your average must-travel list, and maybe a few of those iconic ones too!
Here are the 15 top places to experience while you’re volunteering abroad in 2023 or 2024. The best part? You can visit all of these places during your weekends while volunteering abroad with International Volunteer HQ. Now get out and see them!
- Maasai Mara, Kenya
- Monteverde, the Cloud Forests of Costa Rica
- Rainbow Mountain, Peru
- Northern Thailand
- Kerala, India
- Diving in Belize
- Bamboo Island, Cambodia
- Huaraz, Peru
- Ilha Grande, Brazil
- Table Mountain, South Africa
- Angkor Wat, Cambodia
- Lisbon, Portugal
- Nusa Penida, Bali
- A Greek Island that’s not Santorini or Mykonos
- Milford Sound, New Zealand
1. Maasai Mara, Kenya
Vast rolling grasslands, dotted with trees and massive herds of zebra and wildebeest, the Maasai Mara is an iconic African savanna that goes beyond what you expect to see! This authentic safari experience will leave you with a feeling - pure wonder at the natural world and the welcoming, heartwarming people that call it home! There’s a reason Kenya is one of East Africa’s most popular destinations for volunteering and almost all IVHQ volunteers in Kenya take advantage of the natural wonders at their feet by going on a weekend safari. On my visits to Kenya and Tanzania, I’ve been lucky enough to go on a number of safaris and would rate a safari through the Maasai Mara as a must-do for anyone travelling to East Africa. If you want a real adventure that’s unique, goes beyond the typical tourist experience and has a positive impact on the Maasai community, you can provide teaching support within small Maasai communities as an IVHQ volunteer in Kenya. IVHQ Kenya Program Manager
2. Cloud Forests of Monteverde, Costa Rica
“This is the place of your tropical dreams! As a volunteer in Costa Rica, you’ll have the opportunity to discover the world’s most biodiverse locations! And, the cloud forest set high in the mountain tops of Monteverde is one of the most unique natural environments you’ll see! The lush setting provides a welcome retreat from the heat of the Pacific coast beaches. You’ll have no shortage of eco-adventures to make the most of in your free time! At some 4,662 feet (1,440 meters) above sea level, having a raincoat is a must as you explore the area. The views are breathtaking and there is plenty of wildlife to see. The area also boasts plenty of adrenaline-rushing activities, including the highest bungee jump and also the longest zip-line in Latin America.” IVHQ Costa Rica Program Manager
3. Rainbow Mountain, Peru
“You’ve all seen the photos from Machu Picchu, but what about Rainbow Mountain? It’s the up-and-coming hiking option, where you’ll see with your own eyes one of the most incredible landscapes in the Andes. The aptly named mountain is covered in layers of colors ranging from a captivating maroon to a turquoise blue. At approximately 17,000 feet above sea level, it is a hard hike that you need to prepare for but all the good things in life require effort, so lace up the hiking boots, do your research and get ready to explore the breathtaking Andean landscape. If you’re volunteering in Cusco with IVHQ, our expert team can help you set up your trek and will be able to provide you with local knowledge to get the best out of this experience! IVHQ Peru Program Manager
4. Northern Thailand
“Northern Thailand: it’s an incredible adventure waiting for you to explore! First, you’ll get to discover the hot hustle of Bangkok as it’ll be your starting point - thanks to it being a hub for cheap flights from around the world. Then the laid-back, relaxed feel of Northern Thailand will be a welcome retreat. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ayutthaya by bicycle and find quaint local villages and sights not listed in your travel guide. Take in Chiang Mai with its buzzing night markets, endless temples and intense flavors! And, all your exploring will come in under budget, it’s a super affordable destination! Don’t miss a truly authentic experience in Chiang Rai - here you can immerse yourself in local life as a volunteer, work with local hill tribe communities and even have the opportunity to spend time living in a homestay deep in the hills.” IVHQ Thailand Program Manager
5. Kerala, India
“Southern India is famous for its laidback vibes, tea-lined hills, sun-drenched beaches, house boating and tranquil backwaters. And it’s home to IVHQ’s newest volunteer program in India! This mellow slice of India is the perfect option for wanting to dip their toes into India for the first time. Settle into Kochi and make it your home base for exploring the best places to visit in Kerala. Head to the tea-lined hills of Munnar and recharge in the fresh mountain air. Trekking through this emerald green landscape is a must. Then drift down the rivers around Alleppey, or if you’re wanting a more authentic house boating experience, watch kingfishers dart through the overhanging forests on the backwaters north of Kochi. Or you can even head to Wayanad to spot wild elephant! If you’re interested in volunteering in India but not sure if Kerala is right for you, read this article and find out how to make your adventure trips in India mean more.” IVHQ Thailand Program Manager
6. Diving in Belize
“Belize is a melting pot of adventure set on the Caribbean Sea. Think crystal blue waters and palm trees swaying in the breeze. With the second largest barrier reef in the world, the diving in Belize is on a whole other level - you’ll be brushing shoulders with tropical fish, turtles and whale sharks on a daily basis, while enjoying the relaxed island living. Life above the waves is just as fascinating - start the day with a heavenly coffee, explore ancient Mayan ruins, wander through one of the many wildlife sanctuaries and finish the weekend off zip-lining through the jungle. If you’re searching for an island experience unlike any other, you can join IVHQ on a private island in Belize and work alongside Marine Biologists to gather data, conduct surveys and remove invasive species on a scuba-based Marine Conservation project. If you don’t have a dive certification yet, you can even learn to dive as part of the program!” IVHQ Belize Program Manager
7. Bamboo Island, Cambodia
“It’s not just a place from the Legend of Zelda - it’s a small island off the coast of Cambodia, a beautiful boat ride from Ream, which is less than 4 hours from Phnom Penh. It’s one of the closer islands off Sihanoukville and the white sand and turquoise water is enough to draw any beach lover. This is an awesome place to relax after discovering Angkor Wat, or for a weekend getaway while volunteering in Cambodia. Spend hours snorkeling and spotting fish in the crystal clear waters, or venture beyond main beach to uncover the untouched spots of island. This is where you’ll find me on a weekend in Cambodia!” IVHQ Cambodia Program Manager
8. Huaraz, Peru
“Huaraz is a hidden treat for the intrepid traveler. High in the central Peruvian Andes, Huaraz bristles with culture and geographic beauty - remaining true to itself with only the slightest glimmers of tourism persuasion. Take a weekend trip when volunteering in Lima to experience Huaraz’s highlights - the stunning glacial lakes of Laguna 69 and Laguna Paron, as well as the Pastoruri Glacier, which are all within the mountainous region of the Cordilleras Blanca. Huaraz is a hidden treat for the intrepid traveler. “ IVHQ Latin America Program Manager
9. Ilha Grande, Brazil
“Ilha Grande is close to Rio de Janeiro (and relatively easy to access), but it offers a break from the bustling city scene. The majority of the island is protected state park (Parque Estadual da Ilha Grande) with ample hiking trails in the native rainforest. Beach dwellers have their choice of snorkeling, kayaking, sailing and diving. The main settlement is a small village, Vila Abrão, in which no cars are allowed - it has unpaved roads for foot traffic only and guesthouses, restaurants and bars with thatched roofs. Gatherings at night tend to be spent on the docks or beaches, as the clubbing scene is left in Rio. Make sure you save a weekend for a trip to Ilha Grande while volunteering in Brazil.” IVHQ Brazil Program Manager
10. Table Mountain, South Africa
“You probably already know about Table Mountain, but it’s just such a breathtaking spot that it has to be mentioned again! This mesmerizing backdrop to Cape Town is an absolute must-see for volunteers in South Africa. If hiking isn’t your thing, don’t fret - you can take a cable car to appreciate the impressive views over Cape Town. Once you’ve stood at the top of this flat-topped mountain, there’s plenty left to explore. Beneath the mountains, you’ll find stunning beaches (one even is filled with penguins), amazing restaurants, a bustling cafe culture, bright colored neighborhoods and don’t leave without experiencing a braai (a traditional South African barbecue). “IVHQ South Africa Program Manager
11. Angkor Wat, Cambodia
“The ruins of Angkor are a must-see while you’re volunteering in Cambodia. Getting up before dawn to cycle to Angkor Wat for sunrise is breathtaking - it’s one of those places that will give you a travel bug for life. The temples dotted throughout the area are best explored on foot or by peddle-power and being in amongst the local people helps to give you an appreciation for different cultures that will shape how you view travel forever.” IVHQ Cambodia Program Manager
12. Lisbon, Portugal
“As an IVHQ volunteer, you’ll get to experience the real Portugal while exploring the cobbled alleyways, antique tram line, and bustling city scene during your free time. With a warm Mediterranean climate and surf beaches within easy reach of the city center, this coastal city is a hotspot for to Europe. The seaside position means a dive into the dynamic food scene is a must for seafood lovers - think fresh octopus, tuna and sardines. And you can’t miss the Time Out markets - the massive food hall is a pop-up collection of city’s best restuarants, all under one off! Lisbon’s charm will stay with you long after you return home, so be sure you snap a photo in front of the iconic mosaic tiles as a memento! IVHQ Portugal Program Manager
13. Nusa Penida, Bali
“Escape the hustle of mainland Bali and treat your senses to the idyllic island of Nusa Penida. With its sweeping cliffs that plunge into crystal blue waters, it’s a paradise for ocean lovers. Whether you’ve never dived before or are an experienced and well-traveled diver, the dive sites around the three islands of Nusa Lembongan, Ceningan and Penida offer some of the most exciting and rewarding diving for IVHQ volunteers in Bali. Combine that with a water temperature which typically doesn’t drop below 68°F and average visibility of 20 to 30 meters and you have an experience not to be missed!” IVHQ Bali Program Manager
14. A Greek Island that’s not Santorini or Mykonos
“Say hello to authentic Greek living! I’m talking about going beyond the typical tourist experience and actually getting to know the real Greece. Having spent time on our volunteer program in Greece, I know how incredible this place really is! As a volunteer in Chios, the 5th largest island in Greece, you’ll experience the best of the country with ancient and unique medieval villages, monasteries, museums and archaeological sites, breathtaking coastlines and mouthwatering food. You’ll get to uncover all of this while escaping the typical tourist islands and forming genuine connections with the local people. Then, once you’ve had the authentic Greek island experience, you can take a short ferry ride and start discovering Turkey!” IVHQ Head of Europe Programs
15. Milford Sound, New Zealand
“New Zealand is the perfect destination for first-time travellers and solo adventurers! One of the highlights of the New Zealand travel experience is the great outdoors, so set aside some time to experience one of New Zealand’s greatest walks. The Milford Track offers 4 days of spectacular landscapes, forest-covered valleys, waterfalls, steep fiords and mountain passes and is a must do for volunteers in New Zealand.” IVHQ New Zealand Program Manager
If you’re looking to combine the best vacation spots for young adults with a meaningful adventure, explore an IVHQ volunteer abroad program. It makes travelling for the first-time safe and affordable with 24/7 support and stable year-round costs, so you can travel whenever you want, including in the peak season. We have supported 127,000+ volunteers on their meaningful adventures and have spent 15 years building responsible volunteer programs with a focus on long-term impact. Head to our volunteer abroad programs page to browse destinations, or our Covid-19 updates page to see where you can volunteer abroad right now without quarantine or restrictions.
