Top 10 Volunteer Abroad Destinations For 2024

calendar_today August 10, 2017
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Volunteering Solutions hosted thousands of volunteers from different parts of the world, who traveled to distant lands to make some difference in the lives of the underprivileged ones. Each one who has been a part of the journey is no less than an angel, contributing effectively to others’ well-being.

Being a trusted international organization, Volunteering Solutions has been working for the last 12 years with the aim of sustainable development and we are glad to have the volunteers’ support in this venture. For those who still haven’t experienced the joy and satisfaction of volunteering abroad – it’s never too late to start! You can always make up your mind and be a part of it.

In this article, we shall tell you about the best volunteering destinations abroad in 2024, where you can travel and make some contributions. It’s better to start planning for your Spring Break/ Summer Break 2024.

volunteer abroad destinations map1. Thailand
2. India
3.  Peru
4.  South Africa
5.  Nepal
6.  Cambodia
7.  Costa Rica
8.  Tanzania
9.  Kenya
10. Vietnam

Thailand

Steps To Volunteer Abroad

Every year, more than 10 million travelers from all across the world travel to this Asian country which is nothing less than a beach lover’s paradise. If there’s one country in the world that’s on everyone’s checklist, then it’s Thailand! Time and again, our volunteers have loved Thailand. Whether it’s the adorable kids or the elephants, the bustling streets of Bangkok or the pristine villages in Chiang Mai, the exotic Thai delicacies or the gorgeous Wats – there’s nothing in Thailand that you won’t like!

For those who are planning to volunteer in Thailand in 2024 can choose from more 15 programs that are available. You can either teach and enjoy your time with kids, teach the Buddhist monks, intern at a medical project or volunteer with the elephants at a village. You can also choose the Thailand Volunteer Adventure Program to enjoy the perfect blend of work and travel.

  • Projects in Thailand are available in 3 exotic destinations – Bangkok, Surin and Chiang Mai.
  • Projects are available throughout the year, for a minimum during of 1 week to a maximum of 6 months. Participants can choose the duration according to their convenience.
  • The minimum age to participate is 17 years.
  • All participants will be provided with 24/7 in-country support.
  • Participants are provided accommodation at the volunteer house or at a local homestay. Rooms are provided on same gender sharing basis and all basic amenities are there, like a geyser, WiFi etc.
  • VolSol offers affordable projects starting at $ 625 only.
  • Go for amazing weekend tours to beachside destinations like Koh Tao, Koh Samui or Phi Phi Islands.

“I was lucky enough to go to Thailand with Volunteering Solutions for the 3 Week Summer Volunteering Project. Going to a temple to teach children during the day was fun. We played lots of games and as a group bought lots of sweets to hand out to the children at the end. The week at Mr. Lee’s elephant village was my favorite part. It was such an amazing project!”

– Lydia Loxton (United Kingdom)

India

volunteer in nepal

India can be aptly called ‘the land of diversity’. One of the earliest civilizations of the world, India now stands as the largest democratic country in the world. With the snow covered the Himalayas in the North, to the lush green Western Ghats of the South, and the vast stretches of desert in the West to the largest delta in the East – India’s topography is as unique as the people living in this country! Anyone who visits India instantly falls in love with the country.
Volunteering Solutions is offering exciting projects in three different locations in India to those who are eager to bring some societal changes through volunteering in India in 2024. Medical/ dental students can also be a part of the healthcare/ dental elective internship projects that are available. Volunteering projects include Childcare, teaching, women empowerment projects, volunteering with elephants etc. Each of the projects is unique and designed in a way so that it benefits the society as well as the volunteers.

  • Projects in India are available in New Delhi and Palampur (Himachal Pradesh).
  • Projects are available throughout the year, for a minimum during of 1 week to a maximum of 6 months. Participants can choose the duration according to their convenience.
  • The minimum age to participate is 16 years. Interns must be at least 18 years and enrolled in a medical/ dental course while applying.
  • All participants will be provided with 24/7 in-country support.

Participants are provided accommodation at the volunteer house (Delhi & Palampur). Rooms are provided on the same gender sharing basis and all basic amenities are there, like a geyser, WiFi etc.

VolSol offers affordable projects starting at $ 250 only.

Go for amazing weekend tours to Agra (Taj Mahal), Jaipur (Amer Fort, Hawa Mahal, City Palace), Amritsar (Golden Temple) or for trekking in the Himalayas.

My favorite moments were visiting the Taj Mahal and when the kids took us into the slum to show their houses. I recommend this program as I learned so much about Indian culture and lifestyle.
I think we can learn a lot about Hinduism even though we are people with a different religion, we are still welcomed in all the temples to join the ceremony (f.e. Iskcon). I appreciate this!

– Evie Raijmakers (The Netherlands)

Peru

heydee-marie-peru

Known as ‘The Land Of The Incas’, Peru is a gem of a country. Located in South America, Peru has been ruled by the Spaniards for long, before it became independent. The culture, food, architecture and the lifestyle of the people still reflect the impressions left by the colonial masters.

 

Participants who wish to volunteer in Peru in can choose to be a part of the Teaching Project, Kindergarten Program, Disabled Care Project and others, depending on their area of interest. For dental students and medical as well as pre-med students, the Dental Elective Project and Health Care Project are also available, which would give them a first-hand learning opportunity.

  • Projects in Peru are available in the beautiful city of Cusco, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage City.
  • Projects are available throughout the year, for a minimum during of 1 week to a maximum of 6 months. Participants can choose the duration according to their convenience.
  • The minimum age to participate is 17 years. Interns must be at least 18 years and enrolled in a medical/ dental course while applying.
  • All participants will be provided with 24/7 in-country support.

Participants are provided accommodation with local host families. This would be a great opportunity for you to experience the local culture, customs and Peruvian way of living. Rooms are provided on same gender sharing basis. Accommodations are clean and comfortable. Some houses have a WiFi connection and cable TV as well.

VolSol offers affordable projects starting at $375 only.

Go for amazing weekend tours to Machu Picchu, hike up the Rainbow Mountains, explore the ecosystem in the Amazon Rainforest Region and much more. You can seek guidance from the country coordinator who can assist you in planning your trip.

To know more about the things to do Peru, you can take a quick look at the guidebook.

This program was an amazing experience for me. I was only in Cusco for 2 weeks but I wish I could have stayed forever! My host family was very nice, my accommodation was great, it was clean and the meals were very good too. I loved my placement, I worked at the kindergarten and I loved working with the kids, I really felt like I was making a difference, the teachers there really needed the help. I made really good friends that I hope to keep in touch with for a long time. Overall, I loved it, it was one of the best experiences that I’ve had and I really recommend it.

– Samantha (Mexico)

South Africa

The southernmost country of Africa, this nation is characterized by its varied ecosystem. On one hand, there’s the Kruger National Park where the Big 5 resides, and on the other hand, Western Cape offers pristine beaches. You can also hike up the Table Mountain and get a gorgeous view of Cape Town.

If you are interested to travel and volunteer in South Africa and make some meaningful contribution to the lives of the locals, then you can choose from a plethora of programs including Teaching Program, Township Program, Health Care Program etc. For those who have a time crunch, yet wish to volunteer, there’s an incredible 2 Week Special Volunteering Program.

  • Projects in South Africa are available in 2 beautiful destinations – Cape Town (the capital city) and Port Elizabeth.
  • Projects are available throughout the year, for a minimum during of 2 weeks to a maximum of 6 months. Participants can choose the duration according to their convenience.
  • The minimum age to participate is 18 years.
  • All participants will be provided with 24/7 in-country support.

Participants are provided accommodation at the volunteer house in Cape Town. It’s a dorm-style hostel where volunteers with share rooms with other fellow mates. It’ll be a good experience to stay together with people from different parts of the world. In Port Elizabeth, volunteers will be staying at Forest Lodge, inside the Game Reserve. It’ll be an absolutely thrilling experience.

VolSol offers affordable projects starting at $495 only, for a duration of 2 weeks.

Go for amazing weekend tours to the Table Mountain, Robben Island, Lion’s Head etc. You must not miss the wildlife safari while volunteering in South Africa. Try out some of the best local cuisines and explore the local markets.

My volunteer trip was excellent. It helped me a lot and I enjoyed to work with kids. Country Coordinators were very friendly and dedicating. The overall living experience was excellent. It was very comfortable and homely stay with all the facilities that I could have asked for. The highlights for me on this program to contact with kids and families in Kayamandi and I want to go back to Kayamandi for 6 months, again.

– Eduardo Rodenas (United States)

Nepal

A little Himalayan nation lying next to India, Nepal is stunningly beautiful and has been marked as ‘one of the most affordable tourist destinations in the world’ by Lonely Planet. With a rich culture and picturesque natural landscapes, Nepal has been a favorite of all our volunteers who previously visited the land. In 2015, a massive earthquake devastated a huge portion of this nation, leaving many as homeless and orphans.

Volunteering Solutions aims to play a role in the lives of those kids who have been victims of the natural calamity as well as those who live an underprivileged life in Nepal and are looking for a helping hand. In the last 2 years, we have provided shelter to many orphans, looked after their basic necessities and it has all been possible due to the support of our volunteers.

If you are eager to contribute in any way by volunteering in Nepal, then you are always welcome. The most popular projects in Nepal include – Teaching Project, Orphanage Project, Medical Internship Project and the Nepal Volunteer Adventure Project (which is perfect for students and gap year travelers looking forward to spending at least 3 weeks in Nepal).

  • Projects in Nepal are available in the capital city of Kathmandu.
  • Projects are available throughout the year, for a minimum during of 1 week to a maximum of 6 months. Participants can choose the duration according to their convenience.
  • The minimum age to participate is 16 years. Interns must be at least 18 years and enrolled in a medical course while applying.
  • All participants will be provided with 24/7 in-country support.

Participants are provided accommodation on a shared basis in a local Nepalese family home or at our volunteers’ house. Depending on the availability, you would be assigned your accommodation. All the basic amenities are there at the accommodation, in order to provide a ‘home away from home’ atmosphere to all our participants.

VolSol offers affordable projects starting at $250 only.

Explore Kathmandu during the weekends. You can also make short trips to Pokhara, Chitwan National Park, Bhaktapur, and Nagarkot. The little Himalayan towns will absolutely keep you mesmerized. You can also try adventure sports like Bungee Jumping, River Rafting etc.

“I enjoyed working at my placement. The experience was worthwhile.
The meals were very delicious and the accommodation was well kept. The in-country support staff was also very helpful. Living with the host family, volunteering at the hospital and the tours are the most exciting part of the whole trip.”

– Staree Mae Dumalag (Canada)

Cambodia

weekend travel while volunteering in cambodia (1)

Angkor Wat, voted by the Lonely Planet readers as the No. 1 Heritage Site to visit in the world, resides in this gorgeous SouthEast Asian country. After the long civil wars and an era of instability in the last Century, Cambodia has finally become a country that’s aiming to achieve greater heights. And it’s not just the ruins of Angkor that the travelers love – but there are many more hidden treasures that can be discovered while traveling across Cambodia.

One of the favorite backpacking destinations, Cambodia would be a perfect choice for those who wish to volunteer in Asia and explore the ruins of the Khmer Dynasty. Those who are interested in volunteering with children can join the Teaching Project, while other programs like NGO Support Project and Computer Teaching Project are also available. Medical Internship is available for all pre-med and medical students.

  • Projects in Cambodia are available in the capital city of Phnom Penh.
  • Projects are available throughout the year, for a minimum during of 2 weeks to a maximum of 6 months. Participants can choose the duration according to their convenience.
  • The minimum age to participate is 18 years. Interns must be enrolled in a medical course while applying.
  • All participants will be provided with 24/7 in-country support.

Participants are provided accommodation on the same gender sharing basis, either at the volunteer house or with a local host family. Living with the locals will be an incredible opportunity to know more about their life and culture. Meals will be provided at the accommodation on all weekdays.

VolSol offers affordable projects starting at $ 400 only.

Explore Phnom Penh during the weekends – the city has so much to offer. Or course, you have to travel to Siem Reap to visit the Angkor Wat and other relics from the past. The Comprehensive Guidebook will give you an idea about the other places that you can visit as well as the things to do.

“Seeing the kids understand what I teach was very rewarding. The highlight would definitely be the children. I will miss them very much. The accommodation and meals were very good and the family was very welcoming. The coordinators were helpful and always available. I will recommend Volunteering Solutions to people looking to volunteer abroad.”

– Jayakumar Divya Pillai (Singapore)

Costa Rica

turtle conservation costa rica

A Central American country known for its beaches, forests, food, and volcanoes, Costa Rica is nothing less than Paradise! The country attracts more than a million tourists every year and a volunteer trip to Costa Rica will surely be an experience of a lifetime.

The most popular project in Costa Rica is the Turtle Conservation Program, in which volunteers usually work at the beaches, monitoring the turtle eggs and also engage themselves in keeping the beaches clean. Apart from that, Teaching English Program, Medical Volunteering Program, Child Care program etc are also available. If you are keen about learning Spanish, then you can also opt for the Spanish immersion Week in Costa Rica.

  • Projects are available in Heredia, Santa Barbara and Alajuela areas, which are located at a short distance away from the capital, San Jose.
  • Projects are available throughout the year, for a minimum during of 1 week to a maximum of 6 months. Participants can choose the duration according to their convenience.
  • The minimum age to participate is 17 years.
  • All participants will be provided with 24/7 in-country support.

Participants joining the Turtle Conservation will stay in the ranger house or volunteer house accommodations close to the project near the beach. Other volunteers will be provided dorm-style accommodation on same gender sharing basis. All basic amenities will be provided to the participants.

VolSol offers affordable projects starting at $ 525 only.

During the weekends, participants can go for adventure sports, or relax by the beaches. You should definitely take a tour of the local markets and savor the local cuisine.

“My experience volunteering with Volunteering Solutions was a great one but I think individuals have many questions before leaving to their desired country, therefore I contacted the VolSol team and the replies to emails were very fast and helpful! My friends and I had a blast working at our placement! Everyone was friendly and welcoming! Also, had a great time assisting patients and working with staff. The accommodation and meals were AMAZING! I don’t have a single complaint or problem with our host family. They were super nice and made amazing food, totally loved them all!”

– Jasjap Singh (Canada)

Tanzania

volunteering abroad

Popular for the wildlife safaris in Serengeti National Park and Kilimanjaro National Park, Tanzania is a place where you can surely spot the Africa’s Big 5 (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino) in abundance. The largest East African country, Tanzania still has a huge tribal population and millions of people living in poverty-stricken circumstances.

If you wish to volunteer in Tanzania and add some goodness in the lives of the underprivileged natives of the country, then come and join us. Volunteering Solutions has a set of meaning projects in the country, varying from Orphanage Volunteering and Teaching Projects to Medical Volunteering Projects. For those who are looking for Summer Volunteering Programs, the Tanzania Volunteer Adventure program would be a perfect choice.

  • Projects are available in Arusha and Zanzibar, a little island that comes under Tanzania.
  • Projects are available throughout the year, for a minimum during of 1 week to a maximum of 6 months. Participants can choose the duration according to their convenience.
  • The minimum age to participate is 17 years. Medical volunteers should provide a letter of recommendation.
  • All participants will be provided with 24/7 in-country support.

Participants volunteering in Arusha will be staying in a safe area of Mbweni just outside Stone Town and close to the airport. Clean and hygienic accommodation will be provided in Zanzibar as well, on same gender sharing basis. Volunteers will be provided with meals as mentioned in their Pre-Departure Guidebook.

VolSol offers affordable projects starting at $290 only.

During the weekends, participants can go for a tour of the Maasai villages and markets, or tackle the adventure nerves by heading out for a Lion safari. Eat at the local restaurants and relax on the beaches while in Zanzibar. There are a lot of things to do during the free time – so, work on your plans so that you don’t miss out anything!

“My overall experience was great! I think largely in part because of the program I did as well as all the different people I met there. I also enjoyed going out and seeing some parts of Arusha and thought that the weekend trips helped make lasting memories. The house was clean and spacious and in a good neighborhood. The food was alright. I really enjoyed working on the project, and I think that the experience is definitely worthwhile. Again, I liked the independence that volunteers were given to go and help and organize themselves.”

– Paul van Trotsenburg (United States)

Kenya

volunteering in Kenya

The country which witnesses the world’s biggest migration every year – yes, it’s none other than Kenya! Every year, thousands of travelers visit Kenya for the wildebeest migration that happens at the Maasai Mara National Park. But apart from that, there’s a lot more than this country has to offer. A volunteering trip to Kenya will give you a chance to peep into the lives of the natives and know more about this developing African country.

Kenya is one of the most popular volunteering destinations, having various projects including Orphanage Volunteering, Healthcare Medical Program, Teaching English Program etc. For those who have a time crunch, can opt for the 2 Week Special Program.

  • Projects are available in the capital city of Nairobi.
  • Projects are available throughout the year, for a minimum during of 1 week to a maximum of 6 months. Participants can choose the duration according to their convenience.
  • The minimum age to participate is 17 years. Medical volunteers should provide a letter of recommendation.
  • All participants will be provided with 24/7 in-country support.

Participants volunteering in Nairobi are accommodated in a volunteer house or in a homestay. The volunteer house is taken care by local host mother and has all the modern amenities available to ensure a comfortable stay for the volunteers. Participants are provided with all the basic facilities including geyser, refrigerator, and microwave etc.

VolSol offers affordable projects starting at $ 270 only.

During the weekends, Participants can head out to meet the long-necked giraffes or the elephants at the orphanage in the outskirts of Nairobi. The local markets have some amazing restaurants selling delicious grilled meat that you shouldn’t miss. You can also visit the Maasai villages and go for the wildlife safaris. Seek guidance from the in-country coordinator about the things to do while volunteering in Kenya.

“My experience is one I’ll cherish forever. I was welcomed with open arms at Wema (the maternity clinic) where I mostly observed babies being delivered. I saw the beauty Kenya has to offer at places including Maasai Mara, Hells Gate, David Sheldrick elephant orphanage. I also met some amazing volunteers. Coordinator Joe always answered my emails before I came to Kenya. In Kenya, he also answered any problems I had. However, he didn’t come a lot to the volunteer house. Paul (the caretaker) cooks very nice food.”

– Alannah Bonello (Malta)

Vietnam

volunteering in Vietnam

 

“Astonishingly exotic and utterly compelling, Vietnam is a country of breathtaking natural beauty with a unique heritage” – That’s exactly how the Lonely Planet describes Vietnam, and we can’t disagree with it! The picturesque landscape of the rice valleys in Sapa Village, the hustle, and bustle of the Mekong Market, the warmth of the people and the mouthwatering delicacies are just a few reasons to travel to Vietnam.

Once torn by the long drawn wars, the country has walked a long way on the path of development, yet there are certain sections of people who are still in need of help from us. Are you ready to help them? If you think that you have the compassion and dedication to bring happiness to someone else’s life, then take a volunteering trip to Vietnam. Not only will you contribute to their lives, but you’ll eventually add a lot more values in your life. Projects available in Vietnam include Childcare and Orphanage Program, Teaching Program and Medical Program.

  • Projects are available in Ho Chi Minh City, the historical capital of Vietnam.
  • Projects are available throughout the year, for a minimum during of 2 weeks to a maximum of 6 months. Participants can choose the duration according to their convenience.
  • The minimum age to participate is 17 years.
  • All participants will be provided with 24/7 in-country support.

Participants joining the projects in Vietnam will be provided accommodation in a four-storey volunteer house along with other volunteers in Phu Nhuan district of Ho Chi Minh City. The location is convenient for bus connections and traveling to the city center as well as to the project location.

VolSol offers affordable projects starting at $500 only.

During the weekends, participants can take a tour of the city, or explore the Mekong Delta region. Vietnamese cuisine is also something that you can’t miss out. You can also take a short trip to the city of Hanoi.

“My placement was amazing. Nice children, help caregivers, and other nice volunteers. My experience was absolutely worthwhile! The country coordinator and support staff were Absolutely friendly! I loved the children and making new friends with other volunteers. I improved my English as well and I love Vietnam!”

– Madeleine Metz (United Kingdom)

So, which destination would you be going to? Share this article with your friends – travel, and volunteer together in 2024. You can also plan for a Family Volunteering Trip.

For more updates, volunteers’ reviews etc., you can like our Facebook Page.

In case you need more details about the projects, do drop a message at [email protected]

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