Top 15 Summer Volunteer Abroad Programs For 2024 – 2025

Volunteering abroad endows you with the scope to travel and make a difference. If you’ve been wondering how to make the most of your upcoming summer holiday in 2024, then we’ve got something exciting for you. Engaging in volunteer work abroad will not only provide the opportunity to travel and immerse yourself in a new culture but also yield experiences that will leave a lasting impact.

These summer volunteering programs are perfectly curated for high school, college, and university students who aspire to make the most of their summer break by engaging in meaningful learning experiences. Volunteering Solutions offers a range of affordable programs in diverse locations around the world. These opportunities allow you to travel and volunteer in 2024, offering a chance to make a difference and spend your summer break in a truly impactful and rewarding manner!

Best Summer Volunteer Abroad Programs for 2024 – 2025 

1. Childcare & Social Welfare Volunteer in South Africa

The Childcare Volunteering Program in South Africa, Cape Town is aimed at the welfare of the local community and underprivileged children in society. Volunteers joining this program work in childcare centers, safe houses for women and children, or a home for physically and mentally challenged children.

All volunteers usually work alongside local staff or supervisors on the project and plan different activities with the children as well. All Social Welfare and childcare projects are keen to have volunteered so that they can bring in new ideas and also help the overburdened staff. The projects are located in Cape Town’s townships and suburban areas which are socially disadvantaged areas of the city.

• Duration of The Program: 2 weeks
• Location of Project: Cape Town
• Minimum Age Requirement: 18 years

What can you do on weekends?

Go for the wildlife safari during the weekends, or spend time relaxing on the beaches of Cape Town. Hike up the Table Mountain for a stunning view from the top. If you are an adventure junkie, then you would absolutely love this country. Go for the Bloukrans Bridge Bungee Jumping, which is said to be the highest bungee jumping spot in the world. You can also go for a Shark Cage dive or normal Scuba Diving.

Explore the city of Cape Town, visit the local markets, take a tour of the towns in the outskirts, and binge on some local food. There are so many things to do in South Africa that one may fall short of time. You can seek help from our in-country coordinator, to plan your weekend trips.

 

2. Summer Impact Project Thailand 2024

Be a part of this amazing 2-week program in Thailand, in the vibrant city of Chiang Mai, renowned as the heart of traditional Thai culture and the country’s second-largest city. Stroll through the verdant streets adorned with Buddhist temples, bustling local markets, and the captivating sight of monks engaging in their daily alms rituals.

During the 1st week, you’ll get to experience a comprehensive cultural immersion, featuring an extensive orientation and city tour. Begin your volunteer service project at a school, where mornings are dedicated to project work, while evenings are filled with additional activities. These include engaging conversations with Buddhist monks, a Thai cooking course, a fresh market tour, interactions with university students, and a visit to the majestic Doi Suthep Temple.

Over the weekend, you’ll have ample scope to step out and explore by yourself. You’ll also get to visit the Thai Elephant Conservation Center and take a tour of the FAE Elephant Hospital, a non-profit foundation dedicated to treating sick and injured elephants.

The adventure continues into the 2nd week, where you’ll delve into rural life beyond Chiang Mai, exploring a lush green valley. Collaborate with mahouts, the dedicated elephant caretakers, gaining firsthand insight into the meticulous care these incredible creatures require. Participate in morning walks through the forest and join in the experience of bathing elephants in a nearby river, directly contributing to the well-being of these majestic beings.

Trip Highlights:

• Acquire Thai culinary skills through participation in a Thai Cookery course
• Visit Doi Suthep and Doi Pui, including a Hmong hill-tribe village experience
• Learn about responsible caring for elephants at an Elephant Project
• Know more about the cultural, social, and environmental issues linked to elephant tourism
• Volunteer in a primary school classroom to address educational needs
• Explore vibrant night bazaars featuring local cuisine and handicrafts
• Discover the best of Chiang Mai, a city with a rich and intriguing history

3. Summer Impact Project India 2024

The Summer Volunteer Program in India with Volunteering Solutions will let you experience the best that India has to offer in just 2 weeks! This specially curated program not only provides a meaningful travel and volunteering opportunity but also connects you with the cultural, historical, and popular highlights of major North Indian cities.

As a participant in this program, you will primarily engage with underprivileged children in Delhi and contribute to beautification and renovation projects in Jaipur. The itinerary also encompasses sightseeing tours of Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, and Pushkar. Tailored for high school, college, and university students, gap year travelers, backpackers, corporate groups, as well as solo adventurers, this program is ideal for those passionate about making a positive impact on the developing Indian society.

Trip Highlights:

• Explore the capital city of Delhi, immersing yourself in its rich history and vibrant culture
• Volunteer in the Street Children Project in Delhi, making a meaningful difference in the lives of underprivileged kids
• Contribute to the Renovation and Beautification Project in Jaipur through volunteering efforts
• Visit UNESCO heritage sites, including the iconic Taj Mahal, Qutub Minar, and the historic Red Fort
• Enjoy guided tours of Jaipur, Agra, and Pushkar, delving into the unique cultural tapestry of each city
• Indulge in the flavorful and spicy delights of famous and authentic Indian cuisine, enhancing your cultural experience

 

4. Volunteer Marine Conservation Program in Bali

Tianyar is a small fishing village in the northern part of Bali, approximately 3 – 4 hours drive from Denpasar. What once was a highly bio-diverse and healthy 3 km coral reef, Tianyar’s reef is currently in poor condition due to many years of unsustainable fishing practices with no regard for protecting the marine environment.

After several visits from scientists, conservationists, and divers, an urgent need to protect the reef was identified. To restore and conserve Tianyar’s coral reef, this project was started not only to protect its amazing and fragile ecosystems but also to provide a sustainable future for the livelihood of folks residing in this underprivileged village.

Working with LINI (The Indonesian Nature Foundation) to build artificial reef structures such as fish domes, these are deployed along the reef on sampled sand bottom areas. These structures benefit the marine environment because they act as habitats for marine spheres to provide shelter as well as a surface for corals to grow on.

Working with fishermen, local community, and central government to expand, create local jobs, and further improve the coral restoration process – an ideal way to volunteer to restore marine life in Bali.

Duration of The Program: 2 weeks
Location of Project: Bali
Minimum Age Requirement: 17 years

What can you do on weekends?

In Ubud, volunteers can go for leisurely walks in the Ubud market and it’ll be a delightful experience. There are hundreds of shops and several restaurants, cheap-eateries, mid-range, and high-end, where local as well as international cuisines are easily available.

There are several departmental stores like Circle K or Dewata where one can get almost everything that is daily essentials, like water bottles, frozen food, ready-to-eat food, beverages, snacks, etc. Volunteers can also hire a taxi and can visit rice terraces. During the weekend, volunteers can plan a trip to Kuta or Tanah Lot, or Seminyak.

Tianyar is located on the coast of the Bali Sea. Beach is just at the exit gate of the accommodation. Volunteers can have a bonfire there. During the weekend, they can visit Ubud or they can have a 2 – 3 days trip to Kuta, Seminyak, Tanah Lot, etc.

 

5. Family Volunteer Adventure in Malaysia

Volunteering Solutions has curated this amazing & affordable Family Volunteer Adventure Program in Malaysia, which will enable you to experience the goodness of local living, apart from contributing meaningfully towards the conservation of the flora & fauna.

As a volunteer, you & your family will get to live amidst the mysterious Borneo Rainforests and work in the region located along the Lower Kinabatangan River.

This wildlife sanctuary is home to singing gibbons, orangutans, proboscis monkeys, sun bears, hornbills, and the pygmy elephant as well as a host of other rarely seen wildlife. You will contribute significantly towards habitat restoration work by planting trees and maintain planting sites important for orangutans and pygmy elephants.

A perfect program for wildlife and nature enthusiasts, one can have a meaningful learning experience as well. It’ll be an opportunity for you to get closer to nature, and observe the little things that tourists often tend to miss out on. It’ll also be a learning experience for your children, who will learn how to value nature and grow up to be responsible travelers.

Duration of The Program: 1 week
Location of Project: Borneo
Minimum Age Requirement: All age groups

What can you do on weekends?

During weekends, you can head out and explore Borneo’s wilderness and spend some time hiking through the jungles. Over the weekends, you can plan a trek to Kota Kinabalu and feel the eeriness of the rainforests. You’ll also get to spend time exploring the rural areas, converse with the local people, and get to know more about their lives amidst nature. It’ll be worth experiencing.

 

6. Short-Term Volunteer Program in Peru

Set out for an incredible summer adventure in 2024 and discover the enchanting land of the Incas! Join the 2 Weeks Special Volunteer Program in Peru with Volunteering Solutions to witness the best that this diverse country has to offer. Volunteer in Cusco to make a meaningful impact on underprivileged communities, enhancing their lives. On weekends, explore captivating destinations such as Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, Humantay Lagoon, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and the historical and cultural sites of Cusco.

This program is curated for those with limited time, providing an incredible opportunity to gain valuable work experience while traveling alongside like-minded individuals from around the world.

Trip Highlights:

• Embark on an ideal 2-week Volunteer Program in Peru, blending volunteer work with exploration of UNESCO heritage sites in the “Land of the Incas”
• Responsibilities at the project involve teaching and caring for children, along with participating in fundraising activities to support the project’s operations
• Enhance your experience with exciting excursions to Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, the stunning Humantay Lagoon, the historic Sacred Valley, and the iconic Machu Picchu

 

7. Summer Impact Project Tanzania 2024

Here’s your opportunity to fulfill your dream of thrilling African game drives and spotting the BIG 5. Join the Summer Impact Volunteering Project in Tanzania and not only explore the country but also make a positive contribution to the local community. Your base will be a childcare center in Arusha, where you’ll work to enhance living conditions for the project. Depending on the project’s needs, you’ll also have the chance to explore the city and its surrounding areas.

The vision for the Summer Impact Project in Tanzania is to create and improve living conditions for children in daycare centers and orphanages by constructing and renovating safe and usable spaces. Participants will be actively involved in projects like Septic Tank/Manhole Construction or toilet renovation, depending on the group size, budget, and funds raised. A significant portion of the program fee will contribute to the construction project donation.

Over two weeks, gain valuable work experience, immerse yourself in the Maasai community, experience authentic lifestyles, and create lasting memories. Beyond engaging with the local community, you will have the opportunity to connect with travelers, backpackers, and like-minded people from around the world.

Trip Highlights:

• Engage in meaningful work at a local childcare center, teaching, playing, and interacting with the children while contributing to the improvement of their living conditions
• Make a genuine impact on the project through renovation and building work, enhancing the facilities for the children
• Connect with the Maasai community, visiting homesteads and gaining a firsthand experience of life in a Maasai Village
• Seize the opportunity to encounter the Big 5 on an exciting Safari Trip, experiencing the rich wildlife of Tanzania
• Explore the hidden gem of Tanzania, the Chemka Hotsprings, adding a refreshing and natural touch to your adventure

8. Turtle Conservation in Costa Rica

Volunteers in this program work on beaches along the Pacific Coast as well as the Caribbean coast. As a volunteer, you will work on projects intended to protect turtle nests from human poachers, help manage sustainable egg-harvesting programs, and work in hatcheries to ensure Costa Rica’s turtle population does not become endangered.

Volunteer work varies from time to time but generally includes work that includes; working with local staff to harvest eggs, beach cleaning night patrolling, counting turtles, collecting eggs, and keeping them away from predators. Volunteer projects are located around five-six hours from the city of San Jose. All volunteers joining this program should be prepared to do hard manual work and should be in good physical condition.

The most important requirements for this turtle conservation volunteer program are Hard working skills, ecological sensitivity, willingness to learn about new cultures, and the most important one: enthusiasm. In most of the projects, there will be a volunteer coordinator in charge of assigning jobs, but you are welcome to help anytime you consider it needed.

Duration of The Program: 1 week
Location of Project: San Jose
Minimum Age Requirement: 18 years

What can you do on weekends?

Volunteers are free to visit and see places or do shopping during their free time. You can explore the local markets or travel to the beaches which can be visited on the weekends. The country offers unparalleled natural beauty, active volcanoes, rainforests, and a wide range of national parks and eco-tourism. Also, Costa Rica has over 1,000 miles of gorgeous white-and-black sand beaches.

 

9. Volunteer Teaching Program in Rabat, Morocco

Morocco has one of the lowest literacy rates in the world, even though the government provides free education to children below 15 years of age. Gap year travelers joining the teaching English program in Morocco are placed in the community, NGO, or public schools, which do not have the manpower or resources to provide good English or French teachers to the students. You do NOT need to know Arabic to join this program. You would be teaching children from 10-16 years old with basic to intermediate levels of English or French.

Working in the program would allow you to understand the education system in Morocco and at the same time help out the children in need of a better education. You are open to teaching Math, art & craft, and do other activities while at the schools under this program. Volunteering for teaching English programs in Morocco is a great experience and an amazing opportunity for those looking for international work experience.

Duration of The Program: 1 week
Location of Project: Rabat
Minimum Age Requirement: All age groups

What can you do on weekends?

During the weekdays volunteers usually enjoy roaming around the Medina area where the volunteer Riad is located. You will be located in the heart of the Old quarter area in Rabat which is characterized by small winding alleys and traditional markets. You can visit the Le Tour Hassan mosque or explore the Kasbah Les Oudaias area in Rabat as well. On the weekends, volunteers head out further afield to places such as Fez, Marrakech, or the desert area.

 

10. Buddhist Monks Teaching Volunteer Program, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is one of those countries where Buddhism was spread in its earliest days. It’s not just a prominent religion in the nation, but a way of life as well. Being a volunteer for the Teaching Monks Program, you’ll be working at a Pirivena, an educational institution of Buddhist monks (a school, you may say).

In this institution, the monks get a holistic learning opportunity, studying different subjects like Pali (an Indo-Aryan language), Sanskrit, history, prosody, astrology, and logic, apart from the scriptures of Buddhism.

The Pirivena is also the place where young monks are trained by their masters to follow the rules and regulations promulgated in the Vinaya Pitaka (a prominent Buddhist scripture) which is one of the three parts that make up the Tripitaka – a collection of Buddhist teachings that are the foundation of the Theravada Buddhist philosophy.

These young monks are highly enthusiastic to learn English, however, they do not have adequate resources to polish their skills. The Government has appointed local teachers who take a 40 minutes class every day, but even the teachers aren’t well versed with the language. Hence, being a volunteer, you’ll get to play an active role in the Pirivena and teach these bright monks.

Duration of The Program: 2 weeks
Location of Project: Galle
Minimum Age Requirement: 18 years

What can you do on weekends?

There are plenty of things to do during free time and weekends for the volunteers. The following activities are provided free of charge and included in your program fee:

• Evening Rooftop Yoga Session (weekly)
• Movie nights on a large screen projector at the house (weekly)
• Bike tour across paddy fields and local villages (monthly)
• BBQ for volunteers and staff in the garden (monthly)
• Night Fishing for anyone into fishing (on demand)

The following are popular weekend (or even daily) activities that our volunteers love to do around the area (at an additional charge):

• Surfing lessons
• Elephant safari
• Whale watching (during the season)
• Rainforest hiking
• Beach hopping
• Local cooking class
• Galle Walking Tour
• Local spice market visit
• Galle Fort visit

 

11. Summer Impact Project Ghana 2024

This is your opportunity to immerse yourself in one of Africa’s most stunning countries and contribute to the well-being of its people. Join the Summer Impact Program in Ghana with Volunteering Solutions and experience the best of this vibrant nation in just three weeks. Volunteers actively participate in meaningful community development projects while also exploring the diverse landscapes of Ghana.

This program offers a chance to live like a local, offering glimpses into community life, including visits to communal kitchens, savoring delicious cuisine, witnessing local celebrations, and immersing yourself in the authentic Ghanaian way of life.

Designed to be all-encompassing and budget-friendly, this program is suitable for students, families, corporate groups, gap year travelers, and backpackers seeking a meaningful journey to this part of Africa.

Trip Highlights:

• Volunteer in Ghana this summer, forging deep and meaningful connections within the local community
• Contribute to community development by teaching children, spending time with mothers, renovating old buildings, maintaining hygiene, and fundraising for essential community supplies
• Immerse yourself in the authentic Ghanaian way of life, gaining insights into their rich culture and customs
• Reside with a host family or in a local volunteer house, fostering connections with fellow volunteers from around the world
• Explore the country’s diverse landscapes and wildlife by visiting Mole National Park
• Embark on adventures to Kintampo Falls and the Boabeng-Fiema Monkey Sanctuary, adding memorable experiences to your volunteering journey

12. Summer Impact Program Nepal 2024

Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, Nepal stands as an enticing landlocked destination, particularly ideal for summer exploration. This enchanting country, adorned with snow-capped mountains and dotted with numerous temples, truly epitomizes paradise on Earth. The 2-week Nepal Summer Volunteering Program is meticulously designed for those seeking a fulfilling summer plan.

Embark on an enriching journey where you can make a meaningful impact on the lives of the little ones. This program caters to adventurous souls eager to explore the picturesque countryside and gain valuable international work experience. Whether you’re a high school or college student, or a gap year traveler, this promises to be one of the most memorable experiences of your life.

Volunteers will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant capital city of Kathmandu, engage in volunteering activities with young children, and explore nearby gems such as Nagarkot and Bhaktapur. For those craving an adrenaline rush, Nepal offers thrilling adventures like paragliding, trekking, and river rafting.

Trip Highlights:

• Volunteer and share love with children, experiencing the joy of making a positive impact
• Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Himalayas, gaining insights into Nepalese culture
• Explore the vibrant cities of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Nagarkot, each with its unique charm
• Connect with volunteers from around the world, fostering a global community
• Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Chitwan National Park to spot diverse wildlife, adding an adventurous touch to your volunteering experience

 

13. Charity Shop Volunteering Program, Ireland

If you have always desired a vacay in Ireland, then now is a perfect time. Work at a charity shop located in Clonmel, the largest town in the County of Tipperary. The project has two locations in the town: a charity shop based on the main street and a sorting office where donations are sorted. Nearby the sorting office, there is also a furniture store, a bookshop, and bric-a-brac, all run by the charity.

The income from the charity shop is the main source of revenue for a charity that visits and provides friendship and financial support to people living in poverty in the region. The work of this charity ensures that everyone can live with dignity. Not only will this be an incredible opportunity for you to learn while working with a team of volunteers and local Irish staff, but it’ll also provide you with immensely meaningful work exposure, that will enhance your career in the days ahead.

• Duration of The Program: 3 weeks
• Location of Project: Clonmel
• Minimum Age Requirement: 18 years

What can you do on weekends?

Volunteers will have the weekends to explore. There is always something happening in Clonmel, with frequent theatre, concerts, live music, art exhibitions, and festivals. During your free time, volunteers can discover the countryside around Clonmel, the Tipperary region. They can visit famous attractions such as the Rock of Cashel Castle and Cahir Castle located in nearby towns. They can also discover cities such as Kilkenny, Cork, or Dublin.

 

14. Wildlife and Environmental Protection Volunteering Program, Greece

If you love to work outdoors, then this is the perfect opportunity for you to live by the beaches and contribute actively towards the protection of nature and the environment. Being a volunteer for the Wildlife and Environmental Protection in Greece, you’ll be assisting the local conservationists, who have been working here for years, trying to control marine pollution and industrial fishing.

Depending on your knowledge or previous experience, each volunteer will be assigned tasks accordingly. You do not necessarily need to have any specialist knowledge. However, you should be committed to being able to think and act independently in a problem-solving manner and be passionate about environmental protection issues.

• Duration of The Program: 2 weeks
• Location of Project: Ionian Islands
• Minimum Age Requirement: 18 years

What can you do on weekends?

During the weekends and in your free time you might have the option to leave the island to explore the villages on the mainland or the local team can help to organize some snorkeling as well for you.

15. Short-Term Volunteer Program in Kenya

Kenya has captured my heart, and it will forever hold a special place due to my volunteering experience in this beautiful African country. Join the 2 Weeks Special Volunteer Program in Kenya and immerse yourself in the best that the nation has to offer. Contribute to a childcare center, aiming to make a positive impact on the lives of the little ones by providing them with abundant love and care. Volunteers also have the unique opportunity to spend quality time with the indigenous Maasai people, gaining insight into their way of life.

And, no journey to Kenya would be complete without the exhilarating experience of game drives! Head to the Maasai Mara Region to witness the lioness and her cubs in their natural habitat. Explore the vibrant city of Nairobi, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and soak in the authentic Kenyan vibes. This volunteering program promises to be a transformative and unforgettable experience.

Trip Highlights:

• Explore a meaningful and affordable 2-week special volunteering opportunity in Kenya, focused on working with children and contributing to their education and caretaking
• Immerse yourself in the Nairobi suburbs, living among the locals and spending quality time engaging with the community
• Gain a unique understanding of the indigenous Maasai tribe, witnessing their ways of living and experiencing their rich culture
• Enjoy thrilling Maasai Mara Game Drives, explore Mamba Village, and visit the Bomas of Kenya, enhancing your cultural experience
• Camp amidst the wilderness for an authentic adventure and have the chance to spot the African Big 5, creating lasting memories in the heart of Kenya

Instead of spending your next summer at home or taking a random trip, make your holidays truly meaningful! Begin planning now, step out of your comfort zone, and embark on a journey that will not only have a positive impact on others but also contribute to your personal growth, making you a more humble and compassionate human being.

For more info, get in touch with our Program Advisors – [email protected] who’ll be able to guide you better and help you choose the best program 🙂 You can book now for 2024 – 2025 and we are offering flexible date change options, so you need not worry about that!

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