Top 15 Volunteer Abroad Destinations For 2025

Being a trusted international organization, Volunteering Solutions has been working for the last 17 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 2025, where you can travel and make some contributions. It’s better to start planning for your Spring Break/ Summer Break 2025.

1. Thailand
2. India
3.  Peru
4.  South Africa
5.  Nepal
6.  Cambodia
7.  Costa Rica
8.  Tanzania
9.  Kenya
10. Vietnam
11. Ghana
12. Australia
13. Sri Lanka
14. Bali
15. The Philippines

1. Thailand

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!

Those who are planning to volunteer in Thailand in 2025 can choose from more than 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 2 amazing destinations – Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
• Projects are available throughout the year, for a minimum 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 with accommodation at the volunteer house or at a local homestay. Rooms are provided on the same gender-sharing basis and all basic amenities are there, like a geyser, WiFi, etc.
• Go for amazing weekend tours to beachside destinations like Koh Tao, Koh Samui, or Phi Phi Islands.

2. India

India can be aptly called ‘the land of diversity’. One of the earliest civilizations in the world, India now stands as the largest democratic country in the world. With the snow-covered, Himalayas in the North, 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 2025. 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 that benefits society as well as the volunteers.

• Projects in India are available in New Delhi and Jaipur (Rajasthan).
• Projects are available throughout the year, for a minimum 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 old and enrolled in a medical/ dental course while applying.
• All participants will be provided with 24/7 in-country support.

Participants are provided with 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.

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.

3. 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 lifestyle of the people still reflect the impressions left by the colonial masters.

Participants who wish to volunteer in Peru in 2025 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 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 old and enrolled in a medical/ dental course while applying.
• All participants will be provided with 24/7 in-country support.

Participants are provided with 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 the same gender-sharing basis. Accommodations are clean and comfortable. Some houses have a WiFi connection and cable TV as well.

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 in Peru, you can take a quick look at the guidebook.

4. 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 Table Mountain and get a gorgeous view of Cape Town.

If you are interested in traveling and volunteering in South Africa in 2025 and making some meaningful contributions to the lives of the locals, then you can choose from a plethora of programs including the 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 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 with accommodation at the volunteer house in Cape Town. It’s a dorm-style hostel where volunteers 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 a thrilling experience.

Go for amazing weekend tours to 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.

5. 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 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, and looked after their 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 in 2025, 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 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 old 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, to provide a ‘home away from home’ atmosphere to all our participants.

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

6. Cambodia

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 many more hidden treasures 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 in 2025 and explore the ruins of the Khmer Dynasty. Those who are interested in volunteering with children can join the Teaching Project or Orphanage Project, while other programs like the 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 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 locals will be an incredible opportunity to know more about their life and culture. Meals will be provided at the accommodation on all weekdays.

Explore Phnom Penh during the weekends – the city has so much to offer. Of course, you have to travel to Siem Reap to visit 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.

7. 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 in 2025 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 engaging themselves in keeping the beaches clean. Apart from that, the Teaching English Program, Medical Volunteering Program, Child Care program, etc are also available. If you are keen on 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 a short distance away from the capital, San Jose.
• Projects are available throughout the year, for a minimum 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 the same gender-sharing basis. All basic amenities will be provided to the participants.

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.

8. Tanzania

Popular for wildlife safaris in Serengeti National Park and Kilimanjaro National Park, Tanzania is a place where you can surely spot 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 in 2025 and add some goodness to the lives of the underprivileged natives of the country, then come and join us. Volunteering Solutions has a set of meaningful projects in the country, varying from Orphanage Volunteering and Teaching Projects to Medical Volunteering Projects.

• Projects are available in Arusha and Zanzibar, a little island that comes under Tanzania.
• Projects are available throughout the year, for a minimum 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 the same gender-sharing basis. Volunteers will be provided with meals as mentioned in their Pre-Departure Guidebook.

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 your free time – so, work on your plans so that you don’t miss out on anything!

9. 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 in 2025 will give you a chance to peep into the lives of the natives and learn 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. 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 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 of by the localhost 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 a geyser, refrigerator, and microwave, etc.

During the weekends, Participants can head out to meet the long-necked giraffes or the elephants at the orphanage on 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 to the wildlife safaris. Seek guidance from the in-country coordinator about the things to do while volunteering in Kenya.

10. 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 in 2025. Not only will you contribute to their lives, but you’ll eventually add a lot more value to your life. Projects available in Vietnam include Childcare and Orphanage Program, Teaching Program, and Medical Program.

• Projects are available in Hanoi, the historical capital of Vietnam.
• Projects are available throughout the year, for a minimum 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.

VolSol offers affordable projects starting at $560 for 2 weeks.

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 on. You can also take a short trip to Ha Long Bay.

11. Ghana

Ghana, often referred to as the “Gateway to Africa,” beckons travelers with its diverse attractions, from bustling markets and historic forts to pristine beaches and lush rainforests. Volunteering in Ghana provides an immersive experience, allowing you to connect with local communities, understand their challenges, and actively participate in initiatives that uplift and empower them. Whether your passion lies in education, healthcare, conservation, or community development, Ghana offers a myriad of opportunities to make a meaningful difference.

• Volunteering projects in Ghana are situated in Accra, Axim, and Tamale.
• Participants must be at least 17 years old, with a minimum age of 18 required for those applying to medical and healthcare volunteer programs or the Beach Conservation Program.
• Projects run year-round, allowing participants to choose durations ranging from 1 week to 6 months based on their preferences.
• Affordable volunteer projects include amenities like airport pickup, meals, and accommodation.
• Optional weekend tours to Mole National Park, Kintampo Falls, or Cape Coast are available as add-ons.

In Tamale, volunteers will experience the warmth of Ghanaian hospitality by staying at a standard Ghanaian volunteer homestay, expertly managed by the local program coordinator. In instances where space is limited in the volunteer home, participants will be accommodated with a welcoming Ghanaian host family. In Accra, volunteers have the option of staying in the volunteer house alongside fellow participants or with a local host family, depending on their chosen program. For those stationed in Axim, the Volunteer & Staff Village awaits, nestled by the beach in charming bungalows. This unique setting encourages a sense of community among volunteers and local staff, fostering an environment of shared experiences.

No matter which program you choose to be a part of, your volunteering experience in Ghana will be beautiful.

12. Australia

If you’re thinking of traveling to Australia, then now is the perfect time to plan your trip. Choose to join the Conservation Volunteer Program Endangered Animals in Gladstone or Yackandandah. Our volunteering experiences in Australia are thoughtfully crafted to provide participants with an ethical, enjoyable, and exhilarating adventure, allowing them to actively contribute to the ecosystem and foster a healthier environment.

By participating in these programs, individuals can spend quality time amidst Australia’s stunning landscapes, all while making a tangible difference in the well-being of our planet. Join us in creating a better environment and a brighter future as you delve into the beauty and significance of Australia’s natural wonders.

• Programs are available in different Australian locations including Gladstone, Cairns, and Yackandandah.
• Engage in meaningful volunteering opportunities lasting 1 to 6 weeks.
• Contribute to ethical, sustainable, and genuine projects focused on animal welfare and conservation.
• Experience firsthand the rich and varied landscapes of Australia.
• The minimum age for participants is 18 years.
• Benefit from 24/7 in-country support throughout your volunteering experience.

Accommodation arrangements are tailored to suit the unique characteristics of each project location, and they’re all set amidst nature. Options typically include volunteer houses, caravans, hostels, and bunkhouses, with participants allocated shared living spaces.

13. Sri Lanka

Beyond the well-preserved ancient cities and verdant landscapes, Sri Lanka offers a warm embrace for those looking to give back. It’s a place where your journey goes beyond sightseeing — it becomes a transformative experience of cultural immersion, personal growth, and making a difference in the lives of others. Trust me when I say this because I traveled solo across Sri Lanka for 2 weeks and it turned into one beautiful experience.

Volunteering in Sri Lanka opens doors to a plethora of programs, from wildlife conservation and community development to education and healthcare initiatives. Engage with local communities, witness the resilience of the people, and actively participate in projects that make a lasting impact.

• Volunteer programs situated in Unawatuna, Galle, and Wasgamuwa National Park.
• Choose from 11 meaningful volunteering and internship opportunities available year-round, ranging from 1 to 24 weeks.
• Reside in a tropical villa near the beach, sharing the experience with volunteers from various parts of the world.
• Opt for a 7-day Culture and Adventure tour, allowing you to travel around Sri Lanka.
• Receive full support and coordination from the local team.
• Enhance your experience with additional offerings such as weekly yoga classes, monthly bike tours, BBQ dinners, and weekly movie nights alongside fellow volunteers.

Volunteers embarking on programs in Galle, Sri Lanka, are welcomed to the charming Unawatuna neighborhood, offering picturesque views of the renowned Unawatuna Beach and the turquoise expanse of the Indian Ocean. The volunteer house, featuring 11 bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, provides a comfortable and quaint retreat. With the beach just a 5-minute stroll away and Galle Fort accessible within 15 minutes, volunteers can easily explore the surrounding beauty.

For those engaged in projects at Wasgamuwa National Park, accommodation is provided in a field house close to the project site.

14. Bali

I recently returned from a 10-day trip in Bali and just can’t get over the beauty of the place. If you’re looking for a meaningful holiday, then set out on a volunteer journey in Bali with Volunteering Solutions, where a variety of affordable projects await your contribution.

Choose from options such as Kindergarten and Teaching projects, engage in Marine and Coastal Reef Conservation in Tianyar, participate in Turtle Conservation, or dive into the Scuba Diving and Coral Reef Restoration project. As you dedicate your time to societal service, you’ll also have the opportunity to explore the enchanting island and immerse yourself in its cultural richness. These volunteer programs in Bali are ideally suited for high school and college students, as well as gap year travelers, offering a unique blend of impactful work and cultural discovery.

• 5 meaningful and affordable volunteer programs are available in Pemuteran, Serangan & Tianyar.
• Comprehensive package: airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals, and 24/7 in-country support.
• Experience traditional Bamboo-style hut living in the Tianyar Project, North Bali.
• Opportunity to enroll in a PADI diving course.
• Explore Bali like never before, with fellow volunteers on weekends.

In Tianyar, volunteers are lodged in a charming volunteer house consisting of picturesque bamboo cottages, designed with environmental friendliness in mind. Every cottage boasts a sit-out area and is equipped with fans. Common areas are available for volunteers to share meals or engage in conversations, with a communal kitchen for meal preparations.

For the North Bali coral reef restoration program, volunteers stay in locally owned Balinese homestays, owned by the team members of the coral reef organization. In Serengan, volunteers find accommodation in a local homestay near the project site, with meals conveniently arranged at local restaurants.

15. The Philippines

The Philippines, with its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, provides an ideal backdrop for meaningful volunteer work. Whether you’re passionate about public health, education, or healthcare, these programs are designed to make a positive impact while offering you a chance to immerse yourself in the local community.

Beyond the gratifying volunteer work, explore the beauty of Tacloban city and the enchanting surroundings of Leyte, making this experience not just a contribution to society but a journey of personal growth and cultural discovery.

• Immerse in the local way of life with a Filipino host family.
• Choose from 4 meaningful volunteering opportunities, available year-round for 2 to 24 weeks.
• Low-cost volunteer projects inclusive of airport transfers, orientation, meals, support, and accommodation.
• Receive a detailed orientation and city tour upon arrival from the local team.
• Enjoy exploring Leyte Province or travel to other islands on weekends.

Volunteering Solutions takes care of accommodation arrangements for volunteers by placing them with a local Filipino host family within the community. This immersive experience provides an exciting glimpse into the local way of life, customs, and traditions, enhancing the overall cultural immersion. These host families are carefully screened and respected members of the local community, with a history of accommodating volunteers over many years.

So, which destination would you be going to? Share this article with your friends – travel, and volunteer together in 2025. You can also plan for a Family Volunteering Trip.

We assure you that all our programs are operating under extremely safe and secure circumstances, where we’re ensuring proper social distancing, sanitization, and other measures.

Volunteering Solutions’ Operations Team as well as the Country Coordinators are super active – so in case you have any travel queries or wish to discuss plans regarding volunteering abroad in the future, just drop us an email at [email protected] and we shall get back to you ASAP.

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