Best Alternative Spring Break Volunteer Abroad Programs For 2025

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To put it in the words of Leo Tolstoy, “Spring is the time of plans and projects.”

Winter is almost here, and Spring isn’t far behind. You might be stuck with thoughts about what to do during those 2 weeks of your break! Just imagine how wonderful it can be if you opt for an alternative spring break program and travel to a new destination in 2025, to make some meaningful contribution towards the developing society.

And not just that, you’ll get to explore the faraway land, make new friends from different parts of the world, learn a new language, savor the tastes of the authentic local cuisine, and most importantly, add some flair to your Resume.

Volunteering Solutions has some amazing volunteer programs on an alternative spring break for high school and college students, who are looking forward to making the most of their spring break by traveling abroad with a purpose. The volunteer opportunities by VolSol are affordable and you can choose the dates of participation at your convenience. As we say, it’s always good to start planning early and make the bookings in advance.

Here are the 10 best alternative spring break volunteer abroad programs from which you can pick the one that suits your interests.

1. Two Weeks Special Volunteer Program in Peru

2. Turtle Conservation Volunteering Project in Costa Rica

3. Volunteer at an Orphanage in Tanzania

4. Short-Term Volunteering Program in Kenya

5. Two Weeks Special Volunteering Program in South Africa

6. Two Weeks Special Travel and Volunteer Program in Nepal

7. Elephants 2 Beaches Program in Thailand

8. Volunteer with Children in Cambodia

9. Kindergarten Volunteering Program in Bali

2 Weeks Special Volunteer Program in Peru

In case you’ve always wanted to visit the mysterious land of the Incas, then why not during your spring break in 2025? This volunteer program has been designed to offer you the best that Peru has in store and you’ll get to volunteer with children at rural schools in the outskirts of Cusco.

Spend 2 amazing weeks at the UNESCO Heritage City of Cusco
Explore the architectural grandeur of the city
Visit Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, Pisac, Ollantaytambo ruins, and much more
Enriching volunteering journey with local staff and kids at a school
Learn basic Spanish and binge on Peruvian Cuisine (Ceviche is a must-try!)

“There was always something to do, and it was such a joy to see the children learn and grow in the two weeks I was there. I was able to take day trips to Machu Picchu, Humantay Lake, Rainbow Mountain, and the Sacred Valley at very little cost. I returned to the United States, wiser and more confident after immersing myself in Peru’s culture for two weeks.” – Niamh Schumacher (United States)

Turtle Conservation Project in Costa Rica

turtle conservation costa rica

A paradise for beach lovers, this project located at one of the most beautiful destinations of San Jose, Costa Rica, will not only help you to get closer to nature, but it’ll also teach you to be a responsible traveler. If you have just a week in hand and wish to experience the bliss of being a part of a conservation project, then stop procrastinating and make plans for volunteering in Costa Rica.

Work at beaches along the Pacific Coast as well as the Caribbean coast
Meet like-minded people from different parts of the world
Save the endangered Ogilvy Turtle species: monitor the eggs, look after the little ones after the eggs hatch, patrol the beaches, and remove the plastic wastes left by tourists
Become ecologically sensitive while spending adequate time amidst nature

“My experience was absolutely rewarding! My host family was so humble and treated me and the other volunteer with kindness and as if we were apart of the family. Seeing turtles was a very moving experience – Pablo and Haniel knew exactly what they were doing and shown great knowledge in what they do.” – Erica Howell (United States)

Volunteer at an Orphanage in Tanzania

You’ll get an opportunity to work with kids between the age of 4 to 15 years, who belong to an extremely poor background and are victims of unpleasant circumstances, All that they need is some love and care. If you love to spend time with kids, then you should definitely choose this volunteer program in Costa Rica and add some happiness to their lives.

Focus on the development of underprivileged kids
Explore Arusha and get to know more about the culture & customs of the country
Gain valuable insights about life in a Third World country
Go for wildlife safari tour to Serengeti
Weekend getaway to Zanzibar

“The volunteer work – connecting with the children at the orphanage, learning from them and being part of something valued and worthwhile; the friendships with other volunteers; the cultural experience and unique opportunities e.g. visiting Masai village are some of the best experience of my whole volunteer trip.” – Melissa Tweedie (Australia)

Short-Term Volunteer Program in Kenya

One of the most popular destinations for wildlife enthusiasts, this short-term volunteering program in Kenya is perfect for those who are looking for some adventure apart from serving the needy. Explore the Maasai villages, get to know more about the cultural richness of this tribe and volunteer at an orphanage in Nairobi, the capital city. This might just turn out to be your most memorable trip ever!

Experience the thrilling wildlife safaris and get closer to Africa’s Big 5 at Maasai Mara
Spend quality time with the locals, while working at the Child Care/ Orphanage Project
Visit the Giraffe Manor, that serves as a home to the endangered Rothschild giraffes
Visit Maasai village, Mamba village and Bomas in Kenya

“It was a great and amazing experience. I would do it again in a heartbeat. I learned a lot. And sometimes it was very difficult because people in Kenya have other ideas, but that’s a great way to learn and grow. The highlight of my trip was to know the real people of Kenya. They are so super friendly and helpful. But also the Safari was amazing.” – Bianca van `t Klooster (Belarus)

2 Weeks Special Volunteer Program in South Africa

childcare volunteering in south africa

A favorite destination for adventure junkies, South Africa is the place to be! From Bungee Jumping to Shark Cave Diving and meeting the penguins at Boulders Beach – you can do it all. If you want to go and have some fun during your spring break, then opt for this volunteer program, serve the underprivileged society in the outskirts of Cape Town and tick off all that’s there on your bucket list!

Be a part of Child Care / Community Development Project at Imizamo Yethu Township
Go for a weekend safari and elephant encounter at Sedgefield, Western Cape
Road Trip through the Route 62 – Cape Town to Sedgefield and back
Hike up the Table Mountain
Experience the thrill of adventure sports like skydiving, shark cage diving, scuba diving, bungee jumping, surfing and much more

“The highlight of my volunteering experience was how open and appreciative the children and staff were to the volunteers. The children showed me so much affection from day one and always made the work so enjoyable.” – Jessica Zukovich (United States)

2 Weeks Special Volunteer Travel Program in Nepal

nepal volunteer

Wish to travel to one of the most picturesque Asian countries, nestled in the Himalayas? Yes, we are talking about Nepal – the country that houses the highest mountain in the world, Mt. Everest. If you are a mountain lover, then Nepal will never disappoint you. This short-term volunteer program in Nepal has been exclusively designed for the students who want to experience the local culture and customs of Nepal, and contribute by engaging themselves in the Childcare and Teaching Programs.

Wake up to see the snow-capped Himalayas surrounding you on all sides!
Explore the capital city of Kathmandu, visit the temples and markets
Volunteer with children at your project site
Weekend trips to Pokhara, Bhaktapur, and Nagarkot
You can also choose to go for a trek in the Himalayas

“My experience in Nepal was great and far exceeded my expectations. Working with the children at the orphanages was great. The overall experience was immensely worthwhile and I look forward to doing it again someday.” – Mae Al Faddaghi (United States)

Volunteer with Elephants In Thailand

We are sure that you’ve always longed to visit ‘The Land of Smiles’, and now is the time to set out for your dream destination. Visit by nearly 6 million people every year, Thailand is undoubtedly the most popular Asian country to spend your spring break. This program will be perfect for animal lovers as well as those beach-freaks! Travel across Thailand, from the hills sides of Chiang Mai to the expansive beaches at Koh Samui and volunteer with the elephants, before diving into the turquoise water!

Live closely with the mahouts in a village in Chiang Mai while volunteering with elephants
Experience the authentic Thai lifestyle
Savor the tastes of local Thai food and learn to cook a few!
Relax on the beaches at Koh Samui
Explore the virgin island of Koh Tao

“I Love Love Love working with the elephants. It is an amazing place and the Jungle is beautiful. The elephants are amazing and Jin, the supervisor is the best. The highlight of the trip was to meet Thai people, they are so loving and warm-hearted. Also to have the opportunity to be living with elephants is an experience I won’t forget.” – Adelina Zendejas (Mexico)

Childcare Volunteering Program in Cambodia

orphanage volunteering in Cambodia (1)

Known especially for the ruins of Angkor, Cambodia has much more in store for you to explore and discover. If you wish to add some happiness to the lives of underprivileged children in Cambodia, then this would be a perfect volunteer program where you’ll get to work with the slum kids of Phnom Penh. This volunteering project will also get you closer to the Cambodian culture and lifestyle, as you’ll be living with a native family, and spend most of your time with the local staff and kids.

Explore Phnom Penh and get to know about the dark past of Cambodia
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site – Angkor Wat
Share some love and happiness with the unprivileged kids
You can also attend some Khmer cuisine cooking classes
Weekend getaway to the pristine beaches of Sihanoukville

“I had the most amazing 2 weeks in Cambodia. I experienced walking about in a massive flood, pushed our tuk-tuk which had got stuck in the rain, ate a cricket, cruised down the streets of Phnom Penh on a motor, see the amazing view of the sunrise in Angkor Wat. Above everything else, had got to meet the amazing kiddos whom I’ve absolutely fallen in love with.” – Sonam Sadhnani (Singapore)

Kindergarten Volunteering Program in Bali

Want to feel the tropic vibes? Head towards Bali and spend your spring break with the cuties at a Kindergarten in Tianyar, while volunteering. These Kindergartens have inadequate staff members, hence the kids don’t get adequate attention and care. You will get to play an important role while adding some joy to their lives. Explore the richness of Indonesian culture and soak yourself in the sun at the beaches of Ubud.

The rewarding experience of working at the Kindergarten
Assist the staff and add some colors & vibrancy to the environment
Explore the temples and get to know Balinese culture, traditions, and lifestyle
Make beautiful memories with like-minded people from all across the world

So, where do you want to go? Ask your friends to join in as well, and make the best memories together. If you want some more information, feel free to drop us a message at [email protected]

Hope to see you soon!

About The Author

Riyanka

Riyanka is a traveler who is keen on exploring different parts of the world. She’s a travel blogger who’s equally passionate about photography. Her quest is to turn all her journeys into beautiful stories. Being a die-hard ‘mountain-aholic‘, her favorite destinations are all around the Himalayas! She can spend days gazing at the snow-capped mountains, binge on Maggi and lemon-honey-ginger tea, and reading Ruskin Bond books.

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