Find out which IVHQ programs are most popular with volunteers from Europe right now
As lockdowns begin to end and borders start to reopen, we’re experiencing a surge in interest from people wanting to embark on their long delayed volunteer abroad adventures. With people prioritizing meaningful travel this year, IVHQ has seen an influx in bookings from eco-conscious and impact-focused travellers from across Europe, especially from the UK.
Places on IVHQ’s most popular programs are limited, so if you’re thinking of volunteering this spring or summer, now is the time to confirm your plans so you can rediscover the world in a more kind and life-enriching way. It’s free to change your plans later on if you need to.
Which volunteer abroad programs are attracting European travellers right now?
Although summer is just around the corner, Europeans are seeking out sunshine, impact and new experiences. IVHQ’s volunteer abroad programs satisfy all three requirements – Europeans can give back to local communities while exploring stunning destinations and cultures with warm and sunny climates.
In just a few weeks time, you could be in Costa Rica teaching local children while exploring volcanoes and white sand beaches!
Wondering where you should volunteer abroad as a European? We’ve put together this guide to help you decide where to go and what activities to do.
Alternatively, If you would prefer personalized destination and program recommendations for your 2024 Spring & Summer holidays, submit this quick form and our team will get back to you to explore your options.
Where is the best place to volunteer abroad as a European?
Here’s a list of the most popular IVHQ programs with European travellers right now. They are all open, accepting applications and already have volunteers on the ground making a difference.
Due to a surge in interest for 2024, programs are quickly booking up, so get ahead of the curve and lock in your next volunteer adventure for spring break, summer break and beyond! Click on the destination you’re interested in to learn more about the volunteer projects that are available and what adventurous excursions you can tack onto your itinerary.
Top IVHQ volunteering programs for Europeans:
Costa Rica
Immerse yourself in diverse landscapes including lush rainforests and stunning beaches on IVHQ’s Costa Rica program. With 15 projects available, volunteers can choose from Childcare and Teaching to Medical, Eco Agriculture and Turtle Conservation.
Take your experience to the next level with exciting tour add-ons including volcano treks, coffee plantation tours, adventure sports and popular mini adventures.
Hear from recent IVHQ volunteer Alexandre to learn what it’s like volunteering in Tanzania right now.
Explore the Costa Rica programApply to volunteer in Costa Rica
Tanzania
Discover East Africa on IVHQ’s Tanzania program and choose from 5 impactful projects: Teaching, Medical, Childcare, Women’s Education and Animal Welfare.
Immerse yourself even further with meaningful program add-ons, including safari tours, Kilimanjaro hikes, Maasai village visits and other adventures.
Want to know what it’s like volunteering in Tanzania right now? Read about Aysha’s recent Tanzania volunteer experience.
Explore the Tanzania programApply to volunteer in Tanzania
Zanzibar
Discover the aquamarine ocean, unique wildlife and rustic markets on this paradise island just off the coast of Eastern Africa where you can chose between the incredible Turtle Conservation and Rainforest & Coastal Conservation projects on IVHQ’s Zanzibar program.
Free time can be spent pursuing Zanzibar’s white sand beaches and getting to know the friendly local community.
Explore the Zanzibar programApply to volunteer in Zanzibar
Nepal
Get a taste of authentic Asia, with fantastic food, the friendliest locals and the dramatic backdrop of the Himalayas on IVHQ’s Nepal program. Choose from projects including NGO support, Medical Elective, Sustainable Agriculture, Construction and much more.
travellers must have a Covid-19 negative report (RT-PCR/Gene Xpert/True NAAT or equivalent) obtained within 72 hours prior to their departure.
Explore the Nepal programApply to volunteer in Nepal
South Africa
Explore beautiful surf beaches, rugged landscapes and incredible wildlife on IVHQ’s South Africa programs in Cape Town and the world renowned Kruger National Park. Choose from a diverse range of life-enhancing projects, including Teaching, Sports Development, Childcare, Surf Outreach, Animal Care and a new Widlife Conservation project.
Spend time sightseeing around Cape Town or other areas in South Africa. Long weekends can also be arranged to go on a safari or travel to places further afield, such as the famous Garden Route.
Explore the South Africa programApply to volunteer in South Africa
Kenya
On IVHQ’s Kenya program volunteers will explore the Maasai tribes, authentic villages and incredible African wildlife. With 6 impact driven projects to choose from, including Women’s Education and Teaching, you’ll be making a valuable contribution to the local community.
Explore Kenya’s beauty with your free time – roam around Nairobi or embark on a safari adventure amongst other thrilling add-ons.
Explore the Kenya programApply to volunteer in Kenya
Ghana
Become part of the local community on IVHQ’s Ghana program and choose from 7 incredible projects, from Healthcare Outreach to Sports and Teaching. Projects are based in rural villages and townships within the Greater Accra Region.
Want to explore more of West Africa’s beauty? Arrange a long weekend to travel further afield such as Cape Coast.
Want to hear what it’s like to volunteer in Ghana at the moment? Read IVHQer Tonja’s story to find out.
Explore the Ghana programApply to volunteer in Ghana
Madagascar
Explore the island of Nosy Komba on IVHQ’s Madagascar program and choose from 5 volunteer projects, including Marine Conservation, Turtle Conservation, Forest Conservation, Teaching and Community Development.
Get out and explore Nosy Komba by joining local village guides to encounter friendly lemurs and meet other Malagasy wildlife and plants. Go even further off the beaten track to Diego Suarez and enjoy adventure-sports activities such as kiteboarding or quad biking.
Explore the Madagascar programApply to volunteer in Madagascar
Mexico
Make an impact and immerse yourself in one of the world’s most vibrant cultures. Volunteers on IVHQ’s Mexico program are based in the beautiful city of Mérida and can choose from incredible projects, including Sustainable Agriculture, Teaching English, Animal Care, Childcare and Special Needs Care.
Take your adventure to the next level and explore popular local sites, such as Chichén Itzá – the most famous of the Yucatán’s Mayan ruin sites and one of Mexico’s most visited tourist destinations.
Explore the Mexico programApply to volunteer in Mexico
Belize
IVHQ’s Belize program is based on a stunning private island in the Caribbean. The special Marine Conservation project involves helping local scientists with a range of scuba diving tasks to protect marine life.
On this program, you’ll also have time to relax on the white sand beaches, hire kayaks or paddle boards and even take yoga classes. There are also ancient Mayan sites, spice farms and waterfalls you can visit within a day’s trip.
Explore the Belize programApply to volunteer in Belize
Check your entry and visa requirements
Fill out the quick form below to find out what the entry and visa requirements are for the IVHQ destination you’re interested in, based on your country of residence. Some destinations require you to bring health documents, wear masks in public spaces, or apply for a visa.
