The Top 8 Places to Volunteer Abroad This Summer

Are you in search of an epic experience this summer while you’re home from college or just looking to get out of your home town? Why not volunteer abroad this summer?

Volunteering abroad is a great way to travel and grants you the opportunity to do some good while doing so. There are so many programs and places to choose from, so we’ve done some of the hard work for you. Take a look at these 8 awesome places, in no particular order, to volunteer abroad this summer.

Nepal

Nepal is a beautiful country nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, offering breathtaking scenery and rich cultural experiences for tourists. With its towering mountains, including the iconic Mount Everest, and lush green valleys, Nepal is a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

However, Nepal is still an underdeveloped country and majority of her population deprived of basic medical, education and other facilities. This is the reason spending time in Nepal while also making a meaningful difference is a great idea. Let’s explore some of the best available volunteering programs in Nepal this summer.

Volunteer in an orphanage :

Connect with the adorable little people of Nepal who don’t have much sunshine in their lives. Teach basic English, help in daily tasks and make a friend for life by volunteering in an orphanage in Nepal this summer.

Teach English to exiled Buddhist Monks

You'll have the opportunity to teach English to young Buddhist monks aged 5 to 17, with guidance from a Buddhist master. Your schedule will typically include 3-4 daily classes, each lasting approximately an hour. Additionally, you'll plan enjoyable extracurricular activities such as singing, indoor games, dancing, and drawing. Mornings and late evenings will offer an opportunity to observe monastery rituals and join in meditation and prayer ceremonies.

Thailand

Volunteer and Explore Chiang Mai:

Chiang Mai is a beautiful city in the North of Thailand, where lots of underprivileged Thais come to learn English and get jobs. Work with local orphanages and schools, play games with the kids and teach an occasional English lesson and explore beautiful Chiang Mai in your free time.

Empower and Encourage Underprivileged Thai Children

Empower and uplift underprivileged Thai children by volunteering with underprivileged children in Thailand this summer! Provide education, support, and encouragement to those in need. You can make a positive impact on their lives and create brighter futures.

South Africa

Teach little kids how to surf

Stop little kids from getting into trouble by teaching them how to surf in their free time instead, off the coast of beautiful Cape Town, South Africa. You don’t have to be a surf pro to teach, just have a love for kids and be in decent physical shape.

Cheetah Re-introduction project

Cheetahs have long been held in captivity; volunteer abroad to help release them back into the wild this summer. Most often the cheetahs have lost some of their natural instincts and need help being reintroduced into the wild.

Volunteer South Africa Wildlife

IFRE Volunteers’ wildlife volunteer program nearby Big 5 Game reserve focuses on conserving indigenous animal and plant species. Despite the wealth of wildlife in South Africa, the area encounters difficulties such as poaching and illicit trading, which have pushed some species to the brink of extinction. The program strives to tackle these challenges through a range of projects and initiatives.

Argentina

Play Sports with Underprivileged Children

In Argentina, most kids go to school for a half day and then have the rest of the day free. This contributes to a lot of petty crime and hanging out on the streets. Volunteer to play sports with them after school and help to keep them in shape and out of trouble. Make your summer volunteer vacation once in a lifetime.

Volunteer with Children in Argentina

Join this childcare project in Argentina to facilitate early childhood development with engaging educational activities. Offer personalized assistance to children facing challenges, which is particularly beneficial in overcrowded and understaffed care centers. Experience life in vibrant Cordoba alongside a welcoming host family who will provide a homely environment, delicious local cuisine, and guidance on exploring the city's highlights.

Costa Rica

Jaguar Conservation in Tortuguero National Park:

Assist in the protection of endangered Jaguars by conducting surveys, setting up remote cameras and gathering data for use in a long-term conservation effort along Central America’s Caribbean coast. Develop new skills and an in-depth understanding of the rainforest and its ecosystem on this unique tropical adventure.

Help with Community Development in Montverde

Dedicate your summer volunteering abroad to renovate buildings, landscape public spaces, paint classrooms and improve eco-tourism in a beautiful region of Costa Rica. Help the community to flourish and thrive, all while embracing their laid back, “pura vida” lifestyle.

Save the Sea Turtles

Every year, endangered sea turtle species come ashore to lay their eggs from March to October. Poachers steal the eggs and kill the turtles to sell their meat on the black market. Join hands in protecting the turtles from poachers and helping them return safely to their home in the sea.

Iceland

Provide Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation Support:

Get involved with local organizations that provide support to people addicted to drugs and alcohol and help them get back on their feet and start a new life. Work with people from different cultures and be confident that you’re making a difference in someone’s life. Make your this summer volunteer vacation abroad memorable!

South Korea

Work with Habitat for Humanity

Despite it’s economic rise and global position, there are still many people in South Korea who need help. Get involved on a build site there and make a difference in the local community by building homes, schools and community centers.

Bali

Volunteer Teaching English in Bali

In Bali, while tourist spots shine, over 35% live in poverty, lacking basics like healthcare and education. Join the English teaching volunteer program abroad in local schools in summer to help underprivileged children. It's a fulfilling experience that can inspire positive change.

Turtle Conservation Volunteer in Bali

Become a Turtle Conservation Volunteer in Bali! Help protect these magnificent creatures while experiencing the beauty of Bali. Assist with nesting site monitoring, hatchling releases, and educational outreach. Make a difference and create unforgettable memories.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for something to do with all your free time this summer, volunteering abroad provides a great cultural and learning experience as well as the change to make a difference.

Whether you’re cage diving with Great White sharks, providing disaster relief or teaching English, there is sure to be a summer volunteer abroad program for you.

Take a look at the opportunities provided and do some research to find which program best fits your needs and wants. Good luck!