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Eco Tours Abroad

Ecotourism is perhaps the best way to experience all of the remarkable sensations of a beautiful, natural environment and feel great about doing it, too. So, what is eco tourism? Great question! Ecotourism is defined as "responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education.” Don’t worry, this isn’t volunteering masked as adventure travel. If you think exploring ancient ruins, trekking through lush rainforests, or coming face to face with the world’s most endangered animals on eco tours won’t get your blood pumping, then think again! 
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340 Eco Tours Adventure Programs Abroad

Penda Photo Tours

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South Africa Photo Safari

Join us for a wild photographic adventure in South Africa! You'll have close encounters with big cats, elephants, rhinos, and plenty more wildlife while exploring a stunning private game reserve in the Greater Kruger Area. You'll be accompanied by a professional wildlife photographer, who will offer tutoring – both in theory and practical sessions – throughout the workshop, so you can expect to end up with an impressive portfolio of wildlife images. This wildlife photography workshop is based in Timbavati, an exclusive collection of private game reserves, where game viewing is among the best on the African continent. We'll have the freedom to go off-road. With the guidance of expert guides and trackers, you're guaranteed to find animals such as leopards, lions, and buffalo. You can also observe and photograph them up close. We work in small groups (a maximum of 5 people), which means you'll enjoy personalized photographic tutoring and you can make sure to improve your skills along the way. It's a dream trip for any (aspiring) wildlife photographer!

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Gapforce

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2

Game Reserve Volunteering with Gapforce

A volunteering experience with bite! Relocate to the incredible setting of the South African bush for the animal encounter of a lifetime, working closely with the entire spectrum of safari wildlife on a working game reserve. This special program calls for animal lovers and outdoor enthusiasts to join the effort to protect Africa’s iconic big game species through park patrols, predator tracking, species surveys, and more. As part of its mission to study and conserve all that spectacular wildlife and support the ecosystem they habitat, the reserve operates a range of conservation projects in which the volunteer can actively participate.

The Real Uganda

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Community Development & Volunteering in Uganda

Ever thought of traveling to Uganda? It’s a peaceful, vibrant country known for its breathtaking landscapes and warm, welcoming people. Ugandans are famous for their hospitality and love collaborating with international volunteers. Our volunteers are resourceful and community-driven self-starters aged 18-65 working year-round in integrated community development programs, supporting schools, organic farms, health centers, and women's groups. All placements begin on the 1st and 15th of every month, lasting 2 to 12 weeks. Volunteers bring encouragement, creativity, and compassion to our communities through various impactful activities: -Organizing arts, crafts, and sports in primary schools -Supporting meal preparations, daily chores, and child care at boarding schools -Mentoring and training underprivileged aspiring athletes -Clearing land and planting food crops and trees -Assisting in pharmacies and laboratories at rural clinics -Mentoring young mothers in child care, nutrition, breastfeeding, and family planning -Assisting in maternity hospitals -Helping rural communities develop small business skills Visit our website for more information and apply today to make a difference!

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International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

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Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally—from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservation, Medical Outreach, and Environmental Sustainability. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported over 147,000 volunteers on life-changing journeys. We specialize in fully-hosted volunteer trips that are safe, affordable, and accessible—starting from just $20 per day. Your experience includes airport pick-up, accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock support from our local teams. With flexible booking options and no change fees, planning your volunteer adventure has never been easier. Our programs run year-round and are available for 1 to 24 weeks across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, South and Central America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Volunteering with IVHQ is about more than giving back—it’s about growing, learning, and building genuine global connections.

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Raleigh International

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23

Volunteer Abroad in Costa Rica - Adventure with Purpose

Joining a Raleigh Costa Rica Expedition is a truly unique experience that allows you to take part in different projects, equip yourself with new skills, create lasting change with the communities we work with and take urgent action on environmental issues. Work with local initiatives and organisations to help preserve Costa Rica's natural resources, as one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. You will improve access to national parks by working with park rangers. On the Community project you will work with local indigenous communities to improve access to education for some of Costa Rica’s most marginalised children by improving educational infrastructure. Lastly, build your skills on the adventure leadership trek. Challenge yourself on trek and help lead your team through a variety of stunning routes.

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MAXIMO NIVEL

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Volunteer - TEFL - Spanish - Internships

Join Maximo Nivel work-study-travel programs in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru. We have been a leading educational travel and study abroad provider since 2003. - Volunteer Abroad - International Internships - TEFL Certification & Paid Teaching work - Native Spanish Program - and more... Volunteer abroad and get involved! Volunteer projects include Working with Kids, Construction, Animal Care, Conservation, Eco-Agriculture, Teaching English, and Medical and Healthcare placements. International internships provide excellent work experience abroad. Internship placements are available in Education, Special Education, Hospitality and Tourism, Human Rights, Micro-Business, and Medicine. TEFL Certification is your ticket to traveling and teaching anywhere in the world, and getting paid for it! Intensive teaching certification programs are available on-site in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru or via our online TEFL program. Native Spanish Programs immerse you in the language and takes your skills to the next level. All Maximo Nivel Spanish programs emphasize oral communication and integrated skills development to truly help build your Spanish language proficiency.

Encounter My Way

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Encounter Costa Rica

This 17-day journey offers an enriching blend of thrilling adventure, deep cultural immersion, and impactful conservation work in the heart of Costa Rica. Start by immersing yourself in the vibrant local culture in Quepos with Spanish lessons, cooking, dance, and surfing classes. Explore rich biodiversity in Manuel Antonio National Park and engage in a transformative cultural exchange with the indigenous Boruca/Térraba communities. The adventure culminates with a meaningful volunteer experience at the sea turtle conservation project in Osa, where you’ll contribute to protecting one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems. Are you seeking adventure, cultural discovery, and a chance to make a positive impact?

Mente Argentina

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1

Mente Argentina: Sommelier Semester Program in Buenos Aires

Mente Argentina's intensive Sommelier program is designed for wine lovers from around the world who want to perfect their knowledge and understanding of wine, but who also seek an extraordinary learning experience in Buenos Aires. The program offers students the highest quality education. Because of its intensive nature, it can be completed in just 5 months, encompassing all the material that a 12-month program covers in a short period of time. The wine industry is growing at an astonishing rate around the world, creating higher quality wine and wine production which has stimulated interested and more knowledgeable consumers. Because of the growth in sophisticated consumption, the industry now needs a link between the producer and the consumer. The sommelier plays an important role in connecting and maintaining a relationship between the two. In response to this growing market, the program aims to shape individuals into highly qualified professionals with the knowledge & capabilities to become leaders in the wine industry, as well as the several additional areas of Tourism and Gastronomy.

Pure Exploration

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Adventure Guide Program | Queenstown, New Zealand

Based in Queenstown, this program combines skills acquisition with the opportunity to truly embrace an outdoor lifestyle. Over 12 weeks, you'll hike, rock climb, pack raft, camp, and explore the backcountry in the adventure capital of New Zealand. Our favorite handpicked locations will provide you with a well-rounded learning experience and genuine connection with the diverse environment within the South Island. From iconic destinations like Milford Sound to hidden local gems that aren't on generic travel itineraries, you'll explore the diverse landscapes surrounding you as you embrace the Kiwi culture. If you're looking for a gateway to living, working, and exploring New Zealand, look no further. The industry connections and networking opportunities created through this program will unlock endless value for your future. This small group tour through New Zealand is perfect for those looking to take a gap year, change their careers, or simply look for a deeper connection to nature.

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Pacific Discovery

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Semester Abroad in New Zealand & Australia - Conservation

Experience an unforgettable 10-week Gap Year Semester through New Zealand and Australia, two of the world’s most amazing travel destinations. This Pacific Discovery program is designed for students taking a gap year, seeking an alternative study abroad, or looking to combine travel with purpose. Journey across dramatic landscapes, from the fjords of New Zealand to the tropical reefs of Australia. Hike, surf, snorkel, and dive while building global perspective through hands-on conservation and meaningful service learning. Learn directly from Māori and Indigenous Australian communities through authentic cultural exchange. Along the way, develop real-world skills in leadership, teamwork, and sustainability with the option to earn U.S. college credit. With experienced instructors by your side, you’ll gain clarity, confidence, and lifelong friendships while exploring two iconic destinations for adventure and growth. Whether you’re preparing for college, building your resume, or redefining your education through travel, this immersive journey will leave you inspired and ready for what’s next. Inquire today to start your New Zealand & Australia Semester with Pacific Discovery.

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GVI

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267

Marine Conservation Expedition in the Seychelles

Travel to a country known for its equatorial climate and enter a year-round summer in Seychelles. Spend your days diving in the supreme clear waters of Mahe visiting different dive sites and islands. On your expeditions, you could see an array of marine life, such as dolphins, manta rays, octopus, whale sharks, varying fish species, coral reefs, and the endangered hawksbill and green sea turtles. In collaboration with local partners and GVI staff, you’ll collect data, develop marine and environmental education programs, and survey for critical local governmental marine efforts. This is an opportunity to contribute to sustainable conservation efforts and level up your marine conservation knowledge and practical skills. GVI works alongside local partner organizations to ensure the successful outcome and longevity of all our programs. Use weekend trips to visit other islands and cities, explore botanical gardens and add recreational diving to your list. Start to better understand local traditional culture and meet fellow volunteers with varying national backgrounds.

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Global Works

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Costa Rica Teen Travel Programs

Global Works specializes in teen service trips and educational experiences to Costa Rica for high school and middle school students. These student travel programs have been our most popular over the years for good reason. Incredible biodiversity and a welcoming culture make Costa Rica an awesome choice for a summer adventure. Global Works offers volunteer programs in different focus areas. We offer opportunities for community service, Spanish immersion, cultural exchange, pre-med and public health, wildlife, adventure travel, and a middle school-focused program to this special corner of the globe. Program Options: * Costa Rica: Service & Sand (15 days) * Costa Rica: Wildlife Adventure (17 days) * Costa Rica: Intro to Pre-Med & Public Health (17 days) * Costa Rica: Middle School Service Adventure (10 days)

See All 7 Programs

InterExchange

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15

Sustainable Action Costa Rica

Our next trip dates are as follows: June 10-17, 2023 (1 week) June 17-25, 2023 (1 week) June 10-25, 2023 (2 weeks) January 5-13, 2024 (1 week) Sustainable Action Costa Rica is an eight-day, intensive, and fun-filled program during your winter break or gap year. You'll experience social and environmental sustainability in action. We'll tackle questions like: - How did Costa Rica become a renowned example of success in environmental conservation? - What does it mean to move the world in a sustainable direction? - Is Costa Rica a fitting role model for sustainable development in larger nations? Along the way, we'll do some hiking, waterfall swimming, relaxing in hot springs, and a lot of other fun group activities! With more than 50 years of experience engaging students and young professionals in life-changing cultural exchange programs, InterExchange is your ideal guide for personal growth and adventure.

Seamester Study Abroad at Sea

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Seamester Study Abroad and Gap Year Voyages

Seamester is the educational adventure of a lifetime! For more than 40 years, we have offered unparalleled educational voyages where students spend a semester at sea sailing between islands, countries, and even continents. We design our programs to provide engaging learning experiences with real outcomes in ways that are impossible to replicate in the traditional classroom. Living as part of a close-knit team on an ocean-going vessel, our students learn fundamental lessons beyond academics: teamwork, leadership, and personal responsibility. They receive academic credit from the University of South Florida, along with PADI scuba certifications and IYT sailing certifications. Our programs are designed to inspire students to realize that it’s the journey, not the destination, that matters the most.

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Rustic Pathways

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Dominican Republic Service and Adventure Programs

Bring sunblock as you take on the diverse beauty of the Dominican Republic! Participate in impactful service projects that will positively change the communities you visit. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, plus gain unique opportunities to work on high-impact public health initiatives or get hands-on experience on marine research and conservation projects. Whether in high school or college, you’ll embark on a thrilling journey infused with adventure, service, & purpose! Island Living and Eco-Service: Sunshine, beach vibes, and impactful service projects await our teen travelers. Marine Life and Coastal Restoration: Dive into aquatic adventures and hands-on conservation work alongside NGO. Public Health in the Caribbean: Participate in local healthcare initiatives & enjoy the coast! Mountain Air and Island Service: Explore mountains and beaches while contributing to projects that benefit rural villages & local communities. Life in the Bateyes: Travel deep into the island to contribute to infrastructure projects helping underserved communities of predominantly Haitian sugarcane workers. Spring to the Dominican Republic (2025): Has a version for college students

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ARCC Programs

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Australia & Fiji: Island Village Initiative

Join us for a transformative 21-day cultural immersion in Australia and Fiji. We start in Fiji with a warm welcome ceremony, engaging in hands-on cooking classes to explore the diverse flavors of Fijian cuisine. Our community service focuses on a meaningful meal program that empowers Fijian women and fosters connections through shared meals. Traveling to Viti Levu's scenic highlands, we immerse ourselves in traditional island life by participating in bamboo raft building and local farming activities. On Taveuni, we embrace “island time” with snorkeling, kayaking, and preparing traditional meals while learning local customs. Next, we head to Australia, beginning in Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Here, we earn our SCUBA certification and experience breathtaking underwater biodiversity while staying on a liveaboard boat. Our adventure includes community service at a wildlife refuge, where we care for iconic Australian animals. We’ll also delve into Aboriginal culture in the Daintree Rainforest, learning traditional practices and the connection between the land and its people.

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Discover Corps

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Alaska: The Great Exploration

On this Discover Corps Vacation with Purpose, we will venture across the famed Kenai Peninsula to witness the epic beauty of the coast, mountains, and people of Alaska. Along the way, we will take you to leading organizations and introduce you to some of the most dedicated individuals working to protect the wildlife and resources of the 49th state. Learn about puffin conservation at the Alaska Sealife Center, explore creatures of the docks by way of 'belly biology, take a boat to a remote scientific field station, visit an oyster farm (and try the oysters!), and experience the Alaskan dog sledding, riding with a local family that has dedicated their life to this tradition. The Great Exploration across this region of Alaska will show you a side of Alaska that few others experience and provide a deeper sense of what is being done to protect it for future generations.

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Astute Africa Safaris

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10-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari Ultimate Wildlife Immersion

Marrying the best-loved locations of both countries provides a unique and exciting experience that can be tailored to suit your interests and budget. From safari lodges and tented camps to luxury boutique accommodation, this is your tour, and we want you to feel comfortable and engaged every step of the way. If you have designs on observing the great migration, when millions of wildebeest cross the Mara River and attempt to evade top predators, then any time between June and October is going to draw dramatic displays. Game drives in the Masai Mara, close to the Serengeti in Tanzania, are unforgettable. It’s important to note that a Kenya and Tanzania safari Tour can be tailored, starting with 1 night in Nairobi with a half-day free city tour, and completing in Arusha via Lake Manyara or Lake Nakuru. However, this is your trip, so if you fancy journeying in the opposite direction, then just let us know. The Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Amboseli National Park can all be experienced on a safari tour of Kenya and Tanzania.

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Arcos Journeys Abroad

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Community Service & Eco Adventure

Travel to Costa Rica for a program rich in community service and eco-adventure. Experience the traditional town of Atenas, surrounded by verdant mountains. Immerse fully in the Costa Rican culture by living with a local family and engaging in community service projects and afternoon cultural workshops. Travel for eco-adventure to the beautiful region of La Fortuna, at the base of the majestic Arenal Volcano. Trek through the rainforest to a breathtaking waterfall and go on a zipline canopy tour through the jungle. Perform trail work at a private reserve and see exotic wildlife such as sloths, howler monkeys, and toucans. Travel to Manuel Antonio beach on the Pacific coast for surf lessons, white water rafting, and hiking through the national park. Learn what sustainable tourism and eco-adventure are all about! A basic level of Spanish is recommended for this program.

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GoBeyond Student Travel

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GoBeyond - Global Community Service Adventures for Teens

This program goes beyond ordinary high school travel programs and build cross-cultural community service summer trips perfectly geared to your interests and curiosities. Whether you’re looking to contribute to authentic service projects, experience exhilarating adventure, or develop your language skills, GoBeyond will immerse you in a new culture where you can make a meaningful difference while on the journey of a lifetime. Our high school community service summer programs proudly serve in many under-resourced communities and environments throughout the world. Explore our journeys in the British Virgin Islands, Costa Rica, Galapagos & Ecuador, Peru, Iceland, Spain, China, Thailand, India, Sri Lanka, and Australia. Beyond experiencing the adventure of a lifetime and creating lasting memories, we believe our community service summer trips enable lasting positive change in the world. For over forty years, we’ve been transforming communities, environments, and students’ lives through meaningful, collaborative adventures and service that develop skills and a more sophisticated worldly outlook—ultimately shaping the person you become.

See All 5 Programs

A Guide to Eco Tours Abroad

Locations

As an adventure traveler, you’re innately attracted to the extraordinary. Only the best food, the most unique landscapes, or the most exciting experiences make it in your exclusive itinerary. What’s worth protecting must be worth experiencing, right? Luckily for you, the world is chock-full of plenty of incredible places to help protect with eco friendly tourism.

Costa Rica. Surf, sustainability, and sheer splendor; this coastal country is considered to be one of the most biodiverse places on earth. This nation is leading the pack when it comes to conservation practices and with over a quarter of the nation’s land set aside as protected area, you won’t have to travel very far to find your next eco adventure. Traverse through dense rainforests, witness rare sea turtle nesting, ascend active volcanoes in Arenal Volcano National Park, or simply enjoy an enriching seaside homestay. In Costa Rica, eco tours are as plentiful as the wildlife. 

New Zealand. The North and South Islands of New Zealand are arguably the most ecologically unique and isolated regions in the world; humans have only lived there for 1,000 years. People are certainly making up for lost time now that millions flock annually to explore the many worlds of New Zealand. From a quick whale watching excursion in Kaikoura to an 11 day sea-kayaking tip around the South Pacific islands, you’ll have a variety of eco tours that will ensure your overseas adventure travel is both memorable and beneficial to these fragile environments. 

South Africa. A leader in conscientious tourism and home to megadiverse animal, plant, and human life, South Africa is perfect for those wishing to combine adventure and culture. Here, you will tour the many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, nature reserves, National Parks, and protected areas designed to ensure the longevity of these natural environments as well as your appreciation of them. Connect with Africa’s most iconic species, such as elephants, wildebeests, and zebras in Kruger National Park, or spend a day climbing up Table Mountain only to paraglide down to the white sand beaches in Cape Town. Every country in the world has their prowess, but South Africa seemingly has it all!    

Thailand. You probably at least one friend who’s not only traveled to Thailand but will likely never stop talking about it, right? Well, their enthusiasm is not misplaced. The central jewel of Southeast Asia is a nation full of calm beaches, the loudest markets, and everything in between. Take an immersive journey through one of the oldest evergreen rainforests in the world in Khao Sok National Park, or try your hand at some agrotourism by joining in on a rice harvest or a fish haul. Do yourself a favor and spend an afternoon surveying an ancient temple instead of visiting the inhumane Tiger Temples. There is ALWAYS an eco tour alternative to a low-grade tourist trap no matter where in the world you visit.

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Latest Program Reviews

The highlights were truly incredible.

November 19, 2025by: Linda GouldProgram: South Africa Photo Safari
10

The program not only met but far exceeded my expectations. The highlights were truly incredible, from the viewing of a cheetah making a kill and the treehouse session from the camp to the bushwalks and sundowners. I would recommend Penda, yes. Overall, Alan is a great photography guide and he made the whole holiday a great experience.

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