Adventure Tours in North America

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.

Uncover the spirit of Central America on a 10-week journey through Mexico, Guatemala, and Costa Rica. Trek lush rainforests, hike volcanoes, raft wild rivers, and explore ancient Mayan ruins. More than just adventure, this program invites you to live alongside local communities, learn Spanish through immersion, and engage in meaningful sustainability projects that leave a lasting impact. Designed for students and young adults seeking growth, clarity, and purpose, Pacific Discovery blends challenge with support. You’ll gain confidence traveling with a small group and experienced instructors who mentor you through guided reflection and leadership activities. Days balance cultural exchange, service, and personal exploration—so you’re not just passing through, but truly connecting. Whether you’re taking a gap year, looking for an alternative to study abroad, or craving a deeper cultural experience, this program helps you grow, give back, and discover your place in the world.

Come and join the leading Spanish-language immersion program in Mexico! Iguana Abroad offers you the chance to live in one of the best locations in Mexico and learn Spanish in a fast, authentic, and immersive way. Whether you are a complete beginner or you already speak advanced Spanish, our personalized courses will bring you to the next level! Our trips include 30+ hours of Spanish tuition, a unique program of cultural immersion, and a series of excursions to diverse and exciting locations around Mexico. Iguana Abroad will take care of all the details: Spanish lessons, excursions, activities, and much, much more! Get in touch today to find out more!

Join us this summer for some sun, sand, and sea turtles as we explore the Hawaiian islands! From vibrant Honolulu to laid-back Maui, this program covers some of the best highlights of Hawaii, including beautiful waterfalls, postcard-perfect beaches, and plenty of adventure! Spend some time learning about sea turtle conservation and participate in several projects to protect the endangered hawksbill sea turtles. Projects include snorkeling and reef surveying, nest watches, night patrols, and watching over sea turtles as they bask on the island’s beaches. Plenty of adventure will complement our service projects. Zipline through lush jungles, walk through bamboo forests to waterfalls, hike to the top of a volcanic crater, take a surf lesson and more on this incredible journey to discover the best Hawaii has to offer!

Explore diverse travel experiences in the USA! Rustic Pathways’ USA programs are designed to offer students impactful and adventurous experiences close to home. From immersing yourself in vibrant local cultures to engaging in meaningful community service, these programs are perfect for developing leadership skills and broadening perspectives. Whether you’re helping rebuild communities in New Orleans or exploring the pristine waters of Hawaii through surf and snorkel adventures, each program is packed with opportunities for growth, connection, and unforgettable memories. Surf, Snorkel, and Service in Hawaii – Join local organizations in preserving Hawaii's biodiversity and enjoy activities like hiking, beach relaxation, and surfing in your free time. Rebuilding New Orleans – Work with local organizations to rebuild homes and join community-building initiatives.

Our Work & Travel Canada program gives U.S. citizens between the ages of 18 and 35 a chance to experience the beauty of our northern neighbor while earning money throughout the year. Start with an arrival orientation in Vancouver or Toronto and continue with job support throughout your program. If you already have a job in mind we can also help you organize your 12-month working holiday visa! A Working Holiday is an opportunity to travel and explore a new country while taking on short-term jobs at places like ski resorts, restaurants and hotels or in manual labor positions. We offer pre-departure support, including visa application information and general advice, as well as job search and travel support throughout your time in Canada.

Join us for a transformative adventure in Mexico! This action-packed program combines surfing, hiking, and cultural exploration, perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers. Kick off your journey in Oaxaca City, the cultural hub of Mexico, where you'll spend a couple of days discovering vibrant street art and savoring the incredible local cuisine. Next, venture into the stunning mountainous terrain of Hierve el Agua, known for its bubbling springs and petrified waterfalls. Then, travel to Puerto Escondido and settle into surf camp on the spectacular coastline. Spend a week surfing the Pacific, taking lessons, and exploring the breathtaking beaches of Puerto Escondido and Chacahua. Surf in the morning and enjoy coastal activities, including snorkeling, paddle boarding, aquatic tours, and more! This program has everything you’ve ever dreamed of, and more—adventure, culture, and unforgettable experiences await! What are you waiting for? Join us for this incredible journey filled with waves, nature, and camaraderie.

Enter a world of red-rock spires and intricate canyons as we explore the critical environmental issues shaping the American West. Live the ultimate adventure with a 2-day rafting trip down the Arkansas River, delving into water rights and the geological history of these sacred lands. Volunteer at a wolf sanctuary to study the elusive Gray Wolf and learn about sustainable living practices rooted in nature. Hike through slot canyons sculpted over millennia and navigate a labyrinth of twisted orange spires and jagged arches. Walk the historic lands of the Ancestral Puebloans and Hopi people, discover the diverse wildlife of the region, and experience the breathtaking desert sunsets that define the West!

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.

This is truly the ultimate West Coast teenage road trip! The program begins in San Francisco and Lake Tahoe in Northern California. Then, cruise down the coast and fall in love with the beaches of Santa Barbara and the most famous hotspots in LA and San Diego. Next, it takes you into the American Southwest, exploring the majesty of dramatically changing scenery with a stay in Vegas. The grand finale is in beautiful Scottsdale. Our program leaders are experts at creating a close-knit, inclusive family atmosphere where everyone feels welcome. With so much adventure and excitement on this teen tour, you’re in for an unforgettable summer with plenty of new friendships ahead! This program is available to students completing grades 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 (ages 13-17). Separate departure dates are assigned to create compatible co-ed age groups. We offer an exclusive departure for middle school students completing grades 7 and 8.

Step into the wild and learn to lead on Canada’s remote rivers with MHO Adventures, a renowned canoe tripping company based in Huntsville, Ontario. The River Roots program is a 42-day immersive wilderness experience designed for those seeking challenge, purpose, and connection during their gap year or personal journey. Over six adventure-filled weeks, you’ll learn to paddle whitewater, live in the backcountry, and build leadership skills that last a lifetime. Earn up to 5+ certifications, including Wilderness First Responder and Whitewater Rescue Technician, while developing teamwork, risk management, and facilitation skills that extend far beyond the trail. The program culminates in a 21-day whitewater canoe expedition, fully planned and led by participants under the mentorship of experienced instructors. It’s the ultimate opportunity to test your skills, grow your confidence, and experience the freedom of true wilderness travel. Whether you’re taking time between studies or exploring your next step, River Roots offers an unforgettable journey of adventure, skill-building, and self-discovery in the heart of Canada’s wilderness.

Head north to Alaska for an unforgettable middle school adventure through wild coasts, glaciers, and tundra. Explore Kenai Fjords by kayak, hike in the Chugach Mountains, and search for moose, caribou, eagles, and grizzlies in Denali National Park. Travel by train through magnificent alpine landscapes, and work with naturalists to understand the rapid environmental changes affecting this region. Visit small towns and meet Alaska Native community members to learn about cultural traditions and ways of life deeply connected to the land and sea. Along the way, build confidence outdoors, strengthen your leadership skills, and return home with new friends and a deeper connection to the natural world.

Can you experience every country in the Spanish-speaking world without leaving the United States? Most certainly yes! It is called Miami. Take a leisurely stroll on the white sands of South Beach and you will hear every dialect of the Spanish language – Cuban, Venezuelan, Argentinian, and more. This cosmopolitan crowd, beaming with passion, character, and natural heat, will give you a tan even on an overcast day. A melting pot of cultures, world-class hotels, restaurants, fashionable boutiques, a thriving art scene, world-famous white-sand beaches – Miami will sweep you off your feet with its unique charm! Join our students in America’s most Latin city for language and cultural immersion, exciting day trips and excursions, water sports, and fun experiential learning.

Discover the hidden treasures of Marietas Islands with our crafted day-long adventure excursion. Just off the coast of Puerto Vallarta, these uninhabited islands are a sanctuary of diverse marine life, born from volcanic activity and protected by the Mexican government. This program not only offers a thrilling exploration of nature but also an educational journey through the area's ecosystem and cultural history. Accessible only by authorized tour operators, this exclusive experience promises to be both enlightening and exhilarating. Spend your day immersed in the breathtaking landscapes of Marietas Islands, known for their unique geological formations and the renowned Hidden Beach. With a focus on sustainability and respect for wildlife, our expert guides will lead you through a series of activities designed to showcase this UNESCO World Heritage site's natural beauty and ecological significance. From snorkeling among coral reefs to bird watching, each moment is crafted to offer a profound connection with nature.

At Projects Abroad, we’re passionate about travel with a purpose. Since being founded in 1992, more than 130,000 volunteers have traveled to over 20 destinations around the world. Our programs will make you step out of your comfort zone and engage with your new friends from around the world. These are long-term projects, led by local people and aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. By taking part in our programs, even for a short time, you will be contributing towards a sustained effort to support the communities that host us! We believe no other provider offers the safety and security to their volunteers and interns that we do. You'll receive 24-hour staff support from our trained staff, alongside a gold standard of safety planning of your trip - so you don't have to worry about a thing. Choose a project you are passionate about from working with children to medical internship, conservation, and wildlife volunteering. We offer projects starting at one week in over 20 stunning destinations across Asia, Africa, Latin America & The Caribbean, South Pacific & Europe. Ready to make a difference? Follow the link to visit our website!

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and medical initiatives. GoEco operates in over 50 countries, providing unique cultural immersive experiences that aim to make a positive impact on the environment and society. The organization also offers internships and academic programs for students. GoEco provides safe and meaningful experiences while promoting sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions.

Experience Janal Pixan, the Maya Day of the Dead, with Na'atik. Enjoy a week-long program of authentic cultural events and activities in the small, safe city of Felipe Carrillo Puerto, Quintana Roo, Mexico. The eight-day program includes homestay accommodation, all meals, and pick-up and drop-off in Cancun. $999 per person* A $150 deposit secures your place, with flexible payment options Each booking supports Na’atik’s mission to provide affordable English classes to the local community in Felipe Carrillo Puerto.

Earn your PADI divers and coral reef research qualifications as you assist in preserving local ecosystems, coral reefs, and endangered species as well as join initiatives for ocean floor and beach waste collection efforts. You’ll be supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) while having the opportunity to dive into the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, one of the largest coral reefs in the world. Collaborate with GVI staff and local organizations to assist with reef recovery efforts as you grow coral in laboratories to transplant onto the reef. You’ll also engage in marine waste management and data collection efforts to ensure ocean floors and beaches are clear of plastic pollution. At the same time, assist to preserve the endangered hawksbill sea turtle relying on local beach fronts for nesting. In this expedition, you’ll live alongside local community members and volunteer with like-minded international participants. Learn about different cultures and languages and taste traditional cuisines in the port city of Puerto Morelos.

Join this gap year program designed for your adventurous soul and the part of you that craves out-of-the-box experiences alongside a group of fun-loving friends. We offer the chance to be seen and accepted for who you already are as well as see the world for what it is and what it could be. We inspire rather than coerce. We challenge you to be real. We get dirty. We think big. We work on organic farms, build using sustainable materials, make our own bread, and hike our brains out. As a group, we go on a road trip through the southwest down to Oaxaca, Mexico, looking for adventure and learning about what makes these areas rich and interesting. In the process, you learn the skills of self-sufficiency, community, and quality living. At the end of the program, you will possess new options for living the good life and experiencing the richness of the world. Fall '25 Where: Colorado, Mexico, and the Southwest When: 8/06 – 11/17 Spring '26 Where: Colorado; Utah; Arizona; Bordercountry When: 3/10 – 5/17

The objective of the Camino del Mayab is to generate direct benefits for the people of the communities making up this cultural reserve. The main point is to foster sustainable tourism in these areas so women, men, and young people may have opportunities for growth in guidance services, food, lodging, transportation, and more. During the program, travelers live like locals and participate in daily life activities such as beekeeping, handicrafts, cornfield work, tending to livestock, and more. We work to eradicate three main problems: Social Inequality; Species Extinction; and Environmental Destruction. It is estimated that when this project is in its fifth year of operation, it will generate direct benefits for 360 indigenous people; of which 216 will be women and 72 young people. The Camino del Mayab's conservation is crucial for recharging the aquifer that supplies Merida, so environmental protection is vital to the area. As a volunteer in this program, you will support different activities carried out: rural construction, cleaning of trails, sanitation of areas, agricultural work, and rehabilitation of schools.