7 Meaningful Volunteer Opportunities in Cuba

Become a volunteer in Cuba—here’s why and how.

Intrigued by the fascinating, colorful photographs you’ve seen recently on Instagram highlighting the extravagant country and people of Cuba? Looking for volunteer work in Cuba and to get to know the idiosyncrasies of the Cuban people? Cuba has been a mysterious country for nearly 60 years and now that the political climate has started to change between the United States and Cuba, Cuba volunteer opportunities are becoming more abundant. 

Get to know Cuba on a deeper level than a typical tourist by volunteering for a meaningful cause there.

It may seem as though as Cuba has not changed over the past six decades, but as a volunteer in Cuba, you’ll soon realize just how time has affected every aspect of Cuba. When first stepping off the plane in Cuba, it’s like taking a step back in time; the cars, the music, the architecture. Cuba is truly a feast for the senses. The best way to explore this enigmatic country is by signing up to volunteer in Cuba, and lucky for you, there’s something to fit everyone’s interests.

Volunteer opportunities in Cuba are just as unique as Cuban culture and because of Cuba’s location, it is an ideal location to make a difference, explore and delve into a rich culture. Dreaming of preserving the intricate ecosystem of the ocean? Cuba’s got coral reefs that need your help! Jealous of your friend’s dinner pics on Instagram? Cuba’s cuisine will make even the most serious foodie drool. Nervous about traveling too far from home to volunteer? Cuba is less than 400 miles from Florida! As a Cuba volunteer, there are endless possibilities. 

Still need convincing? Let’s look at some of Cuba’s top volunteer opportunities.

7 top volunteer opportunities in Cuba

Here are the main areas with growing needs for international volunteers in Cuba.

1. Medicine

There are many ways to become a medical volunteer in Cuba.

Cuba is interesting in that it has a free education program through your PhD and a free healthcare system; this makes finding medical volunteer work in Cuba more difficult. With that being said, the infrastructure in Cuba is not well-developed and with some help from GoAbroad, you find unique opportunities. Volunteer World offers a medical volunteer program, which provides an incredible opportunity to engage in a wide array of tasks.

As a medical volunteer in Cuba, you can expect to assist the elderly, deliver medical supplies to local healthcare facilities or help children with a variety of medical needs. Everyday you wake up in Cuba as a medical volunteer in Cuba you’ll know you’re making a difference in the lives of those you are helping.

Although it is more difficult to find medical volunteer opportunities in Cuba, don’t get discouraged. There is still a great need for volunteers and placements range from the beautiful countryside, where you can find caves and unique rock formations, to the bustling city of Havana. If you’re interested in the medical field, Cuba has fantastic options that will intrigue, educate and make a difference.

• Recommended medical Cuba volunteer program: Volunteer World
• See other ways to become a medical volunteer in Cuba

2. Ecology & Conservation

Ecology volunteer programs in Cuba are sure to get your hands dirty.

Coral, and fish, and algae, oh my! Perhaps your passion lies with conserving the intricate ecosystems that lie under the sea and you’re fascinated by the vibrant and mysterious world just beneath the surface of the water. Cuba has a multitude of programs focused on marine conservation and restoration, including a super exciting program from Intercultural Outreach Initiative, which will excite even the biggest coral reef enthusiast. 

As an underwater Cuba volunteer, you will be participating in an exceptionally meaningful experience because each and every day the world’s oceans are threatened by human life and Cuba’s oceans are no exception. You can expect to spend time diving in the ocean, monitoring what’s happening in coral reefs and snorkeling with unique ocean life, such as the lionfish. Marine conservation volunteer work in Cuba allows you to explore the land and the sea and make an incredible difference. Intercultural Outreach Initiative isn’t the only ocean conservation and restoration program available; check out other Cuba volunteer opportunities.

• Recommended conservation Cuba volunteer program: Intercultural Outreach Initiative
• See all Cuban ecology volunteer programs

3. Wildlife

Did you know the world’s smallest bird lives in Cuba?

Are sea turtles your jam? Do you dream about assisting researchers in monitoring nesting beaches? You can volunteer in Cuba and do just that. As a Cuba volunteer with Intercultural Outreach Initiative, you can contribute to their sea turtle conservation efforts out in the field or at a research facility. As a wildlife volunteer in Cuba, there may be overnight hours available so night owls rejoice.

When you volunteer with wildlife in Cuba, you can choose between land and sea, which provides you with an incredible chance to learn about the threatened sea turtles that call the waters surrounding Cuba home, or to become well-versed in the migratory of rare species of birds. 

No experience is required for a majority of the wildlife volunteer programs and you will have the option to stay for a longer period of time.

• Recommended wildlife Cuba volunteer program: Intercultural Outreach Initiative
• See all marine and wildlife volunteer opportunities in Cuba

4. Teaching English

You can volunteer as an English teacher to students of all ages!

Teaching abroad has been growing in popularity and there are indeed opportunities to teach English in Cuba. Whether your dream is to make a difference in a child’s life or you’re trying to decide if you want to pursue a degree in education, there is a volunteer program for you. 

The benefits of teaching English in Cuba are diverse because you will be able to work on your Spanish, act as a translator and take part in many other experiences unique to Cuba. Remember, teaching isn’t limited to children in a school. There are many opportunities to teach English in Cuba where you are able to volunteer in various settings with different age groups.

• Recommended program for teaching English in Cuba: Volunteer in Education
• See all education volunteer programs in Cuba

5. Volunteer With Children

You could become a volunteer in a Cuba orphanage if you have the right skills and are seeking a long-term placement.

Another incredible volunteer program in Cuba is assisting children at orphanages. Due to limited resources in Cuba, children living in orphanages in Cuba lack many necessities, such as clothing, school supplies and toys. As a volunteer at an orphanage, you can make a difference in many childrens’ lives and interact with Cuba’s smallest citizens while teaching, repairing facilities and exchanging laughs. 

There are trusted organizations in Cuba that also have programs all over the world and they will assist you with finding a meaningful volunteer position at an orphanage in Cuba. One of the biggest benefits of signing up through a well-established organization is they typically have an easy, online application and will fully support you throughout your entire volunteer experience. Not sure that volunteering at an orphanage is right for you? Consider padding your suitcase with your family’s unwanted toys or clothes and dropping them off at an orphanage on your trip!

Pro tip: Read this guide on 24 questions to ask before volunteering in orphanages.

• Recommended program for volunteering at an orphanage in Cuba: Volunteer World
• See other ways to support orphans in Cuba

6. Translator/Learn Spanish

Learn Spanish for all the important reasons… like food…

Although there are many languages spoken in Cuba, Spanish is the official language and as a volunteer in Cuba, you’re sure to pick up some common words and phrases but perhaps you’re looking for full language immersion. Learning Spanish is an asset that will torpedo your future job prospects in many fields, such as education, business and international affairs. If your goal is to sharpen your knowledge of Spanish or launch your second language skills, consider the Learn Spanish & Volunteer program in Cuba. 

Volunteering abroad to learn Spanish allows you to take intensive Spanish courses while learning about varying aspects of Cuban culture; salsa dancing, education and much more. If you’re looking for a fully immersive program in the heart of Cuba, think about choosing a volunteer program focused around learning Spanish. In addition to cultural immersion, you’ll be exposed to numerous other volunteer programs that mya convince you to extend your volunteer experience. 

• Recommended volunteer program to learn Spanish in Cuba: Learn Spanish & Volunteer
• See all language & translation volunteer programs in Cuba

7. Culture

Learn the in’s and out’s of Cuban culture.

Maybe you’re just fascinated with Cuba, or her culture, and you can’t decide on a specific cause. That’s okay! There are volunteer opportunities in Cuba which will take you to rural locations in Cuba that are less frequented by tourists to learn about Cuban life and fully engage in volunteer work; think helping on farms, assisting veterans, and sharing your culture.

With cultural immersion volunteer programs, you can delve deeper into what has been happening in Cuba over the past 60 years, how it has affected Cubans and the reality of their everyday lives. Standing in solidarity with Cuba as a participant in The Cuba Solidarity Campaign, or with another volunteer program, will undoubtedly change your life, the lives of others, and leave you with stories to share when you return home.

• Recommended volunteer cultural immersion program in Cuba: Cuba Solidarity Campaign
• See all culture volunteer programs in Cuba

[Browse ALL Cuba Volunteer Programs & Projects]

Other things to think about as you plan your Cuba volunteer trip

Volunteering in Cuba will be a fun experience, but don’t forget that life’s not always a breeze for Cubans.

• To find the best program for you, make a list of your interests before researching which program is right for you so you can narrow down your options. Many programs offer a friend discount; consider signing up for a program with a friend to reduce the cost of your trip. Don’t hesitate to ask the organization you’re volunteering with any and all questions you may have; the more you ask, the more prepared you’ll be for your adventure
• Read reviews online about the programs you’re interested in and consider a homestay if your program doesn’t include accommodation; this is a great way to truly learn about Cuban culture and become a member of a Cuban family
• Ensure that your program is a government sponsored volunteer work in Cuba program: Visa regulations exist for Americans traveling to Cuba to volunteer so make sure to sign up for a valid program, like those listed by GoAbroad
• Consider using a crowdfunding site or having a fundraiser to raise money for your travel expenses. Bring cash as credit cards are not widely accepted and ATMs are nearly impossible to find and do not always work. Shop at local markets to support local artisans and vendors
• Consult with your doctor before your Cuba volunteer trip to see which vaccines are currently required. Take basic medications and any prescriptions with you as most won’t be easily accessible
• Speaking Spanish is not a necessity to travel to Cuba but makes travel easier; many Cubans speak a bit of English and many programs have a local coordinator who will speak English
• Anticipate cultural differences. Internet is spotty at best and is available at some hotels but it is not available everywhere. Be patient and expect delays: life in Cuba is a lot slower paced than in many other countries. Cubans love to barter and children love to receive small gifts like pins and school supplies 

Now’s your chance to find high-impact volunteer opportunities in Cuba!

Make a positive difference in this island corner of the world.

Volunteer programs in Cuba are fascinating and have a lot to offer. The Cuban people are extremely welcoming and typically won’t pass up a chance to have a long conversation with Americans to discuss culture, politics, or sports. As a volunteer in Cuba, you can expect to be welcomed by host families, caught up in a late-night salsa extravaganza and truly make a difference. The volunteer program you choose is just the beginning of your journey. You have the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of many Cubans by sharing your unique skills, exchanging aspects of your cultures, and forming friendships that will last a lifetime.

Now is the time to go! As travel restrictions are becoming more lax and more American tourists are jumping at the prospect of hopping on a cruise ship to this captivating island, more opportunities are becoming available to volunteer in Cuba. Now is the chance to find high-impact volunteer opportunities that interest you most. From land, to sea, to medical clinics, to orphanages, there are plenty of opportunities to choose from that fit your expertise. Viva la Cuba!

Get Matched with 5 Volunteer Programs in Cuba for FREE