GoAbroad

Summer Volunteer Abroad

Spend your summer on a Sicilian beach and you're a beach bum with a thing for spaghetti and wine. Teach kids English or research octopuses, and suddenly you’re a hero. Add a dose of altruism to your vacation by volunteering abroad. You’ll gain new skills, impress future employers, maybe learn a language, and feel great about making a difference (all while still enjoying gelato or sipping piña coladas by the sea).
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Maximo Nivel volunteers

Featured Provider of the Month

770 Summer Volunteer Abroad Programs

MAXIMO NIVEL

9.5

487

Top-Rated Volunteer Abroad Programs in Latin America

Maximo Nivel is a locally based organization in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru. Volunteer abroad—get involved, make an impact, and learn to serve by working on local projects: - Working with Kids - Teaching English - Conservation - Construction - Animal Care - Eco-Agriculture - Medical and Healthcare To qualify: - Volunteers must be 18+ years of age or accompanied by a parent or guardian. - We require background checks from our volunteers. - Come with a great attitude and a willingness to pitch in. Since 2003, Maximo Nivel has been a leader in educational travel and study abroad. Our work-study-travel programs host more than 4,000 people per year. We are a professional, ethical, and hard-working organization that is completely dedicated to providing a great experience to every participant, student, traveler, and client! Every day, we strive to set ourselves apart and provide the best volunteer, education, and cultural experiences in Latin America, along with top-notch client service and great home-based facilities. Live it!

See All 2 Programs

Volunteer for the Visayans

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9

Volunteer and Intern in the Philippines

Find out why it's more fun and meaningful to volunteer with us! Volunteer for the Visayans (VFV) provides a wide range of program choices for people wanting to Volunteer Abroad in the Philippines through our local community partners and our very own community centers. VFV endeavors to improve the quality of life of the community by providing responsive, efficient, and high-quality community service through our programs and projects that promote self-efficiency, well-being, and prosperity of individuals, families, and communities throughout the Visayas Region. VFV has initiated programs to address issues in social welfare, education, public health, and community development in rural areas surrounding Tacloban City. The design of our programs allows prospective participants of varied skills and professions to get involved with various projects. We require that all volunteers are flexible, self-motivated, open-minded, sensitive to other cultures, and desire to challenge themselves in an unfamiliar environment!

See All 6 Programs

Adelante Abroad

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9

Volunteer in Oaxaca, Mexico - Adelante Abroad

Make a positive impact in Mexico! Adelante Abroad offers affordable volunteer programs in a wide variety of fields and sectors in Oaxaca, Mexico. Put your time towards helping those in need. Volunteer in sectors such as ecology, social work, arts, or NGO, just to name a few. Oaxaca is one of the most biodiverse areas in Mexico, known for the craftwork of local artisans. It is also home to warm-spirited people, and there are plenty of opportunities to give to the community. If you're looking to make a difference, volunteering in Oaxaca, Mexico, with Adelante is the perfect opportunity! Volunteers can choose to go abroad for 1 to 6 months. Programs are offered year-round with customization options. You'll be paired with organizations in need of specific skills while allowing you to reach your volunteer goals. Eligibility for this program is: * 18 years of age or older and possess a desire to learn about and live in another culture * Some Spanish is helpful, although we can place beginner Spanish speakers * Applicants can be Gap Year students, enrolled in a university, or college graduates. Visit our website for more information.

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Top Rated Program Volunteer Abroad in South Africa 2025

African Impact

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520

African Big 5 Wildlife Conservation Project in South Africa

Join our Wildlife and Research Conservation Project and immerse yourself in the captivating wilderness of South Africa’s Greater Kruger area. Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or an aspiring conservationist, this enriching volunteer experience will unveil the many wonders of the African bush. No matter your skill set or expertise, this wildlife conservation program in South Africa will immerse you in the African bush alongside a skilled and qualified team that includes Field Guides and Research professionals. Contribute to meaningful wildlife research and conservation projects by participating in animal tracking, monitoring, and data collection initiatives during daily game drives. Your contributions will directly support the protection of incredible South African wildlife and their habitats.

See All 13 Programs

GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

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Mexico - Under 18 Marine Conservation Expedition

Volunteer in the Pez Maya tourist destination of Quintana Roo, Mexico to make a positive impact on their marine ecosystems. Begin your volunteer abroad experience by becoming PADI certified or expanding your current dive skills before diving into the volunteer work portion of your experience. Volunteer work includes participating in survey dives, data collection, species identification and more. Between the two weeks of the project, there will be organized excursions! Past excursions have included visits to theme parks, Mayan villages, and Mayan ruins.

See All 21 Programs

Kaya Responsible Travel

10

1

Teaching and Community Work in Zanzibar

Come to Zanzibar and volunteer on this teaching and community development project located on the island. The project works with a number of different schools and community institutions where you will be volunteering and doing a variety of different task. Volunteers will work in a range of different schools including preschools, primary and secondary schools where you will support local teachers in educating and playing with children. You will also have the opportunity to work with adults by teaching life skills at the local tourism institute. Volunteers may also have the chance to get involved with the local beach and marine conservation programme. The activities you undertake will depend on the time of year of your visit, school holidays and the needs of the project, but there is always plenty to do. This project is ideal for volunteers with a keen interest in education and who work well with children. For volunteers who wish to lead lessons, a teaching qualification will be needed, such as a TEFL or TESOL certificate.

See All 6 Programs

The Intern Group

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56

Internships in Melbourne, Australia

Jumpstart your career with Australia’s top internships! Partnering with leading companies and impactful NGOs, our Australia internship program is your gateway to unlocking your full potential. Featured by global media giants like CNN International, we’re recognized for delivering transformative opportunities. Apply now to intern in Melbourne—the world’s most livable city—and watch your career take flight! Known for its vibrant business scene, exceptional quality of life, and rich cultural landscape, Melbourne is the ultimate destination for ambitious interns looking to shine. If you are looking to travel abroad while also gaining invaluable experience for your CV, this is the perfect opportunity for you. Visit The Intern Group's website to get all the details!

Impact Gap Year

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3

South Africa, France and Thailand Gap Year Exploration

Explore the dream destinations of South Africa, France, and Thailand on a comprehensive 6-month journey. Experience an exceptional blend of cultural immersion, wildlife conservation, and community involvement. You'll start your journey by contributing to wildlife conservation in South Africa amidst the Big 5 conservation area. Next, you'll hop on to France where you will immerse yourself in French culture and language during an unforgettable summer in Loire Valley, studying at one of the country's oldest universities. Finally, venture to your third country - Thailand - where you will volunteer as an English teacher in the scenic Hua Hin island. The entire experience offers invaluable cultural insights, skill development, and lifelong memories; igniting passions for social and environmental causes as you embark on a journey toward becoming a dedicated global citizen effecting positive change.

See All 2 Programs

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

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13

Volunteer on the Kindergarten Project in Fiji

Volunteers on the Kindergarten project work in a rural school environment with children aged between 4 and 5 years old who are at the start of their education. Volunteers on this project are involved in informal teaching activities, as the children are more responsive to play learning than in a formal sense. Your classroom assistance will help grow their confidence and assist them with learning English, which will be invaluable for their future education. Volunteers are welcome to bring any tactile and creative ideas they have to the classroom, and discuss these ideas with the local team. Volunteers on the Kindergarten project work from 9.00 am to 2.00 pm during the school week (Monday to Friday) and have the afternoons free to prepare lesson plans for the following day. The Kindergarten project is ideal for participants who love working with children and are new to the world of volunteering, as all volunteers work alongside local placement staff who can guide volunteers in daily tasks and activities.

See All 26 Programs

Intercultural Outreach Initiative (IOI)

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70

Giant Tortoise Breeding Center Volunteer in Galapagos

Volunteer at the Galápagos National Park and get the chance to assist at the tortoise breeding center. You will be a member of the research and zookeeping staff. Take responsibility for taking care of and measuring the shells of tortoises for their growth charts, as well as informing tourists of rules and regulations and other necessary tasks at the center, depending on individual skillset. Requirements for this program are: - Basic to intermediate level of Spanish - A genuine passion for animal conservation - An ability to openly communicate rules and regulations to tourists and follow instructions - Ability to work independently as well as in a team - Physical ability to work outdoors with a potentially high allergen, sun, and temperature exposure IOI encourages all volunteers to stay as long as possible to maximize local and personal benefits. We encourage longer commitments by heavily discounting each additional week. The minimum stay is two weeks, with a maximum stay of three months. All volunteers must arrive in Isabela on Mondays.

See All 5 Programs

Instituto Hemingway

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32

Volunteer Programs in Spain

The volunteer program at Instituto Hemingway is a unique opportunity to live and work in Spain from the perspective of locals. At the same time, you will build a cultural bridge between Spain and your country of origin while giving back to a community. Beach Cleanup Support this project by setting a good example and encouraging people to get involved in protecting the local environment through simple actions, such as collecting their rubbish after a day on the beach. Work together to keep the waters healthy and nature green! Animal Shelter Contribute in a number of ways to stop the abuse and neglect of animals. At the same time, provide hands-on care to animals in need. The need for adequate care and education among the public in and around the area is huge. Social Entrepreneurship This project offers volunteers hands-on experience as well as the opportunity to help behind the scenes with administrative tasks including social media, fundraising and promotional efforts, sourcing new alliances, and drafting maps. Teaching English to Disadvantaged Children You can contribute to the education of growing children. Make a significant impact in their lives.

International Medical Aid (IMA)

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160

Global Health & Pre-Medicine Internships Abroad | IMA

IMA offers an opportunity to enhance your medical and healthcare knowledge with International Medical Aid's Pre-Med and Health Fellowships. Crafted for pre-med undergraduates, medical students, and high school students, these fellowships offer a unique chance to engage deeply with global health care in East Africa, South America, and the Caribbean. Shadow doctors in underserved communities, and immerse yourself in diverse healthcare systems through our extensive network of public and private hospitals. IMA, a nonprofit organization, is deeply invested in the communities we serve, focusing on sustainable health solutions and ethical care practices. You'll be involved in community medical clinics, public health education, and first responder training, addressing the root causes of disease and illness alongside local community leaders. Beyond clinical experience, explore the beauty of your host country through cultural excursions and adventure programs during your free time. Join IMA's fellowships developed at Johns Hopkins University and step into a role that transcends traditional healthcare learning, blending clinical excellence with meaningful community service.

See All 7 Programs

Roots Interns

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26

Remote Internships with Grassroots Organizations

Join us for an inspiring online internship! At Roots, we offer academic internships with do-good organizations around the world. You could join a nonprofit, NGO, social enterprise, or innovative start-up making a positive impact. These internships are brilliant resumé boosters & chances to gain practical work experience while contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals at a grassroots level. For those looking to do their internship from home, we're excited to offer a range of remote internships. With a variety of academic focus areas along with flexible start dates, durations, working hours, and requirements - there is something for everyone! As a remote intern, you'll have a unique work experience that will inspire you, enhance your career, and allow you to gain insight into grassroots development work - with the flexibility that online work provides. Applications are now open for 2025 and 2026! What we'll offer you: - Careful matchmaking - Personal and professional development workshops - Webinars focused on the nonprofit sector - An orientation pack with useful resources - Regular check-ins and troubleshooting Get in touch for a free internship consultation!

See All 23 Programs

help2kids

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39

Inspire Young Lives with help2kids: Volunteer in Tanzania

As a volunteer with help2kids, you can choose from different educational projects in Tanzania! Make a difference in the lives of local children through various ways: * Teach small and big groups of students * Spend one-on-one time with a child * Assist teachers * Supervise children in the class and during break time * Help the cook with the preparation and distribution of porridge and lunch * Teach basic computer skills Connect with children through teaching, playing, and listening. Our dedicated team of local and international staff supports volunteers to help children excel in school and build a path to success. You will stay at our secure and welcoming Volunteer House on the scenic help2kids campus. Here, you’ll live alongside fellow participants and staff members, fostering community and collaboration. We offer dormitory-style accommodation with options for single and double rooms, daily breakfast and lunch, a fully equipped kitchen, a cozy living room, and a spacious outdoor area for socializing. We also provide visa administration assistance to ensure a smooth experience. If you need more information about our program, please feel free to contact us.

Constru Casa

10

4

Travel, Build, and Transform lives in Guatemala

Join Constru Casa and become part of a life-changing mission to build safe and affordable homes for families living in poverty. This volunteer program is based in stunning Guatemala, where vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm communities provide an unforgettable backdrop to your experience. No prior construction experience? No problem! Our team will guide you every step of the way, ensuring you feel confident and valued. As a volunteer, you’ll work with local families and professional builders to construct sustainable, durable homes. Your efforts will directly improve the lives of families by giving them access to safe shelter, reducing health risks, and creating opportunities for a better future. Beyond the construction site, you’ll have the chance to connect with the families you’re helping, explore Guatemala’s rich traditions, and make memories that last a lifetime. By joining our program, you’re not just building houses—you’re building hope, stability, and brighter futures. Make a tangible difference in the world and be part of something truly meaningful!

Jakera: Learn Spanish, Volunteer and Adventure

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0

Cuba & Costa Rica – 8 Weeks Travel Adventure

This program offers a full 8-week "All In" experience combining adventure and cultural exchange in Costa Rica and Cuba. Spend one month in each country embracing the lifestyle, enjoying the best activities, and making a positive impact by supporting local communities. Start in Costa Rica with Spanish classes, surfing, and yoga in the beach town of Santa Teresa, as well as an overland cloud forest exploration in Monteverde. Then, travel to Cuba to continue improving your language skills, enjoy some salsa dancing, participate in volunteer projects, and travel around the country to learn all about its history and culture. This is an ideal program for those seeking a blend of education, cultural immersion, and unique activities in two of Latin America's most vibrant countries. Plus, you get the chance to stay in a “jungle surf camp,” nestled in a paradise setting surrounded by wildlife. Imagine spotting a howler monkey hanging on a tree branch!

See All 3 Programs

Projects Abroad

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Dentistry Placements in Tanzania with Projects Abroad

As a Projects Abroad Dentistry intern in Tanzania you can work alongside skilled medical professionals, learning about the dentistry profession in a different culture. You will be working in dental clinics that have few resources and you will learn a lot about how the dental profession works in a developing country. You will be placed in clinics in either Dar es Salaam or Arusha. Your role will be to observe the dentist and their staff throughout the day. By shadowing the staff, you will have the opportunity to ask questions and review cases. If you have dental experience and are enthusiastic and willing you may be given more responsibility. This could be helping set up the instruments for the dentists and assisting them while they treat patients.

See All 125 Programs

Excellence Center in Europe

9.28

109

Volunteer to Teach English & Study German (1-12 Weeks)

Volunteers taking part in short-term volunteer projects in Germany will be responsible for teaching one-to-one conversational English courses to students at the Center, as well as instructing small groups (anywhere from 2 – 5 students). Students come from a plethora of backgrounds, with ages ranging anywhere from 12 – 70 years old. However, most students will be migrants or the children of migrants, hailing from various Arab countries. Volunteers will not only serve as teachers, but also as cultural diplomats who represent their home country to the community in Halle (Saale). They play an important role in helping with communal activities meant to increase cross-cultural exchanges. In addition to teaching, volunteers will enroll in German language courses (3 hours a week). The advent of additional language courses is meant to further immerse them in local Arabic/German culture, allowing them to better communicate with their students, as well as locals in Halle. The Volunteer to Teach English and Learn German language program spans anywhere from 1 – 12 weeks, with volunteers staying with local host families during their time in Halle (Saale).

See All 3 Programs

Rustic Pathways

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38

Thailand Adventures and Service with Rustic Pathways

Play games with Asian elephants, snorkel in crystal blue waters, and immerse yourself in village life as you explore a country known for its warm people. Our programs take you off the beaten path for an unforgettable journey through Thailand. This includes: Thailand Adventurer – Travel from the mountains to the beach and Chiang Mai to Bangkok as you go rock climbing, snorkeling, and rafting. Plus, interact with Asian elephants. Thai Elephant Conservation Project – Learn how to be an elephant trainer while doing hands-on tasks at an animal sanctuary. Ocean and Rainforest Service – Explore Thailand’s vibrant ecosystems as you snorkel pristine reefs, learn conservation techniques in ancient rainforests, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of a unique seaside community. Come with Nothing – Dive into service projects at three remote villages in Northern Thailand, and then spend time with your host families as you learn about local life in this culturally immersive program.

See All 20 Programs

The Excellence Center in Palestine

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49

Volunteer Projects In Palestine In 2025

Volunteer Projects In Palestine In 2025: The Excellence Center/Engage in Palestine offers short-term volunteer programs for 2025 in Hebron, Palestine. Volunteers will work with Palestinian children, refugees, women, youth, university students, and families, helping them practice conversational English, organize workshops, and teach within the vibrant community. These programs are designed to be immersive, authentic, and comprehensive. In addition to language teaching, the Center offers programs focused on human rights, women's rights, Palestinian refugees, Palestinian culture and politics, the Palestinian legal system, and the political history and current situation of Palestine and Israel. These volunteer and internship opportunities are ideal for students and individuals seeking meaningful experiences in the West Bank, Palestine, Israel, or the wider Middle East. The programs provide a unique chance to engage with local communities, learn about the region’s complex political landscape, and contribute to social causes, especially during the summer months. Whether you seek cultural immersion or to support human rights efforts, these programs offer a deeply enriching experience.

See All 8 Programs

How to Volunteer Abroad This Summer

Prepare to Volunteer Abroad

Understand the benefits

Summer is a great window to try something different without overcommitting. Volunteering abroad gives you structure, purpose, and a deeper way to see a place.

  • Hands-on work. You won’t be sitting on the sidelines. Most programs get you involved from day one, whether you're supporting a local school or working on environmental projects.
  • Efficient use of your break. Summer programs are usually 2 to 8 weeks, which means you can make a real impact without missing out on other plans.
  • More connection, less surface-level travel. You’ll stay in one place long enough to actually understand it. Something you don’t get when you’re just passing through.

Popular Providers

Frequently Asked Questions

When looking for ideal volunteer destinations in summer, think pleasant weather and beautiful sights. Thailand is perfect for working with elephants and then lounging by the beach in your free time. Head to South Africa to contribute to wildlife conservation and witness the Big 5. Help disadvantaged youth in Peru and end your stay with trips to historic sites such as Machu Picchu.

Yes, you can find a few free volunteer programs abroad in summer. But most placements come with a fee to cover operational or administrative costs. Many organizations also use a portion of the money to support their partner communities and provide the basic needs of participants, including housing and some meals.

No one is too old to volunteer abroad! Whether you’re in high school or already retired, you can find an international volunteer program designed specifically for your age group. If you want to make a difference with your kids, many placements are open to families. Of course, organizations take into account physical fitness and other factors, especially when offering programs to older adults.

Yes, it is safe to volunteer abroad in summer. You just need to choose the right destination to do it. In general, steer clear from countries with reported cases of heat waves and health concerns such as food poisoning and mumps. Consider your overall safety as well, since several studies have discovered that crime rate tends to increase in summer.

With summer volunteer programs abroad generally open to students on school breaks, placement durations range from one week to two months. This is the perfect time to travel, contribute to a meaningful cause, and enjoy excursions to new places.

Latest Program Reviews

Learned so much and met lots of amazing people

December 13, 2025by: Daniella Knapp - United StatesProgram: GLA Costa Rica - Volunteer Programs for Teens
10

Living for ten days in the Guanacaste region of Costa Rica was truly eye opening. Experiencing the culture and helping out with the sea turtles nests along with talking with local community members and organizations created a whole new appreciation for different cultures and travel.

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