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Volunteer Programs in Vietnam

Volunteering in Vietnam offers opportunities to explore life in one of 54 hill tribes, build relationships with young people, and give back to a country with a past filled of harsh warfare. Vietnam welcomes volunteers in a variety of capacities and industries. From education to healthcare, and youth development to environmental sustainability projects, there is a volunteer placement for everyone on this Indochinese Peninsula! As a volunteer in Vietnam, you can hike the lush jungles, visit the limestone islands, adventure into one of the ten national parks, or float along the Mekong Delta.
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54 Volunteer Programs in Vietnam

GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

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GoEco - Top Rated & Award Winning Volunteer Programs Abroad

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.

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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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Gapforce

9.35

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Southeast Asia Explorer with Gapforce

Combine adventure travel and volunteering in this awesome 8-week journey to three of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful destinations: Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam! Take part in conservation and community-based projects, further enriched with traditional backpacking. From the bustling cities of Bangkok and Chiang Mai to the roots amongst Angkor Wat ruins, this Southeast Asia Explorer adventure is the perfect first-time trip if you want to set out on one of the world’s most iconic travel routes! This program is for anyone looking to volunteer and backpack through Southeast Asia’s most sought-after destinations. No prior experience is required, although the minimum age is 18.

Projects Abroad

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Global Leader In Meaningful Travel. Trusted By 130,000

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!

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Love Volunteers

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Teaching English in Vietnam

This fantastic teaching program provides a native-speaking environment for disadvantaged youth to develop their English communication skills. Many students from the provinces have moved to Ho Chi Minh City, and their parents may have unstable work and incomes. This means getting left behind in their schooling and desperately needing help. The program addresses this issue by partnering with a Vietnamese school, a community center, a shelter for street children, and a vocational training center. Volunteers work with a wide age range, from primary to secondary school students. They help deliver English lessons in schools and centers facing staff and skills shortages. Participation in this program requires effective time management skills, confidence in a classroom setting, initiative, and the ability to come up with creative lesson plans. As is common in many of the world’s poorer communities, English-speaking abilities unlock a new world of possibilities in education, employment, and global perspectives.

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Volunteering Journeys

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Women Empowerment in India

Empower, educate, and uplift — join our Women Empowerment Volunteer Program in India and be part of a powerful movement helping women gain confidence, skills, and independence. Through this meaningful volunteer experience with Volunteering Journeys, you’ll work closely with women and girls from underprivileged backgrounds to promote gender equality, education, and self-sufficiency. India is a country of incredible diversity and deep traditions, but many women, especially in rural and low-income urban areas, still face barriers to education, employment, and leadership opportunities. As a women empowerment volunteer in India, you’ll play an important role in helping local women build brighter, independent futures for themselves and their families. By volunteering with Volunteering Journeys, you’ll join initiatives that address these inequalities directly — helping local NGOs and women’s groups create safe spaces where women can learn, grow, and lead. These programs focus on practical skills training, language development, income-generation workshops, and confidence-building activities that empower women to become change-makers in their own communities.

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Volunteer World

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Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller grassroots NGOs and local specialists in more than 80 countries. All these with just one click! Find projects in wildlife, teaching, community development, and several other areas. Simply choose your desired destination and desired travel date, and our search engine will compare the best volunteer abroad programs on your behalf. Whether you wish to gain experience at a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa or teach English at a monastery in Nepal, we've got you covered. Volunteer World guarantees a quick and easy application. We will guide you through this process, as well as help plan your next meaningful trip. We provide free access to quality-checked projects and flexible options. And if anything goes wrong, we've got your back with our qualified support team and our refund guarantee.

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Pacific Discovery

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Thailand, Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia Gap Semester

Explore Southeast Asia on a 10-week journey through Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam—where travel becomes transformation. Volunteer at ethical elephant sanctuaries, trek to remote mountain villages, explore ancient temples, and engage with communities through meaningful, culturally respectful exchange. This program combines adventure, service, and immersion to help you grow personally and globally. Learn traditional crafts, share meals with host families, and experience resilience and hospitality in every community. Conservation work, ethical travel practices, and local partnerships ensure your impact is responsible and real. With leadership training, guided reflection, and mentorship built into the experience, you'll return more confident, connected, and prepared for what’s next. Whether you're taking a gap year, earning credit, building your resume, or seeking clarity and purpose, this journey meets you where you are—and helps you grow beyond it. Travel deeper. Grow bolder. Reach out to Learn More!

Putney Student Travel

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Coastal Service & Cultural Discovery in Vietnam

Immerse yourself in a coastal Vietnamese community while contributing to meaningful construction projects that support local families. Work alongside community leaders and residents as you help build “compassion houses,” bike to daily service sites, and form lasting friendships through language exchanges and shared meals. Explore the cultural richness of Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, and Hanoi, and experience Vietnam’s spectacular landscapes—from Ly Son Island’s volcanic shores to the emerald waters and towering limestone cliffs of Halong Bay.

Westcoast Connection

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Westcoast Connection | Vietnam

Journey to Vietnam this summer with Westcoast Connection and discover an ancient culture filled with unique and elegant beauty. As you discover this amazing country for yourself, you will be treated to spectacular views, flavorful foods, and exhilarating adventure. Engage in rewarding community service projects from the North to the South with children and an organic farming community. By the end of the program, you will be won over by the hearts of the Vietnamese. Westcoast Connection is a qualified Certifying Organization for the President’s Volunteer Service Award.

Institute for Global Studies

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Internships in Vietnam

Choose from any of the programs offered by World Internships in Vietnam. Venture into the field of child care, business, marketing, IT, hospitality, or medicine. Experience the country’s vibrant culture and immerse yourself in the local lifestyle. Work with an organization and company in your area of study while enjoying the natural setting. Also available as a volunteer program, make a difference in your new community and explore Vietnam’s flourishing arts scene. The English-speaking environment makes adjusting to a new culture easy, so you enjoy a truly enriching and rewarding experience!

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Involvement Volunteers International

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Medical Volunteering in Vietnam

This volunteer project is best suited to pre-medical and medical students who aim to gain valuable experience in a hospital setting. Travel to Vietnam for this program and have the opportunity to shadow nurses, doctors, and therapists. Depending on your profile and availability, your daily responsibilities may include preparing medication, measuring blood pressure, providing basic triage, and offering wound care. Medical placements depend on the hospital’s schedule and your background. Possible departments include Anaesthesiology, Brain Injury, Mental Health (subject to limitations), Rehabilitation/Occupational therapy, Orthopaedics, Pharmacy (proficiency in Vietnamese required), Speech therapy (proficiency in Vietnamese required), Physiotherapy, Prosthetics workshop, Radiology (Ultrasound), Surgery (spine surgery, skin grafts, joint surgery), Traditional Medicine, Geriatrics, and Internal Medicine. There may also be opportunities to observe staff in the acupuncture and occupational/physical therapy departments.

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Bright Light Volunteers

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Global Service Learning Program

Learn, serve, and lead with Bright Light Volunteers in a country of your choice. Our Global Service Learning (GSL) program is designed for passionate middle and high school students, exposing them to various aspects, including cultural and social, of their host community. Participants not only broaden their knowledge but also develop a deeper understanding of local, national, and global issues. They gain insight into the interdependency and interconnectedness of people and communities, becoming equipped to act responsibly and effectively toward a more just and peaceful world. Additionally, they develop a range of skills outside a conventional classroom environment. If you’re interested in joining our movement and becoming a global citizen, get in touch with us today for more information.

Volunteers For Peace

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Affordable Volunteer Projects in Over 70 Countries

Join us for the adventure of a lifetime! Volunteers For Peace (a Vermont-based nonprofit) can place you on a team of international volunteers who contribute to a meaningful community service project designed, planned, and hosted by local partners. We offer the most affordable projects and the best way to meet people from all over the world. Work project types vary by country but may include environmental and wildlife conservation, historic preservation, educational and language learning, archaeology, organic farming, and arts and festivals. We also have social services projects, which could involve working with children, the elderly, or refugees. Projects are designed to combine service with recreational activities and cultural exchange – whether by visiting local beaches, learning local dances, meeting local officials, or volunteering with residents at the place you’re visiting. Each project is unique, but all bring people together for the most meaningful travel experience imaginable. Please note that VFP can only place US Citizens. This is due to our agreements with our international partners.

Meiji Internships

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Vietnam Internship with Meiji Internships

Vietnam is a hotspot for foodies, thrill-seekers, and beach lovers alike. There’s a lot to love about this country as it stretches from the lush mountains of the north to the seemingly endless rice paddies in the south, with golden sand beaches in between.
 As a fast-growing economy in Southeast Asia, Vietnam offers a wide range of internship opportunities. Not only does it promise exciting careers prospects, but it also provides a vibrant after-work experience. Whatever it is you are seeking, Vietnam has something for anyone: ・Step back in time at the Cu Chi Tunnels. ・Take on kayaking at the Mekong Delta. ・Search for Vietnam’s best pho in Hanoi. ・Let go of a floating lantern at the Hoi An Lantern Festival. As your gateway to Asia, Meiji Internships will accompany you throughout your journey. Kick-start your international career with an unforgettable internship adventure in your industry and destination of choice. We work with an extended network of 750+ partner companies in 8 countries to help pave the way for your future! You create your journey! Broaden not just your horizon, but also your professional network in the Far East!

Globe Aware

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Expedition in Vietnam

Hoi An draws visitors to its lovingly preserved mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and French architecture – evidence of the town's fascinating past as a major trading port. Hoi An's quarter features traditional shophouses, the facades of which are made from carved ironwood. The officially Socialist government, run by the Communist party, has made recent reforms that open the economy for trade and some building wealth. Volunteers will see, however, that the old and new Revolutions have left many rural peasants behind in their idealism of minimum living standards. Our projects help these people. Volunteers, depending on the number of participants per group, engage in a variety of projects: - teaching English pronunciation and colloquialisms - building playgrounds and better homes to replace substandard housing - refurbishing buildings for use as schools - working on kindergarten and primary schools - improving village markets and other infrastructure All these help to raise the standards of living throughout rural Vietnam. Kindergartens are not currently funded by the Vietnamese government, so assistance is needed to maintain and improve schools.

Vietnam Cat Welfare

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Volunteer with Jack's Cat Cafe in Hoi An, Vietnam

Volunteering at Jack's Cat Cafe in Hoi An, Vietnam, provides a unique opportunity to combine your love for cats with community service. Jack's Cat Cafe, part of Vietnam Cat Welfare, is not just a café but a sanctuary for rescued cats, offering them a safe and nurturing environment. Volunteers play a vital role in maintaining the café's operations, ensuring the well-being of the cats, and enhancing the overall visitor experience. Volunteers are needed for two primary roles: Café and Shelter Volunteers and Long-Term Managers. Whether you have a background in animal care, café management, or simply a passion for cats and community work, there is a place for you at Jack's Cat Cafe. The program is flexible, with start dates available throughout the year, making it easy to fit into your schedule. A minimum stay of one month is required to ensure continuity and the best care for the cats.

Save Vietnam's Wildlife

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Wildlife Conservation Volunteer Experience in Vietnam

Discover a unique opportunity to contribute directly to wildlife conservation efforts in Vietnam with Save Vietnam's Wildlife (SVW). Located in Vietnam, SVW focuses on rescuing and rehabilitating endangered species affected by illegal wildlife trade. As a volunteer, you'll work hands-on with some of Asia's rarest animals, including pangolins, binturongs, and leopard cats. This program offers a meaningful way to make a positive impact while gaining valuable insights into conservation practices and challenges in Vietnam. Volunteers are required to commit a minimum of 1 week to the program, allowing for an immersive experience that enriches your journey with a deeper connection to local wildlife and conservation efforts. Adding this experience to your Vietnam itinerary enriches your journey with a deeper connection to local wildlife and conservation efforts.

Free the Bears

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Volunteer to Help Rescued Bears in Vietnam

Volunteering at our Cat Tien Bear Sanctuary in Vietnam offers a rare opportunity to work closely with sun and moon bears rescued from the illegal wildlife trade. Our program, available from June 2, 2024, to July 28, 2024, and from December 1, 2024, to January 26, 2025, allows you to contribute directly to the welfare of these magnificent creatures while immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Cat Tien National Park. This experience not only helps the bears but also supports the sanctuary's ongoing conservation efforts. During your stay, you will join a dedicated team, assisting with various tasks essential to the bears' care and the sanctuary's upkeep. The work can be physically demanding and requires a good level of health due to the tropical climate, but no prior experience in wildlife care is necessary. Just bring your enthusiasm and a strong interest in conservation!

Friends For Asia

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Children with Disabilities Volunteer Project

Vietnam has undergone rapid development over the past decade, but it still lags behind many of its Southeast Asian neighbors. There are many ways that volunteers can get involved and make a real and profound difference, not least through helping with projects that care for children with mental and physical disabilities. Unfortunately, public support for programs that assist the mentally ill is spotty in Vietnam. A study published by the Stanford Undergraduate Research Journal found that traditional beliefs often attribute psychiatric disorders to past moral transgressions. While this is only one facet of a highly complex social response to disabilities, it at least illustrates the importance of raising awareness of the reality of mental and physical disabilities. Volunteers who enroll in a two-week or longer project generally help out in one or more ways, including playing with and caring for disabled children, lending a hand with feeding during lunchtime, assisting with gardening in the compound, organizing charity campaigns, and contributing to networking and fundraising efforts.

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A Guide to Volunteering Abroad in Vietnam

Locations

Volunteer work in Vietnam can be found in and around the major cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, as well as in the north near Ha Long Bay.

Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) is Vietnam’s largest city, found down in the south of the country. It has a more colonial feel than Hanoi up in the north, with some very famous western-looking buildings, such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral. While volunteering in HCMC, (as it is often referred to) a great place to visit is the Cu Chi tunnel, where visitors can climb into the original Vietcong tunnel system used during the war to gain fascinating insight into the conditions in which the soldiers from the north worked when they managed to overthrow the mighty West in the late 60’s. 

Hanoi, the lively and ancient capital city, is considered the main cultural center of Vietnam. In the old centre you can buy produce and handicrafts from street sellers, watch traditional water puppet shows, and experience what this modern city has to offer in terms of shopping, Karaoke bars, cinemas, and dance clubs. Volunteer placements in Hanoi can range from centers for individuals with disabilities to community development projects or health placements.

Ha Long Bay. North of Hanoi, this archipelago of rocky limestone towers on the northern coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Volunteers can sail through the mystical landscape in traditional ships and explore caves and grottos in more modern canoes. Local fishing villages also regularly host visitors for seafood feasts, which is a must try for those who volunteer in Vietnam.

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Latest Program Reviews

Way surpassed all my expectations in every way..

December 13, 2025by: Sally Bailey - United KingdomProgram: Volunteer in Food Outreach in Vietnam
10

An incredible experience and one I would recommend to everyone to do, co ordinators massively supportive and friendly, willing and keen to help with everything and anything. The good kitchen was hard work, rewarding and meaningful which was just what I wanted. The Vietnamese were kind and friendly, and doing this as a solo retired traveller I felt safe at all times. The hours worked well for me with time to explore Ho Chi Minh City in the afternoons and even go to Cambodia to see Angkor Wat in my middle weekend. Looking forward to my next IVHQ adventure already and I only got back a week ago!😊

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