Volunteer abroad, made simple.

It is a question we hear often: “If I am giving my time, why do I also need to pay?” It is an understandable concern. Your contribution is valuable, but hosting you locally comes with costs: from accommodation and meals to organising activities and the people who support you during your experience.

The fee makes all of this possible and supports the work of the local organisations hosting you. Your trip also contributes to the local economy through services in the area and the involvement of people who live and work there.

Your volunteering is part of a project that exists and continues thanks to the daily commitment of local people. You become part of it for a while, contributing your time, energy and willingness to learn.

We want you to be able to choose knowing what you are supporting. That is why we have dedicated a page to explaining how the fee works and why this kind of experience has a cost.

Find out why volunteering involves a fee →

In most cases, no. You can join even if you have never volunteered before or this is your first experience away from home. We do not expect you to know how to do everything already: what matters is a willingness to learn, lend a hand and respect the people welcoming you.

Every project has different activities, routines and needs. Being willing to listen to local coordinators and adapt to a way of life different from your own is an important part of the experience.

Some projects do require specific skills or a relevant course of study, for example in healthcare. When that is the case, it is stated on the project page.

If you are not sure which experience is right for you, get in touch. Tell us about your interests, what you study or do for work, and what you would like to learn: we will help you explore the options.

The fee normally includes accommodation, meals, airport pickup, coordination of local activities and support during your stay. These are the practical arrangements that help you settle into the project and have people to turn to during your experience.

Arrangements may vary between destinations: each local organisation hosts volunteers according to its resources and the nature of the project. That is why it is important to read the details of your chosen experience.

Each project page gives you a clear breakdown: the services included in the fee, expenses to cover separately and any optional services. Check the information about flights, visas, insurance and transport too, so you can work out your overall budget.

If anything is unclear, ask us. We will help you understand what to plan for before booking.

In general, you can take part from the age of 16, with a basic level of English. You do not need to speak it perfectly: what matters is being able to communicate in everyday situations and understand instructions during activities. Some projects may require a higher level, depending on what you will be doing.

You also need adaptability, respect for the local culture and a willingness to follow the guidance of the people coordinating the project. You may find different habits, routines and comforts from those at home: learning about them beforehand helps you arrive with realistic expectations.

We also welcome under-18s, families and people over 65. Suitability needs to be assessed together, based on the project, its activities and local conditions. A parent or guardian must be involved for under-18s.

For safety reasons, we also ask for a self-declaration about any criminal record.

Get in touch and tell us who would be travelling and what you need: together with the local organisation, we will check whether the project is suitable and how best to arrange your experience.

Absolutely: around 80% of the people joining our projects travel on their own. So if you want to go but none of your friends can join you, you are already in good company.

The projects welcome participants from different countries. Once you arrive, activities and everyday moments become opportunities to get to know each other, share stories and make friends. It is easy to become part of a group, even if you arrive knowing nobody.

The number of volunteers varies by project and time of year: if a particularly social setting matters to you, get in touch. We will help you choose with that in mind too.

If you would prefer to meet your travel companions before departure, you can choose one of our organised group departures. Either way, you will also have the chance to meet other international volunteers on the project.