Check out our list of alternative volunteer destinations.

 

1. Galapagos Islands

Want to visit somewhere remote unlike anywhere else you have possibly been in the world? Would you like to see or help giant tortoises? Plan a break to the Galapagos and see the place which Charles Darwin brought to life in his diaries.

The Galapagos is very remote, some people volunteer in Ecuador and then book flights or crusies over. There are lots of research and conservation initiatives available to join here.

 

2. Cameroon

Cameroon apes

When most people research options to go volunteering in Africa, many choose well known destinations like South Africa, Kenya and Tanzania. But if you would like an authentic experience in a different region why not consider Cameroon?

Due to the ebola epidemic in North and East Africa, Cameroon has been seen as an off limits travel destination in recenty years. But due to incedible work by international humanitarian organisations ebola is now under control. If you choose to go to Cameroon you can volunteer with chimpanzees - some of the most endangered specifies in the world.

 

3. Laos

 

You might not be able to spot Laos on a map, this tine but spectacular little country located inbetween China, Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar in South-East Asia. Most people apply to volunteer in Thailand or Vietnam but do not consider Laos. There are lots of authentic experiences and volunteer opportunities available with communities where you can make a real difference on the ground.

 

4. Israel

Israel? Is that really off the beaten track? Old and recent conflicts have put a lot of people off the ideas of heading to help in Israel but the situation on the ground is safer than you might think.

Lots of people book gap year programs in Israel but if you would like to do more than sightseeing then volunteering can be a great opportunity. You might also be surpised to learn you can apply to volunteer in Palestine too.

 

5. Malawi

 

Looking to travel off the beaten track in rural Africa? Working in Malawi will be a life changing experience! There is real poverty in this country with thousands of people affected by HIV and AIDs. You can play an important role in helping the country develop.

 

6. Ukraine

 

Like the idea of volunteering in Europe, but want to avoid hotspots like France, Spain and Germany? Why not head further east and make a difference in wartorn Ukraine. You can help communities, conservation or apply to teach English in the Ukraine and get paid. 

 

7. Nepal

Nepal mountains

When people look to volunteer in Asia, many choose to volunteer in India and other nearby destinations - often totally overlooking Nepal which is usually seen as an adventure destination. Thousands of people book trips to Nepal every year, many climb to Mount Everest Base Camp

 

8. Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe rhinos

Due to political and safety issues, Zimbabwe has been a no go destination for most travellers. The situation is improving year on year and now there are lots of tours of Zimbabwe opening up the country to thousands of international visitors every year. There are so many projects available with exotic wildlife - image waking up and doing jobs with elephants and rhinos.

 

9. New Zealand

Queenstown New Zealand scenery

Thousands of people take gap years in New Zealand every year so you might be thinking how is this off the beaten track? Well, this is your chance to get away from it all and experience the beautiful remote wilderness of the New Zealand countryside.  

 

10. Chile

Easter Island Chile

No matter where you live, Chile is a long way from most places in the world. Located in southern South America, this spectacular country is an incredible place to see where you can really get away from civilisation by venturing to places like Easter Island and Patagonia. If the idea of volunteering in South America appeals to you then our programs in Chile are a great option.

 

If you are still researching your trip search all of our volunteering programs abroad.