Visit Gorillas in Rwanda

Rwanda, the Land of a Thousand Hills, is one of the best-known countries for visiting endangered mountain gorillas. Approximately 1000 mountain gorillas are in the wild, with 604 in the Virunga Massif. The volcanic range spans Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, home to endangered species. Tracking gorillas in Rwanda is safe and relatively accessible. There are twelve gorilla families living in the Volcanoes National Park. The groups, or troops, consist of at least one silverback and several females and adolescents. The families are Karisimbi, Amahoro, Kwitonda, Hirwa, Ugyenda, Hirwa, Susa, Igisha, Sabyinyo, Agashya, Umubano, and Muhoza. On arrival day, travelers will fly into Kigali International Airport. Travelers can see the Inema Arts Center and the Kigali Genocide Memorial. At Volcanos National Park, the group can explore the area, relax at the lodge and enjoy the view. Day 3 is the main event. In the morning, travelers can go on a group trek into the forest to visit a mountain gorilla troop. Travelers can see their mannerisms and interactions with one another. Travel back to Kigali on the final day. Depart at any time. The Visit Mountain Gorillas trip is $3,600, four days long, and one of several journeys through this remarkable country. For a quick gorilla trek or a longer, more immersive itinerary, explore Follow Alice’s full range of Rwanda trips.

Follow Alice is an outfitter focused on adventure trips worldwide. All guides are local and 70% of all trip prices stay in the local economy. The company started in 2014 when the cofounder Reto climbed Kilimanjaro with Chris, a local Tanzanian guide, and the two teamed up to form Follow Alice.

Walk With Rwandas Gorillas

Rwanda, often called the land of a thousand hills, offers unique trekking experiences that include sightings of mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and golden monkeys. Since the 1960s, the gorilla population has grown from 275 to over a thousand, thanks to careful ecotourism practices that ensure continued growth at an annual rate of 4.1%. In Rwanda, stringent measures are taken to protect the gorillas; all visitors are tested for COVID-19 upon arrival and before beginning their trek. The treks are meticulously supervised, timed, and monitored by guides employed by the Rwandan government. Travelers typically arrive at Kigali International Airport, where they meet their guide and may have the opportunity to tour the Kigali Genocide Memorial. At Akagera National Park, participants can enjoy an afternoon game drive, where sightings of the Big Five and over 480 species of birds are common. The journey continues to Volcanos National Park in the northwest, where travelers embark on the iconic gorilla trek. Here, they can observe gorillas in their natural habitat, watching them relax, eat, play, and groom in the dense forest. The visit to Iby’lwacu Cultural Village offers a chance to witness the Intore dance, also known as the Dance of Heroes. Optional activities include visiting the grave of renowned primatologist Dian Fossey and a guided trek to observe golden monkeys. At Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s largest lake, travelers can canoe and learn about the local fishing industry. The adventure then moves to Nyungwe Forest National Park, home to a variety of primates and over 300 bird species, including the Albertine owlet, red-collared babbler, and Rockefeller's sunbird. On the penultimate day, visitors can partake in a guided trek to see chimpanzees and explore the treetop walkway. The journey concludes with a return to Kigali for departure. The Ultimate Rwanda trip is $5,660, ten days long, and one of several journeys through this remarkable country. For a quick gorilla trek or a longer, more immersive itinerary, explore Follow Alice’s full range of Rwanda trips.

Follow Alice is an outfitter focused on adventure trips worldwide. All guides are local and 70% of all trip prices stay in the local economy. The company started in 2014 when the cofounder Reto climbed Kilimanjaro with Chris, a local Tanzanian guide, and the two teamed up to form Follow Alice.

Volunteer at a Wildlife Sanctuary in Australia

Help care for rescued and endangered animals on this GoEco volunteer trip. Located at one of Australia’s highest regarded animal sanctuaries, travelers will spend quality time with koalas, kangaroos and other local wildlife. Days are split between mornings focused on animal care and afternoons spent working on bush restoration and habitat rehabilitation. After volunteering at the sanctuary all day, nights and weekends can be spent exploring nearby Sydney and its beautiful Bondi Beach or Australia’s famous Blue Mountains, which can be visited on a scenic train journey with fellow volunteers. 

This trip begins at $1,240 for one week, but volunteers are encouraged to spend up to four weeks at the sanctuary, with the fourth week free. Meals, in-country transportation, accommodation and cultural activities are all included in the trip price.

Adventure in Southern Africa

This trip, a tour of three countries in Southern Africa, begins in Zimbabwe, a trading hub known for its gold and iron exports. Here, travelers will see Victoria Falls, part of the Zambezi River and one of the world's seven natural wonders. They will have the opportunity to go whitewater rafting, bungee jumping, or go on a helicopter ride. Next, travelers will cross into Botswana to the town of Kasane. They can go on a wildlife safari along the Chobe River or visit Chobe National Park. Then, the group will visit the village of Gweta and camp out in hopes of seeing wildlife. The next stop on this trip is Maun, the tourism capital of Botswana for its safaris. Travelers can ride in a Mokoro, a traditional canoe for shoreline views. Travelers will then see the western part of Botswana, the town of Ghanzi in the Kalahari Desert, before ending the trip in Namibia. Travelers will spend the last part of this trip in the city of Windhoek, Namibia’s cultural hub.

This is a G Adventures 18-to-Thirtysomethings trip catering to 18–39-year-old travelers. All G Adventures trips are led by a local guide, a CEO, Chief Experience Officer, and trip revenue is driven to help the local community. This is an 8 day trip and costs $918. 

Search for Gorillas in Uganda

East Africa’s Uganda is considered one of the most beautiful countries in the world, and is home to many mountainous and forested national parks, as well as the largest freshwater lake on the continent. This trip begins in Uganda's capital Kampala, called “the city of seven hills”. Kampala is the largest city in the country and it’s financial and economic center. Next, travelers will visit Lake Bunyonyi, a “place of many little birds.” Lake Bunyonyi is known for its green terraced hills and twenty-nine islands. From here, travelers can go on a guided mountain gorilla trek in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. After this, travelers will return to Lake Bunyonyi to enjoy the area and have the chance to go on a motorboat tour, a bird-watching walk, rent a canoe, or simply go swimming. Travelers will then travel to the Kalinzu Forest Reserve, adjacent to Queen Elizabeth National Park, where they can go on a boat cruise around Crater Lake. Before a last stop in the city of Jinja, travelers will get to visit Lake Mburo National Park and visit a tea plantation and boat safari on Lake Mburo. The group will then cross the equator and get to see how water moves differently on each side as they visit the city of Jinja, known as the adventure capital of East Africa. In the city, travelers can go Mabira Forest mountain biking, Nile River kayaking, bungee jumping, or Jinja river rafting. 

This is a G Adventures 18-to-Thirtysomethings trip catering to 18–39-year-old travelers. All G Adventures trips are led by a local guide, a CEO, Chief Experience Officer, and trip revenue is driven to help the local community. This is a 9 day trip and costs $2,334. 

Volunteer to Help Abandoned Animals in Ecuador

Ecuador is a megadiverse country, with around 23,056 identified plant and animal species, and an estimated 6.1% of all animal species worldwide. Animal protection is codified in the nation’s constitution, but many still face individual and ecosystem-wide dangers. In 2020, the Secretary of Health reported an increase in abandoned animals, from one to ten cases per day in the same year, with the abandonment of dogs going up by 90% due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is estimated that there are around 600,000 lost animals in Quito alone, with dogs making up approximately 125,000 of those. Volunteers can work in a treatment center in Santa Elena that looks after sick wildlife and marine animals. This haven looks after marine animals, including fish, turtles, crocodiles and exotic birds. Participants can work closely with a local veterinarian to assist with treatment and other tasks. Duties include assisting with surgeries, giving vaccines, general medical treatment, and general center tasks. It’s recommended for volunteers to bring their own supplies, including gloves, stethoscopes, and other necessary equipment. Participants will get hands-on, professional experience, develop their communication skills, and immerse themselves in Ecuadorian culture.

This is a minimum one-week and maximum 12-week trip offered by International Volunteer HQ. IVHQ is a leading volunteer travel organization, offering sustainable and community-oriented experiences all around the globe. This project costs $430 for one week and $1,970 for 12 weeks. Accommodation, breakfasts and 24/7 in-country support are all included.

Roadtrip California and Experience Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park set the model for all national parks in the United States. Known for its giant Sequoia trees, Yosemite covers an area of more than 750,000 acres and almost 95% of the park is restricted as wilderness and home to a large variety of plants and animals. In addition, the park is home to one of the tallest waterfalls in North America: Yosemite Falls, reaching 2,425 feet. One of the most popular hikes in Yosemite is the Half Dome Hike, which is a 12-hour, 14-mile round trip hike with huge elevation gain, cables, and exposed terrain. At Santa Monica, everyone can cruise the shoreline and shop at the local farmers market (for some last-minute necessities). Highway 1 has a lot to offer for everyone, including the sights of Santa Margarita, Carmel, Monterey and Santa Cruz. After a visit in San Francisco, everyone will go to the main event. Upon visiting Yosemite, travelers can purchase produce in the central valley. Once in the park, everyone can hike to Tuolumne Grove, home of the iconic Sequoias. Everyone will be in the park for about three days. This gives the group a chance to see sights like El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, the Half Dome,  Nevada Falls and more! Departing Yosemite, everyone will go back to Socal to relax at Hermosa Beach. The trip ends upon arrival in Los Angeles.

This is a G Adventures 18-to-Thirtysomethings trip catering to 18–39-year-old travelers. All G Adventures trips are led by a local guide, a CEO, Chief Experience Officer, and trip revenue is driven to help the local community. Starting at $2106 per person, this experience lasts over the course of 9 days. Transportation between destinations, some meals and accommodation will be included.

Volunteer to help in the Peruvian Amazon

Peru is one of the most bio-diverse countries in the world and has a stunning variety of landscapes, from mountains to beaches and rainforests. The country is home to the source of the Amazon River and the historical Incan settlement of Machu Picchu. In fact, the Peruvian Amazon is the second-largest stretch of the Amazon and includes thousands of different animal species. The forest’s tropical climate also has lots of the country’s natural resources. However, construction and commercial mining have led to the deforestation of the Peruvian Amazon, which threatens the unique and endangered species that live there. Volunteers will work to plant trees, monitor animals and remove non-native species to combat deforestation. Additionally, volunteers will get to learn about the tree species of the Peruvian Amazon and its inhabitants. 

This Maximo Nivel volunteer program has the goal of helping communities while giving volunteers a one-in-a-lifetime experience. All Maximo Nivel volunteer programs are supported by professional program managers, multilingual teams, and 24/7 in-country support. This project ranges from one-to-four weeks and  costs $685 for one week and $1295 for four weeks. Airport transfers, breakfast and dinners, four-to-six hours per day (Sunday to Thursday), letter of recommendation, emergency contact number and accommodation are included.

Adventure in Alaska

Alaska, the last frontier, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including vast glaciers, towering mountains, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes. It's a top destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The 49th state also boasts unique Indigenous cultures, rich history, and is a prime spot for experiencing the Northern Lights. Travelers will arrive in Anchorage and get acquainted with each other and their leaders. The journey begins with a drive through the iconic Seward Highway on the Kenai Peninsula. In Kenai Fjords National Park, travelers will hike the Harding Icefield Trail and enjoy a scenic boat cruise through the fjords to see glaciers and marine life. In Talkeetna, participants will learn about local flora, take a scenic flight over the area, and visit the Iditarod Sled Dog Museum. Denali National Park offers stunning sights, including moose, bears, and caribou. On the second to last day, travelers can join the group for a farewell dinner before departing from Anchorage on the final day.

All G Adventures trips are led by a local guide, a CEO, Chief Experience Officer, and trip revenue is driven to help the local community. Starting at $2137 per person, this experience lasts over the course of 8 days. Transportation between destinations, some meals, and accommodation will be included.

Discover Costa Rica Through Conservation

Costa Rica, the “Land of Pura Vida,” is celebrated for its laid-back lifestyle, focus on happiness, and deep appreciation for nature and simple living. Renowned for its stunning natural beauty, ecotourism, biodiversity, adventure activities, peacefulness, and stability, this small country boasts around 5% of the world’s biodiversity, with 25% of its land dedicated to national parks, wildlife refuges, and biological reserves. Travelers will start their 14 day journey in the capital, San Jose, where they will get to know each other and their leaders. In Tortuguero National Park, the group will enjoy a guided boat trip through tropical waterways and visit the Sea Turtle Conservancy, the world’s oldest nonprofit organization dedicated to sea turtle protection. In La Fortuna, they will learn about coffee production. Next, in Monteverde, a nature lover’s paradise, travelers can go ziplining, visit the Monteverde Institute, and explore butterfly gardens and local forest trails. At Manuel Antonio National Park, they will witness abundant wildlife, including monkeys, armadillos, sloths, iguanas, and countless bird species. The journey concludes with a return to San Jose for a farewell dinner, with departures scheduled for the following day.

All G Adventures trips are led by a local guide, a CEO, Chief Experience Officer, and trip revenue is driven to help the local community. Starting at $2324 per person, this experience lasts over the course of 14 days. Transportation between destinations, some meals, and accommodation will be included.

Volunteer to Work on an Alpaca Farm in Peru

Peru is one of the most bio-diverse countries in the world and has a stunning variety of landscapes, from mountains to beaches to rainforests. The country is home to the source of the Amazon River, as well as the historical Machu Picchu and over seventy percent of the world’s alpaca population. In fact, Peru’s alpacas provide the country’s residents with food and clothing, and even have a religious significance to Peruvians. Cusco, an ancient city closely associated with the Incas, is famous for its grand main square with buildings that have terracotta-tile roofs and cobbled streets. Volunteers will have the opportunity to work at a private farm thirty minutes from Cusco to care for alpacas and llamas. Additionally, volunteers will work with the cleaning and maintenance of the animals and will get to see the farm’s process of turning the alpaca and llama wool into traditional Peruvian textiles.

This Maximo Nivel volunteer program has the goal of helping communities while giving volunteers a one-in-a-lifetime experience. All Maximo Nivel volunteer programs are supported by professional program managers, multilingual teams, and 24/7 in-country support. This project ranges from one-to-four weeks and costs $685 for one week and $1295 for four weeks. Airport transfers, breakfast and dinners, three-to-four hours per day practical work (Monday-Friday), letter of recommendation, emergency contact number and accommodation are included.

Venture Through the Serengeti

Tanzania is a country in Africa known for its wildlife and culture. Thirty percent of the country is made up of National Parks, with the city of Arusha being its safari capital. After beginning the trip in Arusha, travelers will see the Serengeti National Park. Here, travelers will partake in a three-day wildlife safari in which they will visit Ngorongoro Crater, a conservation area that is known for having Africa’s best wildlife view. Travelers will also have the option to take a hot air balloon ride and will get to go down to the crater floor. Travelers will then pass by Mount Kilimanjaro on the way to Dar es Salaam before spending the last few days of the trip in Zanzibar. In Zanzibar, travelers will get to visit Stone Town. This is one of the oldest parts of Zanzibar and is one of its historical centers with amazing architecture and beaches.

This is a G Adventures 18-to-Thirtysomethings trip catering to 18–39-year-old travelers. All G Adventures trips are led by a local guide, a CEO, Chief Experience Officer, and trip revenue is driven to help the local community. Starting at $1565 per person, this experience lasts over the course of 9 days. Transportation between destinations, some meals and accommodation will be included.

Volunteer to Help Animal Shelters in South Africa

Cape Town is the legislative capital of South Africa and a popular tourist destination. The city is home to Table Mountain, a famous plateau that resembles a tabletop, and gorgeous natural scenery heightened by its location between the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. In Cape Town, volunteers will work at a local animal shelter in the Grassy Park community. Volunteers will help run the shelter, care for abandoned animals, and help with the animals’ medications and injections. Additionally, volunteers will assist with animal cleaning and feeding to gain animal care experience.

This is a minimum one-week trip and a maximum 24-week trip offered by International Volunteer HQ. All IVHQ volunteer programs include airport pickup and accommodation, program orientation, and 24-hour IVHQ staff support. This project costs $247 for two weeks and $5928 for 24 weeks.

Volunteer to Help Conserve Croatia’s Bears

Croatia, the land of a thousand islands, has within its borders eleven nature parks, eight national parks and two nature reserves. The country is home to ten UNESCO World Heritage sites, remarkable considering its relatively small size. Approximately 900 brown bears, the largest European carnivores, live in Croatia, although the exact number is unknown. The bear population in the country has been growing since the 1950s and has a favorable conservation status. Volunteers have a chance to help protect bear populations and conserve nature. They can join a bear sanctuary and help preserve the environment and assist in a place for bears who have suffered maltreatment and abandonment. Volunteers will live in a traditional Croatian village amid nature, where they will become part of the local community. Tasks include (but are not limited to) maintaining the forest and surrounding environment, ensuring the well-being of all animals at the center, and supporting the visitor center’s needs. Volunteers can learn the Croatian language and immerse themselves in the culture while making a difference in the community.

This is a minimum four week and maximum 12 week trip offered by International Volunteer HQ. All IVHQ volunteer programs include airport pickup and accommodation, program orientation and 24-hour IVHQ staff support. This project costs $1,955 for four weeks and $5,075 for 12 weeks.

Volunteer to Assist Namibia’s Wildlife Program

Namibia, located in Southern Africa, is full of wildlife, ranging from desert elephants to the world’s largest population of free-roaming cheetahs. The country is also known for its scenery, having the highest sand dunes in the world, made famous by the film “Mad Max: Fury Road.” While here, volunteers will help and support wildlife preservation efforts and care for injured and abandoned animals. This includes assisting with the animals’ food preparation and aiding with small animal feedings. Additionally, volunteers will have the chance to learn more about wildlife by watching cheetahs run and conducting focused research such as analyzing GPS data and monitoring animals.

This is a minimum two-week trip and a maximum 12-week trip offered by International Volunteer HQ. All IVHQ volunteer programs include airport pickup and accommodation, program orientation and 24-hour IVHQ staff support. This project costs $1,260 for two weeks and $6145 for 12 weeks.

Experience Southern Africa’s Wildlife

South Africa, the rainbow nation, is the southernmost country on the African continent. It is surrounded by the Atlantic and Indian Oceans and shares borders with six neighboring countries. This cradle of humankind is home to ten UNESCO World Heritage sites, more than any other country on the African continent. It’s worth noting that South Africa houses 10% of the world’s plants, 15% of coastal marine species, and 7% of the world’s mammal, reptile and bird species. Botswana, known officially as the Republic of Botswana, is home to the planet's largest population of elephants. The nation is home to the Okavango Delta, the 1000th UNESCO World Heritage Site. Around a third of Botswana’s landmass is protected as national parks, game reserves or wildlife management areas. Finally, there’s Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe is home to Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The nation has five UNESCO World Heritage Sites and has the most official languages in the world. On this trip, travelers start their journey in Johannesburg, where they can get acquainted and see the Emperor's Palace. Going into Botswana, everyone will have a chance to see the Khama Rhino Sanctuary, where they will set up camp. After stopping in Maun, everyone can take pictures of the Okavango Delta. Travelers can engage in birdwatching on a traditional mokoro (dugout canoe). In Gweta, everyone can camp under the country’s iconic Baobab trees. Onward to Kasane, the group can choose to embark on a river cruise through Chobe National Park, home to the largest elephant population in Southern Africa. After arriving in Zimbabwe, the first destination is Victoria Falls. Everyone can take a helicopter ride over the iconic landmark while bungee jumping and taking selfies. In Matobo National Park, people can see the iconic granite masses before returning to South Africa. At Kruger National Park, everyone can scan the savanna for lions, elephants and other animals. After arriving back in Johannesburg, travelers can depart at any time.

This is a G Adventures 18-to-Thirtysomethings trip catering to 18–39-year-old travelers. All G Adventures trips are led by a local guide, a CEO, Chief Experience Officer, and trip revenue is driven to help the local community. Starting at $2119 per person, this experience lasts over the course of 15 days. Transportation between destinations, some meals, and accommodation will be included.

Volunteer to Help Rescue Dogs in Peru

Cusco is an ancient Inca city known for its hospitality. This city likes its fiestas and celebrates its exciting blend of Inca folklore, native influences and Hispanic colonial traditions through the architecture of its main square, cobbled streets, and terracotta tile roof houses. Unfortunately, an overwhelming number of stray dogs spend their lives on Peru’s streets. These animals live in unsanitary conditions, risking illness and starvation, and are considered a public health issue by the local government. Volunteers can help take these dogs off the street and provide them with much-needed love, attention and care. Volunteers help the project by cleaning the animals and cages, feeding the dogs, helping with basic obedience training, interacting with visitors, playing with the animals, taking photos, helping with administration and assisting with fundraising and educational programs. These projects are heavily reliant on the help of volunteers who are needed to work both within a team and independently as leaders. In-country coordinators support all volunteers.

This Maximo Nivel volunteer program aims to give volunteers a life-changing experience while positively impacting local communities. All Maximo Nivel volunteer programs are supported by professional program managers, multilingual teams, and 24/7 in-country support. This project costs $685 for one week, $945 for two weeks, $1125 for three weeks, and $1295 for four weeks. Airport transfers, breakfast and dinners, 3–4 hours per day practical work (Monday-Friday), letter of recommendation, emergency contact number and accommodation will be included.

Research Whale Sharks in Mozambique

The largest extant species of fish on the planet is now endangered, in large part due to the devastating effects of industrial fishing and pollution on the global whale shark population. The coast of Mozambique, known for its breathtaking turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs, has recently become a haven for divers eager to witness these docile giants and experience the region’s abundance of marine life. While volunteering at the Marine Research and Conservation Project, volunteers will have the opportunity to swim alongside whale sharks and collect valuable data that will help conserve Mozambique's diverse marine ecosystem. Included in the program is a four-day open water diving course that will prepare volunteers to monitor the coral reefs and safely use diving equipment. Volunteers will carry out essential functions in marine research and conservation, participating in beach walks, boat surveys and dives alongside coordinating scientists. Aside from conducting research, volunteers will also learn about whale sharks and the effects of human activity on their ecosystem, and help spread awareness about the importance of conservation efforts in the area. During the project volunteers will reside in Tofo, a coastal town in southeastern Mozambique known for its snorkeling, which offers a wide array of activities for volunteers to spend their free time on — including sailing, fishing and eating at local seafood restaurants.

This 3-12 week experience costs $3,619 for 3 weeks and $9,643 for 12 weeks, and includes accommodations, meals, a scuba diving certification training program, 24/7 on-site support and some activities. Volunteers with diving experience may be eligible for discounts and may stay for a minimum of 2 weeks if they do not wish to participate in the diving certification program.

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KAYA

Care for Wildlife at an Ecuadorian Animal Rescue Shelter

The Amazon rainforest, covering most of northwestern Brazil and extending into Colombia, Peru and various South American countries, represents more than half of Earth’s remaining rainforests, making up the largest concentration of rainforest biodiversity in the world. However, as wildlife in the Amazon face constant threats, an animal rescue center has been opened near the city of Puyo, which is located close to a tourist-friendly city and gateway to the Amazon basin known as Banos. As part of this project, volunteers will have the chance to assist in the care of rescued animals at the shelter, who have all been injured, mistreated, abandoned or orphaned. Volunteers will engage in tasks such as day-to-day care of animals, cutting fruit and preparing food for the animals, feeding the animals, helping visitors and assisting the veterinarian when needed. Not only this, but volunteers will participate in maintenance tasks around the shelter, which may include the building, repairing and cleaning of enclosures in addition to general cleaning.

This minimum 2-week and maximum 12-week experience starts at $1,080 per person for 2 weeks and $3,580 per person for 12 weeks. Accommodation, airport transfers, orientation, meals and 24/7 GoEco support are provided. Volunteers will work 8:00 am – 12:00 pm and 2:30 pm – 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Additional volunteer work will take place on either Saturday or Sunday for a few hours, leaving the rest of the weekend free after tasks are completed.

Family-Friendly Sea Turtle Conservation in the Maldives

Although world famous for its wealth of tropical marine life, the Maldives has suffered from habitat destruction, overfishing and poaching in recent decades that have seen many of its most important and iconic species become endangered. Nearly all species of turtles native to the region are now considered endangered, but conservation efforts have proven effective in preventing the total disappearance of these animals. This family-oriented trip gives volunteers the opportunity to assist in turtle conservation while working alongside experienced marine biologists and enjoying the culture and natural beauty of the Maldives. The project is located on the island of Naifaru, the sixth largest island in the Maldives, and families will be accommodated in a mini-hotel for the duration of their stay. Although tasks will vary, volunteers can expect to feed turtles, clean tanks, assist with medical treatment, do beach-cleanups, and help with other vital conservation projects. Children are able to participate in all of these volunteer activities, and can even take part in releasing the turtles and cleaning the coral reefs. During the first week, families will also be able to experience the island and its marine wildlife through a variety of activities, including snorkeling, island tours and beach BBQs. Volunteers also have the option to receive their SCUBA certification and join in coral reef restoration dives. Families who choose to stay for the second week will continue to assist with volunteer work, but will not participate in other activities.

This 1-2 week trip costs $1,280 for one week and $2,100 for two weeks and includes accommodations, meals, airport transfers, various activities, and 24/7 support. The trip is intended for families with children ages 7+, although children under the age of 7 may still participate in most activities. The fee for children ages 6 and under is $500.

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GOECO