Support a Community Garden in Romania

Food production currently accounts for a quarter of all greenhouse gas emissions released annually, and has become a focus for climate activists in past decades due to the industry’s destructive use of pesticides, chemical fertilizers and other unsustainable farming practices. Community gardens have emerged in recent years as a sustainable way to reduce agriculture’s carbon footprint and to grow food for disadvantaged communities. In this project, volunteers will help cultivate and maintain a community garden in the Romanian city of Miercurea Ciuc. Because the local citizens often live together in small apartment complexes, the community garden gives families space to grow their own vegetables and creates a public area for children to play. Volunteers will be crucial in maintaining these gardens and will undertake a variety of tasks in support of the local community, including planting, watering, harvesting, composting, maintaining drainage systems, and doing other general upkeep. On the weekends, volunteers can spend their time visiting local markets, participating in outdoor activities, and exploring Romanian cities. Volunteers will share a volunteer apartment or house while they are in Miercurea Ciuc, be provided with groceries by the accommodation manager and receive one cooked meal per day at either a restaurant or their work location.

This trip lasts between one and 24 weeks, and costs $504 for one week and $6,521 for 24 weeks. Due to winter temperatures, the project is closed between November and February. Included in the cost is all accommodations, meals, 24/7 support and airport pickup. Volunteers have the option to participate in Introduction Week for an additional $540, during which they will have an immersive experience visiting historical sites and local villages while they begin learning the Hungarian language, before beginning their volunteer work.

FIND OUT MORE

INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTEER HQ

Ski Down the Slopes of the Koh e Baba in Afghanistan

High above sea level in Afghanistan’s Bamiyan province stands the majestic Koh-e Baba range, rising nearly 16,700 feet above sea level at its tallest peak. Travelers on this trip will not only be able to safely travel through Afghanistan, a nation which has been wracked by violent conflict over the last three decades, but also experience the incredible skiing that its mountains have to offer. Upon arriving in Peshawar, a small town in the Nuristan Province of Afghanistan, travelers will submit visas and tour the local area before spending the night. The next day, the group will drive to Islamabad and then fly to Kabul, the capital city of Afghanistan which is nearly 3,500 years old and was used throughout history as a strategic destination on the Silk Road. On the third day, travelers will drive to Bamiyan and tour the caves which enclosed two 6th-century Buddha statues, one being 125 feet tall and the other 180 feet tall. The colossi themselves were unfortunately destroyed by the Taliban in 2001, but it is still possible to see the indentations where they once stood, as well as to explore the monastic caves and passages nearby. Over the next five days, travelers will have the opportunity to ski the slopes of the Koh-e Baba mountain range, all while accompanied by international and local ski guides and interacting with the local Afghan people. The climax of the trip will be the annual ski race in Bamiyan, which travelers will be able to witness on the ninth day. Finally, the group will travel back to Kabul and spend a day visiting the city’s most enticing attractions before returning home.

This trip lasts for 10 days and starts at $2,850. It is organized by Untamed Borders, a travel company offering small group tours to some of the world’s most inaccessible places. The price includes all accommodations, some meals, ground transportation, the flight from Islamabad to Kabul and guiding.

Explore Colombia

On this trip travelers will cross the entirety of Colombia from the mountainous metropolis of  Bogota to Cartagena’s Caribbean coast. One of the most welcoming countries on Earth, Colombia is gaining a reputation for its world class culture and picturesque landscapes. The trip begins in the Colombian capital of Bogota, where one can visit world renowned museums such as the Museo de Oro (Gold Museum) and Museo Botero (which houses the works of world-famous Colombian sculptor Fernando Botero) and see city’s dynamic street art (Bogota is one of the world’s greatest street art cities). From there, travelers will visit the Quindio coffee-growing region near the city of Armenia and enjoy fantastic landscapes and an informative coffee tour while staying in a relaxing hacienda.  A day of hiking at the Valle of Cocora offers spectacular views of the tallest palm trees in the world and plains full of grazing horses. The trip includes a stay in the quaint town of Salento, which is home to a town square, colonial tour and fun restaurants, bars and cafes. Then onto Medellin, the “City of Eternal Spring.” There is lots of time in Medellin to choose between optional day tours and free time to explore fun shops and nightlife. Among the optional tours are the famous Comuna 13 neighborhood, which revitalization has saved from a criminal past and is now famous for street art and breakdancing, and a tour of the neighborhood still named for drug lord Pablo Escobar. Travelers can also partake in a day trip to the most brightly painted lakeside town in Colombia, Guatape, where tasty restaurants and charming storefronts can be viewed from the little tuk-tuk vehicles that whiz around the town. The final stop is the Caribbean walled city of Cartagena.

This is a 9 day trip organized by the small group tour company G Adventures. The price is $2,149, and includes all lodging, transport and select meals. All G Adventures tours are led by a local CEO (Chief Experience Officer) who provides great insight into the culture and community; trip expenditures are directed back to local communities.

To read more about this trip, check out CATALYST PLANET’s Founder Amy Schrier’s article, Colombia Unveiled: My Journey from Mountainous Bogota to Caribbean Cartagena.

Travel From Phnom Penh to Bangkok

Having emerged in recent decades as two of the most alluring destinations in Southeast Asia, Cambodia and Thailand now attract millions of visitors each year who come to enjoy their tropical scenery, electric nightlife, delicious local food and awe-inspiring historical sites. On this Roamie trip hosted by G Adventures, travelers will make their way from Phnom Penh to Bangkok over the course of five days, while staying in hostels and partaking in an exciting array of activities. Beginning in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, travelers will spend the first two days biking through the city and sampling local delicacies before driving to Sambor Prei Kuk. These ancient ruins, now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, date back to the 7th century and were once the royal sanctuary and capital of Chenla Empire. After witnessing the temples, travelers will stay a night in the Siem Reap, the second largest city in Cambodia. On the third day, travelers will be free to explore the city and participate in any activities they desire — go on a guided nature tour, eat at a Khmer training restaurant, or even visit the world-famous temple of Angkor Wat. Built in the 12th century, this temple complex is considered to be the largest religious structure in the world, encompassing over 400 acres. Travelers will cross the border into Thailand on the fourth day, stopping at the Rong Kluea market, a popular site for trade between Thailand and Cambodia, which boasts of nearly 1400 individual shops. Travelers will arrive in Bangkok and be led through the city, experiencing the lively party atmosphere and vibrant nightlife for one final evening before returning home the next day.

This 5-day experience starts at $319 per person and includes accommodations, transportation, various activities and a few meals. Roamies are small-group trips organized by G Adventures for travelers ages 18-35, who stay in hostels and receive an immersive travel experience.

Safari Through Kenya's Masai Mara

The Masai Mara is a national reserve located in the South West of Kenya and is famous for its spectacular diversity of wildlife. Visitors can see many lions, cheetahs, elephants, rhinos, wildebeest, giraffes and zebras here. The tour begins in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya known as the “Green City in the Sun.” This metropolis is known for beauty, interesting and cosmopolitan cultures, great variety of religions and vibrant nightlife. From here, travelers journey through the Great Rift Valley and the Masai Mara where they are taken on safari drives to see the Big Five (lions, elephants, buffaloes, rhinoceros and leopards). They then journey to Lake Nakuru National Park. Created in 1961 around Lake Nakuru, the reserve is famous for its huge flock of pink flamingos and immense diversity of bird species. Travelers will be taken to a safari lodge and get to enjoy a late afternoon safari drive through the area. From here, the adventure continues to Eldoret, a town popular during Kenya’s colonial period for its moderate climate and health benefits. The adventure finishes in Kampala, the capital of Uganda and famous as the old headquarters of the Imperial British East Africa Company. Travelers can see Lugard’s Fort on Old Kampala Hill, which was the Ugandan colonial administration headquarters until 1905. 

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 $960 per person, this experience lasts over the course of 6 days. Transportation between destinations, some meals, and accommodation will be included. 

Experience History and Cuisine in Mexico

The Yucatán Peninsula lies between the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea, and is famous for the stunning beauty of its tropical setting and the awe-inspiring remnants of the Mayan civilization. On this trip, travelers will immerse themselves in the wealth of history and culture embedded in the region, while also enjoying the beaches and nightlife of Mexico. The trip will begin in Mérida, the largest city in southeastern Mexico and one possessing a rich cultural history. The city was founded in 1542 by Spanish conquistadors on the site of the Mayan city of T’hó, and many of its historic buildings, including the famous Cathedral of Mérida, are constructed using stone from Mayan ruins. Here, travelers will be able to adventure through the city and explore nearby cenotes, large natural sinkholes filled with water. The Mayans believed that the cenotes were the entrance to Xibalba, or the underworld, and used them for ceremonial purposes as well as water sources. After leaving Mérida, travelers will visit the ancient ruins of Chichen Itzá, a city whose towering pyramids and temples have remained well preserved for nearly 1,500 years. Afterwards, travelers will arrive in Valladolid, where they can enjoy traditional Mayan dishes and rest for a night before venturing on to the pristine beaches of the Mayan Riviera. The next few days will be spent in Tulum, the site of the only Mayan ruins built next to the ocean. The Mayan city of Tulum was a prominent trading center between the 13th and 15th centuries, and it remains one of the best-preserved ruins in Mexico. While in Tulum, travelers will also have the opportunity to relax on the beaches, go snorkeling, swim in more nearby cenotes, and indulge in the local cuisine. The final stop will be Cancún, where travelers can spend the last few days of their trip enjoying the stunning coast, warm water, and vibrant nightlife of the city. Included is also a day trip into the jungles of the Yucatán to visit a small local community that will teach travelers how to prepare their mouth-watering traditional dishes. Travelers can spend their final nights partying in Cancún’s exciting bars and clubs or discovering excellent restaurants before the end of the trip.

This 9-day Roamie trip starts at $735 and includes accommodations, 12 meals, transportation, and various activities. G Adventures partners with Hostelworld to organize Roamies, which are flexible small-group trips for travelers ages 18-35, who stay in hostels and receive an immersive travel experience. All G Adventures trips are led by a local guide, a CEO (Chief Experience Officer) and the company focuses on giving back revenue to local communities.

BOOK THIS TRIP

G ADVENTURES

Venture Through Western and Central Europe

This journey begins in Munich, the third-largest city in Germany, which rests on the Isar River just north of the Alps. Travelers will go by bus from Munich to Innsbruck, stopping to visit the Bavarian town of Oberammergau on the way. This small town on the Ammer River is renowned for its traditions of woodcarving and, perhaps more famously, passion plays. The first Oberammergau Passion Play, a theatrical depiction of Jesus Christ’s trial and execution, was performed in 1634 after the villagers made a vow to produce a play every decade if God saved them from the bubonic plague. After this detour, travelers will spend a night in Innsbruck before going south toward Venice. The drive will take travelers through the Dolomites, also known as the Pale Mountains, which are known for their jagged cliffs and stunning peaks. In Venice travelers will go on a guided tour before setting off to explore on their own, experiencing the historic city’s exquisite Gothic architecture, beautiful canals and delectable cuisine. Travelers will spend the next few days in Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, a history which is still reflected in the city’s wealth of museums and galleries. On the final day of the trip, travelers will take a train to Rome and go on a food tour and a guided walk. On the walk, travelers can learn about the history of this famous city, which has been inhabited for nearly 3,000 years and which was once the capital of the most powerful empire in the world. Travelers will be able to experience the Eternal City for one final night before returning home the next morning or continuing to travel through Europe on their own.

This 8-day experience starts at $1,079 and includes accommodations, transportation, various activities, and 7 meals. G Adventures partners with Hostelworld to organize Roamies, which are flexible small-group trips for travelers ages 18-35, who stay in hostels and receive an immersive travel experience.

BOOK THIS TRIP

G ADVENTURES

Explore Historic and Natural Sites in Ireland

Known for its breathtaking rural landscapes, majestic seaside cliffs, and dramatic castles, Ireland continues to be an essential destination for travelers who love natural beauty. Ireland’s capital, Dublin, dates back to the 9th century, and was initially founded as a Viking base, changing hands between Norse and native Gaelic kings until its conquest by England in the Norman invasion of 1169. Once the fifth largest city in Europe, Dublin remains a marvel of medieval architecture and well-preserved history. Travelers will arrive in Dublin, and spend their first day enjoying the scenic coast and walking along the cliffs of the Dublin Bay before dining in an Irish pub in Kilkenny. This city, founded in the early 6th century, is recognized for its array of medieval buildings, castles, fortifications, and cathedral, all of which stand as testament to Kilkenny’s rich past. Travelers will learn about the region’s history from an Irish guide on the second day while walking or cycling through the city and exploring its historic buildings. After leaving Kilkenny, travelers will drive north to visit the Rock of Cashel, a towering stronghold and the traditional seat of the kings of Munster. The fourth and fifth days will be spent hiking through the national parks in Ireland’s west and taking in unforgettable views from the Cliffs of Moher. These cliffs reach as high as 702 feet above the sea, and are one of the most visited destinations in the world. On the final day, travelers will return to Dublin and learn about the city’s history on a walking tour before finishing with a visit to a pub or distillery to have one last relaxing night before heading home the next morning.

This 7-day experience starts at $1,995 per person and includes accommodations, 11 meals, group transportation, and various activities. The trip is organized once a month between March and October and is geared towards travelers between the ages of 21 and 30.

FIND OUT MORE

UNDER 30 EXPERIENCES

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.

FIND OUT MORE
GOECO

Volunteer at an Italian Archaeological Dig

Italy offers even more than meets the eye. To some, traveling to Italy means  an abundance of delicious food, famous artworks, and mesmerizing landscapes. Others, with a strong interest in history and culture, are fascinated with the country’s many and varied archaeological sites. Located near Rome, the capital of Italy, is a live excavation site. Volunteers, whether students of archeology or anyone with an interest in historical and cultural preservation, will have an opportunity to work with a team of professional archaeologists. Throughout this experience, volunteers will learn how to preserve and restore archaeological finds, participate in historical heritage excursions during weekends, and join classes on Italian history. Volunteers will also have the opportunity to support archaeologists to bring to light old archaeological finds of the Roman and Etruscan era, in “minor” excavation sites. Along these lines, volunteers will gain experience with tools and techniques used in archeology digs, as well as archeological photography, all while playing a vital role in preserving the region’s history. While there, volunteers will also get to discover the surroundings of Allumiere, a small town containing important evidence of settlements dating back to the Bronze Age.

This minimum 1-week and maximum 2-week experience starts at $1,190 for 1 week and $1,500 for 2 weeks. Accommodation, food, airport transfers, orientation, and 24/7, GoEco support are all included.

FIND OUT MORE

GO ECO

Renovate Schools in Cape Verde

An island nation off the coast of Africa, Cape Verde’s breathtaking scenery is at risk of being overshadowed by its legacy of colonial rule. Since achieving independence from Portugal in 1975, the country has made incredible strides towards overcoming its economic difficulties. Recognized in 2020 as the most democratic nation in Africa, it has been admired for its rapid improvements in the standard of living in spite of a notable lack of natural resources. Cape Verde’s economy relies heavily on services and tourism, and in recent years the country has opened itself to foreign investors in the hopes of promoting development. Volunteers will be able to improve the educational environment for underprivileged students by renovating and maintaining school facilities. Upon arriving in Cape Verde, volunteers will attend an orientation and participate in a Creole language lesson. During the week the volunteers will complete various projects, such as painting, tiling, laying bricks, gardening or fixing furniture. The weekends can be spent freely, exploring the local beaches, hiking in the natural parks and learning about the influence of Portuguese culture on the island. Volunteers also have the opportunity to extend their stay as part of the Culture Week in Tarrafel, which includes language lessons, visits to markets, museums, beaches and other exciting activities.

This 2-7 week experience costs $1,050 for the minimum of one week and six days and $3,330 for 7 weeks, and includes food, airport transfers, shared rooms, and 24/7 emergency support. Volunteers under the age of 18 must have a letter of consent from their parents.

Build and Renovate Schools in Fiji

Fiji is an island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean, and is home to a large Indigenous population. Despite having suffered under the yoke of British colonialism and the devastation of the Atlantic slave trade, the Republic of Fiji gained independence in 1970 and now boasts of one of the most developed economies in Oceania. However, the COVID-19 pandemic, along with a number of natural disasters and negative effects from foreign conflicts, have placed an unprecedented strain on the country’s economy. Many schools currently lack the necessary funding to build, maintain, and improve their infrastructure. Volunteers will work alongside local project coordinators to complete various tasks, including painting, demolition, landscaping, repair and cleaning. After arriving in Sigatoka, volunteers will attend a one-day orientation, during which they will learn about the volunteer program, the culture and history of Fiji, and rules and regulations, as well as meet the other volunteers. Alternatively, volunteers can participate in “Introduction Week” and spend their first week participating in a variety of activities and traveling around Fiji. While the weekdays will be spent participating in various projects, volunteers are free to spend the weekends exploring the island’s beaches and rainforests, or participating in other organized activities. Volunteers will live in dormitory-style houses near the communities where their projects are located, and will enjoy traditional Fijian cuisine during their stay.

This 1-12 week experience starts at $525/week per person and includes accommodations, meals, airport pickup and all tools and guides necessary for their projects.

FIND OUT MORE

INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTEER HQ

Improve Literacy Rates in Guatemala

Guatemala’s population has grown rapidly over the past few decades, and migration from the country’s rural towns to larger cities has put a nationwide strain on its resources. Poverty has become more rampant, and many Guatemalans are left in poor living conditions without having their basic needs being met. The poverty rates have also created an educational crisis, leaving Guatemala with one of the lowest literacy rates in the world. Participants on this trip will be able to make a difference by helping to combat the low literacy rates through teaching English or by working with local children at a nearby library. There are also projects to improve the living conditions of the poorest citizens, by pouring cement floors in homes, working with women’s groups and setting up personal or community gardens. When not at work, volunteers will be able to explore the Guatemalan culture through Mayan flute lessons, tortilla making, attending a Mayan Fire Ceremony and by exploring the surrounding natural parks. For the more adventurous, optional day adventures are available and can include activities like horseback riding and ziplining! This eight day trip starts at $1,437 per person. 

Conserve Marine Life in the Spanish Mediterranean

Spain, with one of the longest coastlines in the Mediterranean, is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. However, beneath the seemingly picture-perfect turquoise waters lies a growing trash and pollution crisis. To combat this, volunteer travelers will scuba dive into the waters of the Spanish Mediterranean to clean up pollutants that threaten local marine life. During the first week of the program, volunteers will learn to scuba dive from professionals, mastering the basics of underwater exploration and getting certified in the process. Once the official volunteering period begins, daily tasks will include cleaning the seabed to reduce marine debris, documenting and collecting information about fauna, fish and invertebrate species in a monitored biodiverse area as part of a scientific research project, as well as returning marine living organisms that got tangled in the trash back to the sea. On the weekends, there are also plenty of opportunities to learn Spanish and explore the vibrancy and culture of Barcelona. 

This minimum 1-week and maximum 12-week experience starts at $1,480 per person for one week and $8,960 per person for 12 weeks. Accommodation, food, airport transfers, and 24/7 GoEco support are all included. 

FIND OUT MORE

GOECO

Fight Poverty in India’s ‘Pink City’

India’s “Pink City” of Jaipur is named for its bright building facades dating back to the early 1700s. The city has since become Rajasthan state’s cultural and economic hub. Unfortunately, Jaipur also hosts a large number of impoverished residents whose basic needs remain largely unmet. On this trip, volunteers will help rescued child laborers and disadvantaged children by providing support at schools and day care centers. Participants will also work to improve educational facilities by refurbishing the existing structures. All projects are focused on increasing the quality of life for Jaipur’s disadvantaged communities. During spare time, volunteers can explore Jaipur’s bazaar, take an elephant ride at the nearby Amer Fort, visit a traditional carpet factory or eat with a local family. Volunteers can look forward to enjoying the sights, sounds and tastes of India while bettering the quality of life for those in need. This one-week trip costs $1,557.

FIND OUT MORE

Globe Aware

CHECK OUT MORE CATALYST TRIPS HERE

Promote English Education in Rural Thailand

Thailand’s Nan province struggles with a lack of educational resources. Many students are children of seasonal farmworkers who lack transportation to schools and suffer from poor attendance and high dropout rates. These schools particularly need English teachers as an understanding of the language has become necessary for many jobs in Thailand. Volunteers for the “Child Education” program provide valuable language lessons while engaging students with activities to drive attendance and promote the importance of an education. This trip is run by Cross-Cultural Solutions, a group that aims to “mobilize cross-cultural impact volunteering that improves education and health opportunities for children who need it most.” The trip can last anywhere from one to four weeks and starts at $1,990.

FIND OUT MORE

Cross-Cultural Solutions

CHECK OUT MORE CATALYST TRIPS HERE

Volunteer in Sustainable Farming in Guatemala

Guatemala, the most populous country in Central America, is endowed with an abundance of rich ecosystems and fertile land. However, almost half the population cannot afford the cost of the basic food basket, while food insecurity remains a pressing issue in the country. In recent years, sustainable agriculture has seen a sharp rise in popularity as it simultaneously tackles environmental issues and poverty-induced challenges. However, the introduction of these newer farming practices has also generated a demand for more hands in the field to maintain optimal production. Through this project, volunteers will be able to work with local farmers just outside of Antigua, where they can learn about the sustainable farming of coffee and macadamia nuts and participate in every step of the production process, from picking to weeding, planting, processing, and packaging. At the same time, volunteers will gain a deeper understanding of traditional agricultural techniques that have been practiced for centuries. This project also offers participants the chance to immerse themselves within local Guatemalan life and learn more about the rich history and culture of the region.

This minimum 1-week experience starts at $665 per person and includes airport pick-up, host family accommodations, meals, and 24/7 emergency support. Volunteers will work for 3-4 hours per day from Monday to Friday.

Experience Morocco like a Local

Morocco, the westernmost country in the Maghreb region of North Africa, is a melting pot of cultures and traditions. With influences from Berber, Arab and various European cultures, Morocco has shaped and conceived for itself an identity that is uniquely its own. The only way to understand and appreciate the full depth and breadth of Moroccan life is to explore the country like a local. During this experience, travelers will be able to stay at a riad, a traditional Moroccan home with an interior courtyard, in Marrakech, the fourth largest city in the country and walk the narrow streets of the old medina to the great square of Jemaa el Fnaa, the city’s main square and market place. Henna-painting, storytelling, myriad performances and abundant stalls teeming with local Moroccan delicacies are all on offer at the square. From Marrakech, the group will then travel to the High Atlas Mountains with a stop in the town of Tahanaout, where they will experience a hands-on cooking class. An afternoon trek to the small village of Aroumd offers travelers the unique opportunity to learn about traditional Berber culture as well. Having experienced city and village life, the group will then have the chance to camp in the Sahara Desert for a night, exploring the stunning wind-blown sand dunes of Erg Chebbi and dancing under the stars around an open fire. After a sunrise camel ride the next day, the group will drive along the famous “Road of 1000 Kasbahs”, so named for the numerous kasbahs – citadels of North African cities – dotting its valleys and desert paths, before heading back to Marrakech. To conclude the journey, travelers can opt in for a stunning hot air balloon ride overlooking the city.

This 8-day and 7-night experience starts at $1,395 per person and includes accommodation, transportation, and 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 7 dinners. 

FIND OUT MORE

UNDER 30 EXPERIENCES

Volunteer in Marine Conservation in Lisbon

According to a 2020 National Oceanography Center study, there is at least ten times more plastic in the Atlantic Ocean than previously believed. Such astronomical numbers are indicative of the rapidly worsening pollution issues afflicting the world’s marine environments and testify to the increasing need for marine conservation. During this experience, volunteers will be directly involved in such conservation efforts, with a specific focus on the marine ecosystem in the south coast of Portugal. Based in Lisbon, the program begins with a certified scuba diving course in which participants receive comprehensive training on diving techniques and the marine ecosystem from an experienced diver. Once volunteers have received their certifications, they will begin their open ocean dives near the coast where most of the rubbish discarded by local fishermen can be found. Besides the dives, volunteers will also assist with beach and marine clean-ups and take part in small-group tutorials on the local ecosystem, which are provided by local instructors. Volunteering for 3 to 4  hours per day, Monday through Friday, participants will have plenty of time to explore the culture and history of Lisbon as well.

This minimum 1-week and maximum 4-week experience starts at $1,279 per person for 1 week and $3,789 per person for 4 weeks. Accommodation, meals and scuba diving lessons are all included.

FIND OUT MORE
LOVE VOLUNTEERS

Experience Uganda’s Culture and Wildlife

Uganda, a medium-sized country in East Africa’s Great Lakes region, is home to diverse wildlife and has a rich history and civilization. Off Season Adventures is currently offering a cultural tour of the nation, during which travelers will immerse themselves within Ugandan life and traditions, participating in myriad activities including farming, tasting fresh local foods, basket weaving, preparing local dishes and watching cultural performances. The group will also have the opportunity to visit the Kibale Forest National Park, which is home to 13 species of primates, the most famous of which is the chimpanzee. Trekking through the forest for 2-3 hours with a Uganda wildlife ranger, travelers will be able to observe the chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Other highlights include a visit to a local tea plantation to learn about the production process, help pick tea leaves and taste some of the final product. Travelers will also learn to prepare local delicacies at a nearby village and try out some weaving techniques at the village handicraft workshop. At the village the group will assist the African Sustainable Tourism Cares Foundation (ASTCF) with some of its community conservation projects which focus on women and youth empowerment, clean water, renewable energy, sanitation and environmental conservation. To conclude the journey travelers will visit some of the many historic sites of capital city Kampala and explore the Ssezibwa Falls, a heritage site in the Buganda Kingdom. Prepare to find out why Uganda, a modern republic with a president as its head of state, has a kingdom with a reigning monarch within its borders!

This 8-day and 7-night experience starts at $3,000 per person and includes accommodation, transportation, and contribution to the 501(c)(3) organization Second Look Worldwide. 

FIND OUT MORE

OFF SEASON ADVENTURES