Cruise the Maldives in a Traditional Dhoni

The Maldives is a tropical archipelagic country in the Indian Ocean and is famous for its pristine white beaches and distinctive atolls, ring-like islands whose land surrounds an interior lagoon. It was known by the Arabs in the 2nd century as the “Money Isle” because of its monopolized control and export of cowry shells, an international currency of the time. Initially a British protectorate, the nation declared independence in 1968, and today the Maldives relies upon its tourism and fishing industries to support its economy. On this trip, travelers will be met at the airport and driven by a local guide to the airport marina. Here, they can enjoy a snorkeling excursion before boarding a traditional dhoni boat. Travelers spend five days cruising around the South Male and Felidhu atolls while visiting different islands, drumming with locals, snorkeling through coral reefs and walking on beaches. The Maldives has 700 species of fish and 70 of coral. The coral, individually small marine invertebrates, secrete the stony reefs as a protective exoskeleton. The tour is relaxed, and perfect for travelers seeking idyllic peace while enjoying stunning scenery and novel experiences. Optional activities include a beach cleanup to help remove unrecyclable plastic and protect the Maldivian sea life.

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, a Chief Experience Officer, and trip revenue is driven to help the local community. Starting at $1628 per person, this experience lasts over the course of 7 days. Transportation between destinations, some meals, snorkeling equipment and accommodation will be included.

Experience the Ruins and Mayan Riviera in Mexico

The Maya built one of the most advanced civilizations in history; they had their own written language, calendar, rubber, architectural design and agriculture. Their rich history dates back to over 3000 years ago. Among other notable accomplishments, these peoples of southern Mexico and the Yucatan were sophisticated mathematicians, discovering the concept of zero a thousand years before the Europeans. They also had creative freedom; their artistic depictions consisted of warriors and kings with curved features. Today, many ruins in southern Mexico are open for travelers, including Coba, Becan, Calakmul, Palenque, Tulum, and Altun Ha. These sites are in Yucatan, Campeche and Quintana Roo. Many of these ruins have been designated as World Heritage sites. Travelers will start their adventure in Mexico City and can arrive anytime. Everyone will have a chance to get acquainted with each other and explore the local bars and restaurants. In Oaxaca, everyone can check out local taverns, sample food and learn about indigenous culture in the area. After this the group will arrive in the Sumidero Canyon, where travelers can join in for an included boat ride down by the river. Up next is an opportunity to visit nearby indigenous Mayan villages in San Cristobal to learn about their culture. On the way to Palenque, people can stop at the Roberto Barrios waterfall for a swim. The fun continues at Bacalar, where everyone can enjoy the three cenotes and a picnic lunch. The group can expect a guided tour and memorable sights at Chichen Itza. Arrive at Tulum, home to trendy beach clubs. 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 $1,329 per person, this experience lasts over the course of 14 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.

Experience the Coastlines and Cloud Forests of Costa Rica

Costa Rica, the land of Pura Vida, is considered the home of ecotourism. The country boasts 28 national parks, 58 wildlife refuges, 32 protected zones, 15 wetland areas, 11 forest reserves and eight biological reserves. Among these landmarks are three reserves known as cloud forests. Cloud forests take their name from very real natural phenomena, the fog and low-hanging clouds hovering just above a forest's upper canopy which rain down onto the leaves and trees below. The three most well-known cloud forests are Children’s Eternal Rainforest, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, and Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve. Monteverde is home to a natural phenomenon known as the Great Divide, which is between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. The same cloud forest is home to three thousand of nine thousand species of plants in all of Costa Rica. Travelers will start their journey in San Jose and arrive at any time. On the way to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, everyone can enjoy the scenery and tropical seascape. Then, everyone will travel north to San Juan for a local homestay, which includes meals. At La Fortuna, the group will have a chance to see the Arenal Volcano; hot springs, whitewater rafting, and waterfall rappelling are all optional. At Monteverde, everyone can stop at Life Monteverde, a coffee cooperative, for coffee tastings. The group can engage in a tour of the farm to learn about continuous agriculture. The group can surf the waves at Santa Teresa and Montezuma and spend time at the beach towns. Arrive back in San Jose and 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 $1,162??? per person, this experience lasts over the course of 14 days. Transportation between destinations, some meals, and accommodation will be included.

Volunteer to Help Conserve Peru’s Rainforests

Peru is a land of contrasts. The country is home to mountain systems, arid deserts and coastal plains, and its three prominent topographical bands are Costa, Sierra and Amazonia. The Amazon Rainforest covers almost two-thirds of Peru, about 60% of the nation's territory! The Peruvian Amazon is home to over 1,800 species of birds, 700 kinds of fish, 500 types of mammals, and over 300 reptile species. Ecotourism has become an essential industry in Peru; the nation has a higher percentage of protected land than any other country in South America. Specifically, there are fifty-three protected areas throughout the country. This includes national parks, reserves, sanctuaries and reserved zones. Volunteers can help with a wide range of conservation activities that add to preserving Peru’s climate and animals. Participants will be based in the heart of the jungle, where they will receive a different kind of insight into Peru’s rich biodiversity. Tasks include (but are not limited to) reforestation, home-based maintenance, research projects, trail conservation and animal inventories. Volunteers will immerse themselves in Peruvian culture and gain conservation and research experience, all while making a difference in the nation's ecosystem.

This is a minimum two-week and 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 $805 for two weeks and $6,750 for 24 weeks.

Travel Across Europe, From Amsterdam to Dubrovnik

On this trip, travelers will venture from the Netherlands to Croatia,  13 of Europe’s most renowned cities. Starting from Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands and once the wealthiest city in Western Europe, travelers will voyage to Berlin and explore the city’s cultural centers and historical sites. They will then stop in Dresden before moving on to Prague, the Czech capital which has for centuries been a cultural and economic hub of Central Europe. Travelers will have the opportunity to witness many of the historic city’s most fascinating sites, including the Prague Castle, the Charles Bridge and the Astronomical Clock on the Old Town Hall. After enjoying the architecture and cuisine of Prague, travelers will make their way to Vienna, stopping along the way at Český Krumlov, a picturesque town in Southern Bohemia. While in Vienna, travelers can visit world-famous museums and explore the scenic countryside before returning to Germany to experience Salzburg and Munich. Moving South, travelers will spend two nights in Venice, exploring the erstwhile republic’s famous squares and canals. Before leaving Italy, travelers will visit Florence, where they can enjoy some of the best cuisine in the nation in restaurants and on food tours, and will spend two nights in Rome exploring the stunning art and architecture of the Eternal City. Travelers will then arrive in Croatia and experience the culture of Split, the largest city on the Croatian coast. Originally founded as a Greek colony around the 2nd century BCE, the city is now recognized as a cultural center of the nation and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Travelers will take a Hydrofoil sailing trip to Korčula, an island in the Adriatic Sea, where they will tour its Old Town and enjoy fresh seafood on the coast. Finally, travelers will go by boat to Dubrovnik, where they will spend one more free day before returning home.

This 23-day Roamie starts at $4,099 and includes accommodations, transportation, various activities, and 21 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.

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.

Volunteer to Assist with the Galapagos Islands' Conservation, Marketing and Media

The Galapagos Islands was one of the first designated UNESCO World Heritage sites, gaining the title in 1978. The Islands are renowned for their diverse plant and animal life, which includes more than 400 species of fish, 800 species of mollusks and some of the most unique birds on the planet. The archipelago group comprises 7,880 kilometers of land spread over 17,000 miles of ocean. It’s worth noting that these islands are welcome to tourists all year round due to their two primary seasons: a hot season from December to May and a dry season from June to November. Volunteers have a chance to raise essential initiatives while volunteering in the archipelago. Participants can promote the conservation and sustainability of the Galapagos while gaining digital marketing and social media experience. They will have the opportunity to work with eco-tourism agencies, restaurants, farms and small family businesses. Participants will share their products and messages within Ecuador and beyond through content creation. Duties may include supporting the local team with social media content, taking photos and videos of activities, creating informative social media content, and implementing communication plans in social networks. Volunteers will need to bring their own gear to use on this project.

This is a minimum two-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 $1,420 for two weeks and $6,620 for 12 weeks.

Volunteer to Assist Maasai Communities in Tanzania

Volunteers are based at a village in remote Maasailand of Tanzania. Here, they can live and learn from the Maasai people who have lived in areas of what are now Tanzania and Kenya for hundreds of years. The Maasai of Tanzania are pastoralists, with a lifestyle centered around cattle. Volunteers will support a rural Maasai community in various ways, including environmental conservation, poverty reduction, farming and welfare. Volunteers can also help local doctors, create social media content, and work on construction projects for school expansions.

This is a two-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 $463 for two weeks.

Explore Northern India and the Taj Mahal

Northern India is a melting pot of culture close to China, Nepal and Pakistan. This central location means that the land consists of a combination of Buddhist, Hindu and other religious cultures. Rajasthan is the largest state in India; it boasts an area of 342,239 square kilometers with a population of 68,548,437 people. In addition to sheer size, the state is home to nine UNESCO World Heritage sites and 22 former kingdoms called princely states. It’s also worth noting that the state is home to the world’s ninth-largest subtropical desert: Thar, the Great Indian Desert. It covers 60% of the state, as well as parts of Punjab, Gujarat, Haryana, and Pakistan. In addition, travelers may notice that Rajasthan’s significant cities are color coded. Jaipur is known as the pink city, while Jodhpur consists of blue-colored houses. Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest cities, is also known as the epicenter of sciences. It is believed that this place was once the home of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is believed that whoever has their final breath here will attain salvation. It is a significant trading center and hub of literature, religion, music and filmography. Travelers can arrive in Delhi at any time. Sights include the Karol Bagh market, Old Delhi, the Great Mosque and more. In Raisar, people can go on a short tour of the village. They can see 100-year-old looms, the old water system, rural life, and experience a three-hour camel cart ride. In Jaisalmer, the Golden City, everyone can walk through the walled city and enter the ancient fort, onward to Jodhpur, the blue city and the second largest in Rajasthan. In Udaipur, people can bear witness to breathtaking lakes and Raj-era palaces. Onwards to Pushkar, the home of the 14th century Brahma Temple. In Tordi Sagar, everyone can take their time to appreciate local potters, cobblers and markets on a guided walk through the village. Afterward, travel to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. Visit the Hawa Mahal and the Palace of the Winds, and take an orientation walk around town. In Agra, travelers can see the iconic Taj Mahal, the so-called "Baby Taj," and Agra Fort. In Varanasi, there are plenty of temples and shrines to visit. Everyone can feel free to take an evening boat journey on the Ganges. Finally travelers will arrive back in Delhi and 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 or Chief Experience Officer, and trip revenue is driven to help the local community. Starting at $769 per person, this experience lasts 20 days. Transportation between destinations, some meals, and accommodation will be included.

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.

Explore the Beaches and Rainforests of Costa Rica

Costa Rica has long been recognized as one of the most stunning and essential destinations in Central America, and for good reason: its tropical beaches, lush rainforests and abundance of dazzling wildlife make for an unforgettable travel experience. On this trip travelers will be able to immerse themselves in both the culture and natural beauty of Costa Rica while journeying from Liberia to Tamarindo. The trip will begin in the city of Liberia, the largest city in the Guanacaste Province and known as a gateway to the pristine shores of the Pacific coast. Here, travelers will spend a day exploring the city before visiting Poza Los Coyotes, a natural park filled with turquoise pools and beautiful caves. After swimming, tubing and hiking through the park, travelers will spend the night in the beach town of Nosara before visiting Playa Guiones, one of the most scenic beaches in Costa Rica. With an average water temperature of around 82 degrees Fahrenheit, the beach is perfect for surfing, swimming and boogie boarding. The next day travelers will stop at Guaitil, where they will learn about the small village’s unique Chorotega-style pottery. This form of pottery was devised by the Chorotega Indigenous tribes, and involves mixing clay and sand from iguana nests and paints made from minerals. The final day will be spent in Tamarindo, where travelers can participate in a surf lesson before venturing off to try a range of activities, including snorkeling, zip-lining, kayaking or relaxing on the local beaches. Known also for its vibrant nightlife, with an array of bars and restaurants, Tamarindo is the ideal place to spend a final night before returning home.

This 6-day G Adventures Roamie trip starts at $412 and includes accommodations, five 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 called a CEO (Chief Experience Officer), and the company focuses on investing revenue back into local communities.

Explore the Beaches and Temples of Bali

Once a refuge for persecuted Hindu nobles, priests and intellectuals, Bali is now the only predominantly Hindu island in the Indonesian archipelago. It is known as the Island of the Gods because of its numerous temples, each considered the residence of a god, and is characterized by looming volcanoes, stunning beaches, gamelan orchestras, and a colorful and festive culture. This tour begins in Kuta, known for its long sandy beaches and ideal surfing waves. The group meets and explores this bustling area together before enjoying drinks on the beach. From here, they travel to Kubutambahan and have lunch at the Bali Community Training Lunch Program, which G Adventures supports. This initiative helps and assists people living with disabilities. In a society where disabilities are considered taboo and ‘bad karma,’ this project fulfills a need to help educate communities and help provide employment. The evening is spent in a Balinese village watching a jungle sunset. Here, travelers can enjoy a Balinese cooking lesson before walking to a waterfall, swimming in a natural spring, or visiting a dragon fruit farm. They are then driven to Ubud, where they can explore Pura Taman Saraswati, a Balinese Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Sarasvati. It is also called Ubud Water Palace because of its picturesque water garden and lotus ponds. While in Ubud, travelers can explore the monkey sanctuary, home to the long-tailed Balinese macaque monkey. The tour continues to Gili Trawangan, where travelers can relax in a beachside bar and explore the area on foot. The next day offers travelers a chance to explore the island by bicycle and then celebrate the tour’s conclusion with a beach party. From here, travelers can take an optional boat transfer back to Kuta. 

This is a G Adventures 18-Thirtysomethings trip catering to 18–39-year-old travelers. All G Adventures trips are led by a local guide, a CEO or Chief Experience Officer, and trip revenue is driven to help the local community. Starting at $767 per person, this experience lasts over the course of 9 days. Transportation between destinations, some meals, a cooking class, waterfall and monkey sanctuary visits, and accommodation will be included.

Volunteer to Help in Cusco’s Healthcare

Peru is a country rich in cultural heritage and of great historical significance. This volunteer program is an on-site project in Cusco, Peru’s capital. Cusco was first established as the center of the Inca Empire and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Even though Peru’s government provides free healthcare, many areas have limited and unequal access to it. There are two different volunteer placements for this project. Licensed medical professionals and medical students in their third and fourth years can apply to be medical volunteers, while those who are unlicensed and/or are completing their medical training have access to Healthcare placements. Medical volunteers are typically placed at a national clinic, helping with primary and emergency care, or at assisted living facilities. They have the opportunity to shadow or work alongside local medical professionals. Healthcare volunteers are usually placed within assisted living facilities and help with the day-to-day care work while providing companionship to the patients. Volunteers in both programs can access in-country support, learn local therapy methods often unavailable in their home countries, and make a difference to people in underfunded facilities.

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 are included.

Help Construct Community Buildings in Guatemala

Antigua is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a significant example of Guatemala's culture and history. The city’s architecture is a fascinating mix of Spanish and Mayan heritage, and humor and gracious hospitality characterize its people. However, Guatemala’s popularity as a tourist hot-spot has resulted in the growing pressure on infrastructure and resources. This volunteer construction project has a significant positive impact on local communities and helps residents gain better access to education and healthcare. The project is on-site and close to the city center. Volunteers help construct public buildings like healthcare clinics, community centers, and schools. While on-site, volunteers are assisted by local Spanish-speaking project managers, experienced in guiding and training international 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 are 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.

Explore Ancient Ruins in Libya

Located in northern Africa with a long Mediterranean coast, the nation of Libya is renowned for its well-preserved ruins and archeological wonders that testify to the country’s rich history. Once the site of Phoenecian trading posts, the area was colonized by the ancient Greeks in 630 BC and eventually conquered by the Persians nearly a century later. Persian rule was ended by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, returning to the control of the Greeks until being annexed by the Romans in 74 BC. Having passed through the hands of so many powerful historical civilizations, the region has been endowed with remarkable cultural diversity and inspiring historical sites. During this trip, travelers will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Libya’s history and explore the remnants of these ancient civilizations. On the first day, travelers will arrive in the capital city of Tripoli, which was founded by Phoenician colonists in the 7th century BC. From there, the group will drive to Ghadames, an oasis settlement and trading center known as “the pearl of the desert” which lies on the border between Libya, Tunisia, and Algeria. A full day will be dedicated to exploring the traditional Berber architecture and the natural scenery of the Sahara desert before returning to Tripoli. Afterward, travelers will drive to Leptis Magna, once an important city in the ancient Carthaginian and Roman civilizations and now one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the Mediterranean region. Among these famed ruins are the Severan Basilica, the Arch of Septimius Severus and a number of other grandiose structures which have stood for millenia. The final full day of the trip will be spent at the Roman ruins in the city of Sabratha, established in 500 BC by the Phoenecians and now best known for its impressive three-story Roman theater. Travelers will spend their final night in Tripoli before returning home the next morning.

This 7-day experience is $2,550 per person and includes all accommodations, transport, activities, tour guides, and most meals.

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UNTAMED BORDERS