10 Small Communities Around the Globe For Volunteer Travel

Volunteer travel, or voluntourism, is a form of travel where individuals or groups engage in voluntary work while exploring new destinations. It combines the desire to explore different cultures and places with the opportunity to positively impact local communities and contribute to meaningful projects.

This post will give you ten destinations and trustworthy organizations to look for when planning your next volunteer travel adventure. Also, you will find tips to help you plan your trip as smoothly as possible.

If you are instead looking for Popular Volunteer Vacations Hubs Around the Globe, we have built a post about that too.

What Should I Look for When Planning My Volunteer Travel Journey?

Remember that the impact of volunteer travel can vary, and it’s important to manage your expectations. Meaningful change takes time, and it’s essential to maintain a realistic perspective while contributing positively to the communities you visit.

Here are some key aspects and considerations regarding volunteer travel:

1. Types of Volunteer Projects: Volunteer opportunities vary widely, ranging from environmental conservation and wildlife protection to community development, education, healthcare, and disaster relief. Projects can be short-term, such as a few weeks, or long-term, spanning several months or even years.
2. Research and Planning: Before embarking on a volunteer travel experience, it’s crucial to research and selects reputable organizations or programs that align with your interests and values. Look for organizations prioritizing sustainable development, community involvement, and responsible tourism practices.
3. Skills and Interests: Consider your skills, expertise, and personal interests when choosing a volunteer project. Assess how your abilities can contribute to the project’s goals and what you hope to gain from the experience. This will help ensure a meaningful and mutually beneficial engagement.
4. Cultural Sensitivity: Volunteer travellers should approach new cultures and communities with respect, cultural sensitivity, and an open mind. Learn about local customs, traditions, and etiquette to foster positive interactions and avoid inadvertently causing offence.
5. Impact and Sustainability: Look for volunteer programs prioritizing long-term sustainability and community empowerment. Assess how the project aims to create lasting positive change and involve local community members in decision-making.
6. Costs and Logistics: Volunteer travel often requires financial contributions to cover program fees, accommodation, meals, transportation, and other expenses. Ensure you understand the total cost involved and how the funds are allocated. Additionally, consider visa requirements, travel insurance, vaccinations, and other logistical aspects when planning your trip.
7. Ethical Considerations: While volunteer travel can be a rewarding experience, it’s essential to approach it critically and ethically. Avoid engaging in projects perpetuating harmful stereotypes, exploiting local communities, or having questionable practices. Instead, opt for organizations committed to responsible tourism and ethical volunteering.

10 Small Volunteer Travel Destinations:

1. Otavalo, Ecuador:

Otavalo is a small town in northern Ecuador known for its vibrant indigenous culture and stunning handicrafts market. Volunteer projects in Otavalo often focus on education, healthcare, and community development. Some organizations to consider volunteering with include Yanapuma Foundation, Volunteers for Peace, and Eco Volunteer UP.

2. San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua:

San Juan del Sur is a small beach town on the Pacific coast of Nicaragua that is a hub for volunteer travel. Volunteer projects in San Juan del Sur often focus on education, healthcare, and community development. Some organizations to consider volunteering with include Comunidad Connect, Waves of Hope, and Outreach360.

3. Rurrenabaque, Bolivia:

Rurrenabaque is a small town in the Bolivian Amazon that is a hub for volunteer travel due to its stunning wildlife and opportunities to experience traditional indigenous cultures. Volunteer projects in Rurrenabaque often focus on wildlife conservation, healthcare, and community development. Some organizations to consider volunteering with include ConservationVIP and Sustainable Bolivia.

4. El Nido, Philippines:

El Nido is a small town on Palawan island in the Philippines known for its stunning beaches and island hopping tours. Volunteer projects in El Nido often focus on marine conservation, education, and community development. Some organizations to consider volunteering with include El Nido Foundation, Palawan Council for Sustainable Development, and Marine Conservation Philippines.

5. Livingstone, Zambia:

Livingstone is a small town in southern Zambia that is known for its proximity to Victoria Falls and opportunities to experience African wildlife. Volunteer projects in Livingstone often focus on wildlife conservation, education, and community development. Some organizations to consider volunteering with include African Impact, ALERT (African Lion & Environmental Research Trust), and Greenpop.

6. Mae Sot, Thailand:

Mae Sot is a small town on the Thai-Myanmar border that is a hub for volunteer travel due to its proximity to several refugee camps and opportunities to work with marginalized communities. Volunteer projects in Mae Sot often focus on education, healthcare, and community development. Some organizations to consider volunteering with include The Border Consortium, Mae Tao Clinic, and Children of the Forest (no, not the ones from Game Of Thrones.)

7. Mahahual, Mexico:

Mahahual is a small beach town on Mexico’s Caribbean coast that is a hub for volunteer travel. Volunteer projects in Mahahual often focus on marine conservation, education, and community development. Some organizations to consider volunteering with include Amigos de Sian Ka’an, Oceanus, and Mahahual Ecological Tours.

8. Thimphu, Bhutan:

Thimphu is the capital city of Bhutan, a small Himalayan kingdom known for its Gross National Happiness philosophy and stunning scenery. Volunteer projects in Thimphu often focus on education, healthcare, and community development. Some organizations to consider volunteering with include Wellness Bhutan, Bhutan Canada Foundation, and RENEW (Respect, Educate, Nurture, Empower Women).

9. Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka:

Arugam Bay is a small beach town on the east coast of Sri Lanka that is a hub for volunteer travel. Volunteer projects in Arugam Bay often focus on marine conservation, education, and community development. Some organizations to consider volunteering with include Ocean Unite, Arugam Bay Surf Club, and Island Reach.

10. Bariloche, Argentina:

Bariloche is a small city in Argentina’s Patagonian region known for its stunning natural beauty and opportunities to experience Argentine culture. Volunteer projects in Bariloche often focus on environmental conservation and human rights. Some organizations to consider are ELI Abroad and Academia Bariloche.

Final Thoughts About Volunteer Travel

Remember, volunteer travel is not just about what you give; it’s also about what you gain. It can broaden your horizons, challenge your perspectives, and deepen your understanding of global issues. You can make a positive difference by approaching volunteer travel with sensitivity, responsibility, and a commitment to sustainable change while creating lifelong memories.

Let Us Know Your Experience in the Comments Below

Have you volunteered on your vacations? What do you think of these cities? Are there other cities we should add to our list?