Maasai Immersion Project. Courtesy of IVHQ.
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.
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Algeria, the "Land of Contrasts," is renowned for its diverse landscapes, from the vast Sahara Desert to the lush Atlas Mountains. The nation's rich history, shaped by Arab, French, and Ottoman influences, offers the finest hospitality in cities like Algiers and Oran.
Travelers will start their journey in the capital, Algiers, with an overnight stay in a hotel. A full-day tour will allow everyone to marvel at the city's unique architecture. In Djemila, you'll see a city adapted to its mountainous setting. Next, head to Constantine, known for its spectacular views via seven bridges. A day trip includes visits to the Roman ruins of Tipaza and Cherchell.
The adventure continues to Tassili N'Ajjer National Park, featuring a stone forest placed in sand with an incredible natural arch. At the Guelta of Essendilene, you'll find numerous rock paintings and carvings, with "la vache qui pleure" (the crying cow) being the most famous piece. Finally, fly from Djanet to Algiers for some free time in the capital before departing on the final day.
Untamed Borders is an adventure travel company specialized in some of the world’s most interesting and inaccessible places. They run cultural tours as well as adventure sports including skiing, trekking, marathons and more. Whenever possible, proceeds from the trip are directed back to the communities visited and the trips are always led by local guides.
Crater Lake Region in Uganda. Courtesy of Follow Alice.
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounter in the heart of East Africa with this adventure. This trip takes the traveler deep into the lush rainforests of Uganda, one of the few places on Earth where one can come face-to-face with both endangered mountain gorillas and wild chimpanzees in their natural habitats. This experience requires a moderate fitness level, as the travelers will be hiking through thick jungle terrain, at times steep and muddy, especially during gorilla tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The trek can last several hours, depending on the location of the gorilla families, but the reward is unforgettable, seeing as the traveler can sit as close as a few feet away from a silverback and his family, watching them interact in a way that feels deeply human. In Kibale Forest National Park, known as the “primate capital of the world,” one can track troops of playful chimpanzees swinging through the canopy. Along the way, expect sightings of other primates, colorful birds, and lush tropical flora. Additionally, this trip includes visits to Queen Elizabeth National Park, where game drives may reveal elephants, lions, hippos, and more. A boat safari along the Kazinga Channel offers a peaceful way to observe wildlife gathering at the water’s edge. This journey is more than simply a safari–it is a profound exploration of connection, conservation, and awe.
This 10-day trip costs $3,590 per person. The trip is led by Follow Alice–an adventure travel company known for its ethical, community-centered approach to tourism. Founded in 2014 after cofounder Reto climbed Kilimanjaro with local Tanzanian guide Chris, Follow Alice was born out of a shared passion for exploration and cultural connection. Today, all of their guides are local, and 70% of each trip’s cost remains within the local economy, supporting sustainable travel as well as empowering communities.
Porter Forest. Courtesy of FollowAllice
Sophia Ehlers
The Rongai Route is Kilimanjaro’s most tranquil trail, approaching from the remote northern side near the Kenyan border. It’s ideal for trekkers seeking solitude, gradual ascents, and a more personal connection with the mountain. The route passes through unspoiled forest, moorland, and alpine desert, offering a peaceful alternative to the busier southern routes. Mt. Kilimanjaro is the world’s tallest free-standing mountain, and the highest peak in Africa, rising from tropical lowlands to icy glaciers at Uhuru Peak (about 3.7 miles). A journey through this route to reach the mountain has the traveler passing through five unique climate zones: Cultivation, Forest, Moorland, Alpine Desert, and Arctic/Glacial Zone. No ropes or specific fitness level required, but strong legs and stamina are essential. Luggage needed includes a daypack between 11-15 lbs with items such as water, snacks, personal items, and a camera. The other required luggage carrier is a duffel bag, which the traveler does not carry; instead, porters carry this bag, which will have the traveler’s gear, such as sleeping mats and any extra clothing. Hiking time lasts between 4-6 hours daily.
Early in the trek, the traveler passes through Chagga farming communities such as Nalemoru, where life follows traditional rhythms amid terraced banana and coffee farms. Though the climbers do not stay in the villages, the cultural backdrop adds depth to the experience. The final ascent begins just before midnight on summit night, when climbers set out under the stars to reach the peak by sunrise—a demanding but unforgettable push through lighter air and colder temperatures.
This trip is led by Follow Alice–an adventure travel company known for its ethical, community-centered approach to tourism. Founded in 2014 after cofounder Reto climbed Kilimanjaro with local Tanzanian guide Chris, Follow Alice was born out of a shared passion for exploration and cultural connection. Today, all of their guides are local, and 70% of each trip’s cost remains within the local economy, supporting sustainable travel as well as empowering communities. This 7-day trip is priced at $2,300 per person.
Mount Meru. Anja Pietsch. CC BY 2.0.
It takes about 5-7 hours to reach Mariakamba Hut at sea level, so there’s a journey to be had. Onward to Saddle Hut. If everyone wakes up early enough, they can see a beautiful sunrise behind Mt. Kilimanjaro. Later, after a steep climb, the group will reach the band of the mountain.
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Summit day. Courtesy of Follow Alice
Tanzania, located in East Africa, is home to diverse wildlife and Serengeti National Park. It is a great place to go on a safari and explore well-known sites. However, on this trip, travelers explore a different famed aspect of Tanzania: Mount Kilimanjaro, one of the world’s seven summits and the world’s tallest-free standing mountain. Travelers begin this trip upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport. The first day will be spent with a briefing about the upcoming trek along the Lemosho Route, known for its scenery and high success rate due to its good acclimatization profile. Travelers will begin this trek by entering through the Londorossi Park Gate, where they will have an hour's drive to the trailhead at Lemosho Gate and then hike for around three hours to Mti Mkubwa Camp (Big Tree Camp), where they will spend their first night. The next day, travelers will hike into the moorland zone, enjoying beautiful scenery before reaching the Shira 1 Camp. On the fourth day, travelers will continue through the Shira Plateau and see a gap in the Kibo crater created by lava flow before spending the night at Moir Hut. Then, travelers will hike to Lava Tower, where they will enjoy lunch before continuing to Barranco Camp. The next day, travelers will climb the Barranco Wall, which is steep but reportedly easier than it seems, with the reward of being above the clouds upon reaching the top of the wall. Travelers will then spend the night at Karanga Campa and wake up the following day ready to tackle some more hiking through the alpine desert before reaching Barafu Camp. Travelers will sleep early and get up at midnight to hike through sunrise, heading toward Uhuru Peak and the summit (the top of Africa). After this accomplishment, travelers will spend the next day hiking through the rainforest to Mweka Gate at the foot of the mountain, enjoying some last scenery before driving back to a lodge to spend the night, with departure being the next day.
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.
Image courtesy of Follow Alice
Embark on an unforgettable adventure trekking through Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and walk with endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This guided experience requires a moderate to high fitness level, as treks can last between 1-6 hours across steep, uneven, and often muddy terrain at altitudes up to 3,000 meters. Along the way, travelers will traverse lush bamboo forests and volcanic landscapes, with the chance to spot golden monkeys and exotic birdlife. Highlights include views of the dramatic Virunga volcanoes and, for some itineraries, a visit to the Dian Fossey Memorial, honoring the pioneering primatologist. The real pinnacle is a close, intimate encounter with a gorilla family–an awe-inspiring, once-in-a-lifetime moment that connects you deeply with nature and global conservation efforts. Watching the gorillas interact, feed, and play in their natural environment offers not only breathtaking photo opportunities but also a humbling reminder of the fragility and beauty of the vast biodiversity on planet Earth.
This 4-10 day trip is priced at $3,600 per person. The trip is led by Follow Alice–an adventure travel company known for its ethical, community-centered approach to tourism. Founded in 2014 after cofounder Reto climbed Kilimanjaro with local Tanzanian guide Chris, Follow Alice was born out of a shared passion for exploration and cultural connection. Today, all of their guides are local, and 70% of each trip’s cost remains within the local economy, supporting sustainable travel as well as empowering communities.
Image courtesy of Follow Alice
The Wildlife of Rwanda trip is 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.
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Embark on an unforgettable adventure trekking through Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and walk with endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This guided experience requires a moderate to high fitness level, as treks can last between 1-6 hours across steep, uneven, and often muddy terrain at altitudes up to 3,000 meters. Along the way, travelers will traverse lush bamboo forests and volcanic landscapes, with the chance to spot golden monkeys and exotic birdlife. Highlights include views of the dramatic Virunga volcanoes and, for some itineraries, a visit to the Dian Fossey Memorial, honoring the pioneering primatologist. The real pinnacle is a close, intimate encounter with a gorilla family–an awe-inspiring, once-in-a-lifetime moment that connects you deeply with nature and global conservation efforts. Watching the gorillas interact, feed, and play in their natural environment offers not only breathtaking photo opportunities but also a humbling reminder of the fragility and beauty of the vast biodiversity on planet Earth.
This 4-10 day trip is priced at $3,600 per person. The trip is led by Follow Alice–an adventure travel company known for its ethical, community-centered approach to tourism. Founded in 2014 after cofounder Reto climbed Kilimanjaro with local Tanzanian guide Chris, Follow Alice was born out of a shared passion for exploration and cultural connection. Today, all of their guides are local, and 70% of each trip’s cost remains within the local economy, supporting sustainable travel as well as empowering communities.
Chimpanzee, Kibale National Park, Uganda. Flowcomm. CC BY 2.0.
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounter in the heart of East Africa with this adventure. This trip takes the traveler deep into the lush rainforests of Uganda, one of the few places on Earth where one can come face-to-face with both endangered mountain gorillas and wild chimpanzees in their natural habitats. This experience requires a moderate fitness level, as the travelers will be hiking through thick jungle terrain, at times steep and muddy, especially during gorilla tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The trek can last several hours, depending on the location of the gorilla families, but the reward is unforgettable, seeing as the traveler can sit as close to a few feet away from a silverback and his family, watching them interact in a way that feels deeply human. In Kibale Forest National Park, known as the “primate capital of the world,” one can track troops of playful chimpanzees swinging through the canopy. Along the way, expect sightings of other primates, colorful birds, and lush tropical flora. Additionally, this trip includes visits to Queen Elizabeth National Park, where game drives may reveal elephants, lions, hippos, and more. A boat safari along the Kazinga Channel offers a peaceful way to observe wildlife gathering at the water’s edge. This journey is more than simply a safari–it is a profound exploration of connection, conservation, and awe.
This 10-day trip costs $3,590 per person. The trip is led by Follow Alice–an adventure travel company known for its ethical, community-centered approach to tourism. Founded in 2014 after cofounder Reto climbed Kilimanjaro with local Tanzanian guide Chris, Follow Alice was born out of a shared passion for exploration and cultural connection. Today, all of their guides are local, and 70% of each trip’s cost remains within the local economy, supporting sustainable travel as well as empowering communities.
Before leaving the town, travelers will have the chance to tube down the Nile and go on a sunset cruise on Lake Victoria. The next day, travelers will head to Mount Elgon National Park. This area is known for Bugisu Arabic coffee and travelers will have the opportunity to go on a coffee tour to learn about the coffee farming process.
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White Rhinos. Ray in Manila. CC BY 2.0.
. On this trip, travelers will begin with the option to see such wildlife, with the option of visiting the Giraffe Centre to see endangered Rothschild’s giraffes. The next day, travelers will head to the Laikipia region to meet a Maasai women’s cooperative that helps with the sustainable farming of aloes.
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Gorilla. Brokinhrt2. CC BY 2.0.
East Africa’s Uganda is considered one of the most beautiful countries in the world, home to many mountainous and forested national parks, as well as the largest freshwater lake on the continent. This trip begins in the capital, Kampala, called “the city of seven hills.” Travelers will also visit Lake Bunyonyi, a “place of many little birds,” known for its green terraced hills and twenty-nine islands, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for a guided mountain gorilla trek, and the Kalinzu Forest Reserve. This trip creates opportunities for the group to take a motorboat tour, go birdwatching, paddle in canoes, or to go swimming at Crater Lake. Finishing in the city of Jinja, the source of the Nile River, travelers can bike in the Mabira Forest, kayak in the Nile, or even go bungee jumping.
This is a nine-day trip and costs $2,949. This trip is led by the sustainable travel company G Adventures. 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 trip caters to travelers 18 to 30-something with plenty of free time to make new friends and go with the flow.
Volunteer project, Nairobi. Courtesy of IVHQ.
While in Nairobi, volunteers will work in women’s centers to promote women's education and empowerment through income-generating projects. Volunteers will also help women in under-resourced communities and centers affected by HIV/AIDS.
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Hot air ballooning in the Serengeti. Courtesy of G Adventures LTD
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.
G Adventures is a sustainable, small group tour company that has been leading travelers for 35+ years. They have been pioneers in community tourism and their trips directly benefit the local communities they visit. They have a responsible travel effort called G For Good and partner with the nonprofit Planeterra, dedicated to ensuring communities touched by tourism benefit from it. They were rated one of CATALYST PLANET’s 8 Best Sustainable Travel Companies.
Volunteering in Cape Town. Courtesy of IVHQ.
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.
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IVHQ Wildlife Conservation Project, Courtesy of IVHQ.
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.
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Elephants. Courtesy of G Adventures LTD.
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.
Elephants on safari in Southern Africa. Armin Rodler. CC BY-NC 2.0.
South Africa’s philosophy of Ubuntu perfectly encapsulates the nation’s spirit of hospitality and mutual responsibility for well-being. Desmond Tutu explained it as, “I am because I belong.” It means that everyone shares a common humanity and all visitors are as welcome as the locals. Beginning in South Africa’s City of Gold, Johannesburg, specialized overlanding vehicles will take travelers to Serowe, Botswana. Originally named Bechuanaland, the Republic of Botswana was a British protectorate and attained independence in 1966. It is predominantly inhabited by the Botswana people whose recorded history goes back to 14th century migrants from Gauteng, South Africa. From here, travelers journey to the Okavango Delta, known for its high population of elephants, via Maun, where they can experience an aquatic excursion into the Delta on a traditional canoe (mokoro). Travelers continue their journey through Gweta and Kasane before crossing into Zimbabwe and arriving at Victoria Falls. Known as Mosi-oa-Tunya (thundering smoke), the ‘Vic Falls’ was given its English name by the British explorer, David Livingstone, after Queen Victoria. This is then followed by a scenic drive and exploration of the Matobo National Park, which has been the site of civilization for 40,000 years. After crossing back into South Africa, travelers are taken on a safari to the Kruger National Park before returning to Johannesburg. The Kruger National Park is one the largest game reserves in Africa and was named for Paul Kruger, a South African politician who led the Transvaal Republic against the British in the Anglo-Boer War.
This 15-day experience, organized by G Adventures, starts at $1,756 per person and includes simple hotels and camping accommodations, transportation, safari, various activities, 13 breakfasts, 12 lunches, 8 dinners and local guides. The trip has a maximum group limit of 22 travelers aged 18–39, and is suitable for individuals with average fitness as it includes light hiking, biking, rafting/kayaking and walking.
Courtesy of Untamed Borders
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.