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The iconic Seljalandsfoss waterfall. Courtesy of Follow Alive

Explore the Wonders of Iceland

November 26, 2024

If travelers wish to immerse themselves in an island adventure with awe-inspiring landscapes, a trip to Iceland is a good match. This journey is designed for any type of traveler, as the only fitness level required is that of a walker (easy to moderate). Iceland brings scenic drives, light hikes, and a host of optional activities. The traveler begins in Reykjavik, the vibrant capital of Iceland, where one can stroll through charming streets, visit local galleries, and savor the city’s renowned culinary scene. The traveler can also venture into the Golden Circle, a route that showcases some of Iceland’s most celebrated natural wonders. At Pingvellir National Park, travelers can even witness the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Experiencing the power of Gullfoss is another benefit to taking this trip–it is the name of a majestic waterfall that cascades into a rugged canyon, and receives raving reviews from travelers. There are also plenty of erupting geysers: one is Strokkur, in near proximity to the capital city, and the largest geyser in all of Iceland. Additionally, there is another called Geysir, which is the most well-known in Iceland, and the name that inspired what would become the name of all other ‘geysers’-- hot springs of water that at times send shoots of water into the air. Ranging in width from a column to a wall, the water must reach boiling temperature from its dormant base temperature in order to erupt. The journey continues on into the South Coast, where the traveler will encounter the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara, the towering cliffs of Dyrholaey, and the stunning Fjadargliufur canyon. Additionally included on this adventure is Vatnajokull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier, and the surreal beauty of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs can be found drifting serenely in glacial lakes. For optional activities, the traveler can go exploring in ice caves or hike on and around glaciers. This journey is perfect for those seeking a comprehensive Icelandic experience, touching all the great landmarks and sights on the island.

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 9-day trip is priced at $3,195 per person.

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Tags Continent: Europe, Country: Iceland, Duration: 0 - 2 weeks, Cost: $1000 - $2500, Focus: Adventure, Focus: Hiking + Outdoors, Focus: All Travel

Happy group of kayakers. Courtesy of Follow Alice

Tour Sweden’s Islands by Kayak

October 29, 2024

This trip offers a rare chance to explore a pristine, island-dotted seascape by kayak–ideal for travelers seeking both adventure and deep calm. The tour typically covers 6–12 miles of paddling per day, making it suitable for moderately fit individuals with a sense of curiosity and a love of the outdoors–no prior kayaking experience needed. Days are spent gliding between uninhabited skerries (small islands consisting of rock), swimming in clear Baltic waters, foraging, and enjoying fresh meals prepared over open fires, while nights are spent wild camping on remote islets under extended Nordic twilight. Travelers bring only compact, waterproof duffels or dry bags (no hard luggage) to fit inside the kayaks, embracing a minimalist, self-supported adventure. What makes this trip unique is the combination of untouched wilderness, Sweden’s “Everyman’s Right” (a custom historic law stating that anyone can venture into natural landscapes without penalty), to roam and camp freely, and with rare access to otherwise unreachable spots teeming with seabirds, seals, and quiet beauty. Ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or small groups, this journey appeals to those looking to unplug from modern life and reconnect with nature–without sacrificing the thrill of movement, the warmth of shared meals, or the magic or a world far from roads and crowds.

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 $1,790 per person.

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Tags Continent: Europe, Country: Sweden, Duration: 0 - 2 weeks, Cost: $1000 - $2500, Focus: Hiking + Outdoors, Focus: All Travel
Women Walking Streets of Ireland

Explore Ireland

July 23, 2024

Ireland, the Land of Saints and Scholars, is home to more than 30,000 castles, stunning landscapes, and more than 7000 pubs. Dublin alone has 772. The capital is a UNESCO city of literature, home to many acclaimed literary pioneers including Oscar Wilde, Bram Stoker, James Joyce, W.B. Yeats, Samuel Beckett, and Sally Rooney. Cork, the Rebel County, is home to landmarks such as the Blarney Castle and many river channels. Travelers will begin their journey in Dublin where they will explore Trinity College, view the Book of Kells, see the medieval quarter, and visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Travelers will then visit Cork, and have a chance to see Spike Island. The group can experience traditional Irish sports including Gaelic football, hurling, and handball. They will get to see the Blarney Castle on the way to Killarney, the site of a famous national park. There are sights to be seen on the Ring of Kerry, such as rugged cliffs, shining beaches, mountain ranges, and bogs. In Limerick travelers can learn about Bunratty Castle and its history. Then, the group will visit Inis Oirr, the smallest of the 3 Aran Islands, and see the underground church of Saint Caomhán. 

This is a G Adventures’ National Geographic Family Journey catering to families who want to travel together. All G Adventures trips are led by a local guide, a CEO, Chief Experience Officer, and trip revenue is driven to help the local community. This is a 9 day trip and costs $3,824.

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In Arts and Culture Tags Cost: $2500+, Duration: 0 - 2 weeks, Focus: Art + Culture, Continent: Europe, Country: Ireland

Buildings and marina in Split, Croatia. Peter Safranka. CC0.

Volunteer to Create Impact in Croatia

June 28, 2024

Split is a city on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea in Croatia and is known for being a gorgeous coastal town with numerous historical sites. Lots of people visit the city to see the ruins of the Palace of Diocletian, along with other historical residences and churches, with the city’s old architecture beautifully set against the coast. On this trip, volunteers will work with the Content Creator for Impact project to run campaigns and create awareness about important social issues. They will also help local NGOs work to take action on a number of issues, such as women’s rights, marine conservation, and environmental issues. Additionally, volunteers will work with design software to conduct tasks such as creating infographics, designing brochures, editing videos, and building animations. This is a minimum 2-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 $1100 for two weeks and $5,200 for 12 weeks.

IVHQ is a volunteer travel company with 338 projects in 50 countries, rated #1 Volunteer Travel Company by Go Overseas for 7 years in a row. It is a cost-effective option with some programs as low as $20 per day with accommodation and meals included. They are a Certified B Corporation, 100% carbon neutral, and every project aligns with a UN Sustainable Development Goal.

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Tags Continent: Europe, Country: Croatia, Cost: $500 - $1000, Focus: Journalism + Media, Duration: 1 - 6 months, Duration: 2 - 4 weeks

Amalfi Coast, Italy. Courtesy of G Adventures LTD.

Explore Italy’s Amalfi Coast

June 24, 2024

In Southwest Italy, overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, sits one of the most acclaimed Mediterranean regions. The Amalfi Coast is home to a collection of quaint seaside towns and stunning landscapes of coastal cliffs, sprawling vineyards, and lemon groves. The romantic coastline stands in sharp contrast to the bustling city of Naples just an hour north, where this trip begins and ends. Travelers will stay in a converted 17th century monastery in the historic town of Furore, which they will have ample time to explore between exciting ventures to the best the region has to offer. Day trips include visits to surrounding towns, such as the coast’s namesake, hikes up mountains overlooking the sea, a ferry ride along the coast, and even a guided tour of the ruins of Pompeii. Upon return home to Furore, travelers will enjoy daily home cooked Italian dinners, often accompanied by cooking demonstrations.

This is an eight day trip and costs $1,364. 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.

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Tags Country: Italy, Continent: Europe, Focus: Art + Culture, Focus: Adventure, Duration: 0 - 2 weeks, Cost: $1000 - $2500
Vineyard in Sorrento Italy Over Ocean

Sorrento, Italy. Courtesy of G Adventures LTD.

Discover A Coastal Town in Italy

June 24, 2024

Sorrento is one of Southern Italy’s most acclaimed destinations, overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea on the Western point of the gorgeous Amalfi Coast region, a landscape of stunning cliffs occupied by romantic sea-side towns. Sorrento predates the Roman Empire, with ruins dating back to around 600 BC. Today, it is hailed for its numerous small ceramics and lacework shops, and is the home of Limoncello liqueur production, which travelers will have the chance to experience. Travelers will stay on an organic lemon farm, hosted by the local family that runs it, and get an authentic glimpse of what life on an Italian agriturismo is like. While there will be ample opportunity to explore Sorrento itself, travelers will also take numerous day-trips around the region, including hiking the “Path of the Gods,” taking a scenic boat ride along the coast, visiting the luxurious island of Capri, arriving and departing from the city of Naples, and even taking a guided tour of the ruins of Pompeii. Travelers will return each evening to the agriturismo and enjoy delicious food and drink under a Mediterranean sunset.

This is a seven day trip and costs $1,349. 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.

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Tags Country: Italy, Continent: Europe, Focus: Adventure, Focus: Art + Culture, Duration: 0 - 2 weeks, Focus: Agriculture + Farms, Cost: $1000 - $2500

Roman Colosseum, Italy. Courtesy of G Adventures LTD

Explore the Mountains and Culture of Europe

April 2, 2024

Travelers begin their trip in Paris and will get to spend their first night exploring the City of Love. During their time in Paris, travelers will have their lunch provided during an Eiffel Tower Picnic and will have the chance to visit museums and discover the city for themselves. Travelers will then travel by train to Interlaken, Switzerland

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Tags Continent: Europe, Country: France, Country: Italy, Country: Switzerland, Duration: 0 - 2 weeks, Cost: $1000 - $2500, Focus: All Travel, Focus: Art + Culture

Travel Across Europe, From Amsterdam to Dubrovnik

February 5, 2024

Travelers will venture from the Netherlands to Croatia, visiting 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.

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Tags Continent: Europe, Country: Netherlands, Country: Germany, Country: Czech Republic, Country: Austria, Country: Italy, Country: Croatia, Duration: 2 - 4 weeks, Cost: $1000 - $2500, Focus: All Travel

Bear rescue project in Croatia. Courtesy of IVHQ.

Volunteer to Help Conserve Croatia’s Bears

February 1, 2024

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.

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Tags Continent: Europe, Country: Croatia, Duration: 1 - 6 months, Focus: All Volunteer, Focus: Community Development, Focus: Wildlife, Cost: $1 - $500, Duration: 2 - 4 weeks

Cabbage growing. Prabahar Ravichandran. CC0.

Support a Community Garden in Romania

September 15, 2023

In this project, volunteers will help cultivate and maintain a community garden in the Romanian city of Miercurea Ciuc.

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Tags Continent: Europe, Country: Romania, Focus: All Volunteer, Focus: Agriculture + Farms, Focus: Community Development, Focus: Sustainability, Cost: $1 - $500, Duration: 0 - 2 weeks

Courtesy of G Adventures

Venture Through Western and Central Europe

August 17, 2023

his 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.

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Tags Continent: Europe, Country: Germany, Country: Austria, Country: Italy, Duration: 0 - 2 weeks, Cost: $1000 - $2500, Focus: Ages 18-35, Focus: All Travel

Cliffs of Moher. Mick Haupt. CC0.

Explore Historic and Natural Sites in Ireland

August 3, 2023

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

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Tags Continent: Europe, Country: Ireland, Duration: 0 - 2 weeks, Cost: $1000 - $2500, Focus: Hiking + Outdoors, Focus: Adventure, Focus: All Travel, Focus: Ages 18-35

Volunteer at an Italian Archaeological Dig

August 3, 2023

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.

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Tags Organizer: Go Eco, Country: Italy, Continent: Europe, Cost: $1000 - $2500, Duration: 0 - 2 weeks, Focus: Art + Culture

Courtesy of GoEco

Conserve Marine Life in the Spanish Mediterranean

June 15, 2023

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.

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Tags Organizer: Go Eco, Country: Spain, Continent: Europe, Cost: $1000 - $2500, Duration: 1 - 6 months, Focus: Wildlife, Focus: All Volunteer

Lady sitting in front of Parthenon on Acropolis, Athens, Greece. Kristoffer Trolle. CC BY 2.0.

Escape To The Landmarks of Greece

March 30, 2023

Greece is home to the longest coastline in Europe, filled with pristine beaches, Mediterranean forests, and rugged mountains. The country is also home to a myriad of prominent archeological sites from its ancient civilizations; these include the monasteries of Meteora, the mystical Delphi Archaeological Site, and above all, the city of Athens, home to the world-famous Parthenon, the incarnation of millennia of philosophy and culture. Travelers will follow the coastline from Corfu to Athens, the opportunity to visit these landmarks and take in the beauty of this unique nation. From the hanging monasteries of Meteora, to the ancient city of Delphi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, whose structures include ancient buildings like the treasuries, an altar for animal sacrifices, the trip will immerse participants in the deep history of each remarkable site. In Athens, travelers will continue to embrace classic architecture through the city’s many archaeological sites before visiting Shedia Home, a non-profit cafe which provides purpose and employment to over 150 individuals undergoing homelessness in Athens.

This is a five day trip and costs $489. 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 is a Roamie, a hostel-based trip style geared towards 18-35 year olds looking to explore iconic destinations through an immersive, small group experience.

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Tags Organizer: G Adventures, Country: Greece, Continent: Europe, Cost: $500 - $1000, Duration: 0 - 2 weeks, Focus: Art + Culture, Focus: All Travel, Focus: Ages 18-35

Courtesy of IVHQ

Volunteer in Sustainable Farming in Rome

September 8, 2022

During this experience, volunteer travelers will work at some of Rome’s many farms and parks, assisting with tasks such as cultivating and harvesting vegetables and legumes; planting, weeding and watering plants; and taking care of farm animals.

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Tags Country: Italy, Continent: Europe, Duration: 0 - 2 weeks, Duration: 2 - 4 weeks, Duration: 1 - 6 months, Focus: Agriculture + Farms, Focus: All Volunteer, Cost: $1 - $500
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Man Backpacking Mountain In Europe

Courtesy of G Adventures

Explore 20 European Cities in 34 Days

August 10, 2022

Composed of 44 sovereign nations, Europe is home to a wealth of diverse cultures and histories. During this experience, travelers will have the unique opportunity to explore 20 different European cities in 34 days. Beginning in Amsterdam, the group will meander through Berlin, Prague, Vienna, Salzburg, Munich, Innsbruck, Venice, Florence, Rome, Split, Korčula, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Tirana, Saranda, Corfu, Meteora and Delphi, before ending their journey in Athens. Hopping from hostel to hostel, travelers will be able to soak up the art scene in Berlin, admire the clock tower in the main square of Prague, tour some of the world-famous museums in Vienna such as the Kunsthistoriches Museum, discover the birthplace of Mozart in Salzburg and take a gondola ride through the canals of Venice. Other highlights include basking in the grand architectural masterpieces of the Duomo in Florence, strolling along the Riva Promenade in Split, touring UNESCO-protected Kotor, learning about bees and honey production in Corfu and exploring the magnificent monasteries of Meteora. 

This 34-day experience starts at $3,628 per person and includes accommodations, 28 breakfasts, an overnight ferry, and all other forms of transportation. This trip is part of G Adventures’ and Hostelworld’s Roamies collection: a series of immersive small-group trips for 18 to 35-year-old travelers.

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Tags Organizer: G Adventures, Country: Albania, Country: Austria, Country: Croatia, Country: Czech Republic, Country: Germany, Country: Greece, Country: Italy, Country: Montenegro, Country: Netherlands, Continent: Europe, Cost: $500 - $1000, Duration: 1 - 6 months, Focus: Art + Culture, Focus: All Travel, Focus: Ages 18-35
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Small Icelandic town in the valleys.

View Otherworldly Landscapes on a Trek Across Iceland

August 9, 2022

travelers will veer off the beaten path on a trek through the highlands of the country, discovering some of its many hidden wonders. Departing from Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, on the first day, the group will head to their Icelandic basecamp where they will prepare for their wilderness journey for the next five days.

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In Outdoor, Environment Tags Organizer: Under 30 Experiences, Country: Iceland, Continent: Europe, Cost: $2500+, Focus: Adventure, Focus: Hiking + Outdoors, Focus: All Travel, Focus: Ages 18-35
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Do Dolphin Conservation in Croatia

June 8, 2022

volunteer travelers will be directly involved in dolphin conservation through professional data collection and analysis, while working with the only organization in the region that conducts dolphin research.

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In Wildlife, Volunteering, Climate Change, Environment Tags Organizer: Go Eco, Country: Croatia, Continent: Europe, Cost: $500 - $1000, Duration: 0 - 2 weeks, Focus: Wildlife, Focus: All Volunteer
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Experteer Around the World

April 6, 2022

Are you interested in helping global communities and travel, but want more than a two-week volunteer trip that may or may not help the community you visit?

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In Volunteering, Human Interest, Arts and Culture Tags Duration: 1 - 6 months, Duration: 6+ months, Focus: Community Development, Continent: Africa, Continent: North America, Continent: South America, Continent: Asia, Continent: Antarctica, Continent: Oceania, Continent: Europe, Organizer: MOVINGWORLDS, Focus: Adventure, Cost: $1 - $500
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