Offer NGO Support While Visiting Quito

Ecuador's capital, Quito, is a vibrant and culturally rich city nestled in the Andean mountains. The city is known for its diverse climate, ranging from temperate conditions in the city to tropical lowlands and the lush Amazon jungle nearby. The city's rich history and dynamic atmosphere make it a fascinating place to explore. As a volunteer in Quito, you'll engage in meaningful work supporting local NGOs, assisting with tasks such as administrative duties, fundraising, marketing, and helping children from underprivileged backgrounds. Your mornings start with a hearty breakfast, followed by travel to your placement. Afternoons offer opportunities for Spanish lessons, city exploration, or preparation for the next day, while evenings can be spent enjoying local cuisine or participating in social activities like salsa lessons or movie nights. Weekends provide ample time to explore Quito and its surroundings. Volunteers can delve into the city's rich history at the historical center, enjoy panoramic views from the El Teleferico cable car, or hike and horseback ride to the Guagua Pichincha volcano summit. Coastal excursions for snorkeling or visits to the pristine beaches of Los Frailes will also be an option for volunteers who are looking to add something more to their trip. For the more adventurous, jungle excursions reveal Ecuador's unique wildlife, including toucans and monkeys, and longer weekends can be spent exploring national parks or the renowned Galapagos Islands.

As the world's #1 rated volunteer travel organization, IVHQ aims to provide travelers with affordable volunteer travel, ethical and responsible practices within the organization, cultural diversity, and the chance to make an impact in the world. While also offering internships abroad and other travel adventures, IVHQ is determined to make travel and making a difference accessible to everyone. Starting at $360 per person, and has a minimum of 1 week and a maximum of 12 weeks running time. IVHQ programs include breakfast, airport pick-up, accommodation, 24/7 in-country support, discounts on language lessons and travel and tour add-ons, a certificate of International Volunteer Service, and more.

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Experience Life as a Mongolian Nomad

Mongolia is known for its beautiful and varied landscapes, nomadic culture, and rich history. On this trip, travelers. From the Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaatar, this trip takes travelers from the Mongolian capital of Ulaanbaatar through the Mongolian plains, from steppes to the Gobi desert by horseback or oxcart to the realm of 21st century nomads. Within Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, nomadic families continue to live in gers, a round, portable dwelling, ride horses and make their own garments. The group will experience these parts of life in the steppes, living with a local host family and get a taste for nomadic life on the Mongolian plains. Travelers will visit a natural history museum to learn about the natural environs, hike through sand dunes, listen to Mongolian throat singing, and visit monastery ruins while immersing themselves in a different way of life.

This is a 14 day trip and costs $2,699. 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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Discover the Hidden Gems of Sri Lanka

An immersive journey through Sri Lanka is perfect for travelers who crave a balance of natural beauty, cultural depth, and relaxed adventure. From misty tea plantations to sunlit coasts, ancient temples to wildlife-rich national parks, the land is the place to be for curious explorers who enjoy meaningful travel over fast-paced sightseeing. The island offers incredible diversity in a compact space. In just days, one can hike to sacred mountaintops, wander UNESCO-listed ruins in the Cultural Triangle, and spot elephants or leopards in the wild. The pace of life there is moderate, with opportunities for both light trekking and cultural immersion. Ideal for travelers with a general level of fitness who enjoy soft adventure, scenic train rides, vibrant local cuisine, and time to unwind in stunning natural settings. Along the way, one can visit historic towns like Kandy, meet tea workers in Ella, explore colorful markets, and relax in quiet beach villages along the southern coast—each place offering its own rhythm, hospitality, and charm.

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 11-day trip is priced at $1,980 per person and can accommodate anywhere from 4-12 travelers.

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Journey into the Heart of Algeria

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.

See the Best of Uganda and Its Mountain Gorillas

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.

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Explore the Wonders of Iceland

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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Walk the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain Day Hike

Spend an unforgettable day hiking Peru’s awe-inspiring Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, a natural marvel painted with vivid hues of red, gold, and turquoise by mineral deposits. Towering at over 16,500 feet above sea level in the Andes, this trek is perfect for adventurers eager to experience one of the world’s most surreal landscapes. This hike is moderately to highly challenging due to the altitude rather than the terrain. While the trail is not technically difficult, a good level of fitness and prior acclimatization to high altitudes is strongly recommended to enjoy the experience safely and comfortably. On the journey, the traveler will pass through remote Andean villages, herds of Alpacas, and breathtaking vistas of snow-capped Ausangate Mountain, a sacred peak in Incan mythology and the highest in the Cusco region. The colors of Rainbow Mountain itself–believed to represent the energy of the Pachamama (Mother of Earth)--are a rare geologic wonder and the ultimate reward at the summit. If seeking dramatic scenery, cultural richness, and a true high-altitude adventure, the Rainbow Mountain day hike is the perfect Andean escape.

This 1-day trip costs $270 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.

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Escape to Peru’s Machu Picchu

Beginning in Cusco, the oldest city in the country, travelers will have the chance to explore the city before departing for Machu Picchu. Here, they can enjoy the old capital of the Inca Empire with a morning tour and enjoy the city’s gorgeous architecture. The next day, travelers will venture to the historic Sacred Valley, which is full of farmland, Inca ruins, and Spanish towns. Travelers will also visit the Maras Salt Flats before they start on the Classic Inca Trail for Machu Picchu the next day. During this trek, travelers will first climb up into alpine grassland and cross Dead Woman’s Pass, where they will see more Inca ruins and gorgeous views. The most challenging day of hiking will also provide a chance to see wildlife such as Himalayan deer, Andean condors, and more. Travelers will reach Machu Picchu at the historic Sun Gate by day seven of this trip. Travelers will then be driven back to Cusco before departing 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.

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Explore Peru’s Amazonian Rainforest

This trip is a great add-on to a Peru trip! Travelers will enjoy a two-night getaway to the gorgeous and diverse Amazon rainforest. Start this trip with an hour-long boat ride to the Refugio Amazonas eco-hostel for the night, located in a chestnut forest near the Tambopata National Reserve. The next day, travelers will explore the Tambopata River, which is full of parrots and macaws. Then travelers will get to walk around Lake Condenado to see more wildlife (even capybaras and alligators)! There is also time to visit neighboring organic farms to see locally grown fruits before departing 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.

Explore the Amazon in Peru

The Peruvian Amazon is home to approximately ten percent of the world’s biodiversity and is the second-largest expanse of the Amazon rainforest. On this trip, travelers will spend four days enjoying the rainforest, beginning with a climb to the high lookout tower in the Refugio Amazonas lodge. The next day, travelers will explore the Tambopata River, known for its colorful scenery, where they will get the chance to bird watch. Then, travelers will head to Condenado Lake to see more wildlife, such as otters and capybaras. There will also be time for the option to visit an organic farm. Then, travelers will visit a Brazilian nut farm to see the large chestnut trees before going on a guided walk into the rainforest to learn about the medicinal properties of the local vegetation. Travelers will then head back to Puerto Maldonado via boat ride before departure.

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.

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Climb Kilimanjaro’s Rongai Route

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.

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Explore Lima’s Cuisine and Peruvian History

Bring yourself on a three-day journey through Lima, Peru’s vibrant capital, where colonial charm meets culinary excellence. This low-intensity adventure is perfect for travelers of all ages who love food, culture, and storytelling. Explore the bohemian Barranco district, famous for its colorful street art and the romantic Bridge of Sighs. Wander through Lima’s UNESCO-listed Historic Centre to discover grand colonial landmarks like the cathedral, government palace, and the San Francisco Monastery with its fascinating catacombs. Dive into Peru’s rich food culture with a guided market tour and hands-on cooking class, where travelers will prepare classics such as ceviche, a traditional Latin-American dish made from raw fish or seafood marinated in citrus juice–and lomo saltado, a Peruvian stir-fry with strips of beef sauteed alongside red onions, tomatoes, soy sauce, vinegar, a type of yellow chili pepper native to the land (Aji Amarillo), garlic, and other spices. Additionally, travelers will learn the secrets of Peru’s national drink in a Pisco Sour workshop. Whether sampling exotic fruits, admiring Spanish architecture, or learning local legends, this immersive experience offers a delicious as well as insightful taste of Peru’s past and present–all in the coastal heart of the country.

This 3-day trip costs $485 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.

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Climb Kilimanjaro's Lemosho Route

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.

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Visit Gorillas in Rwanda

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.

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