Explore Turkey, Georgia, and Armenia

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Turkey, Armenia, and Georgia, exploring world-famous archeological sites, rich culture, and stunning natural wonders. At the crossroads of Europe and Asia, this region is dotted with historical sites dating back to the ancient Mesopotamians, Hittites, and early Christians. Although the region has experienced war and ongoing political tensions, it still captivates travelers with ancient landmarks, culinary traditions, and some of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth. On this trip, travelers will immerse themselves in the region’s rich history by visiting UNESCO sites, notably Gobekli Tepe, an ancient site near the city of Sanliurfa that dates back to the Neolithic period and is considered the earliest temple built on Earth. In Eastern Turkey, travelers will explore the Roman ruins of the Cendere Bridge, the Ani complex home to 1001 churches, and explore Urfa, Mardin, Kars, and Lake Van. Archaeology, legend, and landmarks blur together on this trip with visits to Mt. Ararat, said to be the final resting place of Noah’s Ark, and Mt. Nemrut, where travelers will hike to see sunset surrounded by the ruins of ancient stone statues of deities. In Georgia, travelers will visit the capital Tbilisi, see the 11th-century Svetitskhobeli Cathedral, and the cities of Kutaisi and Gori, where Joseph Stalin was born. In Armenia, travelers will explore numerous ancient monasteries, visit the Areni-1 cave complex, which was once a Bronze Age settlement, and visit a community project supporting Armenian women. Between historical wonders, travelers will take cooking classes to make local favorites like Georgian soup dumplings called khinkali and Armenian gata, a flaky and sweet pastry. Other highlights include enjoying views of the Martvili Canyon waterfalls by boat, riding in 4WD Jeeps through Georgia's rolling hills, and taking in the mountains on the way to the 9th-century Tatek Monastery via cable car in Armenia. This trip is perfect for the adventurous history lover who wants to see the remains of civilizations past first-hand while enjoying traditional cuisine and breathtaking mountain landscapes. 

This 20-day trip costs $3,994 per person and is led by G Adventures, which focuses on small-group travel that brings together travelers from around the world and fully immerses them in local culture. G Adventures also dedicates itself to sustainability and giving back to the communities its travelers visit. For each traveler on this trip, 20 trees will be planted (one for each day) through its Trees For Days initiative, and 100% of the money spent on the trip will go back into the local economy.

Conserve Oceans and Sea Turtles in Zanzibar

As an island off the coast of Tanzania, Zanzibar is known for its crystal blue waters and stunning beaches. As a crossroads of Arab, Indian, and African cultures, the island has a distinct culture shaped by rich cuisine, historic architecture, and centuries of trade and exchange. With a variety of marine life and reefs, Zanzibar is also home to numerous species, including endangered sea turtles. With the threats of ongoing urban growth and waste management problems, sea turtle populations on the island are under pressure. Volunteers will work alongside marine biologists in the town of Matemwe to help boost marine life populations and protect the local coastal environment. Working in hatcheries and releasing newly hatched turtles into the ocean, volunteers will learn about the species and sustainable ways to protect it. They will also engage with the community, providing environmental education classes, assisting in women empowerment projects, and attending cultural workshops. Additionally, volunteers can participate in dive activities, including learning to identify fish and dolphin behavior, participating in underwater clean-ups, and potentially earning a PADI diving certificate (depending on the duration of the trip). During their free time, volunteers can relax at the beach and take part in snorkeling activities across the island. They can also immerse themselves in cultural experiences, including cooking with local families or exploring historic Stone Town. As the central city of Zanzibar, Stone Town is home to a variety of museums and artisan workshops, including the home where Freddy Mercury, of Queen, was born. On the weekends, participants can explore mainland Tanzania, visiting the Serengeti National Park for game drives or hiking Mount Kilimanjaro. 

This is a minimum 1-week and maximum 12-week trip that costs $655 for one week, led by IVHQ, a volunteer travel company with 338 projects in 50 countries, rated #1 Volunteer Travel Company by Go Overseas 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.

<<Back to Trip Search

Volunteer to Help with Costa Rica’s Beach Conservation

If you’ve always wanted to work in beach conservation and learn more about how to protect wildlife and the environment in a national park, then this is the ideal volunteer program for you.

Costa Rica, a Central American country with coastlines on the Caribbean and the Pacific, is renowned for its lush rainforests and rugged volcanoes. It is home to about 5% of the world’s biodiversity, with 12 microclimates and access to two oceans. Famed for leading global environmental protection projects, the country protects 25% of its land. With hundreds of miles of gorgeous coastline, Costa Ricans work hard to protect their beaches and the wildlife that inhabit them.

On this trip, volunteers will assist with beach conservation projects in Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula along the Pacific Coast. This includes trail maintenance, light construction, beach cleanup, day patrols, contributing to ongoing research, hiring new researchers, and supporting visits from English-speaking visitors.

This is a minimum 1-week and maximum 4-week trip (with additional weeks available) that costs $845 for one week, led by Maximo Nivel, a Latin America-based travel company that offers volunteer travel opportunities, Spanish immersion, study abroad and gap year programs in Peru, Costa Rica and Guatemala.

<<Back to Trips Search

Walk the Nar-Phu Trek in Nepal

Step into a hidden world of dramatic gorges, ancient Tibetan culture, and soaring Himalayan peaks on the Nar-Phu Valley Trek. Nestled north of the Annapurna region and just south of the Tibetan Plateau, this unconventional trek leads the traveler through the untouched valleys of Nar and Phu, where time seems to stand still. Designed for adventurous trekkers with a moderate to high fitness level, this trek demands stamina for high-altitude hiking (up to 17,388 feet at Kang La Pass) and multi-day walking. However, the rewards are extraordinary: towering icefalls, secluded stone villages, and centuries-old monasteries such as Tashi Lhakhang, a spiritual sanctuary blessed by the 8th-century saint Padmasambhava. The traveler will also pass through dramatic landscapes including the narrow Phu Gorge, vast alpine plateaus, and pristine river valleys rarely seen by outsiders. Unlike more-traveled routes, the Nar-Phu Trek offers a raw and authentic Himalayan experience, with minimal crowds, genuine cultural encounters with Tibetan-speaking communities, and a sense of true wilderness. The journey is both physically demanding and deeply spiritual, ideal for those seeking not only stunning scenery but also inner reflection and connection.

This 16-day trip costs $2,590 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. 

<< Back to Trip Search

Morocco: Sahara Sands, Markets, and a Feast for the Senses

Embark on a soul-stirring journey through Morocco in an adventure that is centered around connection, culture, and unforgettable experiences. Perfect for women with a moderate fitness level (expect to walk 3-5 miles daily, and on sometimes uneven terrain), this trip is designed to engage all senses. The traveler starts in Chefchaouen, the famous Blue City, where every alley feels like a piece of art. It is peaceful, photogenic, and the perfect place to slow down and soak in the atmosphere. In Fes, dive into the chaos and charm of the world’s oldest walled medina (medina means “city” in arabic and typically means the historical center of a North African city)–exploring lively markets, ancient tanneries, and meeting women artisans who are keeping traditional crafts alive. Then, travelers head into the Sahara Desert for an unforgettable, high-end camping experience. Ride camels through the golden dunes, enjoy music by the fire, and fall asleep under a sky full of stars in a beautifully furnished tent. The traveler wraps up the trip in Marrakech, where colors, spices, and energy of the medina will keep the senses buzzing. This trip entails visiting vibrant markets, meeting local makers, and unwinding in a traditional hammam. This is not just any type of trip–it is a celebration of the global community of women, culture, and adventure.

This is a 14-day trip that costs $7,345 and is led by AdventureWomen. All AdventureWomen trips are designed exclusively for and by women, aiming to empower women through travel. 

<< Back to Trip Search

Baja: Whale Watching and the Sea of Cortez

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Baja California, Mexico, where the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific lagoons offer a rare blend of wildlife, adventure, and serenity. This women-only trip is perfect for curious, active travelers with a moderate fitness level who crave meaningful experiences–whether it’s kayaking in calm turquoise waters, snorkeling with sea lions, or locking eyes with a gray whale and her calf in Magdalena Bay. Baja’s stark beauty is unmatched: from the rich marine life of the Sea of Cortez–dubbed “the world’s aquarium” by Jacques Cousteau–to the red-hued Sierra de la Giganta mountains rising from the desert. The traveler will explore cactus-dotted trails, sleep under star-filled skies in camping tents, and enjoy the colonial charm of Loreto, home to a 17th century Jesuit mission in addition to peaceful beaches. This trip offers both soft adventure and quiet moments, ideal for those seeking connection–with nature, with a like-minded group of women, and with themselves. From whale-watching to cultural encounters, every experience is crafted for reflection, joy, and awe. Whether the traveler is a nature lover, photographer, or solo traveler seeking inspiration, this Baja adventure is a deeply rewarding escape into one of the planet’s most unique and untouched coastal ecosystems.

This 8-day trip is priced at $5,295 and led by AdventureWomen. All AdventureWomen trips are designed exclusively for and by women, aiming to empower women through travel. 

<< Back to Trip Search

Explore New Zealand’s South Island

New Zealand, Aotearoa in the native Maori language, is known for its stunning natural landscapes, mountain ranges, and diverse ecosystems. This trip begins in Wellington, the capital of New Zealand. While in Abel Tasman National Park, travelers can enjoy beaches, take in views of granite cliffs, go kayaking, or go sailing. Travelers will then visit the town of Westport. From here, the group will drive down to Punakaiki for the Pancake Rocks trek, learning how these fascinating geological features were formed. Next, travelers will be taken to Franz Josef, a famous glacier that is approximately seven thousand years old. At Franz Josef, travelers can take a helicopter flight to see the glacier from above, hike, or kayak. Queenstown, the next stop on this trip, is a well-known adventure destination where travelers can go horseback riding, bungee jumping, jet boating, or enjoy a vineyard tour. From Queenstown, travelers will take a day trip to Milford Sound, one of the wettest places on Earth, with gorgeous mountains and an average of 182 millimeters of rain annually. Travelers will then return to Queenstown before departing to Tekapo, home to gorgeous blue water surrounded by mountains. After hiking and visiting Tekapo’s hot springs, travelers will then visit Christchurch. This is one of the largest cities in the country and is known as the Garden City. This trip’s last stop is Kaikoura, a destination for all things marine life. Here, travelers can go whale watching, kayaking, or hiking. 

This is a 16-day trip that costs $2,249. It is an 18-Thirtysomethings trip catering to travelers ages 18-39. The trip is led by G Adventures, 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.

<< Back to Trip Search

Volunteer in Community Development in Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is a city of contrasts. While tourists explore popular destinations such as Christ the Redeemer and Copacabana beach, many of the city’s 6 million residents live below the poverty line. Since living space is scarce, most of these communities are pushed to higher elevations, living in slums called favelas against the mountains. Here, disease is rampant, and health risks stem from pollution, overcrowding, and inadequate waste disposal systems. Volunteers can participate in activities in Rio that benefit these communities, assisting local teams and other volunteers through events and initiatives. Tasks include (but are not limited to) restoration projects, arts projects, health education and awareness, environmental development, technology, and gardening. Volunteers will also benefit from the program by gaining community development experience, practicing their Portuguese, developing their communication skills, and immersing themselves in Brazilian culture. 

In their free time, volunteers can explore the city, visiting famous landmarks like Christ the Redeemer, relaxing at the Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, climbing Corcovado Mountain, and visiting the historic downtown, home to many restaurants, shops, and cafes. There are also opportunities to explore beyond the city, including wildlife spotting in the Pantanal wetlands, visiting Iguazú Falls, and trekking through the Amazon rainforest. 

This is a minimum 3-week and maximum 24-week trip that costs $945 for one week, led by IVHQ, a volunteer travel company with 338 projects in 50 countries, rated #1 Volunteer Travel Company by Go Overseas 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.

<<< Back to Trip Search

Volunteer to Help Developing Business Communities in Jamaica

Despite being a nation with high tourism rates, many people in Jamaica are living in low-income communities due to slow economic development and a history of unemployment on the island. On this volunteer trip, travelers with prior business experience will support small businesses in low-income communities to scale their operations, improve operational efficiency, and apply for grants and funding. Through this program, volunteers will support small businesses and start-ups in applying for grants, act as business mentors to provide guidance, and assist with social media management, financial planning, IT, and website design. Volunteers wil gain experience in networking with local communities, develop their teaching and communication skills, and experience the local culture of Jamaica. This is an ideal program for volunteers looking to apply and share business skills they have developed during their studies and get real-world experience. During their free time, they can explore the island by taking excursions to the jungle to see waterfalls, relaxing on the beaches, or exploring the port town of Ocho Rios - which is near where volunteers will be based in St. Mary.

This is a minimum 1-week and maximum 8-week trip that costs $535 for one week, led by IVHQ, a volunteer travel company with 338 projects in 50 countries, rated #1 Volunteer Travel Company by Go Overseas 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.

<<<Back to Trip Search

Volunteer to Teach English in Peru

Peru is a nation famed for its archaeological sites, ancient history, and culinary traditions, with Cusco being the beating heart of cultural experiences and heritage. Yet many people in the country still struggle to learn English, which is essential for academic and professional development, particularly in the tourism and business sectors. As volunteers, travelers will teach English to kids, teens, and adults who cannot afford lessons, helping lift communities out of poverty by providing more diverse opportunities. Travelers will teach in after-school programs, community centers, and local military facilities, assisting with lesson planning, teaching, and tutoring. To assist volunteers in their work, they will receive basic training in teaching English as a Second Language. 

In their free time, volunteers can explore Cusco’s markets, cobblestoned streets, and visit the archaeological ruins in the Sacred Valley. Additionally, on weekends, they can visit the ruins of Machu Picchu, the capital city of Lima, or the Amazon rainforest in the north of the country. 

This is a minimum 1-week and maximum 4-week trip (with the option to add additional weeks) that costs $735 for one week, led by Maximo Nivel, a Latin America-based travel company that offers volunteer travel opportunities, Spanish immersion, study abroad and gap year programs in Peru, Costa Rica and Guatemala.

<< Back to Trip Search

Offer NGO Support While Visiting Quito

Quito, Ecuador’s capital, is a city nestled high up in the Andean mountains with a history dating back centuries. As one of the world's first UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Quito’s city center is filled with colorful colonial buildings, towering cathedrals, artisan shops, and restaurants. As the nation’s name suggests, it sits directly on the equator, and visitors can reach the monument where the equator line passes through from the city.

As a volunteer in Quito, you'll engage in meaningful work supporting local NGOs, assisting with administrative duties, fundraising, and marketing, and helping children from underprivileged backgrounds. This volunteer experience is great for volunteers who want to work in international development or the NGO sector and are looking for in-the-field experience running the operations of a nonprofit organization.

Depending on volunteers’ placement, their daily activities can vary. However, they usually follow a similar routine: working at their placements during the day and exploring the city in the afternoons. On the weekends, travelers can visit the Guagua Pichincha volcano, visit the Cotopaxi volcano, or take a short trip to the Amazon rainforest or Galapagos Islands. 

This is a minimum 1-week and maximum 12-week trip that costs $385 for one week, led by IVHQ, a volunteer travel company with 338 projects in 50 countries, rated #1 Volunteer Travel Company by Go Overseas 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.

<<Back To Trip Search

Hike Bhutan’s Jomolhari Trail

Hiking the Jomolhari Trail is more than simply a trek–it’s a transformative journey. It invites hikers with a taste for adventure, an appreciation for culture, and a desire for inner stillness to step into a world where the mountains speak, and every footstep tells a story. This journey involves a high-altitude hike that combines Himalayan grandeur with deep cultural immersion. This 8-day adventure winds through pristine Alpine forests, glacial valleys, and pastures filled with yak, all with the 4.5-mile-high Mount Jomolhari as a constant backdrop. Along the way, visit ancient sites such as Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched elegantly on a cliffside, and encounter remote villages where Bhutanese traditions remain beautifully intact. The trek reaches heights of nearly 1,640 feet and subsequently demands good fitness, making it ideal for those with hiking experience, a taste for adventure, and an appreciation for solitude. Bhutan’s unique approach to life, guided by Gross National Happiness (the official government’s way in which the country gauges life satisfaction, measured through virtues such as contentment and well-being), is evident in its untouched landscapes, spiritual depth, and warm-hearted locals. With expert local guides from Follow Alice, the traveler will gain insight into Bhutanese Buddhism, history, and ecology, sure to enrich every step. Limited tourism means fewer crowds and a more genuine connection with the land and people. Whether one is drawn by the serene environment, cultural richness, or the physical challenge, the Jomolhari Trail offers a rare, meaningful experience in one of the world’s most unaltered mountain kingdoms.

This 17-day trip costs $6,990 and 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.

<< Back to trip search

Explore the Volcano Trail Across Central America

Guatemala with its tropical climate, giant mountains and vast lakes, is known for its natural wonders. This trip begins in Antigua, home to the Santa Catalina Arch and the Hill of the Cross. This Guatemalan city is famous for being one of the best places to study Spanish and has gorgeous scenery, including views of volcanoes. From there, travelers will head East to Honduras, a country full of Mayan ruins and beautiful beaches. Travelers' first stop in Honduras are the ruins of Copan, a historic Mayan town. Here, they can visit the Luna Jaguar hot springs or go on a tour of the ruins. Travelers will then cross into El Salvador, visit Suchitoto, and then head to La Libertad Region, an area full of beach towns where the group can relax or take a surf lesson. After this, travelers will venture into Leon, Nicaragua’s commercial and agricultural center. The next stop in Nicaragua is Granada, a city full of colorful buildings and one of the oldest occupied colonial cities. Here, travelers can hike and explore, go on a day excursion to Masaya Volcano, visit Mi Museo Cultural Museum, or visit Laguna de Apoyo. Travelers will then enter Costa Rica, a country known for its biodiversity with features such as beaches, volcanoes and rainforests. They will visit Isla de Ometepe here, which is known for its petroglyphs and stone idols. Travelers can go to Ojo de Agua swimming hole, visit beaches or go hiking. Next, travelers will visit Monteverde and its cloud forests. The mountainous Monteverde is home to the highest concentration of orchids on Earth. While here, travelers can go zip lining, visit a butterfly garden, go horseback riding or take a coffee plantation tour. Before the trip concludes, travelers will see La Fortuna. They can participate in a Venado Caves Exploration, go on a wildlife refuge tour, or swim in La Fortuna waterfalls. This trip ends in San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica, where travelers can explore the city and even go rafting on the Sarapiqui River before departure.

This is a 17 day trip and costs $1499. This trip is a G Adventures’ 18-Thirtysomethings trip geared toward young, budget minded travelers. 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.

<< Back to trip search