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.

<< Back to trip search

Adventure in Southern Africa

Southern Africa is known for its natural topographical and environmental variety as well as its linguistic and cultural diversity. This trip, a tour of three countries, largely through camping, begins in Zimbabwe, a trading hub known for its riches in gold and iron, and its remarkable and abundant wildlife. Here, travelers will see Victoria Falls, a part of the Zambezi River, and one of the world's seven natural wonders. The group will have the opportunity to go whitewater rafting, bungee jumping, or on a helicopter ride. Travelers will then cross into Botswana to the town of Kasane. Here, the group will have the chance to go on a wildlife safari along the Chobe River or visit Chobe National Park, or even camp out near the town of Gweta to catch a glimpse of the fauna. The trip finds its end in Namibia, whose capital city of Windhoek has vibrant nightlife, a bustling arts scene, many local breweries, and excellent local cuisine.

This is an eight-day trip and costs $1,109. 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.

<< Back to trip search

Meet the Gorillas and Chimpanzees in Uganda

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.

<< Back to trip search

Escape to Everest Base Camp

Take a journey to an awe-inspiring place: Everest Base Camp. This 15-day trekking adventure through the heart of the Himalayas is designed for those with good physical fitness and a sense of adventure. This high-altitude journey winds through Nepal’s Khumbu region, taking you past iconic landmarks such as the Hillary Suspension Bridge, the spiritual Tengboche Monastery, and the bustling Sherpa capital of Namche Bazaar. With its prayer flags, yak caravans, and dramatic mountain vistas, each stop offers a rich blend of culture and natural beauty. The highlight is reaching Everest Base Camp at 5,364 meters–an unforgettable experience where trekkers stand in the shadows of the world’s highest peak. Along the way, you’ll witness the towering peaks of Ama Dablam, Lhotse, and Nuptse, and enjoy panoramic views from the famed Kala Patthar, one of the best vantage points for Mount Everest itself. Unique cultural touches, such as staying in traditional tea houses and interacting with local Sherpa communities, add depth to this once-in-a-lifetime journey. This trek is best suited for those who can handle long days of hiking (4-8 hours per day), high altitudes, and challenging terrain, but the reward is an epic, soul-stirring adventure that will leave you transformed.

This 12-19 day trip costs $1,790 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

Search for Gorillas in Uganda

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 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.

<< Back to trip search

Roadtrip California and Experience Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park set the model for all national parks in the United States. Known for its giant Sequoia trees, Yosemite covers an area of more than 750,000 acres and almost 95% of the park is restricted as wilderness and home to a large variety of plants and animals. In addition, the park is home to one of the tallest waterfalls in North America: Yosemite Falls, reaching 2,425 feet. One of the most popular hikes in Yosemite is the Half Dome Hike, which is a 12-hour, 14-mile round-trip hike with huge elevation gain, cables, and exposed terrain. In Santa Monica, everyone can cruise the shoreline and shop at the local farmers’ market (for some last-minute necessities). Highway 1 has a lot to offer for everyone, including the sights of Santa Margarita, Carmel, Monterey, and Santa Cruz. After a visit to San Francisco, everyone will go to the main event. Upon visiting Yosemite, travelers can purchase produce in the central valley. Once in the park, everyone can hike to Tuolumne Grove, home of the iconic Sequoias. Everyone will be in the park for about three days. This gives the group a chance to see sights like El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, the Half Dome,  Nevada Falls, and more! Departing Yosemite, everyone will go back to SoCal to relax at Hermosa Beach. The trip ends upon arrival in Los Angeles.

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 $2106 per person, this experience lasts over the course of 9 days. Transportation between destinations, some meals, and accommodation will be included.

<<< Back to Trip Search

Volunteer to help in the Peruvian Amazon

Peru is one of the most biologically diverse countries in the world and has a stunning variety of landscapes, from mountains to beaches and rainforests. The country is home to the source of the Amazon River and the historical Incan settlement of Machu Picchu. In fact, the Peruvian Amazon is the second-largest stretch of the Amazon and includes thousands of different animal species. The forest’s tropical climate also has lots of the country’s natural resources. However, construction and commercial mining have led to the deforestation of the Peruvian Amazon, which threatens the unique and endangered species that live there. Volunteers will work to plant trees, monitor animals, and remove non-native species to combat deforestation. Additionally, volunteers will get to learn about the tree species of the Peruvian Amazon and its inhabitants. 

This Maximo Nivel volunteer program has the goal of helping communities while giving volunteers a one-in-a-lifetime experience. All Maximo Nivel volunteer programs are supported by professional program managers, multilingual teams, and 24/7 in-country support. This project ranges from one to four weeks and costs $685 for one week and $1295 for four weeks. Airport transfers, breakfast and dinners, four-to-six hours per day (Sunday to Thursday), a letter of recommendation, an emergency contact number, and accommodation are included.

Adventure in Alaska

Alaska, the last frontier, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including vast glaciers, towering mountains, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes. It's a top destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The 49th state is also home to rich Indigenous cultures, like the Aleut, a rich history, and prime spots to witness and experience Northern Lights. Travelers will arrive in Anchorage and get acquainted with each other and their leaders. The journey begins with a drive through the iconic Seward Highway on the Kenai Peninsula. In Kenai Fjords National Park, travelers will hike the Harding Icefield Trail and enjoy a scenic boat cruise through the fjords to see glaciers and marine life. In Talkeetna, participants will learn about local flora, take a scenic flight over the area, and visit the Iditarod Sled Dog Museum. Denali National Park offers stunning sights, including moose, bears, and caribou.  Before departing from Anchorage on the final day, travelers can join the group for a farewell dinner.

This is an eight-day trip and costs $1,934. 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.

<< Back to trip search

Venture Through the Serengeti

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 viewing. 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 the trip revenue is donated 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.

<<< Back to Trip Search

Volunteer to Help Conserve Croatia’s Bears

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.

<<< Back to Trip Search