Experience Yoga and Mindfulness in Bali

Explore Bali by diving straight into their rich culture and spiritual heritage. Featuring stunning temples, religious ceremonies, and traditional Hindu experiences, this trip is sure to leave each traveler with wonderful memories. Enjoy Bali’s stunning landscapes like, lush rice fields at Tis Cafe, Mount Batur’s volcanic mountains, and beautiful blue beaches in the three Gili Islands. Each traveler will experience true Balinese culture through festivals, dancing, music, art, and foods, through every day spent here. While in Bali, travelers are encouraged to spend time in a few of the famous and authentic historic sites. In Ubud, wander through the beautiful courtyards and exciting Sangeh Monkey Forest where each traveler can spot wildlife in a natural and restorative habitat. From here, learn about Balinese Hinduism in Gunung Kawi Sebatu, the temple dedicated to Vishnu, the god of water. As destinations move forward, walk through Ganyar traditional market and enjoy a hot cup of Balinese coffee in Mount Batur. Before the trip is over, relax and enjoy the beautiful beaches in the Gili Islands. Each traveler can try meditative yoga classes and paddleboarding sessions or thrilling snorkeling adventures for a perfect and personal ending to the trip. 

This is an 8 day trip that costs $1,595 led by Under30 Experiences, which caters to solo travelers and adventurous young adults ages 21-35, but they don’t enforce a strict age limit. They are a small team that loves sustainable travel by supporting local communities in an eco-friendly way. The company was founded 10+ years ago by co-founders Matt Wilson and Jared O’Toole. They were rated one of CATALYST PLANET’s 8 Best Sustainable Travel Companies.

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Conserve Oceans 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.

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Explore Historic and Natural Sites in Ireland

Known for its breathtaking rural landscapes, majestic seaside cliffs, and dramatic castles, Ireland continues to be an essential destination for travelers who love natural beauty. Ireland’s capital, Dublin, dates back to the 9th century, and was initially founded as a Viking base, changing hands between Norse and native Gaelic kings until its conquest by England in the Norman invasion of 1169. Once the fifth largest city in Europe, Dublin remains a marvel of medieval architecture and well-preserved history. 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. Travelers will learn about the region’s history from an Irish guide on the second day while walking or cycling through the city and exploring its historic buildings. After leaving Kilkenny, travelers will drive north to visit the Rock of Cashel, a towering stronghold and the traditional seat of the kings of Munster. The fourth and fifth days will be spent hiking through the national parks in Ireland’s west and taking in unforgettable views from the Cliffs of Moher. These cliffs reach as high as 702 feet above the sea, and are one of the most visited destinations in the world. On the final day, travelers will return to Dublin and learn about the city’s history on a walking tour before finishing with a visit to a pub or distillery to have one last relaxing night before heading home the next morning.

This 7-day experience starts at $1,995 per person and includes accommodations, 11 meals, group transportation, and various activities. The trip is organized once a month between March and October and is geared towards travelers between the ages of 21 and 30.

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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. i This trip begins in Wellington, the capital of New Zealand. Before visiting Abel Tasman National Park, travelers can enjoy the city’s cafe culture and hidden bars. 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 a16-day trip that costs $2249. 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.

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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 against the mountains in slums called favelas. 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.

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Volunteer to Help Developing Business Communities in Jamaica

With a population of almost three million, unemployment is 6.5% in the Caribbean nation of Jamaica. The country is considered one of the best locations for trade, investment and commerce, with a great stock exchange to boot. This includes the fact that it has nine active seaports and two major international airports. More than 69,000 active companies and 200,000 businesses are on the register so far. However, there is a high demand for agricultural products, pharmaceuticals and transportation equipment. Due to climate change, the country needs such products more than ever. Business and community development volunteers can help start-ups, charities and NGOs needing assistance. They can improve operational efficiencies while applying for grants and funding projects. Volunteers can help Jamaica’s citizens become eligible to apply for government grants by providing advice and support. Volunteers can benefit from this program by networking with the local business community, developing communication skills, immersing themselves in Jamaican culture, and gaining business experience. During their free time, interns can explore the island, hiking to waterfalls, spotting wildlife, and visiting the many beaches. There are several historical destinations near Ocho Rios, including the Firefly Estate, once owned by Sir Henry Morgan, and the Castleton Botanical Gardens. There are also options available, such as snorkeling, hiking, and outdoor adventures. 

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.

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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.

This trip is a minimum of 1-week and maximum 12-weeks with one week costing $360. This trip is 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.

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Experience Life as a Mongolian Nomad

Mongolia is known for its beautiful and varied landscapes, nomadic culture, and rich history. 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 $3,349. This 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.

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Journey Through 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, travelers 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.

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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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Hike the Jomolhari Trail and See the Best of Bhutan

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 trip is led by Follow Alice is 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 17-day trip is priced at $6,089 per person.

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