Sometimes, all you need is some sun, a sandy beach, and swimwear. But what if you could have all that while learning new skills and developing your CV?

Well, luckily for you, you can. Join a volunteer project or internship on a tropical island and get the best of both worlds. 

Read on to find out the where, the what, and the why about responsible travel to tropical islands so you can soak up the sun!

Fiji

Located east of Australia in the south of the Pacific Ocean, Fiji is a fascinating island nation with more than 3,000 years of culture and history. Famous for mouth-watering seafood, its incredibly strong international rugby team, and beautiful beaches (like most of this list). 

Here, you can join our unique shark conservation project to help protect one of the most endangered marine animals on the planet and gain a PADI diving certificate. 

You could also join our childcare project or immerse yourself in island culture with community development work.

View all projects in Fiji >

The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Made famous by Charles Darwin when he developed his theory of evolution, the Galapagos Islands are a treasure trove of biodiversity. A bucket list location for every biologist, here you can see the finches he discussed at length and relax alongside sea lions on the beach!

Get inside the Galapagos National Park and support the park rangers on our conversation volunteer project, living on-site and working closely with the majestic Galapagos Giant Tortoise. 

Alternatively, take the chance to see the national park while experiencing authentic local life on the Ecuadorian islands. Join one of our many community focused projects in San Cristobal, including childcare, teaching, and sports coaching.

VIew all projects in the Galapagos Islands >

Koh Tao, Thailand

Part of a popular archipelago in the picturesque Gulf of Thailand, Koh Tao is world-famous for its stunning coral reefs and diving schools. As one of the smaller islands in this chain, it’s easy to explore with white sand beaches, and a welcoming tourist-friendly atmosphere.

Here, we operate one of our most impactful conservation volunteer projects, where you can support the monitoring and maintenance of the delicate coral ecosystem. You will even be able to plant your own coral in the hopes of expanding this ecosystem, earning an SSI Diving Certificate and learning from experienced professionals.

See all our projects in Thailand >

Jamaica

The home of reggae music, jerk cuisine, and elite athletes like Usain Bolt, Jamaica has a relaxing rhythm to it that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Located in the Caribbean, you’ll find peace everywhere you look, from the lush rainforests to the Blue Mountains, sandy beaches, and laid-back town centres. 

Many of our tropical island volunteering projects are centred around conservation, but Jamaica is unique. Our projects are entirely based around the community and professional development.

You can support the education and care of local children in a variety of ways, or join a specialist medical or psychology internship to boost your university application or career.

See all our projects in Jamaica >

The Maldives

The Maldives are a unique string of about 1,200 tropical, coral islands in the Indian Ocean. Since the structure of the islands are made almost entirely of coral, they have a very low elevation and benefit from smooth, soft, stunning white sand beaches.

This low elevation means that the country is one of the most climate conscious in the world. This also means that conservation initiatives are prioritised, to support the delicate ecosystem and life that these islands are surrounded by.

We have one project in the Maldives aimed specifically at teenagers aged 14 to 18. You’ll live on the island of Naifaru, away from the tourist locations and in the heart of Maldivian culture. From there, you will snorkel to survey and protect coral and work at a marine centre to rehabilitate sea turtles.

Take me to the maldives >

Sri Lanka

By far the largest island on this list, Sri Lanka is located off the southeast coast of India and is one of our most popular and diverse volunteering locations. It is incredibly biodiverse with large elephant populations, has some of the nicest tea in the world, and a very competitive international cricket team. 

You can choose from a variety of community-focused volunteer projects and internships in Sri Lanka. These include opportunities to work with children, specialist medical and business internships in a range of fields, and a unique opportunity to teach local Buddhist monks.

Our most popular project in Sri Lanka, however, is our sea turtle conservation project. You’ll support experienced conservationists to find, protect, and release baby turtles to give them the best chance of survival while also conducting outreach within local communities. 

see all our projects in Sri Lanka >

Many people wonder whether taking the time and money to volunteer abroad is “worth it” and if it can truly benefit your education or career. 

The answer is an overwhelming yes, especially when you add it to your university or job applications and CV. That means you need to know how to frame your experience as time spent positively.

Read on to find out what you might gain from your international volunteering or internship experience and how you can clearly and cleverly discuss it in future.

What skills can you gain by volunteering or interning abroad?

Volunteering or interning abroad gives you the chance to not only develop practical skills in your field, like conservation or medicine, but also personal skills like confidence, independence, and adaptability. 

This is because you’ll support community initiatives and learn directly from experienced professionals around the world while also immersing in local cultures. This provides you with a valuable learning experience both in and out of your service hours.

The practical skills you learn will, of course, depend on what you choose to do. For example, one thing a conservation volunteer may learn is how to set up and monitor camera traps, while a medical volunteer could learn suturing, first aid, or pick up shadowing hours. 

The transferable skills for your CV, however, are a little harder to identify and talk about. By volunteering abroad, you can develop:

• Confidence and independence — stepping beyond your comfort zone and challenging yourself to navigate life in a new country
• Leadership and teamwork — working with and learning from experienced professionals and other volunteers in your field
• Adaptability and resilience — understanding that things sometimes don’t go to plan when travelling, and handling these circumstances calmly
• Emotional intelligence and empathy — building meaningful connections with people from diverse backgrounds and developing a deeper sense of empathy and perspective.
• Cross-cultural communication — enhancing your global perspective, understanding new viewpoints, and finding ways to overcome communication barriers

Real stories from our volunteers abroad

We regularly survey participants to ask what they took from their experience. Here’s what they said:

• 96% feel more confident interacting with people from different cultures and backgrounds
• 94% think they now have a better understanding of global issues and challenges
• 93% say the skills and knowledge they gained will help them in future, listing their general life, education, and career as the most positively impacted
• 91% believe they are better prepared to handle life’s challenges

Plus, many of our Trustpilot reviews hint at the personal development you can get from international volunteering and internships. 

“Everything about this trip was very insightful. I had a wonderful time experiencing a new culture and learning about the medical field. This trip has helped me gain a deeper understanding of the field of medicine that interests me the most, confirming that the field I initially wanted to pursue is one I am willing to undertake and capable of handling.” – Zara, Medicine Internship in Nepal for Teenagers, January 2026

“We could not recommend this experience more, it was well priced, extremely well organised and supported in the lead up and then locally on the trip. Great self development for young people. Our son wanted it to keep going!” – Greg and Mary, parents to a Childcare volunteer in Cambodia, January 2026

Why these skills are essential 

There is a common paradox in employment where: you need experience to get a job, but you need a job to get experience. You may also need some sort of experience when applying to hyper competitive universities. 

So, how do you fill the gaps in your CV and get your first job with no experience? Prove that you have the necessary skills through other life experiences (and volunteer in the field you’re interested in!). 

Both Indeed and Bright Network list many of the skills we’ve discussed as entry level skills, which universities and employers will look for when selecting applicants. These aren’t just fillers to artificially inflate your application, they are specifically desirable traits.

Let’s go through the skills you can gain from volunteering abroad again, this time focusing on why universities and employers like to see them. 

• Confidence and independence — demonstrates that you can manage your own time, take the initiative, and won’t need “hand-holding” or micromanaging. This helps you motivate and believe in yourself when you need to make tough decisions.
• Leadership and teamwork — every job and most university work is collaborative, and it is good to show that you can work with others and take the lead when needed. This means listening to, understanding, and supporting others to achieve a shared goal.
• Adaptability and resilience — work is unpredictable, especially with new technologies and shifting deadlines, so it’s important that you keep up and keep going. You need to be able to come up with solutions to issues quickly to prevent delays and problems with your work.
• Emotional intelligence and empathy — shows that you are good at building and maintaining relationships, both in and out of work, with all kinds of people. You can help resolve conflicts, understand different points of view, and help with negotiations.
• Cultural awareness and communication — being a strong communicator is arguably the most important skill to have on any application. Every university project and job role needs communication, and it is especially important when meeting people from different cultures.

But again, noting these down on an application is just the start. You need to be able to prove it with real stories when you speak to the real person across the interview table.

How to present this experience on your CV or in an interview

You need a slightly different approach when trying to demonstrate your skills on your CV and in interviews. Your CV is where you state your skills, your interview is where you explain them. 

While listing your trip and explaining what happened is a start, universities and jobs really want to see how you’ve grown and how it is relevant to them. In the UK, for example, the University and College Admissions Service [UCAS] recommends demonstrating your passion for the subject and reflecting on what you found challenging to show you’re ready for the rigours of a degree.

How to describe volunteering on your CV

List the skills mentioned above alongside your achievements and write a small paragraph describing your volunteering experience, somewhere near your education or career section. 

That way, the person reading your application can see at a glance how and why you have these skills, helping you stand out immediately. 

Plus, travelling to far-flung places with vastly different cultures, like Japan, Tanzania, or Peru, are great ways to get people talking. 

Consider also putting this experience on your LinkedIn profile, describing what you did, the experience you gained, and the skills you developed as a result. 

How to discuss volunteering in an interview

If you get called in for an interview, this is where you need to really explain your experience and how you developed these skills. Our advice is to always think back to the STAR method:

• Situation: What happened?
• Task: What did you need to do?
• Action: What did you actually do?
• Result: How did it go? 

Following this framework means every skill has a strong story behind it and proves that you aren’t exaggerating your skillset. Here’s an example of the STAR method in action for cultural awareness and communication skills:

• Situation: teaching basic English to students who are hesitant to participate in the fun games that were planned
• Task: adapt your teaching style to be more culturally appropriate and effective for their learning needs
• Action: research local social norms, finding that students valued a more formal, respectful teacher-student dynamic. Adjust your tone and try more traditional exercises
• Result: Participation increased significantly, demonstrating that effective communication isn’t just about what you say, but about understanding the cultural context of the person listening

Here’s a second example, looking at the confidence and independence skills:

• Situation: travelling abroad and flying on your own for the first time
• Task: prepare for your trip, navigate the airport solo, and make your connecting flight without worrying if things will go wrong 
• Action: triple check that you have all your documents and have weighed your luggage, thoroughly research all airports and processes, and stay in touch with the team who are meeting you 
• Result: arrive safely and on time with everything you needed to enjoy a fantastic experience

This framework can be used to discuss all sorts of skills, and don’t forget to talk about the practical skills you picked up, too!

Interested in what we do?

Whether you need to develop these skills by volunteering abroad, want to find out more about how to get the best from your experience, or are interested in more articles like this, sign up to our newsletter!

Volunteering abroad is more than just a trip, it’s an unforgettable learning experience and a chance to see the world from a completely different perspective.

We’ve been doing this since 1992, so we we understand you might be anxious when trying to organise your adventure. Finding the right project can feel overwhelming, but with the right provider, there’s nothing to worry about. Projects Abroad have been the responsible travel experts since 1992, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Step 1 | Define your goals and impact

Before you pack your bags, think about what you want to achieve. Are you looking to build your CV and skillset for your education or career, or do you want to contribute to long-term community initiatives?

Read more: The personal growth behind international volunteering

At Projects Abroad, every project is designed specifically for collaboration. That means you’ll work alongside local communities on a project that is both sustainable and addresses real local needs.

Volunteer and intern projects are available worldwide in a huge variety of industries, including wildlife conservation, medicine, teaching, business, and more. 

This is also a good time to think about where you want to go. Perhaps you’ve always wanted to visit Japan, see the savannahs of East Africa, or marvel at Machu Picchu. Volunteering abroad is a great way to blend learning and adventure. 

Your choice of project will depend on what is most important to you. Think about whether you are primarily looking for:

• Experience – for university, your career, or just to try something new
• Passion – for animals, medicine, law, childcare… the list goes on
• Location – do you want to stay by the beach, in a city, the mountains, or a rainforest?
• Culture – is there a particular culture you want to live in and experience first-hand?

Whether you are interested in a Medical Internship in Nepal or a Conservation Project in Peru, you should choose a programme that aligns with your passions and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Step 2 | Carefully choose your provider

Not all volunteer organisations are created equal. To ensure that you get the best experience possible and your time makes a genuine difference, look for a provider that has a proven track record. Keep an eye out for:

• Relevant accreditations: search for accreditations that are relevant to the industry or your interests, like a BS 8848 for UK-based companies or an international equivalent.
• A proven safety record: ensure the provider has 24/7 in-country support and independent safety reviews.
• Ethical standards: look for a Certified B Corporation. This proves the organisation puts people and the planet before profits.
• Local expertise: make sure that the projects are deeply rooted in the local community, relying on local knowledge and employing local staff on fair and ethical wages.
• Excellent reviews: trust the views of those who have gone before you, with independent review sites like Trustpilot the best way to get unbiased opinions.
• No hidden fees: understand the full cost of your project before you apply, ensuring your provider is open and honest about the price up front with no nasty surprises, like application or admin fees.

Indicators like these give you the best chance of finding a reliable, safe, and trustworthy provider.

Step 3 | Understand the logistics

One of the biggest hurdles to volunteering abroad is the planning, especially when the country is unfamiliar. 

For 73% of our teen participants too, it’s their first time travelling overseas on their own.

Read more: Navigating the airport solo: a first-time traveller’s guide

A truly hassle-free experience should be all-inclusive and handled for you. Let your provider handle:

• Accommodation: somewhere clean, safe, and comfortable to call home for the duration of your stay, be it a host family or hotel. 
• Meals: three meals a day covered in the cost, so you can try the local cuisine worry-free with recommendations from our staff. Plus, clean drinking water whenever you need it. 
• Pre-departure support: expert advice on visas, packing, and cultural training before you even leave home, making sure you’re as prepared as possible. 
• Airport pick-up: a friendly staff member waiting for you the moment you land, so you don’t have to stumble around half-asleep and book a taxi.
• Local staff who speak English: helping you navigate your new environment and providing 24/7 support.

If you’re aged 15 to 18 and choose to join a dedicated High School Special, you could get these additional benefits:

• Fully supervised: while 24/7 support comes as standard on all our projects, teen participants will have staff members physically with them at all times.
• Exciting excursions: on structured projects, you’ll also get thrilling excursions to popular tourist areas to give you a well-earned break from your project work. 
• Chaperoned flights: each year, certain High School Specials are chosen for our chaperoned group flights, so you don’t have to navigate a foreign airport alone.

Our number one priority is the safety of our volunteers, and all our support is centred around that fact.

In the real world, the path to becoming an archaeologist is rigorous and intensely competitive. But what if you could get a significant head start, even before college?

Read on to find out why early field experience is crucial for your education and career and how to join an archaeological dig with no prior experience.

There are several barriers to gaining archaeology experience

Archaeology is a demanding scientific discipline. Digging up and identifying history is awesome, but to be successful, you need academic success, physical stamina, and specialized practical skills. That makes it an incredibly competitive field.

Firstly, there’s the issue of experience — entry-level jobs often require prior field experience, yet it’s hard to get that experience without a job. Top graduate programs and archaeology firms almost always require you to have participated in accredited field schools or to have joined volunteer archaeology digs​. Without that hands-on time surrounded by experts, even a stellar academic record might not cut it.

Secondly, there is a real cost barrier. Many high-quality archaeological field schools and digs can be expensive, limiting access for many aspiring students. This means that early experience, while vital, often comes with a hefty price tag, making it harder for a diverse range of students to enter the field.

Lastly, getting experience on a real dig can be hard to find and organize, often involving international travel and logistical nightmares. You might need to find transport from the airport to remote parts of a new country, find safe and reliable accommodation, and try to prepare tasty, balanced meals in a different cuisine.

Ultimately, applying to college or jobs in archaeology is about skills, not just grades. Employers in archaeology often divide graduates into two groups: those who can dig, and those who can’t.

Academic knowledge is essential, but it pales in comparison to the practical skills gained through real-world excavation, recording, and analysis. This is why gaining tangible experience is your key to success.

The benefits of archaeology experience for college applications

Given these challenges, starting the process as a high school student isn’t just a bonus, it’s essential.

The main reason for getting archaeology experience as a teen is to maximize your college applications. Demonstrating a serious, early commitment to archaeology through genuine field experience will make your application stand out to competitive college programs.

It shows initiative and a commitment to your career path, confirming your interest before you spend four years on a degree.

Beyond archaeology, you’ll build an invaluable transferable skill stack. Working on a dig will hone your teamwork, problem-solving under pressure, resilience in challenging conditions, and meticulous attention to detail. These skills are vital for any academic or professional career, making this experience wholly worthwhile no matter where your path leads.

Finally, joining an international dig is fun, and it helps to develop your global mindset. Stepping into a different culture not only deepens your understanding of human history but also fosters cultural empathy, adaptability, communication, and the ability to collaborate in diverse teams.

Travel itself is an important learning opportunity that you could never get in a classroom.

How to get involved with archaeology as a teen

So, how do you get this crucial head start? Get all the skills and real experience on our Archaeology Volunteering for Teens in Peru program.

This program is specifically designed for high school students aged 15 to 18, offering a safe, structured, and educational experience on a real archaeological dig. Crucially, you do not need any experience to volunteer on this archaeology project and dig site.

As an archaeological excavation volunteer​, you’ll get hands-on experience working alongside professional archaeologists on genuine excavations in the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas. You’ll be involved in everything from attending practical workshops to cleaning and classifying artifacts. This is real work that contributes to real research.

All our Teen Programs are designed with safety and support at their core. We provide 24/7 supervision, vetted accommodation, and dedicated staff and transport in destination, so you can relax and focus entirely on learning.

Beyond the dig site, you’ll get the chance to fully immerse in the culture of Peru, one of the most archaeologically rich countries in the world. Learn basic Spanish phrases, explore local markets, and visit iconic sites like Machu Picchu, all while contributing to the preservation of ancient Inca heritage.

Crucially, you’ll also learn directly from experienced archaeologists and make lifelong friends with other teens from around the world. You’ll make incredible memories and share the adventure with friends that will last a lifetime.

Get the archaeology experience you need

The field of archaeology is competitive, but it’s also incredibly rewarding for those with the passion and the experience needed to break in. For high school students, getting genuine, hands-on field experience early is your most powerful tool for college applications and future career success.

Stop dreaming about history and start discovering it. Get in touch with a Project Expert today to ask any questions, find out more about the project, and take the first step towards a successful career in archaeology.

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Well, travel clubs are back in fashion. They were first created in the 1800s as a social place for powerful men to discuss their travelling experiences, as it was far less accessible at the time.

However, travel clubs later evolved into organised group experiences, allowing people to explore the world with a group of like-minded people. These were popular in the late 1900s and are starting to gain traction again. Read on to find out why!

What is a travel club?

In the modern day, travel clubs are a good way to connect with people like you and travel the world together. Also known as a holiday club, you’ll share experiences, navigate cultural differences, and try new things with the support and company of other travellers.

Travel groups like this are a great way to meet new people and feel more comfortable as you explore our incredible planet. This is because you’ll often group up with people of a similar age and mindset who have similar interests.

The trips you book will often have distinct themes, delving into specific parts of a culture, immersing in the heart of nature, or seeing the most popular sights.

However, they are often membership-based, charging a monthly or annual fee, and sometimes sign-up fee, just to join. In some cases, being part of a travel club will help you secure discounts on your holidays, but they can just as often be more expensive than organising your own.

This begs the question: why are they becoming popular again?

Why are travel clubs gaining popularity?

Travel clubs are a popular choice due to the no-hassle nature of their offering. In most cases, everything bar flights and insurance is organised on your behalf and covered in the total cost of the trip, almost like an “all-inclusive” holiday.

For example, your food, accommodation, activities, in-country travel, and more are all paid for and sorted as part of the package. This takes a huge administrative burden off your shoulders, allowing you to focus entirely on the excitement ahead.

Plus, these trips will be planned and run by organisations with a strong local knowledge and connections, ensuring that you get an immersive and (most importantly) totally safe experience. This often means you will be looked after throughout your trip by people on the ground.

The discount aspect is obviously a very attractive option for travel clubs, as a large discount on travel can outweigh a monthly fee. (Another option is to sign up for our monthly newsletter, which is totally free, keeps you in the know, and may include a discount every now and then!)

Lastly, travel clubs often give you a reason to visit countries you may never have thought of seeing before. For example, live on the open steppes of Mongolia with a real nomad family or visit the ancient Inca capital of Cusco in Peru!

Do Projects Abroad offer a travel club option?

While not strictly a travel club, we offer many of the benefits of a travel club without the need for a costly subscription. In fact, if you see a project you like, a deposit of as little as €295 is all you need to secure your place (and it is taken off the final cost of your trip!).

Our travel club equivalents are available for people at all stages of their life, and we can even organise trips for schools and businesses, too.

Teen Programmes, a teen travel club

Our Teen Programmes are essentially travel clubs for teenagers, giving you all the benefits listed above for a single, transparent price. You’ll be matched with other, like-minded people your age and fully supervised 24/7 on the ground.

What makes our travel clubs for young people different from anywhere else is that we focus on personal growth, cultural understanding, and making a tangible impact on the world.

You could volunteer in conservation, complete a medical internship, or choose from dozens of other projects all while meeting other teens from around the world!

Gap Programmes, a travel club for young people

KTaking a gap year and hoping to see the world? Our Gap Programmes are curated, extended travel experiences for people aged 17-24 taking time away from their studies.

Enjoy a thrilling mix of adventure, adrenaline, and cultural immersion with exciting activities to give you a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Alternatively, join our Global Gap Year for a full, 28-week international journey.

Grown-up Specials, over-50s travel club

For the young at heart, we have projects dedicated to older volunteers who want to meet others their age and volunteer around the world.

This can be to put the skills you’ve learned in your lifetime to good use, or to immerse yourself in a new culture for an unforgettable experience.

For schools and organisations

If you’re looking to take an educational trip abroad that is aligned to your curriculum and to foster personal development, then you already have a travel group ready… you just need a provider to tie it all together.

If you want to travel with five or more people, we will tailor-make you a Group Trip designed to meet your specific needs with custom pricing. Get in touch with our experts to discuss your options today!

For everyone else…

Not sure you fit into any of the categories above? Don’t worry, our volunteer and intern projects are for anyone aged 16 and over.

You’ll get the chance to immerse in a new culture, meet people from around the world, and develop your skills all with 24/7 support from our staff. You can filter our list of projects to find just what you’re interested in.

Interested in more like this?

Sign up to our newsletter to receive articles on Projects Abroad, our projects, and more every single month. Unlike a traditional travel club, it’s free!

To get the most out of your experience and ensure a smooth journey, we always recommend booking your project as soon as you can. 

Keep reading to discover why choosing to book early is your smartest move.

Secure your place and get the best price

Our projects are incredibly popular, and some of our dates fill up fast. 

By booking early, you can guarantee your place on a project that truly excites you. This means you won’t miss out on your first choice adventure, whether it’s Rainforest Conservation for Teens in Peru or a Medical Internship in Nepal.

As well as locking in your place on your chosen project, booking early means you can take advantage of the best price. 

The price of programmes can change, and committing early ensures you lock in your adventure for less—giving you the best value and total peace of mind.

Read: How it works.

Explore: Our Destinations.

Flexible payments

We want your journey to be stress-free, and that includes managing your finances. 

Booking in advance gives you the benefit of spreading your payments. Instead of a single, large payment, you can plan smaller, more manageable installments over a longer time frame.  

This flexibility makes your dream trip more affordable and helps you budget effectively, leaving you with one less thing to worry about before you travel.

Learn more about our Flexible Payment Policy.

The best price for flights

Once your project is confirmed, booking your flights becomes much easier. 

When you book your project early, you have ample time to research and secure the best flight deals to your destination(s). 

Flights are typically more expensive the closer to the departure date, so booking your flight sooner could save you even more money. You’ll also have the best choice of routes and airlines to choose from. 

This allows you to find the most convenient and cost-effective travel arrangements to start your journey.

Read: The best way to find cheap flights for your next adventure.

Read: What’s included in the cost of your project.

More time to prepare and feel confident

Knowing your trip is booked well in advance gives you the gift of time—which means plenty of opportunity to prepare for your experience.

• Utilise our one-to-one support: Your dedicated Destination Expert is here to guide you. With more time, you can ask all your questions, understand every detail, and feel truly prepared. They can give advice on visas, vaccinations, what to pack, and a lot more.
• Engage with pre-departure training: We provide comprehensive pre-departure training and cultural guidance to ensure you’re ready for your time away. Booking early means you can fully engage with this preparation, giving you increased confidence before you travel.
• Reduce travel anxiety: For many, especially first-time travellers, a trip like this can naturally bring some fear of the unknown. Booking early allows you to gradually prepare, digesting all the necessary information, which will leave you reassured about your safety and the support you’ll receive from us. It’s time to get excited!
• Learning: Imagine having more time to research your destination, even learning some key phrases in the local language. Early booking empowers you to make the most of every learning opportunity before you leave.

Read: What to expect on your first day volunteering abroad.

Read: How we keep you safe.

Read: Navigating the Airport Solo: A first-time traveller’s guide.

Read: Beyond the bucket list: the personal growth behind international volunteering.

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We know what parenting is like. Ultimately, you want only the best for your child. That includes them taking part in teen volunteering abroad, having incredible experiences, and meeting amazing people from around the world.

But you might also be nervous to let them go on their own, especially if it’s their first time travelling alone. That’s where we come in. Our Teen Programmes are carefully curated overseas volunteering trips just for teens, designed with safety, supervision, and self-discovery at their core. 

This blog looks at what you and your child will experience in the run-up to and during their adventure, including what we do to make sure they are safe. 

“We would like to congratulate Projects Abroad for the most excellent experience you are giving to young people. I will cite my daughter: ‘the best holiday and trip ever in my life.’” 

– The Emmerechts Family from Belgium

The essentials: Teen Programmes

We know a thing or two about international volunteering for teens. We’ve organised responsible travel trips since 1992, which means we’ve developed a reliable framework for safe and enjoyable travel experiences for teens. 

We run dedicated summer volunteer programmes just for people aged 15 to 18 every year. These projects are hand-crafted for teens to have an unmatched, intercultural learning experience with safety and support at their core. 

These projects are supervised 24/7 by our staff so they will always have someone available to contact if needed. This gives you and your child peace of mind throughout their trip. 

If your child is flying from (or connecting through) the UK or US, they may have the option of a chaperoned flight, supervised by one of our staff. They will accompany your child all the way to (and back from) their destination to minimise stress at the airport.

Another focus of our trips for teens is improving social skills and cultural understanding. Your child will connect with an international community and travel alongside other teens their age, forging lifelong friendships and enhancing their global perspective. 

And don’t worry, we’ll make sure that your child is able to communicate with friends and family back home while on their trip. 

“The fact that these are tried and tested projects where others have come home healthy and having benefited from the experience is very reassuring and eases one’s worry about the experience.”

– Mother of Anna M, Human Rights volunteer in Ghana

Advice and support before they travel

From the moment your child submits their application, our team will be in touch to help them (and you) prepare for their life-changing travel programme. 

Your child will be assigned a dedicated Destination Expert (DE) who will be their point of contact should they need anything before they fly. Your child’s DE will help answer every question either of you might have, no matter how big or small. 

Their DE will also give more information on the travel programme they chose, their accommodation, and help connect them with other travellers ahead of their trip.

They will also help your child navigate their personal MyProjectsAbroad page, where all this information (and more) will be written down. 

Plus, their DE will provide them with a comprehensive packing list and culture workshop tailored to their destination. They can also provide advice and guidance regarding their flights, travel insurance, visa requirements, and any vaccinations needed.

Our aim is to make sure that you and your child know anything and everything you might need to before their experience. 

“Megan is now studying law at university, including human rights. The trip obviously widened her experience generally, as she was learning about human rights, which was very interesting as well as being the real deal, as where is better to learn about human rights than South Africa. She has now been able to bring that experience into her studying environment.”

– Mother of Megan B, Law & Human Rights High School Special volunteer in South Africa

Total support from the moment they arrive

The build up is exciting, but the nerve wracking bit is letting your child go. Don’t worry, we take every measure to guarantee that they are completely safe while traveling. 

First things first, a member of staff will meet them at the airport with a Projects Abroad sign, no matter what time they arrive. Our team will then take your child to their accommodation, give them a thorough induction, and tour their new surroundings. 

They will also take your child to buy a reliable eSIM, allowing them to connect to the local phone network and stay in touch with you back home. From then on, our staff will be available 24/7 to answer any questions, address any concerns, or just to chat with! 

On most of our volunteer opportunities for teenagers, participants stay with a host family for full cultural immersion. This family will have been carefully vetted based on security, comfort, and friendliness, and will also be around to help with anything if needed. 

On some conservation programmes, they will stay in a partnered guesthouse or hotel. No matter where they stay, we will try to have them share a room alongside at least one volunteer of the same gender and similar age. 

We have tried and tested crisis management plans in place to effectively handle any emergencies that might occur around the world. In the unlikely event that your child falls ill while volunteering, a member of staff will take them to the nearest healthcare facility. 

Our team will handle all of the transport for your child while they are with us, including taking them back to the airport with plenty of time to make their returning flight. 

“We knew from when our middle daughter fell ill in Tanzania and spent a short time in hospital in Arusha that Projects Abroad responded very well and quickly to make sure that she was well looked after. We were also kept informed about how she was doing by Projects Abroad. The communication network seemed to be very organised and practiced.”

– Parents of Cecily V, Childcare volunteer in Tanzania

Still looking for more information?

No worries! We want to put you at ease as much as possible, and there are lots of resources on our teen volunteer programmes. 

Consider looking through our parent FAQs page for more detailed answers to some questions you may have. Alternatively, browse our Teen Programmes to see the teen volunteer opportunities we offer, and find out more about how they’re structured. 

Or, sign up to our newsletter for more articles and information direct to your inbox every month.

Humans are the biggest threat to Earth’s species of flora and fauna, contributing to their decline through activities such as poaching, deforestation, and dredging, to name a few.

Conservation programmes offer students unparalleled opportunities to engage directly with environmental preservation efforts, fostering both personal growth and a deeper understanding of our planet’s ecosystems.

Learning directly from conservationists and local communities, students will develop a stronger appreciation for both plants and wildlife and a passion for protecting and preserving them for future generations.

By embarking on a conservation trip with your school group, not only will you travel to some of the world’s most breathtaking destinations, but you’ll also be making a positive impact on the environment.

Keep reading to discover our top five conservation programmes for school trips in 2026/2027.

Why choose a conservation school trip?

Conservation school trips provide students with meaningful experiences that combine education, adventure, and environmental impact.

Through marine and wildlife conservation volunteering, students explore a new destination alongside their peers while learning about animals and contributing to a common goal.

Here are some more reasons to embark on a conservation programme overseas on your next school trip.

• Your students will become immersed in a different culture through evening activities, weekend trips, and engaging with the local community.
• Students will leave as global citizens and environmental stewards, more knowledgeable and aware of global issues, with a drive to create positive change. In fact, 96% of people who travelled with us in 2024 feel more confident interacting with people from different cultures and backgrounds after travelling with us.
• Allow your students to develop soft skills, including teamwork, communication, leadership, and problem-solving, while engaging in meaningful projects.
• Students will have the opportunity to explore a new destination in a safe environment alongside their peers, creating unique, lasting memories together.
• Introduce your students to new career opportunities, help them gain practical experience and boost their future UCAS and job applications. 92% of volunteers believe their experience with Projects Abroad improved their university applications.

If you want to teach your students about their global impact or inspire the next generation of global ambassadors, our conservation trips are the way to go.

Read our impact report.  

Our Top 5

With a wide range of educational school trip opportunities to choose from, it can be hard to know where to begin. That’s why we’ve put together a list of our top wildlife and marine conservation programmes to get you started.
Want to skip ahead? Read more about the destination that interests you by clicking the link below:

• Costa Rica Conservation
• Nepal Rhino Conservation
• Kenya Lion and Giraffe Conservation
• Sri Lanka Sea Turtle Conservation
• France Conservation

If you’re interested in one of the programmes discussed in this article or would like to learn more about volunteer work in wildlife conservation, get in touch with our Partnerships Team.

1. Costa Rica Conservation

This conservation programme takes place in Costa Rica’s most biodiverse and vital conservation areas. Discover the energy of the tropical rainforest at the Camaquiri Conservation Initiative (CCI) and explore the remote Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge on the Caribbean coastline.

These locations are critical for many endangered species, as ongoing conservation work plays a key role in preserving Costa Rica’s rich natural heritage.

Programme aims

This conservation programme offers students a hands-on introduction to wildlife research in Costa Rica. 

You’ll monitor monkeys, sea turtles, and birds, learn camera trapping, and participate in reforestation and beach cleanups. Your help is crucial, as by collecting real data and supporting conservation actions, you directly contribute to protecting local wildlife and fragile ecosystems. 

Guided by experts, you’ll gain valuable field skills, deepen your understanding of biodiversity, and engage with local communities. It’s a meaningful way to grow personally while making a lasting impact on wildlife conservation.

Conservation activities

To help maintain the reserve and contribute to research, your group will participate in activities such as:

• Conducting bird surveys along established transects.
• Learning and applying camera trapping techniques to study the differences between forest edge and interior habitats.
• Conducting primate surveys and recording observational data.
• Heading out on anti-poaching evening beach patrols.
• Contributing to reforestation efforts.
• Hatchery maintenance tasks
• Monitoring amphibian sites
• GPS/GIS mapping

What will students gain from this trip?

• Ecosystems & biodiversity: Students will study tropical ecosystems, such as rainforests and marine environments, and improve their understanding of the impacts of human activity.
• Scientific inquiry: Develop data collection skills and practice them in a meaningful way. The compiled data will contribute to crucial, ongoing conservation research.
• Wildlife protection and ethical engagement: By learning about ongoing threats to wildlife, both locally and globally, students will develop a better understanding of conservation, its necessity, and how to practice it ethically.

Teacher testimonial

“In Costa Rica we had 4 members of Project Abroad staff with us at ALL times, with the group leader Sofia being especially amazing… for the first four days, we worked on the beach and then in the jungle for the second half, working on conservation projects. The students loved the variety of activities, with the highlights perhaps seeing turtles laying eggs and the wildlife in the jungle.”

Jon Lewis, Head of Politics & Sociology, Oakwood Park Grammar School

2. Nepal Rhino Conservation

Our rhino conservation programme in Nepal offers students a unique opportunity to engage in hands-on conservation within the community forests bordering Chitwan National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage site and stronghold for the endangered one-horned rhinoceros. 

Programme aims

This programme aims to support wildlife research, protect natural habitats, and raise awareness about conservation. 

Students will help gather data on species like the greater one-horned rhino, Bengal tiger, and vultures, contributing to vital scientific reports. They also assist in maintaining the Chitwan Community Forest, ensuring it continues to safeguard wildlife and welcome visitors.

By engaging the local community in environmental awareness sessions and tree planting initiatives, students will help inspire people to continue their work long after they’ve gone home. 

Beyond its environmental impact, the programme also focuses on personal growth, offering hands-on experience, new skills, and the chance to work alongside experts in a fun, adventurous setting.

Conservation activities

• Helping to protect the greater one-horned rhino
• Conducting butterfly and bird surveys
• Preserving the community forest
• Joining anti-poaching patrols
• Conduct surveys collecting data on vultures and the gharial crocodile.

What will students gain from this trip?

• Physical and human geography: Students explore different ecosystems (jungles, wetlands, hills) and understand conservation challenges in Nepal.
• Environmental stewardship and global citizenship: Engage in conservation-based activities such as planting trees and educating the next generation to ensure the future protection and preservation of local biodiversity.
• Biodiversity monitoring: Learners engage in species identification and behaviour observation within diverse habitats, contributing to longitudinal datasets relevant for conservation planning.

3. Kenya Lion and Giraffe Conservation

Embrace the great outdoors with our lion and giraffe conservation programme in Kenya.

Set in the heart of the stunning Soysambu Conservancy—a 48,000-acre wildlife haven in the Great Rift Valley—students will be surrounded by savannah, lakes, and volcanic landscapes as they live and work alongside conservationists to help monitor and protect key species, such as lions and giraffes. 

This hands-on experience supports crucial efforts to preserve Kenya’s iconic wildlife and ecosystems while offering a deep connection to African conservation in one of its most breathtaking settings.

Programme aims

Due to human activity, poaching, pollution, and damage caused by residential and commercial development have become major threats to the flora and fauna in Kenya.

By joining this programme, your students will help to protect threatened species, such as the Rothschild giraffe, through research, data collection, and maintenance of waterholes.

Acquire practical conservation skills while expanding your knowledge of local landscapes, wildlife, and ecology.

Conservation Activities

• Researching the Rothschild giraffe
• Setting up camera traps to monitor and study the behaviour of animals such as lions
• Wetland and terrestrial bird surveys
• Assessing vegetation
• Working in a tree nursery
• Designing, marking, and maintaining new roads
• Removing invasive plant species
• Maintaining waterholes to ensure vital water access to wildlife
• Building eco-stoves in the community
  

Students will also raise awareness about the importance of the environment with outreach at a nearby school, engage in community clean-ups, and plant trees.

What will students gain from this trip?

• Scientific research & environmental conservation: Rothschild giraffe surveys and lion/carnivore monitoring introduce students to real-world population dynamics, conservation strategies, and field survey techniques.
• Environmental awareness: Learn about ecosystem dynamics, biodiversity, and the impact of human activity on wildlife through activities such as de-snaring and invasive species removal.
• Fieldwork skills: Through geographic fieldwork, including habitat surveys, species tracking, and mapping exercises, students will gain a deeper understanding of research methodologies and data analysis.

4. Sri Lanka Sea Turtle Conservation

During your time in Sri Lanka, you will work at a conservation centre in Galbokka Bay, contributing to ongoing efforts to protect endangered sea turtles and preserve the local ecosystem.

Programme aims

In Sri Lanka, all species of sea turtles are classed as threatened or endangered. This is due to a variety of factors, including poaching and human activity in the area.

It’s crucial that we protect local groups of sea turtles, such as the Green, Leatherback, Olive Ridley, Loggerhead, and Hawksbill sea turtles, as once they have died out, there is no way to replace them with another group. This is because while groups of turtles can be found all over the world, those from outside the area don’t have the inherited instructions needed to navigate within and from their new homes.

With the help of students, we can work to prevent this from happening and help the turtle population thrive by protecting sea turtle eggs and assisting baby turtles in reaching the sea.

Conservation activities

• Burying the sea turtle eggs in a safe, dedicated area to keep them safe from poachers.
• Conducting daily checks on the eggs to check their hatching time and help the emerging baby turtles.
• Maintaining the sea turtle tanks at the rehabilitation centre.
• Taking care of cleaning, feeding, helping, and releasing turtle hatchlings.
• Hand feeding any injured turtles.
• Taking part in the night patrol to look for endangered sea turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs.
• Planting mangroves to combat deforestation.

What will students gain from this trip?

• Human impact on the environment: Beach cleanups, pollution awareness, and discussions on sustainable practices reinforce understanding of human-environment interactions.
• Global interdependence: Explore how global environmental issues (like marine pollution) also impact local communities and consider ways to create change on a personal and worldwide level.
• Environmental science: Students will learn about coastal conservation, climate change impact, and sustainable tourism practices, bettering their understanding of marine biodiversity and the ecological roles of endangered species.

5. France Conservation & Environment

Embark on an unforgettable journey that blends conservation, research, and cultural exploration in the historic town of Sommières. 

Live, work, and learn in the south of France as you master practical wilderness survival skills and learn about the vast array of local wildlife that resides in the Cévennes mountain range. Develop your knowledge of and keep an eye out for foxes, wild boar, beavers, wolves and mountain goats. You may also catch a glimpse of some of the 360+ bird species and 15+ reptiles throughout your time here.

Programme aims

This immersive experience allows students to play an active role in preserving the area’s local wildlife and environment while gaining a deeper appreciation of France’s rich history and traditions.

Students will learn essential survival skills while exploring the great outdoors and discovering local wildlife through engaging lectures, workshops, and hands-on activities.

This is also an excellent opportunity for students to gain experience with various traditional and modern research techniques through real-life applications, contributing to ongoing biodiversity monitoring.

Conservation activities

• Conduct biodiversity surveys using various scientific methodologies.
• Set camera traps and monitor animal behaviour at tracking stations.
• Collect and analyse data to monitor the behaviour of wild animals such as reptiles and small mammals like otters and voles.
• Practise wilderness survival skills.

What will students gain from this trip?

Survival & outdoor skills: Learn wilderness survival techniques, including water sourcing and navigation, while participating in physical challenges and team-building activities.

STEM & data analysis: Set up and analyse camera traps for wildlife research, conduct bird surveys using transects and learn about long-term data sets and climate tracking.

Geographical skills & fieldwork: Map environmental data using GIS and digital tools, learn about water habitat assessments and river ecosystem health, and explore geological formations, such as the Abîme de Bramabiau cave system.

But don’t just take our word for it. We went straight to the source, with a survey of more than 250 recent Projects Abroad participants. Here’s what they told us…

“This was the most incredible experience I have ever had…”

To see the benefits of international volunteering, we needed to first understand how our participants felt about their experience with Projects Abroad. And yes, this quote was taken directly from one of our responses.

Firstly, 99% of our travellers said that they were able to connect with new people and cultures on their project. As a result of this, 96% felt more confident interacting with people from different cultures and backgrounds.

94% of respondents said they now have a better understanding of global issues and challenges and are more likely to see themselves as global citizens.

95% of our travellers believed that the work they did had a positive impact in the communities they travelled to. Whether in conservation, medicine, teaching, or anything else, we pride ourselves on the fact that every project we run is meaningful.

57% of our participants trusted us to manage their very first solo travel experience, with 92% saying that their experience with us was better than travelling alone.

All of this resulted in 9-out-of-10 participants saying they would recommend Projects Abroad to a friend or colleague.

“It was a life-changing and eye-opening experience, I loved it!”

We aren’t the only ones using words like ‘life changing’, our participants agree! The skills they’ve learned and experiences they’ve had will set them up for success in the next stages of their life.

For example, they can find out whether the field they work in is right for their future career. Here’s what one participant said about their internship:

“I really enjoyed my Business internship in Mexico, it helped me a lot in my studies and I now have a much clearer view of what I would like to do in the future!”

Of course, volunteering or interning will develop practical skills relevant to the field you choose to work in. For example, among medical travellers, 96% said their Medical Internships enhanced their experience of studying medicine and healthcare. 89% believed their Medical Internship gave them experience they could not have found at home.

But, travelling internationally with Projects Abroad exposes you to much more than just the workplace. You’ll meet new people, try new food, embrace new challenges, and experience a brand new culture.

The global perspective and intercultural communication skills our travellers learn are crucial in the modern world. People and businesses are connected on a global scale like never before. Understanding how others might view, approach, and tackle certain tasks or issues is the first step of working together efficiently.

This enhanced perspective can also often help people better appreciate what they have and motivate themselves to achieve more at home. Plus, these experiences, when shared with other travellers, can lead to lifelong friendships across borders.

“The trip was amazing, I learned so much and met so many amazing people.”

“I truly believe that it shaped me as a person.”

91% of our travellers said that they felt more confident handling life’s challenges as a result of their experience with us.

93% said the new skills and knowledge they gained will help them in the future, listing their general life, education, and career as the things most positively impacted.

Travelling with Projects Abroad helps you discover more about the world, but also yourself. Our projects develop your confidence, independence, and adaptability. You might even learn a new language, or ignite a love for a culture you didn’t know you had.

You’ll develop as a person, contribute towards international initiatives, and most of all, have an incredible experience. What’s not to love?

“My trip was SO MUCH FUN. I loved the project so much that my little sister is going on the same one that I went on!”

Read the Impact Report 2024

For more information on how our projects have positively impacted participants, and the planet, read our latest Impact Report – packed full of statistics and testimonials.

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It’s time for them to tear up their textbooks (metaphorically) and embark on an adventure that could be genuinely life-changing. Our teenage volunteer opportunities abroad combine learning, immersion, and exploration for an educational experience like no other. 

Interested? You’re in the right place. Keep reading to explore how your child can grow both academically and personally while travelling the world!

“Absolutely life changing, the only complaint I have is that it wasn’t longer. Volunteering in Cambodia and meeting like-minded individuals is an absolutely priceless experience. I absolutely encourage you to attend a project or, even better, send your kids here.” – Nate on Trustpilot

What teenage volunteer opportunities could my child do?

From the Andes in Peru to the tropical waters of Thailand, your child can immerse themselves in a brand new culture and experience the world like never before. 

They could embark on one of our dedicated projects, designed specifically for teenagers aged 15 to 18, operating all around the world. These summer volunteer abroad experiences are supported by staff on the ground 24/7, with preparation support handled by our dedicated pre-departure team. 

This means your child will always be looked after, and you can have total peace of mind wherever they are. 

Taking place during the school holidays, your child will be volunteering alongside other teenagers from around the world. This experience will lead to the development of core professional and personal skills, perfectly setting them up for the next stage of their life. 

Don’t take our word for it, the UK Government says that volunteering is great for skill development, networking, boosting confidence, and trying out different careers. 

In fact, the results of our feedback surveys show that 93% of teenage volunteers developed new skills or knowledge that will help them in future. Plus, 91% feel more confident in handling life’s challenges. 

“Excellent experience and excellent staff. My daughter was only 16 when she chose the public health project in Cambodia but she loved it and felt useful during her stay in Asia. We were reassured by the staff before she left and she was super well supervised during the stay. A big round of applause for Projects Abroad.” – CG on Trustpilot

What can my child gain from volunteering abroad?

There are many benefits to volunteering for teens, especially when you let someone else handle the stress and logistics. It is an educational adventure from start to finish, that could develop their:

• professional competence 
• social skills 
• cultural understanding 
• compassion 
• relationships 
• language ability 
• global perspective
• and more!

It’s impossible to contain all the benefits to a single list, and everyone’s experience varies depending on who they are and the project they choose. 

For example, a medical volunteer will get experience in a real healthcare setting, primarily developing their practical and professional skills in that field. Alternatively, a teaching volunteer might mostly build their confidence, creativity, and patience. 

One of the most profound experiences they’ll have is when they first leave the airport. The sense of independence, trepidation, and culture shock as they embrace a new challenge. It’s moments like these that truly define who they are. 

They will also gain a sense of pride in the knowledge that they have helped work towards community initiatives around the world. Whether they contributed towards the construction of essential facilities in Asia, supported child education in Latin America, or helped protect endangered wildlife in Africa, they will have contributed towards a positive cause in the community. 

“My 16 year old son went on a Projects Abroad trip to Kenya with his school. He had an amazing time and projects abroad made the whole process easy and worry-free. He had an amazing, life-changing experience! I would definitely recommend projects abroad (and already have)!” – Mandy Damico, Trustpilot

How could this experience make a difference to their life?

Our volunteer opportunities for teenagers are designed to help nurture their skills and independence, benefitting them for life, not just their time with us. Everything they learn will be transferable to a range of circumstances. 

To start, an experience like this will stand out on their CV and give them an edge in their applications for university, further education, and job opportunities. This is doubly true if they get work experience in the field they want to pursue. 

They will build real skills through the shadowing of professionals, attending relevant workshops, and carrying out work themselves. These skills might be industry-specific, like suturing in medicine, or more general, like teamwork and communication. 

More importantly, some of the things they are exposed to, or experiences they have, will not be available at home. The best example of this would be in medicine, where they will learn about and treat diseases and conditions that do not exist back home. 

Plus, international travel is a great way to develop their confidence, independence, and global perspective. Perspective is a difficult thing to learn when you only view the world from home, and volunteering abroad can often help teens return home with a greater appreciation for what they have. 

These sorts of skills are useful to help make friends in new situations, come across better in interviews, and understand the world around us. In some destinations, they will also learn and use some of the local language on their project. Language skills like this are increasingly useful and desired in modern workplaces.

Travelling like this can ignite a passion for their work, a hobby, a language, or travel itself. This could shape their lives ahead, leading them to incredible job opportunities and personal experiences. 

“I was definitely not able to have such an experience in Japan, that made it really meaningful and significant. Throughout this two week-program, I felt even more motivated to pursue my dream to become a doctor and hope to save as many lives as possible.” – Rikuto on Trustpilot

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A life-changing adventure across the world might sound scary, but when they are fully supported from start to finish, your child might just discover something that helps mark out their future. 

If you think this is something they’d be interested in, and you want to find out more about it, sign up to our newsletter. You’ll be the first to see useful information and travel inspiration every month. Fill in the form below to be added to the list!