Here is a curated list of the top 10 volunteer programs offered by GoEco for 2025! From marine conservation in Australia to teaching in Nepal, these programs provide unique opportunities to make a meaningful impact. We’ve also included two bonus programs that are equally enriching.
1. Australia – Great Barrier Reef Conservation
Why Volunteer Here?
The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Volunteering here allows you to contribute to the preservation of a critical marine ecosystem that supports a vast array of marine life, including endangered species.
What You Will Do
- Participate in coral monitoring and data collection to aid conservation efforts.
- Work alongside marine experts and Master Reef Guides.
- Assist in reef restoration projects and environmental surveys.
- Option to become PADI Open Water or Advanced Open Water certified.
- Engage in beach clean-ups and visit a turtle rehabilitation center.
2. Zimbabwe – African Wildlife Orphanage
Why Volunteer Here?
This program offers a chance to support one of Africa’s largest wildlife sanctuaries, dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating injured and orphaned animals. It’s an opportunity to contribute to conservation efforts while learning about African wildlife.
What You Will Do
- Assist in feeding and caring for various animals like lions, monkeys, and birds of prey.
- Help with rehabilitation efforts aiming for the release of animals back into the wild.
- Participate in maintenance tasks such as cleaning enclosures and building repairs.
- Engage in community education initiatives to promote wildlife conservation.
- Observe and record behavioral data for research purposes.
3. Costa Rica – Pre-Vet Sloth and Wildlife Rescue Center
Why Volunteer Here?
Ideal for those interested in veterinary medicine or wildlife conservation, this program focuses on the rehabilitation of injured and orphaned animals, including sloths and monkeys. It offers hands-on experience in a well-established rescue center.
What You Will Do
- Support veterinarians in treating and caring for over 100 animals.
- Assist with feeding, cleaning enclosures, and providing enrichment activities.
- Participate in educational sessions on wildlife conservation.
- Help with rehabilitation efforts aimed at releasing animals back into the wild.
- Work alongside a dedicated team of professionals and international volunteers.
4. Nepal – Teaching in Buddhist Monasteries
Why Volunteer Here?
This program provides a unique cultural exchange experience by allowing you to live in a Buddhist monastery and teach English and math to monks of various ages. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in Buddhist culture and contribute to the monks’ education.
What You Will Do
- Teach English and basic subjects to novice monks.
- Engage in one-on-one conversational practice to improve language skills.
- Participate in daily monastery activities and rituals.
- Assist with other tasks around the monastery, such as gardening or library work.
- Learn about Buddhist traditions and the local way of life.
5. Italy – Liveaboard Dolphin Research Expedition
Why Volunteer Here?
Contribute to dolphin conservation while living aboard a historic sailing vessel off the coast of Ischia Island. This program combines marine research with sailing, offering a hands-on approach to studying marine life.
What You Will Do
- Assist in data collection on dolphin behavior and marine life.
- Participate in daily boat surveys to spot dolphins, whales, and other species.
- Learn about marine research methods and conservation efforts.
- Help with onboard duties, including navigation and meal preparation.
- Analyze collected data and attend educational sessions.
6. Argentina – Puma Sanctuary & Wildlife Reserve
Why Volunteer Here?
Located near Córdoba, this program focuses on protecting pumas and other native species within a wildlife reserve. It’s an opportunity to engage in conservation efforts while experiencing Argentina’s natural beauty.
What You Will Do
- Care for rescued pumas and other animals like eagles and monkeys.
- Assist with habitat restoration and maintenance within the reserve.
- Participate in environmental education and community outreach.
- Help with data collection on animal behavior and health.
- Engage in sustainable practices like organic gardening.
7. Kenya – Maasai Mara Lion and Wildlife Conservation
Why Volunteer Here?
This program offers the chance to work in the Maasai Mara, one of Africa’s most renowned wildlife regions. Collaborate with local Maasai communities on conservation projects aimed at protecting lions and other wildlife.
What You Will Do
- Collect data on lions, cheetahs, and other predators.
- Participate in wildlife monitoring and game counts.
- Assist in conservation initiatives like habitat restoration.
- Engage with the Maasai community and learn about their culture.
- Support efforts to reduce human-wildlife conflict.
8. Sri Lanka – Medical and Nursing Program
Why Volunteer Here?
For those in the medical or nursing fields, this program provides exposure to healthcare practices in Sri Lanka. It’s an opportunity to observe and learn in a different medical environment while contributing to community health initiatives.
What You Will Do
- Observe medical procedures in hospitals and clinics.
- Rotate through various departments such as surgery, pediatrics, and emergency care.
- Assist with community health projects and education.
- Learn about tropical diseases and healthcare challenges.
- Engage with medical professionals and gain international experience.
9. South Africa – Wild Cat Sanctuary & Kruger Safari
Why Volunteer Here?
This program combines wildlife conservation work with the experience of a safari. Contribute to the care of wild cats at a sanctuary and then explore Kruger National Park to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.
What You Will Do
- Assist in feeding and caring for wild cats like lions and cheetahs.
- Help with maintenance tasks such as cleaning enclosures.
- Participate in enrichment activities for the animals.
- Educate visitors about wild cat conservation.
- Enjoy a three-day safari in Kruger National Park.
10. Australia – Wildlife Animal Sanctuary
Why Volunteer Here?
Support conservation efforts at a wildlife sanctuary near Sydney that focuses on native Australian animals. This program allows you to work closely with species like koalas and kangaroos while contributing to habitat preservation.
What You Will Do
- Assist with feeding and general care of animals.
- Participate in habitat restoration and bush regeneration projects.
- Help with maintenance and upkeep of the sanctuary.
- Engage in guest services and educational programs.
- Learn about conservation challenges facing Australian wildlife.
2 More Standout Programs Worth Mentioning:
Japan – Wildlife Conservation and Cultural Immersion
Why Volunteer Here?
Experience rural Japan while contributing to wildlife and environmental conservation on Sado Island. This program offers a blend of cultural immersion and hands-on conservation work in a unique setting.
What You Will Do
- Participate in habitat management and conservation projects.
- Assist in the protection of endangered species like the crested ibis.
- Learn traditional Japanese farming and sustainable living practices.
- Engage with local communities and cultural activities.
- Stay in a Buddhist temple and explore the island’s natural beauty.
Costa Rica – Montezuma Sea Turtle Volunteer Program
Why Volunteer Here?
This program focuses on the protection of sea turtles along the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. It’s an opportunity to contribute to conservation efforts while enjoying the country’s rich biodiversity.
What You Will Do
- Conduct beach patrols to protect nesting turtles.
- Assist with relocating nests to protected hatcheries.
- Help release hatchlings into the ocean.
- Participate in beach clean-ups and community education.
- Collect data for research and conservation policies.
