🇮🇩 Bali
Cheap volunteer abroad projects are based in Tabanan, around 2 hours away from Ngurah Rai (Denpasar) International Airport. Tabanan is the capital town of the regency of Bali with the same name. It is referred to by many as the ‘rice bowl of Bali’. Parts of Tabanan regency lie in Central Bali and others in the west.
Tabanan regency is best known for its rolling green landscapes and hills. It is also home to Mount Batukaru – Bali’s second-highest peak at 2,276 metres. Tabanan town itself is a very commercial town, with no shops or entertainment facilities aimed at visitors or tourists. Despite this, the town offers all the amenities you need, such as banks, hospitals and shops. There are lots of minivans available in the town of Tabanan. These are coloured mini-vans that act as the main public transport on the island. These may be useful in getting you to interesting sights in the region. Taxis and private vehicles can be available but are much thinner on the ground in this region.
🇰🇭 Cambodia
Our volunteer abroad programs and accommodation are based in a rural village called Bakod, around 2 hours away from Phnom Penh Airport. Bakod is a small traditional village, based in the regional province of Takeo. It is a poor, rural area where many locals work the land. Some family members will work away from the village, often in Phnom Penh or even Thailand. They will then send money back to support the community in Bakod. The region is far away from the main tourist trail and backpacker destinations. However, these can still be accessed easily across the weekends.
Bakod village is located within Takeo province, around 7km from its centre. Takeo borders the provinces of Kampot to the west, Kampong Speu to the northwest and Kandal to the north and east. Its southern boundary is the international border with Vietnam. The provincial capital, recently known as the provincial town Doun Kaev, is a small city with a population of 40,000. Takeo province is a great way for participants to explore and immerse themselves in the roots of traditional Cambodian life. From mingling with the locals to exploring picturesque paddy fields, living in Bakod village will provide you with a truly traditional experience!
🇨🇷 Costa Rica
Volunteer abroad cheap in Coronado, a very popular suburb of San Jose and home to nearly 60,000 residents. The city is located 10km from San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica.
It is set at the foot of Braulio Carrillo National Park, virtually untouched and home to over 150-different species of animals. Coronado offers visitors an opportune ability to encounter both the city life and natural wonders of Costa Rica!
Volunteers in Costa Rica are situated in a great location to explore local sites. From hip and historic cultural attractions to natural wonders, it is a prime spot for participants seeking a diverse experience. Coronado is famous for its neo-Gothic architecture. Right in the centre of the city lies the most beautiful cathedrals in Costa Rica, San Isidro de Coronado. Outside the city, you can find yourself at a prime location to be at one with nature! From boat tours through the rain forest, to hiking to the Locos Por el Bosque cloud forest reserve, free time never has to be boring! The city’s transportation hub makes it easy to hop-on a cheap bus to many different regions of the country.
🇪🇨 Ecuador
Volunteer abroad with PMGY in Quito, the country’s capital in the Andes Mountains. The city is the highest official capital in the world, resting at an elevation of 2,850 metres above sea level. Quito is classified as a UNESCO heritage site, still upholding many of its historical features that date back hundreds of years. This city’s location among the mountain tops leaves volunteers in Ecuador with majestic views of city life, wilderness and history.
Quito is a unique and centralised location to live and work in. It has all the amenities you could require, such as banks, hospitals, nightlife and shops. There is also a central bus and train station to take you to the many different regions of Ecuador. During your time, you can find yourself at a prime spot to visit the earth’s equator or perhaps enjoy panoramic views from the Teleférico. Perhaps you could even squeeze in a flight to the Galapagos Islands for a long weekend.
🇬🇭 Ghana
Our volunteer abroad projects are based in Kumasi. Located in central Ghana, the city is around 6 hours away from Kotoka Airport in Accra. Kumasi is Ghana’s second-biggest city and the capital of the Ashanti region. It is a bustling city with so much going on! The surrounding area is made up of rolling hills and rural areas, with a much more laid back approach in life. Although based in an under-developed country, you will find all the amenities you may require. This includes international standard hospitals, banks, supermarkets, restaurants and lively bars. Kumasi’s central location makes it a bus transport hub. This makes it the perfect starting point to explore Ghana during your weekends! You will find our two most popular weekend trips are visits to the Cape Coast and Mole National Park.
Every sixth Sunday of the year, Kumasi celebrates the Adae. This is a celebration where the king of the Ashanti Region opens the palace gates to accept homage from his people. The event showcases the Asante lifestyle at its most traditional. Drumming displays, elaborate dancing and rainbow robes make up the general air of fantasy of the Adae celebration. Visitors are welcome and this a really fun experience to be part of. It’s not every day you get to meet a king!
🇬🇷 Greece
Our volunteer abroad projects in Greece are based in Kefalonia, a short distance from the island’s main airport and around 6 hours away from Athens in mainland Greece. Considered the gem of the Ionian Sea, Kefalonia is famous for its green mountains, breathtaking beaches and crystal clear waters. Argostoli is the capital town of Kefalonia and our main project location base. It also happens to be one of the most popular towns on the island.
Argostoli’s loggerhead turtles inhabitants prove the biggest attraction for tourists and locals who flock to the Koutavos lagoon to catch a glimpse of them. In addition to an active harbour, there are many shops, restaurants and cafes to keep you entertained. The waterfront is a long promenade that runs adjacent to the main street and provides picturesque views of Argostoli and its surrounding areas. In addition, our second project location can be found across the Bay of Argostoli in Lixouri. Located 35km west of Argostoli, a short ferry ride will take you to Kefalonia’s second-largest community in Lixouri. The town is home to 3000 inhabitants many of whom are engaged with agriculture and tourism. Its main square is filled with old-fashioned cafes and really comes alive in the evenings.
🇮🇳 India
Cheap volunteer abroad programs are based in Faridabad, located in the New Delhi region of North India. It is around 1 hour away from Delhi Airport. New Delhi is one of the fastest-growing cities in the world. Old Delhi and New Delhi show signs of past and present. Not only does Delhi contain historical gems, but it has all the modern amenities one could desire in a modern city.
Volunteers will stay in the city of Faridabad, located in the National Capital Region (NCR) of New Delhi. The city is close enough to absorb the influence of New Delhi. On the contrary, it is also far enough away to offer a quieter setting. Together, these factors mean that Faridabad is a comfortable location to live and work. There are some interesting temples and local parks in Faridabad for you to visit, as well as markets and shopping malls. There are also a handful of cinemas for you to catch a Bollywood flick, should you fancy!
🇳🇵 Nepal
The best places to volunteer abroad in Nepal include Kathmandu, Chitwan and Pokhara. Each location is unique in its own way. Most placements are based in more rural communities but we do have projects closer to the cities.
Kathmandu
Kathmandu is Nepal’s capital and only major city. It is a bustling metropolis, rooted in history and rich in culture. Filled with temples, palaces and courtyards, the unique architectural heritage and religious influence make the city a fascinating location. Each volunteer in Nepal will arrive in Kathmandu and spend their orientation period and final night here.
During your orientation, you will be located close to the Thamel area, which is the tourist base of Kathmandu. Across your orientation days, you will have time to explore some of the area’s best attractions.
Chitwan
Chitwan is located in the vast flat and fertile Terai region, close to the Indian border. Its location offers a different landscape to that of Kathmandu and Pokhara, which are closer to the Himalayas. Paddy fields, ox-towed carts and an array of wildlife make this a perfect location for those seeking a quieter location.
Despite this, there is still plenty to get involved across your weekends! From bicycle tours to jungle safaris and white water rafting, there is definitely something for every adventure seeker.
Our programs are based in a number of villages in the Chitwan National Park district. Famous for its National Park, Chitwan offers a warmer climate and much more laid back experience than Kathmandu.
Pokhara
Pokhara is located 200km west of Kathmandu, a 7 hour bus journey away. Set around the Phewa Tel Lake and surrounded by mountains, Pokhara is a humbling location. The journey from Nepal’s capital is beyond breathtaking. In the Lakeside district, you are able to find everything you need, from western restaurants to International hospitals.
However, if you would prefer a more rustic experience, we have placements in quaint rural settings just outside of Pokhara. Pokhara is the starting point for the majority of the trekking trips in Nepal. It also offers each volunteer in Nepal with an ideal location for paragliding, canoeing and yoga!
🇵🇪 Peru
Volunteer abroad with PMGY in the south-eastern region of Peru within the city of Cusco. Cusco was once the capital of the Incan Empire. This UNESCO World Heritage site rests at an elevation of 3,400 metres above sea level. The city now hosts more than 2-million tourists each year, many of whom are on a journey to visit Machu Picchu. A trip to this World Wonder provides individuals with an opportunity to learn about the origins of Quechua people. While visiting Cusco, you will feel an overwhelming presence of history and culture!
Although historical, the city has all the amenities you could require, such as banks, hospitals, nightlife and shops. There is also a train station to take you to the many different regions of the country. The taxi system within the city is very easily navigated.
Cusco is a city that you can’t miss while making plans in South America. It is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the Western Hemisphere. People from all around the world travel to the country to witness its beauty with their own eyes! The centre of the city is a combination of old and new. It is indigenous and foreign, which energises the city and leaves everyone buzzing to see more. One of the highlights of the city is waking up early to the sun rising from behind the hills surrounding Cusco. You can lace up your hiking boots, grab a bottle of water and head out on a 2 hour hike to the Temple of Moon. This is just one landmark that lies within a short distance from many of the volunteer homestays. Cusco is an explorer’s paradise!
🇿🇦 South Africa
Cape Town
Our community projects are based in the heart of Cape Town, around 30 minutes from Cape Town International Airport. Cape Town is a truly multicultural city and exhibits stark contrasts. Central Cape Town is an exciting and trendy location filled with a range of cultural heritage sites and a buzzing nightlife. Yet, as you move towards the suburbs, you begin to see what life is like for those less fortunate. The Townships and Cape Flats here highlight the disparity between rich and poor.
Our local team’s office and Volunteer House are based in central Cape Town. This means that our international volunteers in Cape Town are perfectly positioned to enjoy the wonders of this amazing city. In your free time, you could be soaking up some history at Robben Island (the infamous offshore prison that held Nelson Mandela), trekking up Table Mountain or surfing the waves of Clifton beach. The choices are endless! You will find our two most popular weekend trips are visits to the Garden Route and Western Cape trips. Other less popular options include the Kruger National Park and marine conversation trips to George.
Port Elizabeth
Our wildlife conservation volunteer abroad programs are based approximately 1.5 hours from Port Elizabeth International Airport. Participants on this South African volunteer project are based in the heart of the project’s reserve, situated on the Eastern Cape. The reserve spans over 6000 hectares, homing not only the majestic Big 5 family but thousands of species of fauna and flora.
Across the reserve, the impressive Big 5 can be found roaming freely on the Sidbury plains. Around one corner, you may stumble upon a herd of elephants, cooling themselves off in thick muds. Across the next (if you’re lucky!), a leopard could be jetting off to catch its next meal. The possibilities of what you may spot during your time are endless. Prepare to be awestruck by the diversity of wildlife seen across your experience here.
🇱🇰 Sri Lanka
Ambalangoda
Our Sri Lanka volunteer abroad programs (excluding the elephant project) is based on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, in Ambalangoda. This is approximately 2.5 hours away from Colombo Airport. Ambalangoda is a quaint ocean-side town. It is traditionally a fishing community but is famous for being the major production centre for demonic wooden masks. The town has all the amenities you could require as a volunteer in Sri Lanka. This includes banks, hospitals and shops. In addition, the beach is just a short tuk-tuk ride from the Volunteer House. There is also a central bus and train station and the people are unbelievably friendly in Ambalangoda!
🇹🇿 Tanzania
Volunteer abroad cheap in Arusha, located in the Kilimanjaro region of the country. This is approximately 60 minutes away from Kilimanjaro Airport. Also known as A-town or Arachuga, Arusha is set amongst a backdrop of the impressive Mount Meru. It’s a really beautiful setting. Arusha is a vibrant town, with good nightlife and a friendly atmosphere. The town is also the gateway to Tanzania’s top safaris and the spectacular Mount Kilimanjaro. This means that there is an endless choice of things for volunteers in Tanzania to get up to across their weekends! From incredible safaris, climbing mountains and visiting traditional Massai communities, there is something for everyone!
You will find all the amenities you could need in Arusha including banks, supermarkets and international standard hospitals. It is a welcoming area and really is the perfect setting for a volunteer program. There are plenty of bars and restaurants in town where you can hang out in your free time.
🇹🇭 Thailand
Pathum Thani
Our community programs in Thailand are based in Pathum Thani, located just north of the country’s capital, Bangkok. Pathum Thani is a traditional university province, famous for being home to most of the country’s universities! The province is old, heavily populated by the Mon people. The region is filled with temples, parks and areas to experience Mon culture. Volunteers in Thailand are therefore encouraged to explore these areas during their time!
Bangkok itself is a city of contrasts. Modern and cultural, chaotic but refined, traditional and bizarre – you will never get bored in Bangkok! It’s also the perfect base to explore the rest of Thailand and South East Asia. Bangkok is a vast city but the BTS (inner-city rail network) makes getting around the city affordable and simple. Some of the great cultural sites include Grand Palace, Wat Pho and Wat Benjamabophit (Marble Temple). The city has a great nightlife too! Perhaps you’ll hit the backpacker central of Koh San Road. Alternatively, you might choose to catch some live music at one of the cool bars near Victory Monument.
Thamairuak
Volunteer abroad with animals in Phetchaburi, within the Thamairuak district. This is a rural location approximately 3 hours south of Bangkok. These volunteer opportunities in Thailand are within a 10 minute walk from the local village. There, participants in Thailand can find roadside restaurants, 2-small supermarkets and an internet cafe. The nearby tourist locations of Hua Hin and Cha-am are approximately a 45 minutes drive from the project.
🇻🇳 Vietnam
Cheap volunteer abroad projects are based in the north of Vietnam in Hanoi, around 30 minutes from Noi Bai Airport. As the capital of Vietnam, Hanoi does not disappoint and will impress you on so many levels. It has all the attractions a visitor could want, but in no way is Hanoi touristy. With an array of cultural sites and some of the best markets in South East Asia, there is something for everyone.
Enjoy a bowl of Pho Bo (noodle soup), grab a glass of Bia Hoi (local beer) and soak up the atmosphere! Hanoi is the perfect location for those looking to really immerse themselves in a community. If you learn about the culture and pick-up a few Vietnamese words, you will find people to be extremely welcoming.