I'm one to truly believe that we should always leave a place better than we found it.
"Conservation volunteering gives you the opportunity to see the world while giving back."
While there are a lot of opportunities to do this on a regular adventure or vacation, if you want to take things a step further, there are a lot of opportunities to go on an exciting trip abroad as well as helping to save the planet.
Conservation volunteer work is one of the most popular areas for those looking to volunteer abroad and there are conservation programs all over the world, for any length of time, for different causes, and to suit any budget.
Conservation volunteering gives you the opportunity to see the world while giving back. Whether you're looking to save sea turtles, plant trees or even work with cheetahs, conservation volunteering abroad can be both fulfilling, fun and educational.
This won’t be your typical vacation and there will be a lot more research and preparations that you will need to make before making your trip and committing to a program.
"A big part of volunteering abroad is taking advantage of the chance to travel."
Questions to consider before getting involved in conservation volunteering
Do the proper research
Do your research. Because of the popularity of conservation volunteering, there have been a lot of not reputable and not ethical organizations that have set up programs as a for profit organization looking for free labor and do little to help the community they're in. With that being said, there are a lot of reputable and ethical programs to choose from.
Choose the right experience for your goals
You want your experience to be rewarding and positive, as well as fun. With so many programs around the world, there's a good chance at finding the perfect fit for you. There’s no need to settle when there are so many options available.
Decide how much time you want to spend abroad
Timing is important when choosing programs for conservation volunteering. How much time do you want to spend as well as what time of the year you want to go during are both important questions to answer. Conservation volunteer opportunities can range from a few days to even a few years.
Location
Once you have your goals and timeframe in mind, you'll have to choose a location or region. Depending on your goals and timeframe, your location may be narrowed down already. For example, if you want to work with cheetahs in the wild, you only have a handful of locations to choose from.
One thing to keep in mind with conservation volunteering is that some locations may be off the beaten path. Some environmental projects might feel like they are in the middle of nowhere, which depending on what you're looking for, may add to the adventure.
Consider the costs of conservation volunteering abroad
Volunteering abroad isn't free. Even if you are giving your time to a good cause, there are always costs involved for those creating the volunteer experience, such as training, food and lodging, as well as your own personal costs, such as flights. It’s important to consider your budget before going abroad. Some conservation volunteer programs offer scholarships as well.
Choose a program or organization
Finally, after answering the previous questions, you can choose a program or organization that fits everything you're looking for. The best way to conservation volunteer abroad is through an organization or a program. These organizations and programs exist because there is a specific need within that particular community for conservation volunteers.
Make sure to pack accordingly
Spend time researching what to bring. Most volunteer placements will give you a list of things to bring to make sure you are prepared. Make sure you have the right tools and medications to protect your health when you’re abroad as well as make sure your vaccinations are up to date and that you have first aid essentials.
Take advantage of your free time
Most conservation volunteer programs give you free time to go explore on your own. It might be tempting to sit back and relax, but you should take every opportunity to experience the local culture. A big part of volunteering abroad is taking advantage of the chance to travel, so do everything that you can.
"Conservation volunteer projects allow you to become a part of something bigger."
Conservation volunteer projects allow you to become a part of something bigger. It's a unique travel experience because it allows you to experience and give back to the local community in a new way.
Conservation volunteering abroad is a memorable and rewarding experience. You will come back home with some new experiences under your belt, and with the knowledge that you left a positive impact on the planet.
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