So you’re a female traveler looking to venture out into the world and travel solo? We know you want a volunteer program that is safe, affordable and ready to connect you with a volunteer opportunity where you can really make an impact.
A volunteer vacation with International Volunteer HQ gives you the opportunity to explore the world in a meaningful way, connect with a network of purpose-driven travelers and discover a new country unlike your own.
WHY VOLUNTEER ABROAD AS A SOLO FEMALE TRAVELER?
These are our top solo volunteer opportunities for women - as recommended by our solo female volunteers!
- Solo Volunteering in Portugal
- Solo Volunteering in New Zealand
- Solo Volunteering in Tanzania
- Solo Volunteering in Costa Rica
- Solo Volunteering in Bali
- Solo Volunteering in Spain
- Solo Volunteering in Kenya
- Solo Volunteering in Romania
- Solo Volunteering in Sri Lanka
- Solo Volunteering in Guatemala
Solo Volunteering in Portugal
Being voted as the fourth most peaceful country in the world, according to the Global Peace Index, Portugal is the perfect destination for female travelers. There’s so much opportunity to become part of the local community and experience the culture both during and outside of your volunteering, making it a top choice for solo volunteers. You’ll never feel alone!
Projects that you can make an impact on are:
Recommended by Samantha
IVHQ volunteer in Portugal“Thank you for allowing me to experience beautiful Portugal, the wonderful culture and people who live there. The local coordinators were outstanding and incredibly accommodating. They showed us around and made sure we all felt well informed, comfortable and confident walking around Lisbon. All of the staff at the volunteer accommodation were incredible and made it feel like home. I met many friendly fellow volunteers and made relationships that will last a lifetime!”
Solo Volunteering in New Zealand
Known as Aotearoa “the land of the long white cloud”, you will always receive a warm welcome and a heavy dose of the famous Kiwi hospitality here! New Zealand is regarded as one of the safest and most forward-thinking countries, so of course it’s on the list of top destinations for solo female travelers.
Projects that you can make an impact on are:
Recommended by Ayesha
IVHQ volunteer in New Zealand“It sounds cliche but this really is a life-changing experience, and a journey of self-discovery. People in New Zealand are incredibly friendly and welcoming, plus staying in a hostel gives you the chance to meet many like-minded individuals. I feel like it was a home away from home, with a whole new family. As long as you are enthusiastic, you can make a real difference and have an amazing time doing it.”
Solo Volunteering in Tanzania
As one of IVHQ’s most popular volunteer programs for solo travelers, you’re sure to discover your home away from home in Tanzania! Discover a new culture unlike any other, a wonderfully warm community and a diverse range of projects to make a difference on, including an awesome Women’s Education project.
Projects that you can make an impact on are:
Recommended by Anneline
IVHQ volunteer in Tanzania“This was my first solo trip which turned out to be an amazing experience that allowed me to grow personally and emotionally. The program definitely gave me a different perspective on life. It was a perfect balance between my volunteer commitments (which I loved!) as well as having adequate time to explore a new country with my new friends. Plus, there was no need for me to be anxious because the program was so well coordinated from the time I arrived to my departure.”
Solo Volunteering in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is in the heart of Central America, and popular with our solo female volunteers for a variety of reasons. You can choose to volunteer in the bustling and vibrant capital of San Jose, or the stunning coastal region of Manuel Antonio, which is abundant with wildlife. You’ll be supported by a super supportive local team, surrounded by like-minded individuals, and able to see the impact you’re having first-hand.
Projects that you can make an impact on across both our Costa Rica locations are:
- Animal Care in San Jose or Manuel Antonio
- Childcare in San Jose or Manuel Antonio
- Construction and Renovation
- Dentistry
- Eco-Agriculture
- Healthcare in San Jose or Manuel Antonio
- Holiday Experience
- Medical Campaign
- Special Needs Care
- Teaching English in San Jose or Manuel Antonio
- Turtle Conservation
Recommended by Allison
IVHQ volunteer in Costa Rica“I went to Costa Rica alone, knowing nobody, my first trip internationally as an adult (age 19) and I absolutely loved it! My entire trip I felt safe and faced no problems. I took a risk and left with memories of a lifetime and a burning desire to do more volunteer trips.”
Solo Volunteering in Bali
For an affordable destination with a wide variety of volunteer projects to contribute to, Bali is the perfect place to start your solo female travel adventure! IVHQ’s local team is there to help with anything you need and the accommodation in Ubud has a great social vibe that makes volunteers want to return before they’ve even left!
Projects that you can make an impact on across both our Bali locations are:
Recommended by Erika
IVHQ volunteer in Bali“It is such an easy and fun way to make friends and meet people more generally - [even if you go it alone in the beginning, that will change as soon as you arrive! You learn so much about yourself and your values when you travel, and volunteering can fill you with so much purpose and appreciation.I got to try new food, learn bits of a new language, make friends, and see so much of Bali!”
Solo Volunteering in Spain
IVHQ’s Spain program is based in beautiful Barcelona, famous for its incredible art, vibrant culture, impressive architecture and glorious weather. This is an amazing opportunity to learn and practice your Spanish and really get to know the locals and their culture, making it a must-visit for any solo female traveler.
Projects that you can make an impact on are:
Recommended by Emma
IVHQ volunteer in Spain“This program was an incredible opportunity and I highly recommend it, 10/10! It was so cool to meet so many new people and explore another city and culture.”
Solo Volunteering in Kenya
With some of the sweetest and most welcoming locals you will meet, Kenya is a top choice for many of our solo volunteers. There’s no need to be nervous as the community and other impact-focused volunteers make you feel part of something bigger than yourself.
Projects that you can make an impact on are:
Recommended by Louise
IVHQ volunteer in Kenya“I made bonds in those couple of weeks that will always stay with me. It’s normal to feel nervous before going but honestly you become close friends with the other volunteers so quickly. Go in open minded and embrace the culture. It has helped me grow so much and be so grateful for the little things.”
Solo Volunteering in Romania
Over the last decade Romania has emerged as one of the top places to visit in the solo female travel community. It’s clear to see why, with its rolling mountains, sweeping valleys, and picturesque cities! With some of our most affordable programs in Europe, you have a choice of 7 different projects to make a real difference in this community.
Projects that you can make an impact on are:
Recommended by Jessica
IVHQ volunteer in Romania“The local team in Romania were absolutely fantastic! Their entire team was so friendly and helpful throughout the entire program. I would 100% recommend them to all my friends, family or other interested travelers. Some of the best moments of my life!”
Solo Volunteering in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s lush landscapes and architectural wonders will give you plenty of food for thought during your solo trip. With warm and friendly people and a local team that guides you through the entire experience and ensures your safety, it’s no wonder this program gets rave reviews!
Projects that you can make an impact on are:
Recommended by Ivaila
IVHQ volunteer in Sri Lanka“Sri Lanka is an incredible country; the people are friendly and welcoming, you are surrounded by beautiful wildlife from elephants to sea turtles and the volunteer programs are worth every minute. I cannot recommend this country enough, the local team made my safety their priority and ensured I saw the most Sri Lanka has to offer whilst I was there!”
Solo Volunteering in Guatemala
The authentic cultural experience and the impact made by our female volunteers in Guatemala, are two great reasons to choose this program! With 12 meaningful project options available year-round, you can choose to make a difference in the local community the way that means the most to you.
Projects that you can make an impact on are:
Recommended by Bailey
IVHQ volunteer in Guatemala“I left my home country (United States) for the first time ever with IVHQ. It was incredible!! I feel so confident and excited and refreshed after finishing my program! I met some of the coolest people in the world, tried so many new things, and learned how to handle hard situations and challenges. I feel like I can take on the world now and I couldn’t be more excited to take another trip!”
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