Best Places to Volunteer in September [2024]

It’s September and the summer holidays have come to an end but that doesn’t mean you can’t travel abroad and make a meaningful difference. Moreover, you’ll be avoiding the masses when you travel in September. Ready to pack your bags? Check out our list of best places to volunteer in September.

Spread across 4 continents, our selection has something for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to the culture and history of Europe, the laidback travel style of South East Asia, Africa’s wildlife adventure, or a mix of all of the above, in South America, we’ve got you covered! Continue reading to find out where to go in September.

South Africa: Discover the Rainbow Nation as a Volunteer 🌈

If doing a safari is at the top of your bucket list, then South Africa is an irresistible volunteer destination. It’s stunningly diverse in African wildlife and its landscapes. From Dolphin Coast to the endless cascades of Lisbon Falls, the impressive desert flora of Richtersveld Transfrontier Point to stargazing off-grid on Cederberg Mountain. And we haven’t even mentioned the national parks and South Africa’s top attraction: the Big 5!

Explore beach cities like Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, or Durban or head inland to Johannesburg to be closer to Kruger National Park.

Wildlife Conservation and Youth Volunteering

South Africa offers a wonderful mix of volunteer opportunities. Make a difference by joining wildlife conservation projects or supporting the local community in finding creative ways to keep youth off the streets. With over 150 volunteer projects in South Africa, you’re bound to find one that’s perfect for you.

Firstly, animal lovers can volunteer with sharks, lions, elephants, dolphins, primates, and countless other African wildlife species. If, on the other hand, you are more of a people person, you will be welcomed with open arms by children with big hearts in South Africa!

Volunteer in the Land of the Smiles: Thailand 🇹🇭

As one of the top tourist destinations in Asia, it’s easy to see why Thailand attracts so many visitors. It’s an easy, safe, laidback travel destination. The perfect starting point for first-time travelers in Asia. Quickly find out why it’s on our list of best places to volunteer in September!

Volunteer amid the hustle and bustle in Bangkok. Head to the mountains and hang out in backpacker’s heaven Chiang Mai. If you’re a beach lover, experience Thailand’s pristine beaches and emerald green water. Thailand’s welcoming, fun-loving people will make you feel right at home in the land of the smiles.

Elephant Sanctuaries and English Teaching

Volunteering in Thailand is synonymous with elephants and English teaching. Join one of the Elephant sanctuaries to rehabilitate rescued elephants. Help raise awareness about the effects of the tourism industry on these gentle giants. And give them the care they deserve.

If you’re looking for ways to connect with the locals, teach English! Teachers looking for international work experience can make a difference in countless lives by teaching English in Thailand. English skills are incredibly important in increasing the future opportunities of those less fortunate. 

If you’re a passionate diver, head to the islands and volunteer for marine conservation. Survey what lies beneath the surface and protect the delicate ecosystem. This blogpost may inspire diving volunteers to volunteer around the world!

Explore Enticing Ecuador 🇪🇨

If you’re looking for a destination that combines rich historical cities, the Amazon jungle, Andes mountains with amazing marine life, then Ecuador is your next stop! As one of the smallest countries in South America, Ecuador really packs a punch when it comes to environmental diversity. 

For Nature Lovers and Social Butterflies

Volunteering in Ecuador is a wonderful experience for both nature lovers and social butterflies. Are you drawn to the wonders of the Amazon rainforest, intrigued by wildlife like the Andean spectacled bear, capuchins, and sloths? Or do you prefer the beach life? If you have a soft spot for sea turtles and other marine life, we highly recommend volunteering on the Galapagos Islands!

Volunteers keen on a rich cultural scene can volunteer in the capital, Quito. Get lost in Quito’s historical district or take the TelefériQo for an exquisite view of Ecuador’s capital city.

Volunteer, and work with the local community by empowering the youth, teaching them English, or working at an animal shelter to find stray dogs and cats their forever home.

Volunteer in Bella Italia 🇮🇹

Although it’s the only European country on the best places to volunteer in September list, it’s easy to see why Italy made the cut. As one of the top 3 tourism hotspots in Europe, Italy is a superb volunteer destination for those seeking culture and delicious food. City trippers should tie their shoelaces, brace themselves for tourists, and explore the cultural treasures of Rome, Florence, and Milan. If you’re more of a laidback traveler, lose yourself in the beauty of the Tuscan countryside and live up to the Italian saying: Dolce Far Niente! 

Social Work and Marine Conservation

Although Italy is a developed country, it still needs your support. The work you do here is just as meaningful as anywhere else in the world. Recently, Italy has become an entry port to Europe for many migrants and refugees. This has proven to be a challenging situation. Therefore, volunteers who have great social skills can play a crucial part in the integration of minorities into the European Union.

Naples is the volunteer epicenter of Italy. It’s an excellent base to experience Italian city life surrounded by endless culture, the beach, Mount Vesuvius, and just a stone’s throw from the archaeological site Pompeii.

If you need to get away from the city, why not do your volunteer work at sea? Enjoy the peace and quiet on a boat and observe the world’s most loved marine mammals. Keep an eye on dolphins and whales and help researchers with their efforts to protect these endangered marine animals. 

Become a Volunteer in Breathtaking Brazil 🇧🇷

Brazil is home to the world’s greatest collection of plant and animal species. Environmental conservationists and volunteers who are eager to work with endangered species will find endless volunteer opportunities in Brazil. 60% of Brazil is covered by the Amazon rainforest. No surprise that many volunteer projects focus on protecting this green lung.

Welcome to the Jungle

Are you ready to explore Brazil’s cultural and natural beauty? Check off Iguazu Falls, Rio, and Recife beach while you admire other tucked-away Unesco world heritage gems that will transport you back to Portuguese colonial times. 

Volunteers with an adventurous streak will feel right at home in Brazil. Most organizations focus on the conservation of Brazil’s pristine wildlife and nature and if you’re not intimidated by the humidity of the rainforest and creepy crawlies, you’re signing up for an opportunity of a lifetime. On the other hand, if you’re a volunteer who wants to connect with Brazil’s fun-loving, happy people – empower the youth and guide them toward a promising future.

It’s easy to see why these countries have made it to the list of best places to volunteer in September. Each of them has something unique to offer. Whether you’re volunteering in Asia, Africa, South America, or Europe, all volunteer projects need your help and support. We would love to help you find the perfect volunteer opportunity. Our live chat team is here to help!