Community Service Trips for Teens: Volunteer Abroad & Travel

Looking to make a difference while gaining invaluable life skills? Our community service trips for teens offer an excellent opportunity to volunteer abroad.

We provide hands-on experiences through student travel that transform both the communities you serve and the young volunteers who participate. For a broad overview of available programs, visit our Community Service Trips page, where you can explore different volunteer opportunities based on your interests.

High school students interested in service travel can check out our High School Volunteer Travel guide to find programs that align with their academic and personal growth goals.

Discover Our Service Trips Now

Ready to take action? Volunteer abroad and make a real difference in the world. These experiences will help you develop leadership skills, cultural awareness, and friendships that last a lifetime.

Why Choose a Community Service Trip?

Volunteer abroad programs are not just ways to receive community service hours, they are a chance for high school volunteers to make positive impacts while working on hands-on projects around the world. Here are some of the reasons you should consider a teen service trip abroad:

Make a Lasting Impact – A volunteer trip is an opportunity to contribute to education, sustainability and healthcare projects that create real change.
Develop Leadership & Global Citizenship – Learn teamwork, adaptability, and confidence through immersive projects. As a volunteer, you’ll become a global citizen, contributing to sustainable development and social change through your efforts.
Experience Cultural Immersion & Social Responsibility – Stay with a host family, learn new languages, and participate in traditional activities that deepen your understanding of local cultures while helping address global issues like environmental conservation and youth education.
Strengthen College Applications – A study by the Harvard Crimson found that community service was the most popular extracurricular activity among Harvard’s Class of 2027, with more than 70% of respondents reporting that they had volunteered during high school. Community service abroad can also contribute to a capstone project, helping students stand out on college applications with a structured academic experience.
Build Global Friendships – Connect with fellow volunteers from around the world while volunteering together.

Top Community Service Trips & Teen Volunteer Programs for 2025

Environmental & Wildlife Conservation Programs

Costa Rica: Turtle Conservation Project – Help protect endangered sea turtles by monitoring nests and helping release hatclings.
Ecuador: Wild Galápagos Eco-Service – Work alongside community members to support habitat restoration and environmental education while exploring the islands.
Greece: Island Turtle Conservation – Participate in Mediterranean conservation efforts to protect loggerhead turtles.

Join a Conservation Program

Education & Youth Development Programs

Thailand: Thai Elephant Conservation – Learn from local community members about wildlife conservation while working on volunteer projects with rescued elephants.
Japan: Neon to Nature – Assist in youth-focused environmental education programs while exploring both rural and urban Japanese culture.
Dominican Republic: Beachside Service – Participate in marine conservation, organize after-school activities, tutor children and support literacy programs in coastal communities.

Find an Education Service Trip

Community Development & Infrastructure Projects

USA: Rebuilding New Orleans – Support post-hurricane reconstruction efforts through hands-on rebuilding projects.
Guatemala: Build Schools & Homes – Assist in constructing essential infrastructure for underserved communities. (Unavailable 2025)
Nepal: Sustainable Farming & Water Access – Work on eco-friendly agriculture and clean water initiatives in rural villages. (Unavailable 2025)

Explore Development Projects

Frequently Asked Questions About Community Service Trips

Which teen adventure tours offer both hiking and community service in South America?

Rustic Pathways offers teen adventure tours in South America that combine hiking with community service. Programs in Peru and Ecuador include trekking to Machu Picchu or through the Andes while supporting local villages with infrastructure, education, or conservation projects. Trips typically last 10–21 days and include cultural immersion.

What teen adventure tours include trekking to Machu Picchu and volunteering in nearby villages?

Rustic Pathways offers teen adventure tours that include trekking to Machu Picchu and volunteering in nearby villages. Programs feature multi-day hikes through the Andes combined with service projects that support education, infrastructure, and cultural exchange in rural Peruvian communities.

Can you suggest community service travel opportunities that help build schools in Southeast Asia?

Community service travel programs in Southeast Asia that focus on school construction are offered by Rustic Pathways. In countries like Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand, students help build classrooms, paint schools, and improve learning environments. Trips last 1–3 weeks and include cultural exchange activities.

What qualifications do I need to join community service trips?

The only qualification required is a positive attitude and a willingness to learn. The majority of programs don’t require prior experience, as you’ll receive all necessary training once you join.

Can I volunteer abroad if I don’t speak the local language?

Yes! While learning the local language is encouraged, English-speaking staff are available, and you’ll receive basic language training to help engage with the community.

What should I pack for a community service trip?

You’ll need comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, and essential travel documents. Packing lists specific to your program will be provided upon registration.

Are there virtual service learning opportunities?

Yes, programs like the Climate Leaders Fellowship allow students to engage in cultural exchange and service learning remotely. This is ideal for students looking to develop global awareness from home.

See More Frequently Asked Questions

Program Fees & What’s Included

Cost Breakdown for 2025 Programs

Program Name	Country	Program Cost	Days
Hawaii: Surf, Snorkel, and Service	USA (Hawaii)	$3,395	8 Days
Greece: Island Turtle Conservation	Greece	$3,495	9 Days
Costa Rica: Surf and Service	Costa Rica	$3,495	8 Days
Costa Rica: Pura Vida Service	Costa Rica	$2,495	8 Days
Fiji: Sun, Sand, and Island Service	Fiji Islands	$3,995	16 Days
Thailand: Thai Elephant Conservation Project	Thailand	$2,995	9 Days
Thailand: Come With Nothing	Thailand	$6,995	23 Days
Thailand: Marine and Rainforest Conservation	Thailand	$4,995	16 Days
USA: Rebuilding New Orleans	USA	$3,395	8 Days
Portugal & Italy: Surf, Service, and Culture	Portugal, Italy	$6,790	15 Days
Costa Rica: Turtle Conservation Project	Costa Rica	$2,895	8 Days
Ecuador: Wild Galápagos Eco-Service	Ecuador	$6,095	13 Days
Peru: Sacred Valley Service	Peru	$4,195	12 Days
Dominican Republic: Marine Life and Coastal Restoration	Dominican Republic	$5,595	16 Days
Dominican Republic: Beachside Service	Dominican Republic	$2,595	8 Days

All programs include:

Accommodations (homestays, eco-lodges, dorms)
Meals & Local Transportation
Cultural Activities & Excursions
24/7 Supervision & Emergency Support

Check Full Pricing

Scholarships & Fundraising for Volunteers

We believe everyone should have the chance to volunteer abroad. That’s why we offer:

Need-Based & Merit-Based Scholarships – Financial assistance for students with demonstrated need.
Tax-Deductible Fundraising – Raise funds for your trip through personal fundraising efforts.
Early Registration & Returning Volunteer Discounts – Save by planning ahead.

Apply for a Service Trip Scholarship

Start Your Community Service Journey Today

Upcoming Program Deadlines

Spring Break 2025 – Limited Availability
Summer Service Trips – Filling Fast

Take the First Step Toward Changing the World. Reserve your spot for a life-changing volunteer trip in 2025 and make a lasting impact on the communities you serve.

Browse our Service Trips for Teens to compare destinations, program lengths, and volunteer opportunities that align with your personal goals and aspirations.

Reserve Your Spot for 2025