Transform your future through high school volunteer travel. Spend your summer protecting sea turtles in Costa Rica, mentoring students in Peru, or rebuilding homes in New Orleans. These programs offer cross-cultural immersion, leadership development, and hands-on service learning. Apply Now for Priority Selection
High School Volunteer Travel Alumni Testimonials Rustic Pathways participants report lasting growth in 9 out of 10 student learning outcomes. 33% of Rustic Pathways alumni parents report their child is more independent six months after returning home. Read testimonials from alumni below:
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “All the service we did in local communities and having the opportunity to connect with the locals was my highlight. The staff at the base house was a big highlight as well. Everyone was welcoming and loving from the moment we reached.” – Megan I, 16, Kowloon, Hong Kong ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “Being able to educate myself about the culture and history, spending time with friends and the trip leaders as well as being able to give back to the community through doing service. The trip was so amazing.” – Jamie W, Ohio, USA ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “The itinerary itself was amazing. We were able to complete service while still immersing ourselves in the culture and the community, which was great.” – Gabriela, 15, Redwood City, California, USA Limited Spots Available for Summer 2025 High School Volunteer Programs. Browse Volunteer Travel Programs
Why Choose High School Volunteer Travel? Volunteer work at food banks, local shelters and parks provides valuable experience, but international service programs offer deeper cultural immersion and skill development while making a direct impact. Benefits for Students: Leadership Development – Build problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills in real-world settings. Cultural Understanding – Engage in cross-cultural exchanges that foster global awareness and empathy. College Application Boost – Stand out to admissions officers with global engagement and sustained service. Professional Growth – Gain hands-on experience in teaching, conservation, public health, and social services. Community Impact: Sustainable Development – Partner with nonprofits for long-term community support. Cultural Exchange – Learn from local leaders and form lasting connections. Resource Support – Provide meals, education, and mentorship in under-resourced areas. Best High School Volunteer Opportunities in 2025
Costa Rica: Pura Vida Service Price: $2,495 Introduces students to community development, education and environmental conservation projects. Supports local nonprofits and social services in rural areas. Students gain valuable experience while participating in sustainability efforts. [Learn More →]
Ecuador: Wild Galápagos Eco-Service Price: $5,495 Focuses on marine conservation and ecological restoration. Students assist in coastal cleanup and wildlife protection initiatives. Offers a unique opportunity to gain new skills in biodiversity research. [Learn More →]
Thailand: Thai Elephant Conservation Price: $2,995 Involves working with ethical elephant sanctuaries. Teaches local youth about wildlife conservation and sustainability. Provides a deep cultural immersion experience through community projects. [Learn More →]
USA: Rebuilding New Orleans Price: $3,395 Supports post-hurricane infrastructure rebuilding. Involves hands-on volunteer work repairing homes, schools and community spaces. Offers students real-world experience in urban community development. [Learn More →]
Education & Youth Development Teach English literacy programs in Thailand and Peru. Mentor students in after-school programs in the Dominican Republic. Develop ESL curriculum and digital literacy projects. Environmental Conservation Protect endangered sea turtles in Costa Rica alongside local organizations. Support rainforest conservation in Ecuador. Work on marine conservation projects in Fiji. Public Health & Social Services Organize nutrition and mental health awareness programs in Ghana. Participate in water sanitation and hygiene education in Cambodia. Provide support for underserved communities in the Dominican Republic.
Program Costs & Financial Support 2025 Pricing Guide Program Name Country 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 Service Trips include: Accommodations (homestays, eco-lodges, dorms) Meals & Local Transportation Cultural Activities & Excursions 24/7 Supervision & Emergency Support Apply for a Service Trip Scholarship
FAQs About High School Volunteer Travel Q: What are the best high school volunteer opportunities? The best programs align with your interests, career goals, and skills. Options for youth volunteers include: Education & Mentorship: Teach English in Thailand or Peru. Conservation: Protect sea turtles in Costa Rica or work in South African wildlife sanctuaries. Community Development: Build homes in Guatemala or assist with social services in the USA. Q: Can high school students participate in virtual volunteer opportunities for teens? A: Yes, high school students can participate in virtual volunteer opportunities. Programs offer leadership training and service projects, including addressing food insecurity, supporting shelters, and reducing food waste. Students interested in community outreach or nonprofit advocacy can engage in meaningful online initiatives. Climate Volunteer Positions > Q: Do teen volunteer opportunities help with college applications? A: Yes. Teen volunteer opportunities help with college admissions. Universities value students who demonstrate initiative, leadership and global awareness through service work. Service trips for teens can fulfill community service hour requirements. Q: Are volunteer abroad travel programs safe for high school students? A: Volunteer abroad programs are safe for high school students. They include: 24/7 in-country support & vetted host families Medical partnerships with local clinics Emergency response plans & security protocols Q: How do I choose the right volunteer opportunities that match my interests? A: To find volunteer opportunities, browse our Community Service Trips or take our Program Matching Quiz. See More Frequently Asked Questions
Start Your High School Volunteer Travel Journey Today Limited spots are available for Summer 2025 programs. Apply Now → Learn More: Best Guide to Summer Volunteer Programs → 7 Best Volunteer Types To Try This Summer → Explore More High School Volunteer Opportunities →