Program Reviews

My experience with IVHQ was wonderful! Everything was very well organized and went perfectly during my time abroad in Arusha, Tanzania. They addressed all of my needs and followed up with me to be sure all was going well during my volunteer time in Africa. They were easy to reach and responsive to me when I had questions. I was very happy with all of their assistance and all of the arrangements they made for me. I could not have hoped for a better experience and I definitely feel like my time volunteering was very rewarding!

Tanzania changed me in a unique way. I loved living in Arusha, volunteering at Simba House, and connecting with local people who showed me a simpler, more genuine way of seeing life. The markets, the colors, the sounds, and the Maasai culture awakened a deep curiosity and joy in me. And the kids and teachers in my placement where the best people with the people And above all, I cherished capturing every moment with my camera — the wildlife, the skies, the smiles, and the sound of Africa each Memory holds an emotion that reminds me of who I was there and who I want to keep becoming after that journey.

The programme was very interesting and worthwhile. We were well informed before we went, well briefed and supported during the activity/programme.

I have worked with IVHQ twice now and both times they have proven themselves to be outstanding in the ways of communication, preparation and accuracy. I would highly recommend IVHQ as a way to explore the world with ease and confidence. When I was in Peru I missed IVHQ by just a couple of days as they were traveling to meet and evaluate the host group that we were actually working with. This diligence on maintaining proper communication I feel represents how IVHQ has the ability to accurately relay what to expect to the volunteers that choose to partner with IVHQ.

Speaking fluent Spanish made my experience much better as I could communicate fully with the staff at the clinic. The best day was a cancer awareness campaigner my speciality is breast cancer so I was able to assess all the ladies.

Local team was very helpful my host family was the best their children were lovely. I enjoyed visiting all the amazing places in the area Cusco has a great variety of sites museums etc. Very safe area too. The local team very informative introduction and we’re always available they would always check up to see if I was ok

I would advise people to learn Spanish before they go

I have completed many volunteer projects with IVHQ including Portugal (animal care), Sri Lanka (special needs care), Vietnam (special needs care) Croatia (Marine Conservation) and I can say every experience was amazing. From the pre planning assistance if your not sure where to go, to the booking and confirming process, to pre departure information and there 24/7 support if needed for any questions or advice. If you’re looking for an affordable, caring, supportive organisation to volunteer with then IVHQ is the one you should use.
Now just waiting to arrange my next trip…

My experience with IVHQ from the initial application process to returning home, was nothing short of exceptional. I discovered IVHQ through a simple Google search and, after researching their credibility and trustworthiness, decided to move forward. From that point on, every step of the process was seamless, transparent, and incredibly well-supported.

I volunteered in Jamaica in December 2025, and leading up to my departure from Canada, my two main contacts were Louise and Lina. They were absolutely amazing. Their responsiveness was outstanding (once I remembered to factor in the time zone difference...lol). Whenever I needed information, clarification, or documentation, it was provided within minutes. Communication was always clear, straightforward, and professional, with well-defined next steps at every stage.

Everything I experienced aligned exactly with what was outlined on the IVHQ website there were no surprises, only reassurance. No question ever felt too small, and the level of guidance and support I received throughout the entire process was truly appreciated. Louise and Lina exemplify professionalism, and IVHQ is incredibly fortunate to have them on their team.

I am deeply grateful for the support I received and would highly recommend IVHQ to anyone looking to volunteer anywhere in the world. My experience was flawless from start to finish. Thank you so much.

I had the wonderful opportunity to explore a new country that has been on my bucket list and make a wonderful impact and learn in hospital in Sri Lanka. I learned from many good doctors and made new friends both inside and outside the hospital. I was accomdated for amazingly in the volunteer house where they made you feel like family. We started with a day where they showed us around the city and it was a wonderful introduction to the city as i was worried we might be tight on time the following days.

My volunteer experience in Ghana through International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) was truly life-changing and far more meaningful than I ever imagined. From the moment I decided to take this journey, IVHQ provided clear guidance, helpful resources, and consistent communication that made the process of volunteering abroad feel organized and manageable — especially as someone traveling solo. Having that structure gave me confidence and peace of mind before arriving in Ghana.

Once I arrived, the local team welcomed me with warmth, kindness, and genuine care. They made sure volunteers felt safe, informed, and supported while also encouraging us to step outside our comfort zones and fully immerse ourselves in the local culture. Orientation was thorough and helpful, and the staff remained available whenever questions or concerns came up. That level of support made a huge difference in allowing me to focus on the experience itself rather than logistics.

The volunteer placement was the heart of this journey. Working with the children was one of the most humbling and emotionally powerful experiences of my life. Their energy, laughter, curiosity, and resilience were unforgettable. Despite having so little compared to what many of us are used to, their joy was pure and genuine. Being present with them each day reminded me how much impact simple things — time, patience, attention, and love — can truly have.

This experience challenged me emotionally in the best way. It forced me to slow down, to listen more, and to reevaluate what really matters. I learned that purpose doesn’t always come from grand gestures, but from showing up consistently with an open heart. The connections I formed with the children, the community, and fellow volunteers were real and meaningful, and they will stay with me long after this trip.

Beyond the volunteer work, being immersed in Ghanaian culture was incredibly enriching. From daily life routines to shared meals and conversations, I gained a deeper appreciation for community, gratitude, and resilience. What once felt like an unfamiliar place quickly began to feel like a second home. This journey gave me a new perspective on the world and on myself.

IVHQ made it possible to experience volunteering in a way that felt ethical, intentional, and impactful. They provide a strong framework while still allowing volunteers to have authentic, human experiences that go far beyond surface-level tourism. This was not just a trip — it was a period of personal growth, reflection, and alignment.

I returned home with a fuller heart, a clearer sense of purpose, and a deeper understanding of how powerful service and connection can be. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and would highly recommend International Volunteer HQ to anyone seeking a meaningful volunteer experience abroad. This journey will forever be one of the most important chapters of my life.

People come to Kerala for a week of vacation, I had the fun of two month vacation for the cost of one week.

I was able to bring my California kindergarten experience across the globe, and the kids loved it as much as I did. The program staff had prepared for all the teaching aid, and volunteers were able to go to speed in within days.

Not having to cook, clean, laundry... for two months was a dream work set up. Weekends were free for local and nearby excursions.

Every other week there were new volunteers to hang out with people all around the world; we went out dining out often.