GIVE Volunteers Reviews

Life-changing experience. If you’re having doubts, sign up. I got back from the Costa Rica trip a week ago, and I still can’t stop thinking about the deep human connection, memories, and sustainable impact I left on another country. We got the chance to swim in natural pools, go ziplining beside a volcano, witness sloths and spider monkeys in cloud forests, go whitewater rafting in class III and IV rapids, and so much more. Even more valuable was the volunteer work we were able to do. We stayed for four days at Finca las Hormigas, a permaculture farm dedicated to regenerative soil practices and ecosystem balance. From learning about the three components of healthy soil and crossing tree bridges to pick lemons, to sifting and shoveling compost, every action had a goal in mind: to use that soil to cultivate the fruit trees of Gandoca School, a local elementary school, and to teach the elementary schoolers about regenerative agricultural practices. First time in my life that I was able to combine my love of travel with being a part of a sustainable global revolution! Loved it so much!! This will be one of your core memories so just do it. Sign up, take the trip, and be inspired by like-minded individuals who have a goal to be the roots of change! Best advice for you if you’re reconsidering is to just go, I promise you won’t regret it!

Came for the whitewater rafting, stayed for the amazing people! As my second trip with Give, I was once again blown away by the amazing staff and fellow volunteers. The people are the reason I keep choosing Give. The Give guides have so much inspiration to share while supporting us and ensuring a fun and enjoyable trip. Many travelers arrived by themselves and created lasting bonds with each other. Give ensures the itinerary is packed full of exciting and inspirational experiences. This trip extends from San Jose to the Atlantic Coast so you are able to see more of the country than other programs. Also, the accommodations were amazing! Be prepared to get out of your comfort zone (limited water water, bugs, humidity) but it is so worth it. I learned a lot about Costa Rica, permaculture, cocoa, but a lot about myself and community as well. The primary volunteer project we worked on was providing soil for a low-funded school. We learned how to make soil using already available resources at a permaculture farm and used it to grow fruit trees and yuca plants in the school courtyard that will be served in school lunches.

Oh my goodness!! I can't say enough good things about my experience in Thailand with GIVE!! It was my first time traveling internationally, and GIVE made it so easy and less stressful. I really appreciated all of the detail and organization in the trip preparation, and my GIVE guides on the trip were the best! I also have several dietary restrictions so I was nervous about the food situation but they were so accomodating which I really appreciated. Traveling with GIVE and being able to volunteer as well as educate myself made such a big impact on me, I can't wait for my next trip!

Exploring Tanzania and all it has to offer has been the best and most valuable experience of my life. I got to learn so much while making a positive impact. Alongside a lively community in Kilwa, our team planted nearly 5,000 mangrove trees, making a forest to sustain marine life. Through Tanzania’s welcoming culture, I learned to be a happier and more loving person. Everyday was filled with laughter, dancing, and learning. Anyone wondering if this is the trip for you, my advice to you is to take a chance and embrace the hakuna matata lifestyle. My love for this amazingly resourceful and vibrant country has only grown stronger and I wish that everyone could have the chance to experience the beauty of Tanzania.

My trip to Cuba with Give Volunteers was an unforgettable experience that exceeded all of my expectations. From start to finish, the guides were knowledgeable, supportive, and genuinely passionate about sharing Cuban culture, history, and nature with us. They went above and beyond to make sure everyone felt safe, included, and engaged, and their enthusiasm truly made the trip special. Some of the standout moments in this trip were snorkeling in the Bay of Pigs, hiking at Parque Guanayara, and visiting a tobacco farm to learn how to roll cigars. What truly made this trip exceptional was being able to explore a new country with like-minded individuals who felt like family by the end of the trip. I would highly recommend Give Volunteers to anyone looking for an immersive, well-organized, and meaningful travel experience. This trip to Cuba is something I will carry with me forever.

I could not even begin to say enough great things about this experience. Every single person involved was passionate, educated, enthusiastic, helpful, and kind. Every moment on the trip was filled with education, fun, and unique experiences. We spent tons of time learning about the elephants in Thailand from people who are dedicated to continuing to help these animals. We also had a ton of cultural immersion with the Karen Tribe, Buddhism, and Thai culture. Every minute and dollar was worth more than I could explain. I would highly suggest this trip to anyone and everyone!

I went on the Thailand Elephant excursion. I had a wonderful time learning about the culture and gentle giants. The hosts P An , P Di and P Pon Pon were absolutely fantastic and helped me when I needed it with out question. This trip pushed my hiking abilities past what I expected but I never gave up and was cheered on through out my trip. It was a blessing having P Pon Pon on my trip. He was extremely helpful to me. I would recommend this trip to all who are fit. The hiking can get a little rough especially on the incline of the mountain range.

This trip was more amazing than I ever could have imagined, GIVE offers such a unique way to travel and volunteer! I was able to see so many new things and try so many different things that I would have never thought of. This trip allows you to fully immerse yourself into the culture and environment of Northern Thailand. The guides are the most genuine, funny, and kind people you will ever meet and make for a unforgettable experience. 5 stars is not enough to express how amazing this trip truly is!

It was by far the most impactful thing I have ever done in my entire life. It forced me to go out of my comfort zone in so many ways and I learned so much about myself and what I want to do in life. I did things I never thought I would get to do, like teaching english and meditating with monks. It was by far the coolest experience and taught me so much. I grew my skills in sustainability and agriculture, and learned ways I would make a difference. It completely changed the trajectory of my life and I can't wait for my next trip.

Travelling with GIVE is always a special experience for me, and this new era of VIP experiences is so exciting!! Cuba was one of a kind, the guides (John, Hannah, Silvia and Ihosvany) made it so special for us. Our itinerary was full of a perfect mix of fun adventures, sight seeing, learning about the history in Cuba, and connecting with the locals people. Amazing memories were made with incredible people, in a beautiful and unique country! I can’t wait to make more memories with GIVE on the next VIP trip!