PMGY - Volunteer in Ghana from $375

Name: PMGY - Volunteer in Ghana from $375
Brand: Plan My Gap Year
SKU: 51770
Rating: 4.94 (127 reviews)

Read 127 reviews

4.94 Rating

Leave a Review

Location

Ghana
- Kumasi

Length

2 to 24 weeks

Project Types

Childcare Education Teaching Psychology Medical Tourism

View Other Details

Program Details

Language

English

Age Min.

Timeframe

Short Term Spring Break Summer Winter Year Round

Housing

Guesthouse Hostel

Groups

Small Group (1-15) Medium Group (16-30) Large Group (31+)

Travel Type

Budget Solo Women

Pricing

Starting Price

375

What's Included

Accommodation Activities Airport Transfers Meals Transportation

What's Not Included

Airfare Travel Insurance Visa

Last Updated: Feb 10, 2025

Last Reviewed: Sep 04, 2023

Wish List

98 travelers are looking at this program

About Program

Volunteer in Ghana with Plan My Gap Year (PMGY), an award-winning international volunteer abroad organisation offering safe, trusted, and affordable programs overseas. Based in the lively city of Kumasi in Ghana’s historic Ashanti Region, PMGY provides a variety of impactful programs, including Childcare, English Teaching, Medical, and Mental Health opportunities.

Our volunteer in Ghana programs begin on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of every month, running year-round and offering flexible durations from 2 to 24 weeks. Volunteers are warmly welcomed into the Volunteer House, featuring comfortable accommodation and freshly prepared meals. With comprehensive pre-departure support, airport pick-up, orientation, and ongoing support, PMGY ensures a stress-free and fulfilling experience.

Visit Site

Apply Now

Video and Photos

View All Photos

Impact 🌎

Ethical Impact

Plan My Gap Year is committed to providing ethical volunteer opportunities that truly benefit the local communities. We have personally vetted all of our Volunteer Programs in every destination. We support a small network of Volunteer Programs abroad that we have specifically chosen due to their efforts being sustainable for our volunteers and the local communities alike. We work closely with each of our local teams to ensure we are assessing and adapting to ensure quality experiences for all involved.

For this reason, PMGY does not provide volunteer opportunities in orphanages in any of our locations. Research and studies have shown that visiting and volunteering in orphanages has the potential to generate an industry that separates children from their families. In turn, putting children at increased risk of neglect and abuse. Therefore, we do not support these institutions with our volunteer network.

Instead, we focus on offering alternative childcare volunteer opportunities whereby children come to and from the placement setting each day. In other words, our local teams collaborate with childcare projects which do not offer any form of residential care. These are safe, responsible, and vetted projects, where participants continue to provide valued assistance supporting local staff.

Learn More

Program Highlights

Most Affordable – PMGY’s programs are accessible to everyone who wants to make a difference, through low fees and high-impact projects.
Best Support – Our international and local teams provide extensive around the clock services to assist you every step of your PMGY adventure.
Safety Prioritised – With safety a PMGY number-1 priority, we have taken all necessary precautions to ensure our programs are as safe and structured as possible.
Extraordinary Experiences – With PMGY, you have the opportunity to truly immerse yourself in amazing cultural and travel experiences, ensuring you leave with unforgettable memories.
Friendships for Life – Your PMGY experience not only opens up a doorway for new experiences and exciting memories, but also life-long friendships when meeting new people from around the world.

Popular Programs

Ghana Childcare Volunteers

Bring joy and inspiration to children in Ghana while making a meaningful and lasting impact on their daily lives, development, and early education.

Ghana English Teaching Volunteers

Empower young children by helping them build essential skills to enhance their future job opportunities. Inspire them by teaching engaging subjects.

Ghana Medical Volunteers

This is an incredible opportunity to gain experience and insight into the healthcare system. Work alongside staff and contribute to their vital efforts.

Ghana Mental Health & Psychology Volunteers

Perfect for mental health or psychology students, this opportunity offers invaluable insight and practical awareness in a dynamic hospital setting.

Real Africa Encounter

Embark on a life-changing journey across Africa’s incredible landscapes! Experience Ghana’s culture, Tanzania’s beauty, and South Africa’s adventures.

Program Reviews

4.94 Rating

based on 127 reviews

Leave a Review

Rating Spread Volunteer Parent

5 rating 94.49%
4 rating 5.51%
3 rating 0%
2 rating 0%
1 rating 0%

Impact 4.85
Support 4.95
Fun 4.85
Value 4.75
Safety 4.95

Program Selection 5
Pre-departure Help 5
In-program Support 5
Impact on Student 5
Value 5

Good for Solo Travelers, Students, Adventure travelers

Showing 105 - 112 of 127 reviews

I spent 3 weeks in Ghana, Kumasi where I had the best experience of my entire life. When I originally booked to go with PMGY, I had a lot of questions for Josh and Philip the UK team throughout the upcoming months before my trip, they were extremely informative and replied to my emails within a matter of hours. I felt safe knowing that I was going to Ghana well informed on what to expect when I arrive to Kumasi.

When I finally landed in Accra, Ghana I was met by Seth, who was very welcoming and kind, which made me feel at ease about the trip that I had just touched down to experience. Getting to know Seth has been incredible for me, he is the funniest, kindest man I have ever met, and when I think back to Ghana Seth will forever hold a place in my heart, as he helped to make my trip the most enjoyable it could be. I cannot thank him enough for the lengths he went to, to make everybody happy. Seth is truly an inspiration to all and I wish him well for the future with all the plans he has for the volunteer house.

I was on the orphanage placement, for me this was a deeply moving and an eye opening experience. The staff were friendly and the children were so energetic and always wanting to play, I just wish I could've paid them all more attention, and had more one on one time with the kids. Travelling to and from the orphanage was fairly easy once you get the hang of it, it can be daunting at first, but one thing to bare in mind is that you will never been alone, which made me feel incredibly safe about my stay in Kumasi.

Ghana is the most incredible place I have ever been to, I am already looking into going back again next year. The food is nice and the people are all so lovely and welcoming. I honestly wouldn't hesitate to go back to Ghana, I didn't want my 3 weeks to end, I was having way too much fun.

Finally I would like to say thanks to all the PMGY staff and especially to Seth for making my once in a lifetime trip something I will be talking about for the rest of my life. I cannot thank you enough!

I spent a month in Ghana and it was by far the best month of my life! The volunteer house is so warm and welcoming. Seth is fantastic and is there for you 24/7 for whatever you need! Regardless of how small your worry or problem is his door is always open for the volunteers. Ghana itself is such a unique and remarkable country, everywhere you go you are greeted by smiling children. The orphanage programme lets you develop inseparable relationships with children regardless of the length of time you are there. I honestly could not recommend PMGY more if you are interested in doing some travelling, they are reliable and trustworthy. Im only just home and already eager to plan my next trip with them!

I spent a month in Ghana doing the teaching project and had the most amazing time! Right from the moment you get off the plane, Seth is there to introduce you, get you water and help with whatever you need. The volunteer house is so welcoming, friendly and Sophia and Adjua are amazing! The school is the most overwhelming but lovely place - I loved being swarmed by children everyday, and each child really does appreciate the time you give them. It is a completely different atmosphere to what I was used to but I felt instantly welcomed and loved every minute! The trips are honestly once in a lifetime experiences, from experiencing the life of a Ghanian village, being metres away from elephants and even touching a crocodile! I would definitely recommend doing them and would 100% recommend PMGY Ghana - I hope to come back soon!

I spent two weeks in Ghana volunteering at Kumasi Children's home, it truly was the most rewarding and enjoyable experiences I have had. The children really enjoy your company and attention which makes every minute you spend with them count! I could not fault our host Seth he is incredible and the rest of the PMGY Ghana staff who were so helpful and made me feel so at home. Aswell as this they gave me the best insight into life in Ghana, through trying traditional foods, learning Ghanaian songs and dance, meeting the local people and exploring Ghanas largest national park (Mole) to get up close to some amazing animals. I would 100% recommend visiting this fabulous and friendly country with PMGY Ghana, the only regret I have is that I did not stay longer!

Had an amazing 2 weeks in Ghana with the Medical volunteering. Got to experience different departments of the hospital from laboratories to maternity wards, even did a night shift in maternity and got to see a birth from start to finish. Had an amazing weekend at Cape Coast seeing the castle and surfing. Spent 2 days at the orphanage which was amazing, making the children smile and playing with them was so rewarding. Wish I could have stayed longer than 2 weeks. Seth was so welcoming and Josh was really helpful when I was booking everything. Met so many lovely people while I was there. Would definitely love to come back again.

I spent three weeks in Ghana and this was my second trip with PMGY (after first going to India in 2014). The UK team are fantastic at replying to queries and I cannot fault them at all.

I had a wonderful time in Ghana, and I would definitely recommend it to younger or more nervous travellers, as I can honestly say I felt safe 100% of the time, and was happy to travel around Kumasi alone without any problems. Seth and Cobbinah are extremely helpful and will organise hotels, trips and taxis for you if you choose to do any excursions of your own. Sophia and Adjua are genuinely great cooks which makes the change in diet much easier to get used to! The orphange project is challenging but very rewarding, and there is plenty of opportunity for you to organise your own activities if you bring the stuff you need - be that colouring, crafts, football/rounders or even a trip to the swimming pool.

I went on the Cape Coast trip which was an absolutely fantastic weekend - the range of activities from the poignancy of the Cape Coast museum to the opportunity to learn to surf made the weekend really good value, and some of the places we visited were genuinely the nicest places I've ever been able to see.

I'd recommend PMGY to anyone looking to travel and volunteer - they are great value for money and provide an excellent service. Sadly I'm running out of time to do anything like this again, but if I ever am feeling adventurous, I'll be heading straight to PMGY!

I spent two weeks doing the mental health experience in Ghana. I was the first one to actually do it! Let me say IT WAS AMAZING. The language barrier was no problem because the nurses help translate. I learned so much that I didn't know before. Especially, the different medications used for mental disorders and their side effects. I wish I could have stayed longer. I'm confident any future mental health volunteers will have a great experience like I did.

The household was one of a kind. Everyone was so nice and welcoming. Anything you want to do they accommodate you. Any extra trips or weekend endeavors they accompany you and help you to and from. Overall amazing experience!

If your birthday happens to fall during the time your there. There's a special something you get lol.

I'm ready to go back !

What would you improve about this program?

Nothing!

I have had the most amazing time with PMGY Ghana, I can't believe that I almost put it off for the second time!I spent a month (3rd July -31st July 2016) and at the end of my time, I didn't want to leave.
Where do I even begin, Seth is an amazing host. He has opened up his home to each and everyone of us and also treats us like family. He listens to the needs of volunteers and ensures that we are having a great time. I think he is a big reason why the Ghana destination is so popular. All the other staff are amazing too (Rex, Maria, Kofi, Cobbinah and Sophia) and when you get to know them they become like an extended family.
I did the medical placement the whole time (although placements are quite flexible so you can choose to spend time in the school/orphanage as well) and it was a very rewarding experience. I observed c-sections, hernia repairs, women giving birth without pain relief etc. I also got involved in the lab and with ultra sound scanning of pregnant women. I definitely recommend the medical placement!
However, it isn't all work because there are 2 main trips to embark on: Mole National Park (Safaris, nice food and accommodation) and Cape coast (Cultural tours, surfing, stroking crocodiles, lovely beach accommodation but to name a few). You can also arrange your own trips e.g. to the swimming pool for sun bathing and continental food, kente weaving house or to a beautiful lake for horse riding. Lastly, the atmosphere in the volunteer house is very chilled and as sociable as you make it. I lived with over 20 people and the house was very lively and friendly.
Overall, Ghana is an amazing country and so rich with culture and friendly individuals. If anyone is considering Ghana, go for it! However, please come with an open mind and just take everyday with a smile. Don't focus too much on what they don't have compared to your home country, make each day count!

Questions & Answers

Alumni Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with verified alumni.

Why did you choose this program?

volunteers and locals in Ghana

Any opportunity that I can get to travel, see the world and make some change seems amazing in my eyes and this opportunity with Plan My Gap Year seemed like the perfect place to start.

Whilst there are so many organizations out there I chose to volunteer with PMGY as they were an affordable and professional organization who offered a great experience to 17+ years old which was perfect for me based on my age at the time.

My reasoning for choosing Ghana is because it is an amazing country which I've had a connection with since a young age, having hosted Ghanaian people in my home through my city's Ghana Link Project. When looking into going to Ghana with PMGY it seemed perfect, they provide you with so much for the price with the most important thing being the level of support you get.

For anyone who's a first-time volunteer like I was, this is a perfect destination to go to and organization to go with.

What did your program provider assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?

As I signed up with PMGY independently and not through my school it meant that I was required to organize the majority by myself. However, the great thing about PMGY is that they provided so much support throughout the process.

In addition to the the handbook they give you containing all the advice on what to bring, what to expect, how to prepare etc, they will also give you loads of personal help if need be. Details such as helping you find and book your flights, pre-departure webinars, personal advice etc.

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?

Personally, I have found the key to traveling abroad is to keep an open mind. You have to be ready to adapt to different cultures and a new way of life. As daunting as it may seem to some, if you do this you'll enjoy your time so much more.

On top of this, don't be shy, just get as involved as you can and get to know the people that you're they're with as they play a vital part in your experience.

You'll find some of your best memories and experiences from this trip will come from the time you've spent with these absolute strangers, so make the most out of it.

What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?

During your time at the project your day may quite easily vary upon the individual day however this is the general overview:

You'll begin with quite an early wake-up due to the early sunrise. Once you've woken up you'll have a period of around 2 hours to get breakfast, however, if you do miss it then the PMGY team at the house will be able to sort this out for you. Breakfast is also an ideal time to take your anti-malaria tablet if you have to take it daily, as you will most likely get into the routine of waking up at the same time each day.

Once you're ready you'll then head to your project with the other volunteers, this will most likely be a mixture of taxi's and TroTro's (you'll easily pick up how to use them when there). You'll then be at your project a few hours, it can vary upon the day however you can always choose to leave at any point. In terms of lunch, you'll also get to choose when you wish to eat this, however, it tends to be during the children's break. Quite often some kids come to speak to you during this period however you get used to it over time and the other staff will often send them away.

Once you've returned home from the project you are then free to do what you wish with the rest of your time, if you do wish to leave the house to go somewhere else in Kumasi you just have to let Seth (the PMGY coordinator) know. Most likely you'll find yourself showering, possibly playing with the street kids and mainly just catching up and spending time with the other volunteers.

Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it and/or how did your views on the issue change?

Going abroad to Ghana I didn't really have any fears, more curiosities of what it was going to be like and what the other volunteers would be like. However, whilst I was there and as time went on it was clear there was nothing to worry about and I had a great time with everybody there.

What is your favorite memory from your time in Ghana?

If I was to recommend one thing whilst over there it is to take any chance you can to explore Ghana. My favorite experience of this was through the Cape Coast trip. This was an amazing experience where we got to so many features of Ghana, it's great jungles, amazing coast and of course wildlife.

The highlight, aside from the surfing, would have to be the last night of the trip (and my last night in Ghana) where we had a great bonfire on the beach. We spent the evening singing, dancing and sitting around the fire with the sea right next to us, it was a magical experience and one of my favorite memories.

Katie Plunkett

Faye Hunter

2016 Alum

Pippa Watson

2016 Alum

Staff Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with program leaders.

What is your favorite travel memory?

Josh McEnaney plan my gap year UK Operations Manager

Coordinating in Sri Lanka for a three month period was a definite highlight for me. From liaising with our UK team on a weekly basis, to helping manage the day to day operations and logistics for the volunteers -- it was a great experience. Indeed, Sri Lanka is a personal favorite destination of mine.

Since joining our UK team, I have ventured into additional amazing travel memories -- from establishing programs in Bali, Cambodia and Thailand and vetting other destinations such as Ghana, India and Tanzania and being able to passionately engage with the upcoming volunteers around our placements.

How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?

I have had the privilege to grow my network massively across the last year and a half or so. This growth resulted from liaising and meeting our teams abroad, hearing from volunteers first-hand about their experiences and promoting our programs in presentations and webinars.

As a result of this, I now see myself heavily involved in both our UK and ground operations allowing me to offer advice, guidance and feedback as appropriate to help grow and develop the community programs we support. I now feel empowered and confident in doing this.

What is the best story you've heard from a return student?

We have had many volunteers come back from placements / electives with us and feel so passionate about the work we do both in the UK and overseas that they invest their own time and energy selflessly (with no financial incentives) to promote and raise awareness about our opportunities to others who are not aware. This can be via social media, presentations at their university, taking time out to hand out leaflets, etc.

If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?

All of the destinations I have been to are great and unique in their own way, but Sri Lanka was the first destination I volunteered in with PMGY in 2013. Sri Lanka will always hold an affiliation with me.

What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?

Not only do we stand out on our affordability, but I feel the structured, personalized, inclusive and trusted service we offer is really appreciated by our volunteers and our consistent delivery on this.

This starts with our thorough, attentive and almost tailored pre-departure services. Then, we match this with in the in-country experience. Our strong reviews scores are testament to this! I am so proud of the work we do.

What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?

Trust, value for money and personality. By offering and delivering on these components, people can relate to you, will promote you strongly via word of mouth / social media and your reputation grows immensely for the right reasons -- something we've seen firsthand.

About Plan My Gap Year

Plan My Gap Year is an award-winning volunteer abroad organisation, offering volunteer projects in Africa, Asia, Europe & South America primarily for 17-22 year olds. PMGY provide a safe, structured and social platform with volunteer travel opportunities available from 1-40 weeks. With over 10 years of experience and expertise, PMGY is widely...