Family Volunteer Programs in Asia

My husband and I, along with our two kids (ages 7 and 9), spent an incredible week in Sri Lanka volunteering through GoEco’s Family-Friendly Sea Turtle Program. It was an experience unlike any other, blending meaningful conservation work with plenty of family bonding and adventure.

We started our journey with a smooth pickup at the airport, which took us to Unawatuna, a small coastal town where the program is based. Our accommodation was simple but just right for our family: an en-suite room close to Unawatuna Beach, with the added bonus of a pool at the main volunteer house. This made it easy to relax after our shifts. The meals provided were delicious, offering a variety of Sri Lankan dishes, and we were just a short walk away from restaurants where we could try both local specialties and more familiar options like pizza and pasta.. perfect for the kids!

Our daily schedule included a mix of activities, with at least two shifts a week dedicated to working at the sea turtle hatchery. This was the centerpiece of the program, and it quickly became the highlight of our trip. We were involved in feeding the turtles, cleaning their tanks, and even releasing baby turtles into the ocean—a truly unforgettable moment for our family. The kids especially enjoyed “spa day,” where they helped scrub the turtles’ shells using toothbrushes. It was a simple task but one they took seriously, and it gave them a hands-on way to connect with marine life.

Beyond the hatchery, the program also introduced us to other meaningful conservation work. One day, we joined a lagoon clean-up by canoe, collecting over 80 kg of trash in a single shift. Seeing such an impact firsthand was eye-opening for the kids, and it sparked conversations about how we can reduce waste. We also took part in a beach clean-up and had a chance to break from the hard work with a surfing lesson. To my surprise, our kids picked up surfing quickly and had a blast riding the waves!

The program wasn’t all about volunteering, there were plenty of opportunities to experience Sri Lanka’s culture and natural beauty. We visited a Buddhist temple with the guidance of local staff, giving us a deeper understanding of the country’s traditions. Another highlight was a jungle bike ride through rice paddies and scenic countryside, where the kids loved spotting wildlife along the way. Our trip ended on a high note with an elephant safari at Udawalawe National Park. Watching elephants in their natural habitat was a magical experience that we’ll remember for a long time.

This program was a perfect balance of work, exploration, and family time. It allowed us to contribute to important conservation efforts while also discovering the rich culture and natural beauty of Sri Lanka. For families looking for a trip that’s a little different—one that’s both rewarding and memorable—I can’t recommend this program enough. It’s a great way to create lasting memories while making a meaningful impact.