Freepackers

4.9 rating out of 30 reviews

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Brynja | 23, Iceland
Taking part in this project is one of the best decisions I have ever made. Everyone was very kind and welcoming. I took part in the surf and adventure program in Cape Town and it was so much fun. Helping out in pre-schools in the mornings and then doing sports with the older kids in the afternoon. I myself learnt a lot in my time with this mission about different cultures and working with children. It was so uplifting and inspiring to work with these amazing kids, teachers and other volunteers and everyone had the most positive attitude. This program allowed me to make friends for life from all over the world and for that I am so thankful!! This was a one of a kind experience and I am lucky to have had the opportunity to take part in this program and have the time of my life!
2 years ago
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Iris | 20, United Kingdom
So many young people dream about this kind of experience! Very few actually do it, be that due to fear or ignorance or anything else - and since doing it, I've had countless people ask how and where and how can they join too. It couldn't be easier with this NGO, and what an example of how worth it it really is! From inquiry to payment you are guided by the team through the phone, and then from airport to airport you have understanding, knowledgeable contacts to make the process smooth. And once here? It is only heaven. As my first solo experience out of my country, I couldn't have asked for a better introduction: to the field of study, to travelling, to Tenerife, to living communally, to respect and hard work and common interest and above all, FUN! The most fun I've ever had! Every boat trip beheld spectacles: turtles cruising metres from the boat, baby pilot whales dancing and playing, hundreds of spotted dolphins racing us..... Dreams upon dreams coming true. You live amongst young people and professionals, all as excited and generous as you. Even though I was only a volunteer, from my first boat trip the programme officer Lou noticed I had a particular interest in birds and proceeded to take photos of them every day, just for me. It is that generous effort that gives you faith in yourself, I feel; I'm worth her time and effort, so I can do this! My life feels utterly changed; I'm ready to begin my career, and with the contacts I now have? I know exactly how to do it.
2 years ago
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Rosanna | 36, Australia
I have been wanting to volunteer for years. I did some research into what different agencies offered and this came out on top. I went to Cambodia for 2 weeks to teach English and work with an NGO supporting women! By the end of the first week, I was trying to rearrange flights to stay. The group I volunteered with was amazing, Pat the project coordinator was supportive, inspiring and down to earth, and the Khmer people were beautiful. The base the NGO has in Cambodia felt like home and I would go back tomorrow if I could. The need is immense in Cambodia and the local community welcomes support and help with open arms. The teachers love having English speaking volunteers just as much as the students and you witness your impact almost instantly. Your contribution, opinions, and time is valued and greatly appreciated. I would highly recommend and encourage people of any age to participate in an opportunity and experience like this. It changes your perspective about what’s really important and opens your eyes to real world issues, and how each of us can really make a difference. I am committed to continuing to bring hope and support to those that need it.
2 years ago
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Raj | 25, United Kingdom
Following graduation, I was looking for conservation experience in-the-field. This NGO has always been on my radar as one of the best organisations for that kind of work, and after graduating it was a no-brainer for me to head out on one of their programmes. I volunteered as a Research Fellow for two months, at their Limpopo base in South Africa. For eight weeks, I held a daily schedule of fieldwork research, stimulating workshops and beautiful animal encounters - it was incredible. The team at Limpopo are the best mentors you could ask for to show you the ropes of the African bush. Experts in the field, they have a wealth of knowledge to pass on, and every minute was a learning experience. I was really interested in the career prospects that they offer too. Aside from the considerable experience gained from the programme, the online modules and qualifications that they provide are impressive, and will help to improve anybody’s career skill-set. I’m looking forward to applying my programme towards job applications in the coming future. Limpopo helped expand my perspective of conservation, from the lessons learned in-the-field, to the conversations and interactions I had with people from all over the world. The programme enhanced my understanding of conservation issues, as multi-faceted projects. I hope that the experience I gained will help me to make a better impact in a career in conservation. The programme was one of the greatest experiences of my life. From the people, the place, the wildlife and the projects it was an unforgettable two months. I’d 100% recommend it, and I’m already looking at my next programme.
2 years ago
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Mitali | 33, New Zealand
This company was excellent managing my application process and on arrival were fantastic. The accommodation was set in beautiful rice paddles, food was provided and all the things I needed for teaching were prepared. I was teaching healthcare to primary school kids and they were all so friendly and eager to learn. I also met and became friends with other volunteers and I just wish I could have stayed longer. I highly recommend the Bali volunteering program.
2 years ago
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Sarah | 18, Canada
During my recent trip to Costa Rica I had the pleasure of interacting with three of NGO's finest. The experience began with a friendly welcome at the airport and the following two weeks were increasingly wonderful. The whole time I felt safe in the country. From first aid assistance to communications in Spanish, all the bases were covered. The first week was a rewarding five days of sweat and smiles. GVI ensured everyone was happy and healthy while we worked on the project. The second week… where do I start. The most blissful week I can recall. The activities, people, and sights were incredible. All in all, these two weeks were undoubtedly amazing and life altering. Thank you for the experience!
2 years ago
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Giulia
I was in the Surf Adventure program where we volunteered in the schools of the townships in the morning, and then in the afternoon with older kids in sporting activities, including swim, surf, dance and boxing. This organization is run by a lot of amazing people with a great heart that really try to make things better, they work hard and with love not only for the communities, but also for the volunteers, they make you feel at home. These children live in a township where homes are often built from scrap metal and second hand materials, without running water, and violence is common in this neighborhood. So their work is essential to make these children’s lives better. Volunteering with them was a life changing experience where I met amazing people, have a lot of fun and make unforgettable memories so I highly recommend them and I hope to go back some day! ❤️
2 years ago
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Johanna
It was such a great experience volunteering in Sri Lanka! they really prepare someone before starting the travel and everything worked out like promised! I felt very safe !I am so happy that I have done this journey and I only can recommend it to everyone else !
2 years ago
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Joanna
I volunteered in Ghana for 4 weeks on the women’s empowerment programme, and it was the most amazing experience- I would recommend it to anyone and everyone. There is a wide variety in the lessons and projects provided that you can get stuck in to- my favourites being gender based violence, menstrual health, and fit Ed - and within each of those you have the ability to help plan and deliver the classes. The team have a great relationship with the schools, and we work on other projects with them such as painting and beach cleans with the kids. The kids are amazing and definitely are one of the things that made my time there what it was- and I know many others felt the same. The programme itself is incredible in its focus on making sure it's impact led, and above all else that all the work done is ethical. From day 1 there is a strong focus on the ethics of the work you’re doing which I believe is so so important, and is definitely something that stuck with me. Beyond your projects, you can spend free time on base which is a beautiful place to live; in Kokrobite which has many social places like Big Millys, Kokrobite gardens and an incredible beach; or there are organised trips every other weekend. These were such a highlight of the experience and you become immersed in the history and culture of Ghana, as well as getting to see some beautiful sights! I went to Volta and we hiked mountains, swam in waterfalls, saw monkeys, drank palm wine... it was the best weekend!! There are also weekend trips to Cape coast to see the historic slave castles, and to Ada. The staff are incredible- shoutout to Will for (sometimes) making everyone laugh, to Naa for her delicious cooking, to Joanna for her beautiful jewellery and much needed laundry service, and most of all to Matt for making the programme what it is. The base pets are the cutest little things as well (I was very close to putting them in my bag and taking them home)! The overall experience genuinely was amazing, I'm planning to go back already and I would urge anyone to go, you will not regret it. For me it was the best decision I ever made and I would do it a million times over again.
2 years ago
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Rebecca | 25, United Kingdom
I had the best time on Curieuse Island, Seychelles over 6 weeks. It became a home away from home. I'm an postgraduate Marine Biology student who graduated during Covid-19, so was unable to experience in the field studies, surveys etc. Therefore I chose to do an internship to get the hands on experience in the field. I have a passion for turtle conservation so felt very lucky to see two turtle nests hatch. Curieuse also complete other exciting surveys with Aldabra Tortoises and Juvenile Lemon Sharks. The staff on base were very helpful with assistance during the surveys and hikes. I originally struggled with the hikes, but it became so much easier after a few weeks. The evenings on base were fun with card games, quizzes, and murder mystery games. I made very close friends whilst on base, who made my time in the Seychelles even more enjoyable. Plus I felt like I learnt a lot about myself, and the personal journey was amazing. I was pushed outside of my comfort zone, but I'm so grateful for the experience. I'm hoping to apply the newly learnt skills to potential jobs in the future.
2 years ago
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