Freepackers

4.9 rating out of 30 reviews

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Alice | 27, United Kingdom
I spent 2 weeks on Curieuse, Seychelles in August 2022, and it was the experience of a lifetime! I was looking for something worthwhile to do during my long summer holiday as a teacher, and my program was perfect. It was very well organised (e.g. organising travel from the airport to the boat pick-up), the staff on-base were fantastic and I learned so much in only 2 weeks. As a science teacher I am passionate about citizen science and being able to be part of a project like this with such a long-lasting impact was amazing. I met some amazing people that I have kept in touch with, and had experiences that I would never have had otherwise. Thank you for creating life-long memories and allowing me to be a part of this amazing project.
2 years ago
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Oliver
Amazing time! The staff are super knowledgeable and organized, always ready to answer questions about the work, animals or any organizational help you need. The volunteer work is enjoyable and interesting, with loads of opportunity for wildlife sightings. Recording the data and the practical conservation drives really make you feel like your doing something useful! On off days there are plenty of places to explore as well, day trips to Kruger or Blyde Canyon are well worth it. Would definitely recommend it to anyone even a little interested in wildlife conservation.
2 years ago
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Freja | 22, Denmark
If you're considering this, do yourself a favour and do it
2 years ago
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Seoda | 20, Ireland
Volunteering in Phang Nga was one of the best experiences of my life. It exceeded all my expectations! I have learnt so much in my time here about fish, coral, turtles, beaches etc. but more importantly I felt supported and looked after all the way. The staff at the organization are so helpful and they really did make me and the other volunteers feel like we were a family. Each day was filled with smiles and laughter, and even only after 2 weeks, I feel as if I have made lifelong friends. I have only been with programme for 2 weeks, however GVI has definiitely affected the way I see the world around me. In the future I hope to be more diligent in protecting the environment- for example picking up rubbish , and minimising the plastic I use every day. I was always passionate about the environment and the amazing world we live in but GVI has given me new motivation as I have seen the extent of the problem, but I have also witnessed how much progress can be made when we all work together.
2 years ago
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Aliyè | 30, UK
I have just completed my second trip to Fiji, both times doing the community development internship. Firstly, living within the community is a great experience and it enhances the whole experience. I found myself able to go and socialise with my adopted family in the village and hang out at the beach stargazing with my friends. Being able to be within the village enhances the education and experience of a new culture. Secondly, the staff and management are excellent, and I have learnt so much valuable knowledge and experience from them. The support network is incredible and feels like a big family. Thirdly, the internship has greatly improved my CV with my most recent employers being impressed by my time in Fiji; and love to ask me numerous questions in regard to my time with the program and Fiji. I can't vouch for the NGO enough, and the staff and running of Fiji is incredible. I have made lifelong friends in Fiji. My second time was joined by another intern from my first visit in 2020.
2 years ago
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Seanna | Australia
I was lucky enough to go on the Tenerife Marine Conservation project as a volunteer and couldn’t recommend it enough. Taking a gap year after school I wanted to make sure that I travelled, got some new experiences and contributed something. I came across this company and was welcomed immediately, the level of support available to me was above my expectations especially since I had a few unfortunate experiences. With bags missing I got very close to the lovely participants there - sharing clothes on day 1! While I went along as a volunteer, as opposed to an intern, I still believe that I gained an immense amount of knowledge and experience doing things I never thought I would, and of course who could forget the amazing wildlife. This program has definitely set me on an unexpected course that I will never forget and can’t wait to explore somewhere new soon! I think if I could choose I would have definitely stayed longer, while I experienced a lot in one month, I do feel like I missed out on exploring some things that I would have liked to. The accommodation was amazing, while you do share rooms with the other participants, it wasn’t too difficult to find some time alone or make a call if you wanted to.
2 years ago
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Maddie | 25, USA
Stay longer than 2 weeks! This program is a great way to travel and get to know other people from around the world, while also getting the full South Africa experience. It offers you a way to volunteer during the week days but also travel and experience adventure on the weekends. You have no idea how much an impact this program can make until you do it! The children and teacher give off such positive energy and you can’t help but be happy when your with them. Great program leaders and very safe. Would highly recommend for anyone wanting to travel and volunteer!
3 years ago
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Isabella | 23, Brazil
The volunteering was way more special than I thought and I had all sort of good expectations already but the experience was still able to surprise me in a good way. The support the foundation gives to us and all the love we receive from the children actually shows that when u go there u are supposed to give something to them but u are the one who gets the most beautiful feelings and memories u could ever ask for. After my short 2 weeks the only thing I know it’s that I’m so coming back! Loved every single moment!
3 years ago
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Hailey | USA
Absolutely loved it !! Truly there is no experience quite like it, I grew so much as a person and learned so much about the world around me. I traveled alone and had no issues at all!! Jess (one of the coordinators) was there the whole time and helped so much!! I would recommend going for as long as you can (1.5 months is a good minimum). I left in February to April and the weather was great!! I met so many people there that I love and am still friends with. The connections I made have made me into a new person, South Africa will always have a very big piece of my heart !!! If you’re thinking about it, JUST DO IT!! You won’t regret it!!
4 years ago
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Pierre | 26, Belgium
There is no word strong enough to explain what i was living that all time in South Africa. All the things I’ve been through, people I met , things I did .. it’s deep in your soul and your body and that changed me for the rest of my life honestly. It’s really hard to explain, you just need to try this experience and to live it 200% and do everything you can. The organization helps you to do activities, find good opportunities , help people in need,... it’s a mix of emotions all the time. This is unbelievable, still have nostalgia of those moments and people.. I would definitely recommend to try and to go there !
4 years ago
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