I discovered the transformative power of volunteering in Bali’s communities! These are my top 6 programs that made a real difference!
I’ll never forget the summer I spent volunteering in Bali during my gap year. It completely changed my perspective on travel!
Instead of just soaking up the sun and surfing, I immersed myself in local communities, learning about their challenges and contributing to positive change.
That experience was so powerful that I made it a point to always include volunteer work into my yearly summer vacations. So, in this post, I’ll share my top volunteer programs that offer unique opportunities to give back. Let’s dive in!
1. ELI Abroad in Bali
– Media credit: eli. abroad
Website: http://www.eliabroad.org/
Address: 1290 N Williams St STE 303, Denver, CO 80218, United States
Contact details: +13033218278
ELI Abroad’s volunteer experience in Bali is a chance to dive deep into something meaningful. Founded in 2001, ELI has brought together thousands of volunteers from all over the globe, and they do it in a way that helps local communities.
What I love about ELI is how they tailor your experience based on your strengths. For those who love hands-on work, you can help build and renovate community centers and schools around Ubud!
You’ll also be tackling important social issues like education and environmental conservation. If you’re interested in the environment, some projects focus on coral reef restoration.
Getting started is easy: Just fill out a quick application form on their website, and an Application Advisor will walk you through everything. What’s great is that most of their programs run year-round and are open to anyone aged 16 and up.
| Pro tip: Embrace the local culture fully—try learning a few phrases in Bahasa Indonesia! This small effort can go a long way in building rapport with the community and enhancing your overall experience. |
2. International Working Holidays
– Media credit: ivhq
Website: https://iwh.co.nz/
Address: 28 Constellation Drive, Rosedale, Auckland 0632, New Zealand
Contact details: +6496660192
Operating hours: 9 AM–5 PM
I came across this incredible program from International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ). It has operated since 2007, and over 144,000 volunteers have joined it.
The best part? It can be affordable! You can start volunteering with fees as low as $395 a week, which opens the door for so many people who want to experience this beautiful island and positively impact the local community.
You can work in kindergartens in Ubud, help with construction projects, or even dive into marine conservation on Nusa Penida. Each project usually asks for just 3-5 hours of your day, so you still have plenty of time to explore everything Bali offers.
Programs kick off every Monday, and you can volunteer for one week up to three months. Just hop onto the IVHQ website and pick your project, and they’ll handle everything else—airport pickup, orientation, meals, accommodation, and support around the clock.
| Pro tip: Participating in traditional ceremonies or community events will help you embrace local customs. This will deepen your connection with the locals and enrich your understanding of their culture. |
3. GoEco
– Media credit: go. eco
Website: https://goeco.org.nz/
Address: 25A Devon Road, Frankton, Hamilton 3204, New Zealand
Contact details: +6478394452
Operating hours: 10 AM–4 PM
GoEco in Bali is all about creating sustainable change, and they’ve made a name for themselves with some impactful programs, especially in wildlife conservation and education.
Working with endangered sea turtles is one of the coolest experiences in the area. Imagine getting close to these majestic creatures, helping rehabilitate them, and engaging with local communities about why they need protection.
For example, in the sea turtle rescue program, you’ll help feed, clean, and monitor the turtles’ health and participate in educational outreach.
You can visit their website, select the program that interests you, and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime. Most programs run year-round and last anywhere from a week to several months, giving you plenty of flexibility in planning your trip.
| Pro tip: Engage in the cultural orientation provided at the beginning of your program. This orientation typically includes local cooking classes, tours of significant cultural sites, and introductions to Balinese customs and traditions. |
4. Gili Shark Conservation
– Media credit: gilisharkconservation
Website: http://gilisharkconservation.com/
Address: Gili Air, Gili Indah, Pemenang, North Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
Operating hours:9 AM–5 PM
Gili Shark Conservation is all about protecting sharks and marine life. What’s cool is that they’re working toward creating the first official shark nursery in Indonesia by 2026.
Indonesia is the biggest shark-fishing nation globally, so this initiative is crucial. The participants are not just talking the talk; they are gathering scientific data to advocate for effective marine management and conservation efforts.
They’ve won some awards for their amazing programs, like Coral Catch, which helps empower local women to get into marine conservation. They accept volunteers to join the action if you’re into this kind of stuff.
You can sign up for a minimum of two weeks. During your time there, you’ll become a PADI Scientific Diver and gain experience with data collection and analysis. You’ll bodyweight times a week and rack up at least 70 project hours.
| Pro tip: Sharing meals and stories after diving enhances one’s understanding of marine issues and fosters lasting friendships—something you won’t find anywhere else! |
5. Bali Wildlife Rescue Centre, Friends of the Nature, People, and Forest
– Media credit: baliwildliferescue
Website: http://www.fnpf.org/
Address: Banjar Dukuh, Jl. Teratai No.49, Dauh Peken, Tabanan, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82113, Indonesia
Contact details: +62361811111
Operating hours: 8 AM–4 PM
Bali Wildlife Rescue Centre focuses on rehabilitating injured and orphaned wildlife. It was established to tackle issues like the illegal wildlife trade and habitat destruction, and it’s become a true haven for many iconic species that call Indonesia home.
You’d be amazed to know that over 85% of volunteers are between 17 and 22! Typically, you’ll work 3 to 5 hours daily, Monday through Thursday. If you’re excited about diving deeper, Fridays are optional. It’s such a flexible setup!
You can easily apply through their website or look into partner organizations like Plan My Gap Year to get involved. They handle placements and provide all the training you’ll need when you arrive.
In addition, you will receive an orientation that introduces you to Balinese culture, which is super helpful in preparing you for your adventure.
| Pro tip: Participate in community events or visit nearby traditional markets during your free time to enjoy local culture. This will enrich your experience and help you forge connections with the locals. |
6. Bali Children’s Project
– Media credit: balichildrensproject
Website: http://www.balichildrensproject.org/
Address: Gg. Pacekan Jl. Banjar Penestanan Kaja No.Br, Sayan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Contact details: +6281318003900
Operating hours: 9 AM–5 PM
The Bali Children’s Project (BCP) started in 2013 when this American couple decided to make a difference in kids’ lives in Bali’s villages. BCP is about lifting them by providing essential educational resources and support.
They don’t just focus on education; they also ensure these kids have what they need to thrive—like furnishings, clothing, food, and hygiene supplies. It’s heartwarming to see how they’re making a genuine difference.
They have around 300 children in their sponsorship program, which is amazing because it means they are a beacon of hope for families struggling with poverty in Indonesia.
You can teach English, organize fun educational activities, or even care for younger children at local nurseries. The program usually runs for about 4-5 hours daily, Monday through Friday, leaving you with time to explore Bali on the weekends.
| Pro tip: Study the local culture—try learning a few basic Balinese phrases! This will help you connect with the children and community and enrich your overall ee in this beautiful island paradise. |