GIVE Volunteers Reviews 

My recent GIVE trip to Zanzibar was nothing short of extraordinary—an experience that transcended mere travel and delved deep into cultural immersion and global citizenship. From the moment we set foot on this mesmerizing island, every aspect of our journey was meticulously crafted to blend learning, community impact, and personal growth.

Zanzibar welcomed us with open arms, offering a tapestry of cultures that enriched our understanding of diversity. Through interactions with locals, we not only embraced Swahili traditions but also shared our own cultural heritage. This exchange fostered mutual respect and appreciation, reminding us of the beauty in our differences.

Exploring the intersection of economic policies and tourism was eye-opening. We saw firsthand how sustainable tourism practices can uplift communities while preserving natural resources. Engaging with local entrepreneurs and learning about their challenges underscored the importance of responsible travel—a lesson that will resonate long after our journey.

What started as a group of 20 strangers quickly evolved into a tight-knit family. Together, we tackled challenges, celebrated victories, and forged bonds that transcended borders. Sharing meals, stories, and laughter created memories that will forever unite us as global citizens.

Our journey extended beyond personal growth to making a meaningful impact. Through community projects and volunteer work, we contributed to initiatives that empower locals and promote sustainable development. The warmth and hospitality of the Zanzibari people, who welcomed us into their homes and hearts, reinforced the transformative power of human connection.

Zanzibar taught us what it means to be a global citizen—to embrace cultural diversity, advocate for sustainable practices, and share knowledge with humility and respect. Each encounter, whether with a fellow traveler or a local artisan, reaffirmed our commitment to fostering positive change in the world.

My GIVE trip to Zanzibar was more than just a journey; it was a profound exploration of culture, community, and compassion. It highlighted the transformative impact of stepping outside our comfort zones and embracing new perspectives. As I return home, I carry with me not only memories of breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures but also a renewed sense of purpose—to continue learning, sharing, and advocating for a more interconnected world.

In essence, Zanzibar has left an indelible mark on my heart, reminding me of the power of travel to inspire, educate, and unite.

This was an incredible experience. I felt so taken care of and did not have to worry about a single thing. The tour guides were amazing and so welcoming. I will definitely be going on another trip!

This experience is incredibly unique, as you’re not just traveling as a tourist, but as a global citizen immersed in the country that you’re volunteering in. Traveling with local guides allows you to really dive deep into a better understanding of Thai culture and its importance and value in our world. Each activity and experience we did was enriching and extremely enjoyable. Volunteering gives you new perspectives and is incredibly rewarding in all aspects. I thoroughly enjoyed these moments as much as if not more than any of the touristy excursions. What’s more is the people you meet and the lessons you learn along the way. I have learned so much from each of them and have returned to my country extremely grateful for this life that we all get to live together. A truly unforgettable experience. I highly highly recommend.

Going to another country where you don't know anyone or the language is terrifying especially when you're doing the whole SouthEast Asia package, but right as you walk out of the airport you are immediately greeted by the the guides! They were so excited to meet us and so so kind and immediately start getting to know who you are. I talked with all of my guides and can say without a doubt that without them the experience would have been 10 times different because they are all so amazing and put the GIVE in a GIVE trip! There might need to be a little extra training about what to do if a bacterial infection gets a majority of the group including guides... but the chances of that happening again are hopefully low. Finally, I just want to say that doing this with GIVE has truly changed my life, the locals I got to meet, the kids I got to teach, and the different experiences I got to have are things that I will look back on with joy for decades to come and I am already planning my next GIVE trip!

This trip was a great way to have an authentic and genuine experience the Big Island of Hawaii

so much fun!!

I was really nervous to get out of my comfort zone and I do not regret a single thing! I can’t wait to go on another trip with give in the future. I met new people and immediately made friends for life. I recommend going and be yourself!!

This experience was life changing. I got to experience this incredible thing with incredible people. I got to meet people and see things normal tourists would never. It lit a passion inside of me. I am beyond grateful this got to be my first solo traveling experience.

I had the most incredible experience traveling with GIVE. Everything about it was so special and intentional, in every aspect I felt like I was meant to be there. I have met such kind and genuine souls, all traveling with purpose and intention, to learn, grow, push our comfort zones and make a change in the world. I couldn’t have asked to be surrounded by a better group of individuals. The gratitude, perspective and values on life I have gained from this trip is absolutely life changing! I have learned so much about permaculture and the way of life that comes with it. There was so much meaning behind every action taken on this trip, I can only encourage one to experience something like this one day.

The Costa Rica GIVE trip genuinely changed my life for the better. I am still brought to tears every time I look back on my trip memories with the most amazing people and wish I could do it again and again. I learned so much about sustainable living, composting, and the lifestyle of permaculture farming. I also genuinely had so much fun and met the most amazing people who all share similar mindsets. Our GIVE guides were incredible and so were all the people we met throughout our volunteering. Getting to see such beautiful places and do such incredibly fun things all while leaving a genuine positive impact is something I wish everyone could experience. Seriously 10/10 recommend this trip. I will never forget white water rafting, ziplining, exploring the jungle, eating plants from the farm, morning yoga, dance parties, delicious food, the gorgeous beaches and waterfalls, the friendships made, and so so much more. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to GIVE Volunteers for this wonderful experience. If you're on the fence about going-- trust me DO IT!!!

The trip was laid out so well, the whole day is filled with activities and everyone is taken care of to ensure that the trip is safe and the most comfortable it can get. The staff are very knowledgeable on the local communities and the history and are a great way to learn about all the places you see and stay. Only notable thing to keep in mind is that it’s good to ask questions about how to prepare for basic activities or what to expect for hiking conditions because it can get glanced over during day planning

During my time a broad with Give Volunteers I was immersed into the culture of a village in Zanzibar called Kairo. During my time spent her I partook in two main volunteering sections, these included Contruction and teaching. During Contruction we made cement as a group, shoveled our newly made cement into wheelbarrows, where we then dumped the cement onto a surface to create a foundation that will soon be a new computer classroom for the locals. During school I taught one of the local tribes, this group of men we the Maasai. During teaching we were divided into separate levels and we taught them English. This experience was very eye opening as well as inspiring for my future. This program is incredible and very reliable. I cannot wait to hopefully continue my travels with Give!

I have been on 3 trips now with Give; Tanzania, Nicaragua and Costa Rica, and I can’t get enough. Each trip is such a uniquely wonderful experience and were some of the best weeks of my life. The guides make it such a positive and fulfilling trip and I feel like a better person after coming back from one. You go on vacation to escape life but you go on an adventure to experience life, and I truly feel the most alive while on a Give trip.

This is was my first volunteer trip with GIVE and I absolutely loved it. I just got back from my trip and it was fantastic. The guides were always there to answer our questions and if we had any issues with anything they were there to help us out. Never did I feel unsafe in the environment. my fellow volunteers were a constant encouragement during construction, education, and my additional trip to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro. The locals were always happy and excited to see us and they understood that me and my group were not tourist. We were there to make change in the small town of Kairo. One of the best highlights of the trip was just seeing how free and happy the locals were and how inviting they were to include us in their daily lives.

GIVE was excellent in response time before the trip even started and I had no flight troubles going and coming home. I honestly would do this trip again in the future because of how organized and safe it was.

One thing I would recommend to any going to Tanzania would be to bring electrolytes and all the cash that you plan on spending in USD so your not constantly looking for an ATM when you run out of money. (There’s only a few opportunities to get cash) if you choose to do this trip have fun and embrace everyday with an open mind, you won’t regret it.

There’s not enough words to express how amazing of an experience traveling with GIVE was. Going to Thailand and Laos was life changing. These trips really broke me out of my shell and pushed me out of my comfort zone. In just 28 days, I saw seen myself grow and start to become the person I have always aspired to be. I have always wanted to help people and make a difference in our world, which is why I chose to pursue social work. In Thailand and Laos, I witnessed firsthand how impactful one person can be. Along with 16 and 25 other volunteers, I saw our efforts making a significant difference in the lives of those we interacted with, fellow volunteers, local guides, and the communities that welcomed us into their villages. I would go on these trips again and again just so I could see the impact GIVE has on every person it comes into contact with. One of the most rewarding parts of this trip was seeing how GIVE listens to the needs of each village and its members. Being immersed into each culture has caused me to grow and learn. Now I can help spread awareness of permaculture, living sustainably, debunk negative stereotypes, and how to be a responsible and respectful global citizen. Thank you GIVE for the experience of a lifetime <3.

Everything about my trip to Thailand was amazing! Every single person, including each tour guide, felt like family by the second day. I felt empowered yet humbled to work alongside the kindest locals and other volunteers. I would do this trip a million times over!!

This trip completely changed my life!!! Going into a trip with random people can be a little intimidating and that is totally understandable! But I promise you, the instant connections with everyone on this trip can be more than enough trust to all of the guides, locals and people I was on this trip with! GIVE is such an amazing program with unforgettable guides and an awesome itinerary. The people you meet are so wholesome and inspiring humans. I wish I could do this trip all over again, if you can go to Thailand with GIVE! I promise you will not forget it!

Do your research! Experiences are valid and come from honest perspectives! Generally read through the responses from specific organizations
The activities claim to be 2.5 hours not counting the commute time as well
We are young adults that most of us have to fund for?
Hope to really see some progress and growth moving forward

Please read 3 star review for more context

Mahalo /Talofa

My trip to Laos with Give was transformative and inspiring. We had the opportunity to go on fun adventures, bond with the local community, work hard for a bigger goal, and become friends with so many people. I loved zip lining, going to the bear sanctuary, swimming in waterfalls, but the best part was the friends, jokes, and amazing people of Sopchem.

Going to Thailand with GIVE was the most enlightening, rewarding and cherishing moment of my life. Thailand was filled with beautiful sights and beautiful people. The staff I had on my trip were truly the most selfless people I have ever met, never failing to make us laugh but always ensuring our safety as the number one priority! I encourage everyone to take a trip with GIVE it will truly change your life for the better!