Volunteering in Sri Lanka

“I'm giving my time, so why do I have to pay?” It's a fair question. Your time is valuable, but hosting volunteers costs money: accommodation, meals, organising activities and the people who support you while you're there.

Your fee helps cover these costs and supports the local organisations that host you. Your trip also brings money into the community through the services you use and the people who live and work there.

You'll join an ongoing project run by local people, contributing your time, energy and willingness to learn.

We want you to understand what you're supporting before you choose a trip. Our guide explains how the fee works and why there's a cost to take part.

Find out why volunteering involves a fee →

Usually, no. You can join even if you've never volunteered before or this is your first time away from home. You don't need to know how to do everything already. What matters is being willing to learn, lend a hand and respect the people who welcome you.

Every project has its own activities, routine and needs. You'll need to listen to the local coordinators and adapt to a way of life that may be different from yours.

Some projects, such as those in healthcare, need specific skills or relevant studies. You'll find any requirements on the project page.

Not sure which project suits you? Tell us what interests you, what you study or do for work and what you'd like to learn. We'll help you explore the options.

The fee normally covers accommodation, meals, airport pick-up, coordination of local activities and support during your stay. These help you settle in and give you people to turn to while you're there.

Arrangements vary by destination. Each local organisation hosts volunteers according to its resources and the needs of the project, so read the details of your chosen trip.

Every project page explains what's included, what you'll pay separately and which services are optional. Check the information on flights, visas, insurance and transport too, so you can plan your full budget.

If anything's unclear, ask us. We'll help you understand the costs before you book.

In general, you can take part from the age of 16 with a basic level of English. You don't need to speak it perfectly, but you do need to manage everyday conversations and understand instructions during activities. Some projects require a higher level, depending on the work involved.

You'll also need to be adaptable, respect the local culture and follow the project coordinators' guidance. Daily routines, the pace of life and comforts may be different from home. Knowing this before you go helps you arrive with realistic expectations.

We also welcome under-18s, families and people over 65. We'll discuss whether a trip is suitable for you, based on the project, its activities and local conditions. For under-18s, a parent or guardian must be involved.

For safety reasons, we also ask you to declare any criminal record.

Tell us who would be travelling and what you need. Together with the local organisation, we'll check whether the project is a good fit and how to arrange your trip.

Yes. Around 80% of the people who join our projects travel on their own, so you're in good company if your friends can't come.

Our projects welcome people from different countries. Shared activities and everyday life give you plenty of chances to get to know each other, swap stories and make friends, even if you arrive knowing nobody.

Numbers vary by project and time of year. If meeting lots of people matters to you, tell us and we'll help you choose with that in mind.

If you'd prefer to meet your travel companions before you leave, choose a group trip. With either option, you'll also meet other international volunteers on the project.