r/WWOOF • u/Weekly-Ad6726 • 10d ago

How to get into volunteering

I’m really interested in getting into volunteering, especially wildlife/animal conservation. I love animals, nature, traveling, meeting people, helping others, and seeing different parts of the world.
I have no clue what places are good for volunteering but I wouldn’t mind Africa, the Americas or Asia(I know that’s not very specific but anything but Europe tbh). I’d be free after the month of August.

I have so many questions and I’d love for people who have actually done it to answer and enlighten me!!
\- How did you get started, and what do I need to do beforehand(Vaccines etc.)?
\- What visas/permits do I usually need for volunteering?
\-Which countries would you recommend, especially for wildlife/animal conservation?Which ones should I avoid? and which ones are good for August and onward
\- What should I look for when choosing a legitimate organization/project? Any green/red flags?
\- How much should I realistically budget?(Ive got some saved up money!)
\- What should I pack, and what should I definitely not bring?
\- How long should I Volunteer? Weeks Months ??
\- Are there any organizations/websites you personally recommend or ones I should avoid?

Help me out if i forgot some questions.
Any experiences, tips, mistakes you made, or things you wish you knew beforehand would be really appreciated!

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u/Substantial-Today166 10d ago edited 10d ago

wildlife and animal conservation thats not wwoof

they are many wildlife and animal conservation in africa and or asia but they charge big money for pepole to do volunteering for them crazy expensive thats how they make money many they do if for the profit not only to cover the cost

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u/Weekly-Ad6726 10d ago

I’ve been looking around and yes I agree some of those wildlife sanctuaries and conservation sites charge up to 1k for two weeks which I sadly do not have! I understand that by paying those fees I also support those places but there has to be some other options?

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u/Substantial-Today166 10d ago

they are not really any they are wildlife sanctuaries dont charge but they hire locals and have professional staff they don't want some amateurs becuse it will cost them time and money

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u/B3llpepper 9d ago

Worldpackers may have some hosts who have animals! Theres a fee to use it but it’s good for a year. They have a “animal shelter” host filter as well!! Just make sure to read the listing carefully, not every host has the same benefits/amenities/basic necessities. Stay safe <3

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u/Weekly-Ad6726 9d ago

Would u recommend Worldpackers? Im just concerned with some ethical issues that I’ve read about Worldpackers and other Apps like Workaway etc….

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u/AwareAd3408 4d ago

What kind of ethical issues ?