Best Places to Volunteer in Europe with Animals in 2025/2026

Volunteering with animals is one of the most rewarding ways to travel and Europe offers countless opportunities to make a real difference. From caring for rescued wildlife to supporting conservation in beautiful natural settings, there are programs across the continent that combine adventure with purpose.

If you are planning to volunteer abroad in 2025 or 2026, Europe is the perfect destination. Not only will you get the chance to protect animals and their habitats, you will also immerse yourself in new cultures, meet like-minded travellers, and experience some of the most stunning landscapes in the world. The only question is which country will you choose?

Portugal

Portugal is a fantastic destination for animal lovers looking for meaningful hands-on work in beautiful settings. With Volunteering Solutions, you can choose between the Hedgehog Conservation Program, helping care for and protect one of Europe’s most beloved small mammals, or join the Animal Care Volunteer Program in Porto, working with local teams on Trap-Neuter-Return efforts for street cats and supporting post-surgery care and adoption awareness.

Portugal offers more than wonderful projects. It’s rich in sunshine, culture, and charm. From the historic streets of Porto and its vibrant café culture to the serene rural landscapes where hedgehogs roam, this country is a perfect blend of purpose and travel magic.

Greece

Greece is another wonderful option for those looking to combine animal care with cultural immersion. Known for its breathtaking islands and ancient history, Greece is also home to a variety of animal welfare and marine conservation efforts. Volunteers often support projects that protect local wildlife and improve animal wellbeing while having the chance to explore traditional villages, sparkling coastlines, and delicious Mediterranean cuisine. For anyone dreaming of meaningful volunteering alongside world class travel, Greece is hard to beat.

Spain

Spain is one of the most exciting countries in Europe for volunteering with animals, offering a mix of conservation projects and cultural experiences. Alongside opportunities to support animal welfare and habitat protection, Volunteering Solutions also offers an Underwater Conservation Program in Barcelona. Here, volunteers can help with marine ecosystem preservation while living in one of the most vibrant cities in Europe.

Beyond the projects, Spain is full of colour and energy. From lively festivals and delicious cuisine to stunning coastlines and historic landmarks, every day brings something new to explore. Volunteering in Spain is the perfect way to combine meaningful conservation work with an unforgettable travel adventure.

Choosing the Best Place to Volunteer in Europe

There are so many amazing places to volunteer in Europe, so it can be a little overwhelming to pick your next adventure. Here are some tips on how to make this all-important decision:

• Know your goals beforehand

Think about what you want to achieve from volunteering abroad. Most people who don’t mind where they volunteer choose a skill they want to focus on, then look for where relevant opportunities are based. Whether you’re passionate about helping wildlife conservation or women’s empowerment, look for European countries with programs coinciding with your goals. 

• Do you have any dream destinations in mind? 

We all have a bucket list full of destinations we want to see, so it’s worth thinking about where in Europe you’ve always wanted to see. Whether it’s the iconic Sagrada Familia in Spain or the Parthenon in Greece, knowing where you’re most excited to visit helps you choose your ideal location. 

• Research your options

Many volunteers make the mistake of thinking that European countries don’t need much research before heading to the airport. However, researching basic things about each country gives you a great insight into what to expect, and whether it’s an enticing option for you to visit:

Consider researching the following: 

• Local cultures and communities
• The local healthcare system
• Tourism rates and safety initiatives
• The political climate
• Crime rates
• Necessary documentation, including visas and insurance
• Whether you need any vaccinations
• Consider things to do in your free time

Volunteering gives you plenty of downtime to explore your chosen country during the evenings and weekends. There are plenty of amazing things to do in your free time while visiting Europe, from snorkelling and surfing in crystal clear waters to exploring quaint towns and villages. As well as considering how you want to volunteer your time, you should also make your destination decision based on after-work activities. 

Ready to start your animal volunteering journey in Europe?

Volunteering Solutions is here to guide you every step of the way. From choosing the right program to preparing your travel documents, we make sure your experience is rewarding, ethical, and truly memorable. With projects across some of the most beautiful destinations in Europe, you can combine meaningful work with the adventure of a lifetime.

So why wait? Explore our animal volunteering programs today and plan your 2025 or 2026 journey with confidence. Your next adventure, and the animals you will help, are waiting for you.