Overview
Embark on an incredible journey to explore the captivating island of Sri Lanka with your family through an exhilarating one-week volunteer program! This amazing opportunity seamlessly blends cultural immersion, environmental conservation, and community service work, , creating an experience that will stay with you and your family forever.
Itinerary Summary
- Sat: Arrival in CMB. Private transfer to Galle.
- Sun: Training and orientation + Area tour
- Mon: Turtle hatchery (morning) + Buddhist temple visit (afternoon)
- Tue: River cleaning in kayaks (morning) + Yoga class (afternoon)
- Wed: Turtle hatchery (morning) + Surfing lesson (afternoon)
- Thu: Interacting with local children (arts and crafts, games, etc.) in the morning + bike ride across countryside (afternoon)
- Fri: Beach clean-up (morning)
- Sat: Departure (airport transfer included)
Itinerary
Itinerary
Please note the activities listed below are subject to change based on local conditions on the ground at the time.
Day 1 (Sat): Arrival in Colombo airport. Private group transfer to accommodation in Galle.
Day 2 (Sun): Training and orientation session (includes introduction to Sri Lanka, cultural awareness training as well as training for the various project activities) in the morning followed by area orientation tour in and around Galle and Unawatuna neighbourhoods in the afternoon/early evening (includes key sites such as Galle Dutch Fort, Unawatuna Beach, Galle market, etc).
Day 3 (Mon): We commence the project activities with a visit to our sea turtle hatchery to learn about endangered sea turtles and our ongoing turtle conservation efforts. The family will participate in hands-on conservation work such as feeding and cleaning the turtles, taking care of older and disabled turtles, cleaning the turtle tanks and general hatchery area, filling tanks with fresh sea water to mimic their natural environment, and other ad hoc tasks. The goal is to protect and conserve critically endangered sea turtles that are native to the waters of the Indian Ocean, and particularly to Sri Lanka. Supported by our hatchery staff and turtle project coordinator..
In the afternoon/early evening, we visit a prominent Buddhist Temple for a cultural immersion session to learn about the basics about Buddhism, the main religion of the island. This visit includes a tour of the temple to gain a better understanding of its history and culture and a chance to see Buddhist monk(s) go about their day-to-day lives.
Day 4 (Tue): In the morning we embark on a river cleaning session as part of our local environmental conservation efforts. We visit the tributaries of the Gin Ganga River, an important 116 km long water body originating from the virgin Sinharaja Rainforest and flowing down through several villages towards Galle and into the Indian Ocean. Keeping the river clean benefits local neighbouring communities, the surrounding flora and fauna, and ultimately the ocean. This part of the project involves volunteers riding in canoes and cleaning smaller tributaries of the river of plastic and other waste products that threaten the immediate ecosystem. Life jackets, canoes, oars, scooping nets and waste collecting bags are provided. It requires teamwork and a sense of adventure, all done in a beautiful rural natural setting surrounded by paddy fields.
In the afternoon we indulge in a group Yoga class led by an experienced Yoga teacher. Yoga is one of Sri Lanka’s most popular health & wellness activities and our classes are suitable for both beginners and experienced Yogis.
Day 5 (Wed ): In the morning we head back for another visit to our sea turtle hatchery to perform a different set of conservation tasks than we did on the first day. The first session focuses more on feeding-related activities while this session is more cleaning-oriented. Exact set of tasks in both sessions will be determined as per the project needs on the ground at the time.
In the afternoon we arrange a group surfing lesson (weather permitting) for the family. Surfing is one of the fastest growing and most loved sports in Sri Lanka. The lesson is provided by qualified instructors and surf boards are provided. Good opportunity to learn how to surf or refine one’s surfing skills. Those who don’t wish to participate can relax on the beach.
Day 6 (Thu): In the morning the family volunteers with young children (aged 3-6 years). They will be assisted by our own Educational Coordinators who will help with planning and translations. The participants will help conduct various educational and fun learning activities for the children in this immersive and interactive session. Typical activities include arts and crafts, playing educational games, drawing, singing & dancing, storytelling, etc.
In the afternoon we embark upon a guided bike tour across lush paddy fields and quaint local villages. Explore the greenery and rustic pathways of the Sri Lankan countryside (includes a pitstop at a local coconut garden for some refreshing coconut water).
Day 7 (Fri): The last volunteering activity of the week is a group beach cleaning session in the morning at a prominent local beach as part of our ongoing local conservation efforts. The family will join other volunteers to help clean up the beach and surrounding areas from unwanted plastic and other toxic waste. This initiative will involve team effort and coordination to help preserve our vital marine ecosystems.
The afternoon is left open for self-exploration or relaxation as desired.
Day 8 (Sat): Private transfer to Colombo airport to catch departure flight back. Goodbye Sri Lanka!
Project Requirement
Project Requirement
A minimum of 3 family members are required to take part in this program.The minimum age requirement for children taking part in the program is 6 years at the time of joining the program. All participants must be fit and healthy at the time of joining the program.
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Living
Living
At Volunteering Solutions we ensure that all our international volunteers are provided the utmost comfort so that they can have a home away from home experience while working with us. We ensure that your stay, meals and other personal requirements are looked after well.
Airport Transfers
Families will be provided private airport transfers to and from the Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport Airport by a representative of the local coordinating team on the program start and end date respectively.
Accommodation
Families will be provided accommodation in a beautiful, peaceful, boutique-style guesthouse/villa located very near to the volunteer house. The villa combines the convenience of a boutique hotel with the feeling of a private home; a secluded place to relax and unwind in quiet and secure surroundings. The twin/ triple sharing rooms are decorated in modern, contemporary Asian style with en-suite bathrooms and solar-powered hot water and airconditioning. The accommodation is just a two minute walk to Unawatuna beach with its wide range of great value cafes, restaurants and bars. If accommodation is not available at the villa, another suitable accommodation shall be arranged.
Orientation
A detailed program Orientation will be provided to the families before starting the volunteering program.All participants on arrival get a welcome presentation including health and safety training, culture presentation, project specific presentation and area orientation tour.
Meals
Breaskfast shall be provided at the guesthouse/villa and lunch and dinner will be served at the main volunteer house along with other volunteers. Fresh ingredients are purchased from local markets to prepare these meals. We have two lady chefs (a head chef and an assistant) from our community who come daily to cook fresh, homely and tasty local meals for the volunteers. We can cater to a range of special diets including vegan, gluten free, nut free and lactose-intolerant diets. If there are any other allergy or food requirements mentioned to us beforehand, we always do our best to accommodate those needs.
During Free Time
Although the one week family volunteer adventure itinerary is pretty comprehensive and includes many activities for families, additional activities can also be arranged by the local team at additional charges. Otherwise, you can always choose to relax and explore Unawatuna or join other volunteers in monthly activities such as movie nights, bbq dinners at the volunteer house.
Dates
Dates
November
16
23
30
December
07
14
21
January
04
11
18
25
February
01
08
15
22
March
01
08
15
22
29
April
05
12
19
26
May
03
10
17
24
31
June
07
14
21
28
July
05
12
19
26
August
02
09
16
23
30
September
06
13
20
27
October
04
11
18
25
November
01
08
15
22
29
December
06
13
20
27
Available
Filling Fast
Booked Out
Costs
Duration |
Program Fee
|
Choose your currency
|
---|---|---|
1 Week | $875 |
Please Note: An application fee of is charged over and above the program fee as an application payment.
What are you Paying for?
- Comprehensive Pre- Departure Information
- All projects and activities listed above
- Private accommodation in AC rooms (twin or triple sharing)
- Private airport transfer both ways
- Local transportation to all projects and activities
- Orientation and training on arrival
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner every day
- Dedicated staff support on all projects and activities
- 24/7 local emergency support
- Travel & Medical Insurance (Available at an extra cost)
- Certificate Of Completion (Upon Request)
What's NOT included?
- Flights
- Visa
- Personal Expenses
FAQ's
Health and Safety
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Do I need to buy a health insurance?
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Yes, for all volunteers it is mandatory to have a travel medical insurance. To provide the best option to our participants, we offer comprehensive insurance coverage in collaboration with a leading insurance provider.
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Are there any other things that I need to be careful about?
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Considering the fact that Sri Lanka is a tropical country, the weather is mostly hot and humid. For people traveling from European and North American countries, it might seem to extremely hot during the days and sultry at night. We would advise you to consume a lot of water and protect yourself from the sun in whichever way possible. Carry an umbrella.
You can consult your doctor once, before traveling to Sri Lanka. -
How safe is Sri Lanka in general ?
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Sri Lanka is one of the popular tropical destination in Asia and attracts travelers from all around the world. The locals are friendly and helpful as well, however, it is recommended to consult your in-country coordinators before you step out alone or go to any other locations in Sri Lanka. Also, it is recommended to be with your group whenever you venture out or stay out late in the night. It is strongly recommended to follow the safety rules and regulations provided by the in-country coordinator.
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What immunizations/vaccinations will I need?
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We recommend you to consult your physician or travel doctor before traveling to Sri Lanka. However, we recommend you take general vaccinations such as:
Hepatitis A and B
Typhoid
Application and Program Details
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Can I volunteer as part of a group?
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We encourage our participants to volunteer in a group. We take special care in providing you a placement and also customize your itinerary to make sure you get exactly what you are looking for. Also, we can design special group programs for groups of 5 or more. Our programs are designed to be safe, affordable and offer a great group volunteering experience to the volunteers.
In our experience of more than 12+ years, we have enabled and facilitated volunteer program placements for college groups, university groups, high school groups, group of families, group of couples as well as groups of colleagues. -
When should I apply for the volunteer programs in Sri Lanka?
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As we have limited spots available in our programs and we serve on first come first basis, it is recommended that potential volunteers book their programs well in advance to get confirmed placements. You can book your slot by filling the application form online and pay the application fee. You can pay your program fee later and also, in installments. However, the complete payment should be made 45 days prior to the starting of the program. If you are volunteering in a group, you can also fill a group application form.
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Does VolSol provides with a reference or a certificate after program completion?
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Yes, we will provide you with the Certificate after successful completion of your program. The certificate is provided on request.
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For how many hours will I volunteer every day?
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Volunteers usually work for 5 to 6 hours a day depending on their program. However, volunteers need to be flexible, open minded and understand that work requirements can alter at times.
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How long will it take to process my application? Will my application be accepted?
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After you complete your application, your personalized ‘My Account’ will be activated.You will need to upload your CV/Resume along with your photo in the same. Our backend team and the placement site takes around 10-12 days to review your application. After we review your CV and documents, your booking is confirmed and booking confirmation is updated in your ‘My Account’. Some projects need a mandatory criminal background check and the same is mentioned in the project info of your program. Approval of your application depends on your qualification and eligibility criteria for each project.
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When do I need to arrive in Sri Lanka for my program? What will happen once I arrive in the country ?
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All volunteers need to arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on the starting date of their project. Volunteers are picked from the airport by the local coordinator or representative and are transferred to their accommodations. Accommodation will be provided in the volunteer house located near your placements.
A short orientation is given after arrival about the city and placements. The volunteers are also taken for a short tour of Colombo before they start with their program. However, the tour depends on the arrival time of your flight. -
Are there any necessary requirements to participate in the Sri Lankan volunteer programs?
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Below are the necessary requirements to participate in the Sri Lankan volunteer projects:
The minimum age requirement for the programs in Sri Lanka is 17 years.
Volunteers participating in the Medical Program should be at least 18-year-old.
Volunteers need to have an open mind and flexible attitude for working in a new and different environment. They should bring energy and enthusiasm to make a difference.
The participant must be in good health. -
Does VolSol provides discount if I choose more than one program or if I am a returning volunteer?
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If you are planning to come for multiple programs in your trip, you will have to pay the application fees just once. Your application fee is valid for a year's time ( from the date of application). You will not have to pay the application fees again if you come within the mentioned time frame.
For our returning volunteers, $50 discount is provided for the application fee for their next VolSol program.
Flights and Visa
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Will Volunteering Solutions help with Visa?
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Volunteers traveling to Sri Lanka need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) prior to their arrival or on their arrival in Sri Lanka. You can then obtain a Visa on Arrival in Sri Lanka for 30 days.
Volunteers can apply for ETA online and the approval of the same will be communicated via email.
Volunteers can be provided with the supporting documents if needed. More information will be provided once you enroll for the program. -
What are the recommended airlines to fly to Sri Lanka ?
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The Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo is well connected with all major airports across the globe and flights are easily available. The recommended airlines are:
Srilankan Airlines
Air India
Mihin Lanka
Spicejet
Emirates
There are frequent in-country flights from Colombo to Galle and Kegalle as well.
Accommodation and Living
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Which all places can I explore during my trip?
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Places like Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Rumassala Mountain, and Galle fort are major attractions in Galle, and Kegalle is a city of ancient architecture and natural beauty. Volunteers are free to plan quick getaways and explore Sri Lanka during the weekends.You can also relax at the beachside and enjoy the taste of the delicious seafood.
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How do I get to the accommodation and the program location?
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Your coordinator will meet you at the airport and will take you to your accommodation and introduce you to our team and other volunteers. You will then be provided with the orientation covering areas like culture, customs, safety, locations, placement, greetings, local transportation etc.
On the first day of work, the coordinator will guide you to your project site. -
Can I know more about accommodation and food arrangements?
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Volunteers joining the programs in Galle, Sri Lanka, get to stay in the quaint Unawatuna neighborhood, overlooking the famous Unawatuna Beach and the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Participants stay in one of the two volunteer homes located in close proximity to each other. The larger volunteer house has 13 bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms.Most of these rooms have ocean views! There's a private 40-foot outdoor swimming pool surrounded by tropical greenery. The house also has 3 kitchens as well as 3 living/common rooms (one each per floor), a prominent dining area, and a private outdoor garden with seating/lounging areas.
The office is located on the ground floor of the house near the main entrance – this is where the local team operate from every day. The house is located in a peaceful, nature-filled neighborhood adjacent to a small Buddhist temple (nestled away from the main tourist areas). To ensure the safety and security of the participants, there are CCTV cameras installed, and an in-house security guard for night-time surveillance. Hot water and high-speed Wi-Fi are there and you can opt for air-conditioning and laundry facilities at an additional charge.
Other than that, we also provide single/double/family private room upgrades at extra charges. The beach is just about 5 minutes walk from the stay and you can reach the Galle Fort in about 15 minutes.If you have special dietary requirements, please mention the same in your application form.
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Are there more expenses once I arrive in Sri Lanka ?
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Your program fee covers your accommodation, airport pick-up, orientation, pre-departure booklet, and 24x7 in country staff support. You will need to cover your personal expenses, such as traveling, telephone, the internet, shopping, sightseeing, return airport drop, weekend tours etc. You should carry around $50 - $60 per week for your basic personal expenses, such as water, local transport, phone etc.
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Would I have free time during my program ? Can I do sightseeing during my program ?
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Depending on your project placement, you will get free evenings and weekends to explore in and around the city. You can utilize the evening time to visit local markets and other places around your project location. Make the most of your weekends by exploring Sri Lanka to the fullest.
We encourage our volunteers to travel. We have designed various weekend tours which can be booked under the ‘Add-on Tours’ section in your ‘My Account’. Your in-country coordinator will also help you book and organize the tours once you are in Sri Lanka.
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Where can I change my money in Sri Lanka ? Are there ATMs in Sri Lankan cities?
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You can change money at any bank or at the airport by showing your passport. There are ATMs located all around the city (Galle, Kandy, Ambalangoda and Kegalle) as well.
Connect with Past Volunteers
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How can I connect with past Volunteering Solutions Sri Lankan alumni as well as other former and current volunteers ?
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We encourage volunteers to connect with former Volunteering Solutions participants and also other program participants joining our projects. You are recommended to join the Volunteering">https://www.facebook.com/VolunteeringSolutions/">Volunteering Solutions Facebook Page or Facebook">https://www.facebook.com/groups/volunteeringsolutions/">Facebook Group to connect with other participants and our team.
To read alumni interviews from past participants, visit the Meet">https://www.volunteeringsolutions.com/meet-a-volunteer">Meet a Volunteer section on our website