Contrary to popular belief, Volunteer holidays are not just for Gap Students and Teenagers, so if you have a couple of weeks, months, or even years to spare, why not think about heading off somewhere new and exotic, and volunteer your services to those who need it most.

A growing sector in the travel industry, volunteering holidays are fast becoming the latest ‘travel trend’, and while they are not entirely free, they are much cheaper than the regular holiday alternatives, and they provide us with a unique opportunity to discover a country, its people, the wildlife, and do our bit for responsible tourism.

There are literally thousands of different projects just waiting for volunteers, so to give you some inspiration, here are our Top 3 Wildlife Trips for responsible travellers looking for a volunteer holiday:

1. The Elephant Nature Park, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Set in northern Thailand on the rim of a rainforest, the Elephant Nature Park offers shelter to orphaned, injured and neglected elephants from across the country.  For just £250 (approx 380 USD excluding flights), you can spend a week at the park in one of the ‘rustic huts’, enjoy three vegetarian meals per day, and get to feed, wash, and play with these friendly giants.

2. Saving Kenya’s Black Rhino, Kenya, Africa

Earthwatch Charity offer several different volunteer programs across the world, but one that captured our heart is the Black Rhino cause.  On the brink of extinction, these magnificent creatures need our help more than ever (as do the white rhinos!), and this volunteer program will take you to a classic African Savannah landscape where you will focus on gathering vital data.  Contributions for a 15-day trip (including meals and accommodation) start at around £1795 (approx. $2800).

3. Inti Wara Yassi, Bolivia

CIWY is a Bolivian organisation committed to defending animal rights and the environment in which they live.  With three different parks to choose from Parque Machia, Ambue Ari, Parque Jacj Cuisi, you can work with a variety of different animals including wild monkeys, caiman, Jaguars, Pumas, and the occasional snake! Accommodation and meals (excl. flights) are included in the cost of £240 ($365) for 30 days!

As we are talking about volunteering… We are looking for an active Videographer / Photographer to join us on our hike up Kilimanjaro!  The trip will be offered at net cost price in return for some memorable pictures and video clips.

Departure 27/09/2012 – Anyone interest should please drop us a line at info@equatourslimited.com