India: Goa Culture + Volunteering | 21 Days
Experience Goa’s beaches, spices and vibrant culture then volunteer to support local communities.
Welcome to Goa, a place where palm-lined beaches, Portuguese architecture, vibrant markets, and colourful festivals come together to create a truly magical vibe. This 3-week adventure is designed for curious, open-minded travellers who want more than just a beach holiday.
You’ll start with a full week of cultural immersion to help you understand Goa from the inside out - think sunrise yoga, cooking fragrant curries, learning local crafts, and wandering through centuries-old forts and markets. You’ll taste spicy Goan dishes, pick up a few words of Hindi, and explore stunning beaches at sunset with new friends.
After soaking up Goa’s soulful energy, you’ll spend the next two weeks giving back through volunteer work that supports local communities. You can choose from projects like elderly care, working with children with special needs, supporting schools for the deaf and blind, or helping with community beautification and renovation.
Beyond volunteering, you’ll have plenty of free time to discover hidden beaches, try out surf lessons, dance at local beach bars, or just chill with a coconut in hand. This program is perfect if you’re looking to connect deeply with a new culture, make a meaningful impact, and create lifelong friendships - all while experiencing the laid-back yet lively Goan lifestyle.
By the end of these three weeks, you’ll walk away with new skills, unforgettable memories, and a whole new perspective on what it means to travel with purpose.
Program
Highlights
Start your adventure with a full week of immersive cultural experiences
Join daily yoga sessions to ground and energize your mornings
Visit forts, spice plantations, colorful markets, and iconic beaches
Learn to cook authentic Goan dishes and try your hand at pottery and henna art
Volunteer for two weeks supporting local community projects
Make new friends from around the world and explore Goa beyond the tourist spots
Enjoy a perfect balance of culture, community, wellness, and fun
Good to know
You should be comfortable using public transport for most program activities, as this is the most authentic way to explore Goa.
Expect hot and humid weather — light, modest clothing is a must.
Bring extra spending money for personal snacks, local SIM cards, weekend trips, or souvenirs.
Wi-Fi is available at the accommodation, but speeds can vary.
Respect local customs — covering shoulders and knees is required when working in the community.
What's included
Accommodation from Sunday arrival until Saturday noon of your last week
Airport pick-up during regular arrival times and all program transport (cultural week by public transport for an authentic local feel)
Daily meals — 3 meals on weekdays and 2 on weekends
Full cultural program activities and volunteer project materials
Local team support available 24/7
Training and orientation to prepare you for your volunteering experience
What's not included
Flights and visa expenses
Travel insurance (required and must cover volunteering activities)
Personal expenses like snacks, drinks, souvenirs, or extra activities
Optional excursions or tours outside the program schedule
Transport outside program schedules (e.g., taxis or extra transfers)
Background check (CRB) — required before arrival
Recommended vaccinations and any personal medical costs
Standard Requirements
Minimum age: 18
Maximum age: No upper limit
Minimum English level: Basic
Criminal background check (CRB): Required on signup
Passport copy: Required on signup
Resume copy: Not required
Required qualification: None
Extra Requirements
Participants over 65 must provide a medical clearance confirming fitness for physical activity.
Under 18s need signed parental consent; adult accompaniment is strongly recommended.
Must be self-motivated, adaptable, and open to new experiences.
Travel and medical insurance is required and must cover volunteer activities.
Recommended vaccinations: Polio, Hepatitis A & B, Diphtheria/Tetanus, Typhoid, Malaria, Tuberculosis.
Location
You’ll be based in Goa, India — a vibrant region where golden beaches meet lush green jungles and colorful Portuguese-influenced architecture. Famous for its laid-back beach vibe, lively markets, and welcoming local community, Goa offers the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural discovery.
Accommodation
Your accommodation will be in a shared volunteer house, offering simple but comfortable rooms with fans, shared bathrooms, and common spaces to relax and socialize with other participants. Wi-Fi is available, but speeds can vary.
Meals are freshly prepared daily and served at the house — expect a tasty mix of local Goan and Indian dishes. It’s a friendly, social environment designed to help you make connections, share stories, and unwind after a day of exploring or volunteering.
Itinerary
Week 1: Culture Week — Dive Into Goa
Monday
Welcome orientation, learn key Hindi phrases, and explore Fort Aguada and Sinquerim Beach. Sunset chill and local dinner at Green Lion Centre.
Tuesday
Morning yoga, Indian culture and history session, chai-making class, visit to Basilica of Bom Jesus and spice plantation, stroll through Fontainhas Latin Quarter, dinner at the center.
Wednesday
Yoga, relax and shop at Anjuna Beach flea market. Enjoy free time before a cozy group dinner.
Thursday
Yoga, pottery workshop, henna art with local children and Bollywood movie night with popcorn.
Friday
Yoga, birdwatching at Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, shop at Mapusa Market, hands-on Goan cooking class, farewell dinner to celebrate new friendships.
Week 2 & 3: Volunteering — Make a Local Impact
Monday to Friday, you’ll join your chosen volunteer project and work alongside local teams in the mornings. Your afternoons and weekends are free for exploring, relaxing, or joining optional activities.
Volunteer project options:
Special Needs Care & Support — Support adults with special needs, elderly care homes, or schools for the deaf and blind through daily activities and connection.
Medical Placement — For qualified or medical students only. Assist doctors, support patients, and learn local healthcare practices.
Education & Teaching — Teach English and other subjects, create fun lessons, and support local schools and kindergartens.
Construction & Renovation — Improve schools and community spaces with painting, light repairs, and educational murals.
Departure
On your final Saturday, you’ll check out by 12:00 noon. The local team can help arrange transport to the airport or your next stop. We recommend booking afternoon or evening flights to allow plenty of time.
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