Frequently asked Questions

When can I go?

Expeditions, projects and courses run all year round. Expeditions and courses have set departure and arrival dates while most projects allow you to arrive at any chosen time. Please review the general information section of your chosen experience for more information on when you can go.

How long can I go for / can I extend my stay?

This varies from project to project. On most expeditions the minimum stay is five weeks while on projects the minimum is between 1 and 4 weeks. There is no maximum volunteering period though most expeditions have a maximum of 20 weeks. You can extend your stay on any expedition or project as long as there is availability. This can be arranged through your expedition leader or field coordinator or through the GVI office. Contact a GVI representative who will advise you of availability and dates.

Can I join more than one project or expedition?

Ex-GVI volunteers (non-referral) are eligible for discounts on most of GVI’s programs, these will vary from £125/$245/€185 to £250/$490/€375 depending upon duration and which past program(s) was attended.

Will I get a discount if I join more than one program or if I have been on a program before?

Anyone who has been on a GVI Expedition is eligible for a discount on any further expedition bookings. This discount is £100 / US$185 / 150€ if you book on a 5 week expedition and £250 / US$460 / 375€ if you book on a 10 week expedition. NB: This discount applies to expeditions only, not to projects and courses.

I am not from the USA. Can I still apply?

Yes. GVI accepts many international volunteers every year. GVI field staff are fully trained to guide you through the reservation process and can help advise on any special visa and travel requirements. Although GVI tries to meet with potential volunteers before the start of the expedition you will find the GVI pre-expedition support package sufficient in providing you with all the information you need.

How far in advance should I book?

It depends on what you want to join. Expeditions are normally booked up 8-12 months in advance while projects and courses tend to have more availability. Email us to check availability or give us a call!

Can I come with friends or as a couple?

Yes. Couples and friends are welcome, but please be aware that we cannot always guarantee private accommodation. So far we have had four weddings resulting from our expeditions!

Do I need to have experience?

No experience is required for expeditions or courses. Most projects do not require experience either. Those positions that do require certain skills or experience have these details listed on their homepages under Eligibility Requirements. Where required GVI provide full training.

Is there a selection process?

Yes, a completed application form is required for all expeditions and projects. These are essential for your safety and enjoyment as well as the projects ultimate success. Interviews are only required for expeditions and certain projects. Most interviews are conducted over the phone at your convenience.

Can I travel before / after?

Yes, you can! Many volunteers arrive early to start exploring or join a GVI expedition / project half way through a longer trip round the world. A GVI expedition / project offers volunteers the chance to slowly acclimatise before you head off alone in a new country, as well introducing you to a large group of potential travelling companions. GVI is happy to assist post project travellers with insurance policy alterations as well as flight arrangements. Remember GVI can arrange your placement wherever you are in the world!

How old is the average volunteer?

The minimum age is 18, and there is no maximum. Give us a call and we are happy to talk through the average ages of those booked on to the course, project or expedition you are interested in.

How do I know you are reputable?

GVI is one of the most well respected and prominent international volunteering organisations. GVI volunteering opportunities have been featured in various international newspapers and magazines, including The Times, The Independent, The Guardian, the Geographical magazine, BBC Wildlife magazine and various international television programs including a six part series on the Sky Travel channel and a feature on the BBC Holiday program.

We work with some of the most prominent organisations in the field including The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund (International), Rainforest Concern, The Endangered Wildlife Trust, and the South African National Parks.

Since 1998, we have sent more than 2,000 volunteers away each year for enjoyable and fulfilling experiences.

You can also check out what the press says about us at the Latest News Page or meet us and ex-GVI Volunteers at our events held around the USA.

How much does it cost?

Costs vary between projects and expeditions. Costs are dependent upon our partners requirements, requests and geographical locations. By viewing the dates and costs page you can have a quick glance at all the costs of projects, expeditions and courses. View individual program home pages for specific information.

How can I pay?

You can pay your deposit and balance by cheque, bank transfer, debit or credit card. GVI can accept payment in US$, UK£ and Euros or Australian dollars. Please note that if paying by credit card or non-UK debit card, there will be an administration fee.

Are there any extra costs?

Again this is dependent upon your chosen program. Expeditions, projects and courses include all your food, accommodation, training, project equipment and global support unless stated otherwise (see your program home page for more detailed information) The only extra money you will need is a small amount for spending money. As a rough estimate GVI recommends around US$250 a month for spending money on all our programs.

Can I fundraise?

Yes, with prior planning and hard work you can raise all the money for your expedition or project. GVI has prepared a fundraising guide which is a great source of ideas and advice on how and where to get the money! Click here

Can you arrange my flights?

Global Vision International has a partnership with the WEXAS Travellers club. With 35 years experience of arranging travel, WEXAS has built excellent relationships with airlines, hotels and tour operators. Using the buying power of 30,000 members, they negotiate the lowest prices for your planned itinerary and professionally manage arrangements on your behalf. WEXAS will provide a complete travel service to the GVI volunteer. However, you are under no obligation to book your flights through WEXAS, but you are required to book the flights yourself. GVI don't take any payment for air travel and all arrangements must be made through your travel agent.

Do I need insurance?

Absolutely, this is an essential part of joining an expedition, project or course. You will not be allowed to join unless you have fully comprehensive insurance. GVI can provide a very good insurance through Campbell Irvine. The insurance can be extended to cover travel beyond your GVI program as part of a wider itinerary. Information in this cover is contained within your field manual which we will send you upon receipt of your application form and deposit.

Do I need a Visa?

This depends on your country of origin and the location of your project, expedition or course. The GVI field manual contains further information on visa requirements for each specific location.

Will I be met at the airport?

On most programmes you will be met by a GVI representative at the airport when you arrive. Please check the programme pages for further details of where to arrive and ask your coordinator to explain the arrival logistics if you have any further questions.

What support and guidance can I expect?

The very best! GVI prides itself on its local knowledge and network of enthusiastic and well informed staff and representatives. On expeditions you will be working directly alongside full time GVI staff with the experience and skills to make your expedition fun and fulfilling. On projects and courses you have peace of mind in knowing that we have chosen our project partners for their commitment to the projects and to you the volunteer! GVI provides you with regular updates before departure and our pre-journey departure area is a hive of information! As well as this, we are always there at the end of the phone or via email throughout and after your trip.

What is the accommodation like?

Accommodation will often, though not always, be more basic than what you would expect on a tourist holiday or guided tour. For detailed information on accommodation check out the program homepages.

What is the food like?

The food will be nutritious and healthy throughout your stay.

What happens if I have special dietary requirements?

Nearly all GVI locations can provide for special dietary requirements. For those that cannot, information will be displayed on the program home page.

Do I need to be physically fit?

Most locations require a moderate level of fitness especially if you want to get the full amount out of your time there. If high levels of fitness are required this is highlighted on the program homepage.

Will I have any free time?

This depends on your chosen program. While the main responsibility is to our project partners and to do the work we have been requested to carry out, we always try to allow one day off a week to explore the surrounding environments and to make trips to other locations. Projects do tend to be more flexible - see the program home page for sample itineraries.

How does GVI make sure I am safe while I am in the field?

The health and safety of all GVI volunteers is paramount. In view of this, GVI has compiled strict systems and procedures for the introduction of new project partners and expeditions, as well as for the day to day managing of volunteers in the field.

We only work with leading organisations and all our expedition staff are fully paid and are on long term professional contracts, leading to a better quality of research, project development and expedition life.

GVI field staff send regular information bulletins to GVI headquarters ensuring we are always up-to-date with local and regional developments. We also receive Foreign Office advice on a regular basis.

What happens if there is an emergency?

GVI staff and field representatives are fully trained to deal with any type of emergency and all our projects are linked with GVI staff in the UK 24 hours a day. In case of an emergency GVI would link up with field members to arrange local medical treatment or air evacuation.

Are there any medical restrictions?

All GVI volunteers must have a qualified GP / Doctor review and sign a form qualifying them for life in the field. Marine projects may require a diving medical assessment as well.

Can I get a job with GVI?

Occasionally positions do arise for new projects and expeditions as well as within GVI USA. Please review the recruitment page for any current job listings

I want to apply to be a partner of Global Vision International and to receive volunteers?

Please send a brief description of your requirements and project aims and objectives to info@gvi.co.uk. A GVI project manager will then get in touch.