Voluntourism
Biosphere Expeditions
This nonprofit runs wildlife volunteer expeditions that connect travelers with conservation researchers in the field. 800/407-5761.
T+L Trip Pick: Namibia Help wildlife ranchers collar and monitor leopards and collect demographic data on African cat populations in central Namibia. July-Nov. departures; 12 days from $2,423.
Elevate Destinations
All of Elevate’s trips focus on community development; many are created to deal with current events. This year, guide Andrew Mersmann, author of Frommer’s 500 Places Where You Can Make a Difference, is leading service trips to Haiti.
T+L Trip Pick: South Africa Fair-Trade Safari A rhino safari is followed by volunteer work at the Dyer Island Conservation Trust, which protects endangered species, including the African penguin. Year-round departures; 10 days from $5,650.
