GoAbroad

Oyster Worldwide

9.77 (185)Verified37 Programs

Why choose Oyster Worldwide?

Since 2006, we have remained the premier choice for individuals seeking transformative gap year experiences, career breaks, volunteer opportunities, and adventurous family journeys worldwide. Offering over 70 meticulously curated programs spanning 25 captivating destinations, we are committed to tailoring unforgettable experiences to match your passions and interests. Our extensive experience s...

Read More

Oyster Worldwide Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about the programs

Overall Rating

9.77

Total Reviews

185
Leave a Review

The first time I collected the eggs from a mother turtle

August 30, 2025by: Freja FauerskovProgram: Volunteer with Turtles in Costa Rica | Oyster Worldwide
10

I will never forget this special experience. I will never forget this special experience, especially the first time I collected the eggs from a mother turtle. The area is absolutely gorgeous, I could live there forever. The volunteers and locals were so generous, and communicated clearly months leading up to the trip. I felt very welcomed and proud of the difference I made for the turtles. From building a hatchery to surfing, painting and improving Spanish, there was so much I learned! Thanks to Kate, Anna, Josue, Melissa, Camilla and everyone else :)

We had the most amazing time

August 30, 2025by: Louise ShawProgram: Volunteer with Elephants in South Africa
10

We had an amazing time in South Africa and it has definitely been one of our favourite holidays. The main thing I would say is that we massively over packed! We didn't need to take any T-shirts for work as they give you 1 to wear as uniform (we cot 2 as we were there for more than a week). They also give you a lovely warm fleece and a cap. That said, we had the most amazing time and would definitely recommend the experience to others and book another volunteering holiday in the future.

Gain new experiences

August 26, 2025by: Eva EllmersProgram: Volunteer with Bears in Romania
10

It was really great to gain new experiences with Oyter Worldwide while volunteering with Bears in Romania, get some different insights and immerse myself in a totally different world with some new people.

Oyster Worldwide Programs

Browse programs you might like

9.9627 reviews
Volunteer with Bears in Romania

Help care for over 90 bears in Eastern Europe's largest bear sanctuary located in the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains. The bears are rehabi...

9.8116 reviews
Volunteer with Turtles in Costa Rica | Oyster Worldwide

Spend some time in the wild coastal areas of Costa Rica, working with a local charity to help protect adult and baby turtles facing extinction an...

9.8211 reviews
Wildlife Experience with the Big 5

Live the life of a game ranger and groundskeeper on a huge, private game reserve in South Africa. Gain the opportunity to get hands-on experience...

9.910 reviews
Wildlife Sanctuary Volunteering in Ecuador

Ecuador is one of South America’s greatest undiscovered countries. With a friendly and welcoming culture, beautiful food and incredible environme...

109 reviews
Volunteer with Elephants in South Africa

These big, gentle giants are loved worldwide for their magnificent stature and playful personalities. This programme allows volunteers to really ...

9.899 reviews
Wildlife Sanctuary Volunteering in Thailand

This unique opportunity is perfect for people who love animals. Volunteers help in a sanctuary that is home to over 400 neglected animals. Each d...

Frequently Asked Questions

Interviews

Read interviews from alumni or staff

Emma Jones

Participated in 2011

Alumni

I wanted to experience more of the world, and to travel to somewhere very different to my home country to see different environments, learn about different cultures, and witness how other people live.

Show Full Interview

Jessica Prestage

Participated in 2016

Alumni

I wanted to see a new part of the world and experience a different culture. As I finished my year 13 exams in May 2016, I had four months free before uni, so I decided to use that time to travel and do something I would never have considered before.

Show Full Interview

Jon Arnold

Interviewed in 2018

Staff

What inspired you to travel abroad?

I typically work 9-5 Monday-Friday (UK time) although you’ll often find me in the office outside these times too! The great thing about working at Oyster, and what has kept me here for over 10 years, is that every day really is different and never quite pans out how you expect it to.

Show Full Interview

Awards

Check out awards and recognitions Oyster Worldwide has received

Gap Year Association