Oyster Worldwide
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...
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 spanning over a decade ensures that you can trust our expertise in facilitating life-changing journeys. Choose from a diverse selection of over 80 volunteer and paid opportunities, designed to cater to every type of traveler. Benefit from our strong partnerships with host countries, guaranteeing seamless experiences and meaningful interactions. Our dedicated team of passionate travelers provides pe...
Oyster Worldwide Reviews
Hear what past participants have to say about the programs
Overall Rating
Total Reviews
The first time I collected the eggs from a mother turtle
August 30, 2025by: Freja FauerskovProgram: Volunteer with Turtles in Costa Rica | Oyster WorldwideI 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 AfricaWe 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 RomaniaIt 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
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...
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...
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...
Ecuador is one of South America’s greatest undiscovered countries. With a friendly and welcoming culture, beautiful food and incredible environme...
These big, gentle giants are loved worldwide for their magnificent stature and playful personalities. This programme allows volunteers to really ...
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
After finishing her A-levels, Emma decided to take a gap year in order to see more of the world. She went to Nepal and Svalbard for her gap year, then...

Emma Jones
Participated in 2011
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.

Jessica Prestage
Participated in 2016
Jessica is currently studying environmental science and she has always been interested in the environment. She loves working with animals, and knowing...

Jessica Prestage
Participated in 2016
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.

Jon Arnold
Interviewed in 2018
Jon took his gap year with Oyster to Tanzania in 2004 where he was a volunteer teacher. In 2007, as a university graduate, Jon joined Oyster full time...

Jon Arnold
Interviewed in 2018
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.
Articles

Awards
Check out awards and recognitions Oyster Worldwide has received



