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Have you ever thought about going on a volunteer vacation in Laos? If you have, you’re one of the few as almost nobody searches ‘volunteer vacation in Laos’. If you are here and reading this (or listening to the podcast episode above), then you are a unique human being and you probably have a giving heart. Read on and listen on to learn how to have an incredible Laos volunteer opportunity of a lifetime.
Volunteer in Laos Podcast Show Notes
I interviewed Carly Schade, the Program Coordinator for the Laos Volunteer Expedition with Growth International Volunteer Excursions or otherwise known as GIVE. Carly has spent significant time giving of her time in Laos through GIVE Volunteers Laos Volunteer Program. Carly originally started with GIVE as a volunteer in Nicaragua in 2014, but since then her heart has been with the Laos volunteer program.
Where is Laos?
It’s Southeast Asia’s best-kept secret. Not many people know about Laos, it’s mysterious and mind-blowing. Laos is located between Thailand and Vietnam, north of Cambodia.
How Is Give Volunteers Helping the community in Laos?
When GIVE Volunteers chooses a community it is asset-based community development (ABCD). Which means there are very capable strong people in these communities that don’t the team per se. All of the projects are centered around the community and the communities’ ownership of it. These projects are community-owned and the community is excited about the projects happening in their own community. These projects build on their strengths and existing resources. That’s how you know the project won’t fail when they leave.
The Current Volunteer Opportunity in Laos: Permaculture
Permaculture is a more sustainable way of farming, essentially sustainable agriculture. It’s strategically designing the land to yield more crops and use nature as is to work itself. For example, a catfish pond filled nutrients may feed the crops with more nutrients in it. It’s a strategic plan for farming. Deforestation is a big issue in SE Asia and this is helping to renew soil and plant crops. The community in Laos is very excited about the permaculture project and is something they can use the rest of their lives.
Before Permaculture in Laos: Slash-and-Burn
Slash-and-burn agriculture was a technique they were using prior to being introduced to sustainable agriculture. They would grow something on the land then move on. Their growing practices weren’t renewable and after they were done with the land, they would move onto the next one. This Laos community didn’t know they could grow different crops on the same plot of land. GIVE Volunteers taught them crop rotation and have helped them replenish the soil.
Ready for a Volunteer Opportunity in Laos? What does the Trip Look Like?
They combine cultural immersion with the volunteer opportunities in Laos. You would fly into Luang Prabang, a UNESCO world heritage site. A few days are spent there and you would have the opportunity to meditate with a local monk in an OM ceremony. The local monk they bring you to does speak English and you have the opportunity to learn more about their culture.
Time to Explore a Waterfall – Tat Kuang Sii
In the first part of the trip, they head to Tat Kuang Si waterfall, a picturesque turquoise waterfall in the Luang Prabang region. It’s a fairytale waterfall and may just be the fountain of youth. The group treks to the top to get refreshed and shake off the jet lag. Sure beats a cup of coffee.
Getting to Sop Chem
Following the waterfall and time with the monks in Luang Prabang, the group hops on a bus and long-tail boat ride down the Nam Ou River to sop Chem. The entire community, 350 people strong, of Sop Chem comes to greet the volunteers. It is a magical experience!
What is the Work Like on the Volunteer Trip to Laos?
It really depends on where they are in the project. You might be clearing the land, planting morning glory, or even making adobe bricks.
Learn with the Local Community
In addition to helping out the community, the volunteers get to learn from the local community. Whether it’s learning how to brew rice wine, going fishing with a local or learning how to make a scarf, you will learn something new. This is responsible tourism at its best; as you provide money to the local families and experience something amazing.
Ending the trip with adventure
Before the trip is over, they end the trip with adventure, an adventure trek with amazing views. You can also work with the GIVE team to help you organize additional travels to Vietnam, Thailand or other parts to continue your own adventure.
How Much does it Cost to Volunteer with GIVE in Laos?
The average cost of the trip is $2,000 which includes everything you need once you land in the country. This does not include flights to SE Asia.
How old do you need to be to G on a volunteer trip to laos with give?
You have to be 18 by the time of your trip and the main demographic is 18-25. That said, there is a high school program for teens 15 to 17 year-olds. Also, by popular demand, there are new trips for 40 plus that has nicer accommodations and transportation.
Could Families Go on a Volunteer Trip to Laos with GIVE?
You could bring families for their specialized trips. It would be best to get in touch with GIVE for a specialized trip.
What if you Have Limited Mobility, could you Volunteer in Laos?
It may be difficult, but not impossible. Best to call the GIVE team about your mobility situation and find the best trip to meet your needs.
USA: +1 (206) 973 7991
AUS: +61 (02) 8011 3174
You’re Interested in Volunteering in Laos with GIVE, what next?
Simply Apply! That is the first step whether you are interested in going on a trip soon or a trip in 5 years. There is a $450 deposit to reserve your spot, but this does go towards your trip.
If you’re a Digital nomad, can you volunteer in Laos?
There is limited access to phone service and wifi. It is encouraged to disconnect and it’s best to plan on not working your day job while on a volunteer trip to Laos.
What Should you pack to go to volunteer in Laos?
- Loose clothing and something to covering your shoulders
- Reusable water bottle
- Shorts and t-shirts for the work site
Need more information? Check out GIVE’s info on Laos
Great experience (Laos). Changed my daughter’s life last year. Praying that she will continue on her path with Give.