Paying to volunteer? Here’s what no one tells you.

Many people are surprised to learn that volunteering sometimes comes with a cost. And it's a completely fair question. You might think:"I’m giving my time - why should I have to pay too?"

At Vaya Planet, we understand that question. And we want to answer it with honesty and transparency.

What your contribution really supports

When you join a volunteer mission through Vaya, your contribution doesn't go into fancy offices or corporate profits. It goes directly to the field: accommodation, meals, supplies, on-site coordination, sometimes veterinary care, building animal enclosures, planting trees, and more.

But most importantly: your support goes straight to local, often small, grassroots organizations that rely entirely on volunteers’ contributions. Once the basic costs are covered, the remaining funds go directly into the project. That’s the reality of many associations—without you, they simply couldn’t continue their work.

It’s not free - But it’s not a business eithe

Let’s be honest: yes, some organizations take advantage. There are projects riding the "voluntourism" wave, charging high prices for unclear or questionable impact.

But that’s not what we stand for. We’ve visited some of those places—and walked away. Vaya Planet is not a money-making machine. It’s a platform that carefully selects ethical, useful, and responsible missions, and gives you full transparency on where your money goes.

You’re not just giving - You’re also gaining

By contributing financially, you benefit from a solid, well-structured experience: personalized support, meaningful activities, and a mission that’s well organized. This enables the host organizations to offer quality programs that truly make a difference—for you, and for the communities, animals, or environments you help.

Your impact goes beyond your stay

Volunteering isn’t just about “giving a hand” for a few weeks. It’s about helping a project continue, enabling animals to be rescued, forests to be replanted, or children to receive education.

You may only be there for a short time, but your impact lasts long after you leave.

And what if you can’t - or don’t want to - pay?

We get that too. That’s why, in the "Opportunities" section of our website, you’ll also find free volunteer options, and even job opportunities in the non-profit and animal welfare sectors.

At Vaya Planet, we don’t believe that "paying = commitment." We believe that everyone can contribute in their own way, with the resources they have. Our role is to help you find the mission that fits you.

In summary

Paying to volunteer isn’t about buying a trip—it’s about supporting a real cause.At Vaya Planet, every euro matters, every euro is used transparently, and every mission is chosen for its real, lasting impact.

👉 You’re not buying an experience. You’re contributing to change.

Ready to make a difference? Explore our volunteer opportunities and apply today to start a meaningful journey that truly matters.

Find Your Mission