Volunteer in Turkey

A: IVI is an Australian charity & non profit organisation founded in 1989 and is one of the pioneers of overseas volunteering successfully placing over 20,000 volunteers globally.

Affordable Volunteer Travel

A: Turkey, a transcontinental country straddling Europe and Asia, offers a captivating tapestry of history, culture, and diverse landscapes. With its bustling metropolises like Istanbul, where East meets West, and ancient marvels like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, Turkey is a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Its culinary scene, featuring delights such as kebabs and baklava, reflects a rich gastronomic heritage influenced by various civilizations.

The country’s warm hospitality and breathtaking natural beauty, from the Mediterranean coastline to the rugged landscapes of Cappadocia, make it a compelling destination for travellers. While Turkey thrives with economic dynamism and historical richness, it also faces challenges such as educational disparities and economic stability. However, the nation’s resilient spirit and ongoing efforts for progress underscore a story of contrasts and continuous growth, making Turkey a captivating and evolving part of the global tapestry. 

Turkey experiences a diverse range of climates due to its varied topography and geographical features. In general, the country can be categorised into three main climate zones: a Mediterranean climate along the southern coast, a continental climate in the interior, and a Black Sea climate along the northern coast.

Mediterranean Climate:

1. • The southern coastal regions, including popular tourist destinations like Antalya, experience a Mediterranean climate.
   • Summers are hot and dry, while winters are mild and wet.
   • This region is characterized by long, sunny days and relatively mild temperatures in winter.

Continental Climate:

1. • The interior parts of Turkey, including cities like Ankara, have a continental climate.
   • Summers are hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), while winters can be cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing.
   • Temperature variations between seasons are more pronounced in the continental climate zone.

Black Sea Climate:

1. • The northern coastal areas along the Black Sea, such as Trabzon, experience a temperate climate.
   • Summers are warm and humid, while winters are cool and damp.
   • This region receives a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year.

Eastern Anatolian Climate:

1. • Eastern Anatolia, characterized by high plateaus and mountains, has a harsher climate.
   • Winters can be extremely cold, with heavy snowfall, while summers are short and warm.

Aegean Climate:

1. • The western coastal regions, including Izmir and Bodrum, have a climate similar to the Mediterranean but with some variations.
   • Summers are hot and dry, while winters are mild and wet.

The diversity of Turkey’s climate makes it a year-round destination, catering to various preferences from beachgoers to winter sports enthusiasts. However, travellers should be mindful of regional variations and plan accordingly based on the specific climate of the areas they intend to visit. 

A: Turkey’s culture is a fascinating mix of old and new, shaped by its diverse history and welcoming people. The warmth of the Turkish people stands out, making hospitality a big part of their culture. They love sharing meals, especially their delicious cuisine that blends different flavours.

The Turkish language is like a common thread that connects the past and present, and their stories are told through both old and new writings.

In a nutshell, Turkey’s culture is a mix of the old and the new, offering a warm and rich experience for both locals and those excited to explore Turkish traditions. 

A: Please see program handout.

A: At this stage, this program is not offering accomodation, but can be arranged directly with the local org. 

A: Food is not currently provided as a part of this program.

A: For the first 1-2 days the local team will spend time with the volunteers to assist with anything and help to understand the association, programs, culture, history etc..

A: Airport pickup is not provided but it is easy to get to the city center by metro. The local team can help you with arranging transport to your accommodation. 

For the back to school projects volunteers will meet with our team at the metro station and they go to the program with our van. For the Solar age project you will need to use the metro by yourself as there is no transportation to and from the program. 

A: Yes.

• Explore Istanbul with its iconic sites like Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar.
• In Cappadocia, take a hot air balloon ride over the unique rock formations known as fairy chimneys. Delve into the underground cities and ancient cave dwellings for a fascinating adventure.
• Discover the natural terraces of Pamukkale, featuring thermal pools and white travertine formations that offer a serene and surreal experience.
• Step back in time at the well-preserved ancient city of Ephesus, where landmarks like the Library of Celsus and the Temple of Artemis tell tales of antiquity.
• In Antalya, wander through the charming Old Town (Kaleiçi) with its narrow streets and historic buildings. Relax on the beautiful beaches along the Mediterranean coast.
• Visit Mount Nemrut to witness colossal statues and ancient ruins, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Turkey offers a diverse range of attractions, from historical wonders and natural beauty to cultural experiences, promising a memorable and enriching journey.

A: Would you like to raise money in order to afford your trip abroad to volunteer? Or perhaps you would like to set up a funraiser to gain enough money to give as a donation to the local project? Crowd funding is a great way to do this. Read this article on Crowdfunding tips to find out how you can raise funds for your trip.