Volunteer in Bali!

Which airport do I need to fly into?

You will need to fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport, 5 KM away from your accommodation.

Do you organize airport pick-up for international volunteers in Bali?

Yes, we do arrange for your airport pick-up upon arrival in Bali. You will need to provide us with your flight details ahead of time so we can make the appropriate arrangements.

What happens if I miss my flight or arrive late?

No worries at all! You will be provided with the contact information for the person who will be picking you up in your placement packet. We highly advise that you contact us immediately regarding any changes or delays, and we will arrange a new pick-up time for you, or you can go directly to the hotel, which is suggested in your placement details.

How can I get to my accommodation from the airport if I did not meet IFRE’s local representative at the airport?

Although our representatives are very reliable and you shouldn’t have to worry about this issue, you needn’t panic even if you do not connect with IFRE’s representative when you arrive for your Bali volunteering trip. To begin with, you will have their contact information, so your first step if you don’t see them should be to give them a call. If, for some unforeseen reason, you are unable to reach them, don’t panic.

In your volunteer placement packet, you will have the address of your accommodations (hotel). The hotel is within 15 minutes' driving distance from the airport, so you can easily get there in a taxi.

If my project begins on Monday, when should I arrive? If I want to arrive earlier than when my assignment begins, where do I stay, and who will organize the accommodations? Does it cost me extra?

It is always advisable to arrive early if possible. We suggest you arrive one day before the beginning of the program. As all of our programs begin on a Monday, you can arrive on Sunday and take a rest day. After that, you will begin the project the next day with better physical and mental well-being.

If you want to arrive earlier, you can stay at a hotel, which can cost you anywhere from $20-$30 (depending on the room you select) extra for each additional day of food and accommodations. Let our in-country coordinator know of your plans, and they can assist you if you need help making the arrangements.

Who will bring me to the airport for my departure?

We don’t offer airport departure services to our volunteers after the completion of their volunteering abroad projects in Bali. Our local staff can assist you in arranging transportation to the airport following the completion of your project, but you will need to budget to cover this additional expense.

What do I need prior to departure from my home country?

There are a number of steps you will need to take before traveling. You will need to visit your doctor and get up to date on both routine vaccinations as well as any immunizations you may need to travel to Bali. You will need to obtain reliable travel insurance, which IFRE can provide for you. You will need to apply for and receive your visa, and possibly a passport if you do not have one already. IFRE suggests doing research ahead of time on your destination, paying close attention to the culture and customs, so you can be better prepared for your time abroad.

Can I arrive in Bali on a different day from the program start date?

Yes. Arriving a few days prior will be great if you wish to explore Bali before your placement begins. We recommend arriving at least one day before the orientation to rest and prepare. IFRE will help you arrange additional days' accommodations if need be.

What should I do if my luggage is lost or delayed?

You should contact your airline immediately and report it. IFRE’s in-country coordinator can assist with essentials and guide you for shipping if needed, but it is recommended to pack important items like medications, documents, and a change of clothes in your carry-on bag.

Will I receive a welcome orientation upon arrival?

Yes. You will receive a comprehensive orientation covering your daily schedule, safety measures, local customs, cultural etiquette, and the specific details of your volunteer project.

Where are the projects located?

All of IFRE’s volunteer programs in Bali are located on the Indonesian island of Bali (Kuta). The beautiful island of Bali is full of contrasts, and you can go from beach to rainforest to mountains all within a couple of hours, not to mention the excellent food and incredibly friendly locals. Everywhere, you will find intricately carved temples, and Bali appeals to travelers through its sheer natural beauty of looming volcanoes and lush, terraced rice fields that exude peace and serenity.

Is there any minimum and maximum stay?

Our programs run from one to twelve weeks in duration.

Can I extend my stay if I choose to?

Yes, you may extend your stay for the continuation of your volunteer work in Bali. As per the immigration laws of Bali, extensions of stay are granted on tourist visas for an extra 30 days, but only once. So, if you stay more than that in Bali, then you will have no other choice but to leave Bali after 60 days and then reapply for a tourist visa to enter again.

Will I have enough time to travel after work and on the weekend?

Yes, you will have enough free time to travel and explore the tourist local sights and destinations after work and on weekends.

Who will guide or support me while I am in Bali?

Our in-country coordinator supports and supervises you throughout your volunteer work project in Bali. Likewise, our local staff will also stay in contact with volunteers either with timely field visits or via email/telephone. You can expect our field staff to visit you every 2-4 weeks to make sure that all things are going smoothly and as planned. If you require any assistance, just make sure to let your in-country coordinator know, and he/she will try their best to help you in any way possible.

How old should I be to take part?

You must be at least 18 years of age or older in order to participate in our programs. In some cases, minors can join our program, providing us with proof of parental consent from their legal guardian. Minors can also volunteer alongside their parents or guardians.

Who manages the volunteer programs in Bali?

Our projects are all managed by an experienced Bali in-country coordinator who has expert knowledge of handling volunteer projects and international volunteers. The country coordinator is there to provide you with timely support on a day-to-day basis. He/she will even come to visit you frequently during your time in Bali to check on how you are doing. You can ask for advice and suggestions, and they will help ensure you are fully satisfied with your volunteer experience abroad.

Will I receive training before the start of my volunteer project?

Yes, after your arrival and before you begin your service work, our in-country coordinator will engage you in an orientation class during which you will learn about safety measures, your daily schedule, your volunteer work, and also the cultures and customs of Bali.

Is there a dress code for the projects?

No, there is no dress code set in place for our Bali volunteers beyond wearing decent and modest clothing. Be sure to do your research before packing for your trip, and always be respectful of the culture you are visiting. When teaching, it is required to wear pants (not shorts), and long sleeves are recommended.

Can I choose more than one project during my stay?

Yes, Volunteers can participate in multiple projects during their time in Bali. You will need to inform IFRE ahead of time so we can coordinate your schedule.

Do I need any prior experience for volunteering in Bali?

No prior experience is required for our projects in Bali. Volunteers need eagerness, a willingness to learn, and a dutiful attitude.

Will I have opportunities to interact with locals?

Absolutely! Our projects are designed to immerse you in the local community. You will work closely with children, teachers, and local teams, gaining cultural understanding and building friendships.

How far are the projects located from the accommodation?

The teaching project and sea turtle projects are both located within walking distance. You may need to walk for 10 to 15 minutes from your accommodation.

Why should I pay to volunteer abroad?

Paying to volunteer abroad in Bali might seem pretty odd at first, especially if you are a first-time volunteer making a trip overseas. To help you understand where your money goes, we have broken it down for you. Everything from the operating cost of the organization to the salaries of our staff and payments for the utility/rent bills is all paid solely by the payments made by the volunteers participating in our humanitarian aid programs.

Your fee also covers your housing, food, training, and supervision, as well as being needed to continue to run the much-needed program you are working so hard to support.

Why are IFRE’s fees so much more affordable than other volunteer organizations?

IFRE is an American-based non-profit volunteer organization that is committed to providing our volunteers with several life-changing volunteer abroad opportunities and experiences. Unlike its competitors, IFRE does not aim to make any profits by running its projects, as money is not a motivating factor for us. Therefore, we only charge what is needed to run our volunteer programs, and our fees are more affordable than most other volunteer organizations.

Can I get a tax deduction for my volunteer work project in Bali?

Yes, you can get a tax deduction for any of our volunteer programs, as we are an American non-profit volunteer organization that collaborates with many local orphanages, schools, hospitals, and NGOs all across the globe.

Can I get help to raise funds?

Yes, IFRE can provide help to raise funds. Get in touch with our office staff and ask them for help regarding this issue. We will provide supporting documentation you can use in your fundraising efforts and offer advice on how to go about raising the money you need for your trip.

For further readings:
Cost /money matter
Why to pay for volunteer abroad
How to reduce the cost of volunteer abroad
Pay fee directly to host family

Is there a deposit required to secure my placement?

Yes, a non-refundable deposit is required to confirm your placement. This ensures your spot is reserved and enables IFRE to make all necessary arrangements related to your placement and living.

Can I pay for the program in installments?

Yes, IFRE offers flexible payment options for volunteers. You pay in full or divide your payments into installments. Please contact our office for specific details.

Are there any hidden costs during the volunteer program?

No. Costs are included in your program fee, but personal expenses such as souvenirs, optional activities, local transportation outside the project, and extra meals are not included.

What happens if I need to cancel my trip?

IFRE has a clear cancellation policy. Refunds depend on how far in advance you notify us. Early cancellations receive partial refunds, while last-minute cancellations are not refundable.

Is it safe to travel and volunteer in Bali?

Yes, it is very safe to travel to Bali for volunteer work. You don’t have to worry too much about your safety or well-being while traveling there. However, it is always a good idea to take some necessary safety and security measures. The safety of our volunteers is a top priority for us, and thus, we make sure that all of your activities are safe to participate in, and our staff is always available for support. We suggest doing research and keeping up to date with advisory websites that many countries offer for travelers headed to international destinations.

What safety measures should I take?

All safety measures that you must take while volunteering in Bali will be discussed in the orientation class run by our country coordinator and field staff. You should take normal safety precautions as you would anywhere, avoiding carrying large amounts of cash on your person, not dressing in a revealing or provocative manner, not traveling alone (especially at night), etc.

What will happen if I get sick during my volunteer trip in Bali?

If you get sick during your volunteer placement, you should immediately inform our field staff before anything serious happens. Once you inform the staff about your deteriorating health condition, you will be taken to the nearby hospital or a medical clinic for a thorough check up. Be sure to bring along a copy of your travel insurance and your passport to present to the physician.

Why must I get travel insurance?

As per our policies, it is obligatory for all of our volunteers to buy travel insurance before beginning their volunteer work. This is done so that our volunteers are kept safe from all types of dangers that may occur while volunteering abroad. Our main concern is the safety of our volunteers. If you need help finding a policy, IFRE can offer you reliable and comprehensive insurance for your trip.

What vaccinations do I need before traveling to Bali?

Vaccinations are highly advisable for international volunteers due to the various health hazards they may encounter.

The main recommended vaccinations for volunteering in Bali are Dengue Fever, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and so on. For your personal health precautions and extra safety, you should consider consulting with your doctor for further vaccine recommendations. You can learn more about these vaccinations.

What are the principal health risks in Bali?

One of the primary risks to your health while traveling in Bali is the high incidence of food and water-borne illnesses, leading to the popular phrase “Bali Belly”. Avoid drinking tap water and only drink or cook with bottled or boiled water. Avoid street vendors and questionable sources of food where the level of hygiene might not be up to par.

Volunteers in Bali should avoid petting stray dogs and take care to wear insect repellent to reduce the risk of mosquito-borne infections. Also, guard against sunburn and dehydration as Bali has a tropical climate. Avoid drinking the local spirit, “Arak”, as poisonings and deaths have occurred in travelers when drinking this concoction, which was also laced with dangerous substances.

For further readings:
Vaccination
Volunteer Health and Safety
Safety Tips for Your Volunteer Abroad Trip

Is Bali safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, Bali is safe for solo female travelers. However, volunteers are advised to take standard precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night, securing valuables, and following local advice. IFRE coordinators are always available to guide on safety issues.

What support is available in case of an emergency?

IFRE provides 24/7 emergency support through our local coordinator. You will have direct contact numbers and guidance for local hospitals, clinics, or other emergency services.

Are there any natural hazards I should be aware of?

Bali is located in a seismically active region. Major incidents are rare, but volunteers are advised to familiarize themselves with basic safety procedures in case of earthquakes or volcanic activity.

Are the neighborhoods around the volunteer accommodations safe?

Yes, our accommodations are located in safe and accessible neighborhoods with easy access to markets, hospitals, and transportation.

Do I need a visa to volunteer and travel in Bali?

Yes, without obtaining a travel visa from the Immigration department, you will not be eligible to stay in Bali and take part in our programs. You can visit the Embassy of Indonesia in your home country, or you can get a visa on arrival at the international airport in Bali. The cost of the visa upon arrival will be appx. $35 US dollars, and will have a duration of 30 days. You can learn more about Bali’s travel visa:

How do I apply for the visa?

First, you will need to have your original passport with you as well as a couple of passport-size photos. You will then fill out the visa application form provided by the Immigration Department. Finally, you will have to pay a certain fee for the visa application. For those applying in their home country, you can expect to obtain a visa within a couple of weeks.

Can I extend my visa while I am in the country? Can you help me with this?

In general, extending an Indonesian tourist visa is usually not so difficult. All you have to do is pay a visit to the Immigration Department, and the rest will be taken care of by government officials. You will only be able to make the extension once, and then you will have to leave Indonesia before returning to spend more time in the country. If you have any questions at all, our local staff will be there to assist you.

What if my visa application is rejected?

IFRE will guide visa applications, but visa approval is at the discretion of Indonesian immigration authorities. We advise applying well in advance and ensuring all documents are accurate.

How do I contact IFRE’s local coordinator while in Bali?

You will be provided with the contact information of the in-country coordinator before you leave for your trip, so you can easily reach out via phone, WhatsApp or email any time that you need assistance.

How can I communicate with my family from Bali?

Not only is it important to you, but it’s very important to us that you will have the option to get in contact with your family during your experience with our volunteer program in Bali. This process is uncomplicated and effortless. There’s internet access available almost everywhere in Bali, and you will be able to access video chat, WhatsApp, or Facebook Messenger with ease. If you prefer, you can directly call them from your mobile phone.

Can I use my phone while volunteering?

We have no restrictions on our volunteers using their personal mobile phones, so make sure you unlock your phone for international SIM cards. To use your existing SIM, you will need to check with your current provider to see if your phone will function in Bali. Keep in mind that international roaming charges may apply, and these can be quite expensive.

Can I buy SIM card in Bali?

Yes, you can purchase a local SIM Card in Bali. Again, check with your current provider before traveling to ensure your phone will function with the foreign SIM card.

How can international volunteers in Bali get/purchase internet services?

A very wise first step would be to purchase a SIM Card from the local vendor shops. You will need your original passport for documentation and a recent passport-size photo to fill out an application form. Once you have done that, the vendor will give you the SIM Card to place into your phone. You can then insert it and purchase a data pack to access the internet after its activation. If you feel uncomfortable doing so, you can always ask the vendor to purchase the internet data pack for you.

Is the internet available everywhere?

The Internet is widely available throughout Bali. Buying a local SIM and internet data pack will help you have access to the internet wherever cell coverage is available.

Is Wi-Fi available in accommodations and project sites?

Wi-Fi is generally available at most accommodations and some project sites. Internet speed may vary in remote areas.

What do I need to bring?

When preparing for your volunteer trip to Bali, you should make a checklist of things to bring such as a power adapter, toiletries, medicines, first aid kit, passport, visa, flight tickets, travel insurance, rolling suitcase or backpack, insect repellent, filtered water bottle, power bank, personal medications, ear plugs, torch light, hand sanitizer, sunscreen and books. IFRE provides bedding, but if you feel a sleeping bag is something you would like, you are welcome to bring it along.

What clothing is appropriate for volunteering in Bali?

Packing lightweight, modest clothing suitable for a tropical climate. For teaching projects, pants and long sleeves are recommended. Closed-toe shoes are suitable for outdoor activities.

Do I need to bring mosquito repellent or sunscreen?

Yes, Bali has a tropical climate, so mosquito repellent, sunscreen, and a hat are highly recommended.

Are bedding and towels provided?

Yes, IFRE provides bedding, but you may bring a sleeping bag or travel towel if you prefer.