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Beach And River Cleaning Volunteer Program in Sri Lanka

Would you like to volunteer in beautiful Sri Lanka making a difference? Do you have a passion for environment conservation and love working on a beach and river cleaning project? Let IFRE plan your ultimate volunteer experience in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka is a nice country to visit and volunteer! It has beautiful beaches, tall mountains with tea fields, and old temples with interesting stories. The people are friendly, the food is delicious, and you can see many animals. Whether you like exploring old places, taking a train through misty mountains, or just relaxing on the beach, Sri Lanka has lots of fun things to do!

Unfortunately, Sri Lanka is facing a serious pollution problem in its rivers and beaches, despite efforts to control it. Excessive use of harmful items, even after banning certain types of plastic bags, has led to uncontrolled pollution. IFRE Volunteers is stepping in to make a difference, and you can be part of the solution. Join our Beach & River Cleaning project, a community-driven effort to preserve and restore the natural beauty of local beaches and rivers.

This project aims to combat environmental degradation caused by litter and pollution, creating cleaner and healthier environments for both residents and tourists. As an international volunteer, you can contribute to cleaning and restoring coastal ecosystems, raising awareness, and engaging the community in beach cleaning activities. Your efforts are vital in keeping these beautiful natural spaces safe and promoting environmental consciousness.

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Volunteer Responsibilities & Impact

The volunteer project focuses on three main goals. First, the priority is to Clean and Restore Coastal Ecosystems by removing debris, trash, and plastic waste from beaches and riverbanks, aiming to reduce the harmful impact on marine life and coastal ecosystems. Second, there is an effort to Raise Awareness about the consequences of littering and pollution on beaches and rivers. This involves promoting responsible waste disposal and recycling practices. Lastly, the project aims to Engage the Community by involving volunteers to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility for the environment, encouraging ongoing stewardship.

participate in Regular Beach Cleanups, organizing frequent drives to collect and remove litter, plastics, and other pollutants from the shoreline. Additionally, volunteers will be involved in River Cleanup Campaigns, focusing efforts on removing garbage and debris from riverbanks and beds to prevent contamination and promote better water quality.

Educational initiatives include hosting Workshops and Seminars in schools and local communities to educate people about the importance of protecting coastal and riverine environments, as well as the consequences of pollution. Furthermore, volunteers will engage in Public Awareness Campaigns, launching initiatives through social media, posters, and community events to encourage responsible waste management and the use of reusable products. Through these activities, volunteers play a crucial role in making a positive impact on the environment and community.


Skills and Qualifications:

No specific qualifications are required for you to join this volunteer program in Sri Lanka. However, a willingness to help the needy and a readiness to work hard are essential. Being compassionate and having a passion for environmental conservation are also important qualities. We recommend being active and prepared to volunteer—be outgoing and assist wherever you can. Regular attendance and sticking to the schedule are crucial for the best experience and to make a positive impact on your project.

Every day in our volunteer program in Sri Lanka will be filled with fun and excitement. You will have new experiences every day and feel greatly rewarded.

First Day : On your first day of volunteering in beach and river cleaning project in Sri Lanka, you will be escorted to your placement by a local coordinator and introduced to the placement staff you will be working with.

Weekdays: You will start working on your project second day and while your days will be varied, this is what your typical day will look like:

7.00 to 7.30 AM: You will share a delicious Sri Lankan breakfast with your host family.

7.45 AM: You will then head out to your placement for a full day of activities. Work and hours are dependent on the project and placement that each volunteer is working at.

12.00 PM: Lunch break, you can either go back to enjoy a cooked meal with your host family or share with fellow volunteers.

3.00 PM: Work at the placement usually ends around this time. You are free to travel home, prepare for the next day or help the children with their homework.


Elephant Sanctuary Volunteer Sri Lanka: Dates and Fees

Program Dates

IFRE programs begin every Monday year-round. If you have travel constraints, you can still start your chosen program on any day of the year.

Our Fees

Since 2006, IFRE has been the most trusted and respected volunteer abroad organization in the world, and also the most affordable. We’re dedicated to providing the highest quality volunteer programs at the lowest fees, which make it possible for everyone, especially students, to volunteer internationally and make a positive impact in the lives of others.

We believe in 100% transparency. Rest assured; we never use middlemen. Your one-time registration fee of $299 covers our administrative costs. The low weekly fee is paid in the host country directly to your host family and project (via country coordinator), and includes housing, food, and minor expenses. IFRE is a non-profit organization, so your program fees are tax deductible.

Volunteer Program Fees (US$)

Duration Kegalle Elephant
  1 Week   $150
  2 Weeks   $240
  3 Weeks   $360
  4 Weeks   $480
  5 Weeks   $600
  6 Weeks   $720
  7 Weeks   $840
  8 Weeks   $960
  9 Weeks   $1080
  10 Weeks   $1,200
  11 Weeks   $1,320
  12 Weeks   $1,440

Comprehensive Travel Insurance $3.49/day ( below 28 years) and $4.49/day ( above 28 years) »

Airport Pickup and Transfer to Galle (2 hours) $100/per person

Airport Pickup and Transfer to Kegalle (80 KM) $100/per person

Airport pick up & transfer to Pinnawala (80 km) $100/per person

Language and Culture $250

How your fee is allocated?

Program Fees Cover:

  • Accommodation (Volunteer House)
  • Food (only breakfast and dinnery)
  • Program Orientation
  • In-country support
  • Personalized project
  • Pre-departure information
  • Certificate of completion
  • Fundraising ideas and letters
  • Discount for returning volunteers
  • Program Fees Exclude:

    • Visas
    • Airfare
    • Personal expenses on soft drinks and foods
    • Daily transportation
    • Airport return transfer

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Accommodation and Meal

While you join beach and river cleaning Sri Lanka program, you will be hosted by a local family. This family is properly vetted by IFRE and they are highly respected in the community. They have good reviews from years of hosting fellow volunteers and will also provide you with three local meals per day.

Read more about or amazing host families in Sri Lanka.


Free Time and Weekend Exploration

You are certain to spend a considerable amount of time exploring Sri Lanka. You have plenty of free time every day after work since you only work for about 4 to 5 hours per day, which gives you the chance to explore the small beach town of Galle, filled with evening activities. Over the weekend you’ll get to travel to the rest of the country and explorethe island’s amazing scenery and culture

Read more about some exciting places you can visit while volunteering in Sri Lanka.


Safety and in Country Support

IFRE will support you from the time you land in Sri Lanka to when you finish your project. We will assign you an in-country coordinator who will be available 24/7 to help you if you need anything. We also have a safety net of fellow volunteers who will assist you if you need any help and all our accommodation and project facilities are carefully vetted and routinely inspected to ensure the highest safety standards.

Read more about our safety and in-country support.

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FAQs

Arrival and departure

For your beach and river cleaning volunteer project in Sri Lanka, it's recommended to fly into Colombo International Airport. Ensure you pack all necessary documents and arrive in Sri Lanka a day before your project work starts. Once we receive your final flight details, our airport representative will be there to pick you up on your arrival date and time. In case you miss your flight, please contact us as soon as possible so that we can arrange a new pick-up schedule. It's important to note that while IFRE does not provide airport drop-off services, your in-country coordinator will be happy to advise you on the best transportation options.

Visa

Volunteers working in Sri Lanka beach cleaning program need tourist visa. You will need Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter Sri Lanka, as visa on arrival in Sri Lanka is not available without the ETA. You can extend your visa by visiting to the Department of Immigration in Colombo.

Vaccination

We highly recommend getting the recommended vaccinations before traveling to Sri Lanka. Please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Global Health Canada, or Travelers' Health United Kingdom for detailed information on the required vaccinations for visiting Sri Lanka. Essential vaccinations include Yellow Fever, Diphtheria & Tetanus, Japanese Encephalitis, Hepatitis A and B, Tuberculosis, Typhoid, Polio, and Rabies. Taking these precautions helps ensure your health and well-being during your stay.

For further readings:

Vaccination

Volunteer Health and Safety

Safety tips for your volunteer abroad trip

Why volunteer in beach and river cleaning project in Sri Lanka?

Travel to a New Country:

Embarking on a volunteering journey in Sri Lanka offers the chance to explore a new and culturally rich country. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, discover the local customs, and create lasting memories as you contribute to meaningful projects.

Sri Lanka’s Natural Beauty:

Experience the breathtaking natural beauty of Sri Lanka. From pristine beaches to lush landscapes, volunteering allows you to witness the country's diverse environments. Engage in environmental projects that contribute to preserving this stunning backdrop for future generations.

Make New Friends:

Volunteering abroad opens doors to new and exciting friendships. Connect with fellow volunteers, bond with local project staff, and build lasting relationships with people from around the world. The shared experience of volunteering and exploring together creates a unique camaraderie that enhances your journey.

Explore and Discover:

Beyond the volunteer work, take the opportunity to explore Sri Lanka's diverse landscapes. Whether you're strolling on the beach, exploring historical cities, or enjoying the local culture, every moment becomes an adventure. The friendships you make along the way add an extra layer of joy to your travels.

Contact IFRE today to join the Beach and River Cleaning Volunteer program in Sri Lanka!

Take a minute to complete the form and we will be in touch.

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