Top DofE Gold Residential projects around the world

At Pod Volunteer we offer DofE (Duke of Edinburgh) participants the opportunity to achieve the Residential section of their Gold Award, through volunteering at ethical and inspiring projects around the world. 

Completing the Residential section of your DofE award whilst on a Pod Volunteer project is fantastic chance to explore the world, gain new skills and make international friends whilst helping some brilliant charity projects. From heading to the beaches of Greece to protect turtles, to venturing to South Africa to monitor the endangered Big 5 Wildlife, volunteering overseas for your Residential award will let you experience life from a brand new perspective. 

We have many safe and supported volunteer placements which qualify for your Gold Residential and Pod Volunteer is an Approved Activity Provider for The Duke of Edinburgh's Award. You can see the full list of DofE projects you can join here.

Here are some of our most popular DofE trips: 

Join a special 1 week U18 trip to Greece to help support turtle conservation and environmental conservation  

Trip: Turtle and Conservation trip to the island of Kefalonia 
Duration: 1 week
Age: 16 and 17 years old
When can I join: Summer and October start dates
Find out more: Summer trip here and October trip here

Spend your days on a stunning Greek island helping to monitor and protect endangered sea turtles 

Trip: Turtle Conservation in Greece
Duration: 2-4 weeks 
Age: 18+
When can I join: Sunday and Tuesdays between April and October 
Find out more here 

Head to Central America to join an active scientific project monitoring and protecting sea turtles and wildlife 

Trip: Turtle and Wildlife Conservation in Costa Rica
Duration: 1-12 weeks 
Age: 17+
When can I join: Any day throughout the year 
Find out more here

Live on a stunning wildlife reserve near to beautiful South African beaches and help protect the incredible Big 5 - lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino and leopard

Trip: Big 5 Conservation in South Africa
Duration: 1-12 weeks
Age: 17+
When can I join: Mondays throughout the year 
Find out more here 

Care for beautiful rescued elephants at a tropical wildlife sanctuary and live with 40+ volunteers from around the world 

Trip: Elephant Care in Thailand
Duration: 1-12 weeks 
Age: 18+
When can I join: Sundays throughout the year
Find out more here 

Explore the enchanting reefs of Thailand and help to protect the tropical sea - a perfect place to learn to dive or expand on your diving qualifications 

Trip: Marine Conservation in Thailand
Duration: 1-4 weeks + dive courses
Age: 18+
When can I join: Monthly start dates throughout the year
Find out more here