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Instituto Hemingway participants doin a jump shot on a beach
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Volunteer Programs in Spain

by: Instituto Hemingway

9.74 (23)Verified

The volunteer program at Instituto Hemingway is a unique opportunity to live and work in Spain from the perspective of locals. At the same time, you will build a cultural bridge between Spain and your country of origin while giving back to a community. Beach Cleanup Support this project by setting a good example and encouraging people to get involved in protecting the local environment through si...

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Program Highlights

Learn Spanish while making a difference to the welfare of local people, animals, and environment.

Upgrade your CV or résumé by gaining hands-on international experience.

Participate in free cultural activities from Monday to Friday.

Apply your skills or hobbies through community service in Spain.

Take our free 2-week Spanish course while diving into a project.

Quick Details

Locations
  • Bilbao, Spain
Availability
Year(s) OfferedYear RoundDuration:
  • 2-4 Weeks
  • 5-8 Weeks
  • 3-6 Months
  • 9-12 Weeks
  • Summer
Cost Per Week$300-600
Age Requirement:Varies
Types & Subjects:
  • Animal Welfare
  • Conservation
  • Eco-Tourism
  • Education
  • English Teaching
  • See more
Guidelines:
  • All Nationalities
See all program details

Awards

Spanish School Federation, FEDELE

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about the programs

Overall Rating

9.74

Total Reviews

23

An amazing experience with a real impact

February 16, 2025by: Lucy Merkel - Northern IrelandProgram: Volunteer Programs in Spain
10

Volunteering for beach cleanups was an unforgettable experience. The people I met were fantastic, and the apartments were great—comfortable and close to everything. I loved how easy it was to explore the area and enjoy all kinds of cultural activities in my free time. The best part was knowing that my work made a real difference for the environment. Collecting waste and helping to keep the beaches clean was incredibly rewarding. On top of that, my Spanish improved so much thanks to the morning classes included in the program. I highly recommend this experience to anyone looking for meaningful volunteer work and cultural immersion. I’d do it again in a heartbeat!

The best experience of my life

February 16, 2025by: John Stew - United KingdomProgram: Volunteer Programs in Spain
10

Volunteering at this animal shelter and sanctuary just outside Bilbao has been the most incredible experience of my life. The people I met were amazing—kind, passionate, and truly dedicated to caring for the animals. The sanctuary itself is breathtaking, with a unique biodiversity that makes you feel like you’re in Africa, even though you're still in Europe! Every day was an adventure, working with all kinds of animals and learning so much about their care and conservation. It’s a place full of love, respect, and a deep connection with nature. I highly recommend this experience to anyone looking for meaningful volunteer work. I can’t wait to go back!

Unforgettable Volunteering Experience with Animals

February 02, 2025by: Mary Meier - United StatesProgram: Volunteer Programs in Spain
10

From the moment I was picked up at the airport and taken to my accommodation (which had everything I needed), everything about this experience was simply amazing! Taking care of rescued animals, giving them love, walking, grooming, and playing with them was truly rewarding. It helped me regain a sense of purpose and the joy of helping others. My apartment mates were about my age but from different countries, which made it even more fun. We went on excursions together and joined activities organized by the school, where I met so many incredible people. Plus, the Spanish classes included in the program helped me improve so much—I can now communicate with no problem! ??✨ The atmosphere was fantastic, and Bilbao was the perfect location. The metro took you to beautiful beaches, and if you preferred the mountains, you could be there in just 30 minutes. It’s such a hidden gem—not the most famous tourist spot, but an absolute treasure! This experience was truly life-changing, and even my university recognized its value when I returned. I couldn’t recommend it more! ??? Let me know if you’d like any tweaks! ?

our little creatures deserve love

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Bilbao, Spain

Types and Subjects

  • Causes
  • Animal Welfare
  • Conservation
  • Eco-Tourism

Availability

Years Offered: Year Round

Duration:
  • 2-4 Weeks
  • 5-8 Weeks
  • 3-6 Months

Age Requirement

Age Requirement Varies

Guidelines

  • All Nationalities
  • This Program is also open to Solo, Couples, Group

Cost per week

$300-600

Program Cost Includes

  • Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
  • Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
  • Language Lessons
  • Some Program Activity Costs

Accommodation Options

  • Group living

Qualifications & Experience

    Language Skills Required

  • English
  • Spanish

    Accepted Education Levels

  • Any/All Education Levels Accepted

Application Procedures

  • Resume
  • Online Application

Frequently Asked Questions

Interviews

Read interviews from alumni or staff

Shirley Shelley

Participated in 2022

Alumni

Studying abroad is a unique experience and every student has its own experience. None of them will be the same. My interest in traveling abroad was not just to explore the world, but to study the world. I was blessed enough to have been to Europe before, and my experiences there prior to studying in Spain helped open up my mind to a life there.

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Instituto Hemingway

Instituto Hemingway

9.74Verified

Ready to Learn More?

The volunteer program at Instituto Hemingway is a unique opportunity to live and work in Spain from the perspective of locals. At the same time, you will build a cultural bridge between Spain and your country of origin while giving back to a community. Beach Cleanup Support this project by setting a good example and encouraging people to get involved in protecting the local environment through simple actions, such as collecting their rubbish after a day on the beach. Work together to keep the waters healthy and nature green! Animal Shelter Contribute in a number of ways to stop the abuse and neglect of animals. At the same time, provide hands-on care to animals in need. The need for adequate care and education among the public in and around the area is huge. Social Entrepreneurship Thi...

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