Frequently Asked Questions

The Green Lion is a global program provider delivering meaningful travel, volunteering, adventure, internship, wellness and group travel experiences across Asia, Africa, Latin America, Europe and the Pacific.

We work exclusively with sending organisations, schools, universities, and agencies that recruit participants, while we manage all on-the-ground operations. Our role is to ensure every program is safe, well-run, culturally immersive and community-focused.

Our Program Portfolio

• Volunteering: Education, Conservation, Animal Care and Healthcare programs
• Adventure: Gap year, adventure, and sustainability-focused experiences, often combined with volunteer placements.
• Internships: Professional, career-focused placements designed to build skills and international experience.
• Wellness: Leisure and wellbeing-focused experiences supporting balance, reflection, and personal growth.
• Journeys: Curated travel experiences designed for deeper cultural connection, including road trips and spiritual journeys.
• Group Travel: Service-learning and group programs for schools, universities, and organisations.

All programs are locally operated by experienced in-country teams, ensuring strong community relationships, high safety standards, and authentic cultural engagement.

Our programs are primarily designed for participants aged 18+. Some destinations accept 16–17-year-olds with parental consent or when travelling as part of an organised group with appropriate supervision.

Our participants come from diverse backgrounds and nationalities and may travel solo or as part of a group. Most of our programs do not require prior experience, although specialised placements such as medical programs or Internships have specific qualifications and study requirements.

Participants are typically

• Gap year travellers
• University students or recent graduates
• Young professionals seeking purposeful travel

Many participants travel independently and join fellow international participants upon arrival, while others participate through school, university or private group bookings.

The majority of our recent participants come from Europe, the UK, North America and Australia, though we welcome all nationalities.

Accommodation varies by destination and program but is always clean, safe and community-oriented. Common options include:

• Shared accommodation
• Local guesthouses
• Program-managed housing with other participants

Rooms are usually shared (typically 2–6 participants per room) and offer basic but comfortable facilities. In some destinations, private or upgraded accommodation is available at an additional cost.

Safety, cleanliness and a supportive social environment are prioritised. Full accommodation details are provided for each program.

Participants receive comprehensive local support throughout their stay, including:

• Airport pickup and arrival orientation
• Daily support from local coordinators
• 24/7 emergency assistance
• Help with logistics, cultural adjustment and wellbeing

Our coordinators live locally, know the communities well, and act as the primary point of contact during the program.

Yes. Participants are responsible for obtaining the appropriate visa and travel insurance.

Visa requirements vary depending on nationality and destination. In most cases, participants travel on a tourist visa, obtained online or on arrival. We provide general guidance to partners, but final responsibility rests with the participant.

Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory and must cover medical care, emergencies, and program-related activities.

Common dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan or religious restrictions can usually be accommodated if communicated in advance.

Meals are typically local and home-style, prepared by local cooks. Options may be more limited in rural or remote locations, so early notice helps us plan appropriately.

The Green Lion acts as the on-ground delivery partner.

Our sending partners manage:

• Marketing and promotion
• Participant recruitment
• Pre-departure communication

We manage:

• Program delivery
• Accommodation
• Local staffing and coordinators
• Safety and risk management
• Participant support

Our partnership model is zero-inventory and low-risk, with dedicated partner support, fast response times and access to a global portfolio of programs.

Click here to learn more about our Partnerships

To explore a partnership or request program information, simply contact our team. We’ll guide you through the next steps and support you throughout the partnership journey.

Click here to contact us