Voluntary work in Croatia

Information & guidance about volunteering projects in Croatia

One of Europe’s most popular travel destinations, thanks to being a beautiful Mediterranean country dotted with over 1,000 islands along the Adriatic coast, Croatia moves at a leisurely and relaxed pace which contrasts with its thriving central location between Eastern and Western Europe. The perfect mixture of long sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and Croatian food and hospitality makes the perfect destination for volunteers to participate in natural conservation efforts and community development.

Where to volunteer in Croatia

Zagreb is the largest city in Croatia, with a population of over 700,000, the capital is distinguished by its 18th- and 19th-century Austro-Hungarian architecture and quirky destinations such as the Museum of Broken Relationships. There are also opportunities to volunteer in Croatia’s smaller cities, such as Split, Rijeka, and Osijek, which each have populations of over 100,000 people. Croatian life cities laid back, and relaxation is undoubtedly enhanced by the coastal location and medieval architecture that lines many city streets.

There are opportunities for voluntary work in Croatia outside of the cities, along the Dalmatian coast or in the mountains of the Slovenian Alps. Around 50 of Croatia’s islands are permanently inhabited, making island hopping a popular activity for both Croatians and travellers.

volunteer in Croatia

Volunteering projects in Croatia

A brief war for independence in the 1990s is still evidenced in the country, resulting in voluntary work in Croatia being rooted in childcare, education and infrastructure development. Despite being a highly developed country, there is a need for volunteers to assist with community development.

Voluntary work in Croatia can also involve preservation projects to protect natural habitats and native species. There is a particular push for the protection of the bear brown population in the eastern mountains, which has recently been diminishing. Many opportunities for voluntary work in Croatia combine local work in a variety of locations with adventure opportunities and exploration throughout Eastern Europe, making volunteering in Croatia the perfect way to explore the beautiful region of the continent while also giving back to the local communities.