voluntourism

noun

vol·​un·​tour·​ism ˌvä-lən-ˈtu̇r-ˌi-zəm 

: the act or practice of doing volunteer work as needed in the community where one is vacationing

voluntourist

ˌvä-lən-ˈtu̇r-ist 

noun

Examples of voluntourism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Launched in 2013, the focus of Raw Travel is on authentic cultural experiences incorporating ecotourism, adventure sports, voluntourism (giving back), indie music, authentic culture, solo travel, social issues, and geopolitics. —Marc Berman, Forbes.com, 8 May 2025

Reformers, with their caring nature and love for making a difference, are drawn to Hawaii’s voluntourism programs, which offer a perfect blend of adventure and service. —Ronny Maye, Essence, 21 Apr. 2025

For Madeleine, what started as voluntourism in Mexico continued into volunteering at home. —Allison Tibaldi, USA TODAY, 26 Nov. 2024

Both the Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, and Fairmont Kea Lan) partner with the Hawaii Land Trust for voluntourism opportunities on the Waihe‘e coastal dunes. —John Wogan, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 July 2024

Head to Chile for a voluntourism adventure Between now and Feb. 25, post a video entry on Las Torres Patagonia’s Instagram and Facebook accounts for an opportunity to win the trip taking place either between April 6 to 11 or April 14 to 19. —Ramsey Qubein, Forbes, 21 Feb. 2024

This trend has led to the rise of eco-tourism, voluntourism and the demand for unique travel experiences. —Ivana Johnston, Forbes, 30 Nov. 2023

There are plenty of opportunities to have a similar voluntourism experience and make your trip to Hawaii more rewarding – while also possibly saving you hundreds of dollars. —Kathleen Wong, USA TODAY, 25 May 2023

Below are some voluntourism opportunities from hotels to consider when planning your next visit to Hawaii. —Kathleen Wong, USA TODAY, 25 May 2023

Word History

Etymology

blend of volunteer entry 3 and tourism

First Known Use

1991, in the meaning defined above