Health and safety

Drinking Responsibly

Volunteering abroad isn’t just about making a difference- it’s also a fantastic opportunity to connect with people from all around the world! One of the many joys of volunteering is the strong social element, and naturally, socialising can often include the consumption of alcohol and local food in local restaurants.

If you choose to drink while on a Volghano program, it’s important to follow the local norms  and traditions of the area, which can vary from place to place.

Please also note that many of our volunteer accommodations are dry establishments, meaning alcohol is not allowed on the premises. This policy has been set by our local teams out of respect for host families, fellow volunteers, project commitments, local communities, and sometimes for religious reasons. We kindly ask that all participants respect these rules. That said, if you’re of legal age, enjoying a drink outside the project network is perfectly fine — just be mindful and responsible!

When consuming alcohol abroad, it’s crucial to drink responsibly. Keep in mind that alcohol content may differ from what you’re used to at home, and being in an unfamiliar environment means extra caution is always wise. Stick with a group of friends to ensure everyone stays safe and looks out for one another.

Lastly, it’s important to monitor your consumption and remember the purpose of your journey. While we wholeheartedly support the social aspects of our programs, your commitment to the volunteer project is at the core of your experience. Our programs rely on the dedication of international volunteers like you to continue making a positive and lasting impact in local communities.

So, have fun, make friends, and always keep safety and responsibility at the forefront of your adventure!

Immunisations

In the months leading up to your program, it’s crucial to consult your doctor or a travel clinic. They’ll guide you on the vaccinations needed for entry into your host country and ensure you’re fully prepared for your adventure.

As much as we’d love to help, we’re not medical experts, so we can’t advise on specific vaccinations. However, we recommend that all Volghano participants stay up to date on their routine vaccinations and receive any immunisations specific to Ghana. Only a qualified medical professional can provide the right guidance for your health.

If you’re joining one of our wildlife volunteering programs, it’s often recommended to consider the rabies vaccination. For Ghana, you legally require a Yellow Fever vaccination, don’t forget to bring your certificate — it’s essential as you may be required to present it upon arrival.

Transport

During your Volghano volunteer trip, you’re bound to experience the local transport system in Ghana, whether it’s for your daily commute to the volunteer project or exploring during your weekends. To ensure your travels are safe, smooth, and enjoyable, here are some key tips for travelling responsibly:

Using Volghano Associated Transport – Our local teams have trusted taxis available for short trips within the local community. These are a safe and reliable option for your travels near the volunteer project. If you’re planning to venture further, be sure to ask the staff for their recommendations- they’ll point you in the right direction.

Keep Your Belongings in Sight –Stay vigilant and mindful of your personal belongings, especially when travelling outside the volunteer project network. Public transport or unfamiliar taxis can sometimes pose risks, so always ensure your items are secure and within your view.

Stay Sensible and Calm – Public transport can be busy, chaotic, and a little overwhelming at times. You may even have multiple people approaching you at once. The key is to stay calm and level-headed. Avoid frustration or panic, as it could make the situation more challenging. A cool head is your best tool in navigating crowded spaces!

Avoid Night Travel – Whenever possible, avoid travelling at night. If it’s unavoidable, make sure to travel in groups and keep your local team informed about your plans. Safety always comes first!

No Mopeds or Motorbikes – As tempting as they may seem, mopeds and motorbikes are extremely dangerous and should not be used during your time abroad. Traffic rules in Ghana are vastly different from what you might be used to, and insurance companies typically do not cover incidents involving mopeds and moto bikes. Let’s keep your journey fun and safe by sticking to other transport policy of NO mopeds and moto bikes.

Stay Connected – If you ever feel stuck or unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local team. They’re always here to help and ensure you feel supported every step of the way.

Accommodation

We go above and beyond to ensure your time with us is productive, exciting, and safe. Any rules set by our local teams aren’t meant to limit your experience, they’re designed to keep you secure and help you make a positive impact within the local community.

Curfews for Your Safety – During your stay at the volunteer accommodation, you may be required to follow curfews set by our local teams. If this applies to you, we kindly ask for your understanding and cooperation. These curfews are in place not only to show respect for the local team and fellow volunteers but also to help ensure your safety during your time abroad.

Dry Accommodations – Many of our volunteer accommodations are dry establishments, meaning alcohol possession or consumption may not be allowed in our Volunteer Houses. This rule is in place out of respect for the local culture, your project commitments, and your safety. We kindly ask you to honour and respect these guidelines, ensuring a positive and harmonious experience for everyone.

Carbon Monoxide Safety – We encourage all our local teams to test our volunteer accommodations and make sure they are free from carbon monoxide. To prioritise your safety, we strongly recommend bringing a portable carbon monoxide detector with you. It’s a simple yet effective precaution, not only for your accommodation but also for any weekend trips or independent travel.

Your safety is at the heart of everything we do at Volghano, and with a little cooperation and preparation, you can enjoy a safe, meaningful, and unforgettable adventure. Let’s work together to make it extraordinary!

Dress Code

Many of our host families have conservative cultures, so it’s important for our international volunteers to dress respectfully during their time with us.

Dress codes can vary depending on which part of Ghana and sometimes even the specific project. We ask all volunteers to maintain a smart and responsible appearance while in the local community. Don’t worry — we’ll outline everything you need to know in your Volunteer guide book, so you’ll know exactly what to pack. Plus, our local team will provide a full briefing during your in-country orientation to ensure you’re fully prepared.

For women, this generally means covering your shoulders, chest, stomach, and thighs. For men, shorts should fall below the knee, and shirts should cover your shoulders. Dressing appropriately shows respect for local customs and earns the appreciation of the people you’ll be working with.

It’s a good idea to pack a few nicer outfits for weekends or special occasions, as dress codes can be more relaxed in touristy areas. That said, avoid wearing tight or very short clothing to stay respectful and comfortable.

During your free time, take cues from the locals around you — they’re the best guide for what’s appropriate. Dressing more conservatively will help you avoid unwanted attention. We also recommend limiting jewellery, as this can reduce the risk of pickpocketing and help you blend in more easily.

By following these guidelines, you’ll not only respect the local culture but also contribute to a positive and immersive experience for yourself and the community.

Code of Conduct

At Volghano, we are passionate about responsible volunteer travel and committed to sustainable tourism. That’s why we’ve created our Code of Conduct-a vital guide to help you get the most out of your time abroad while ensuring a safe, respectful, and impactful experience. This document not only helps you navigate your journey responsibly but also ensures the organisations and communities we partner with are treated with the utmost respect and cultural sensitivity.

All volunteers are required to sign the Code of Conduct before their program begins. This ensures you’re fully prepared and aware of what’s expected before arriving in Ghana. Following these guidelines is essential for maintaining the safety and wellbeing of yourself, your fellow volunteers, and the local community.

Please note that any breaches of the Code of Conduct could jeopardise the safety of those around you and may result in the termination of your placement without a refund.

Project Limitations

At Volghano, we’re committed to giving you all the information you need to determine if our projects are the perfect fit for you. Each project page is carefully broken down into outlining roles, responsibilities, and key factors to consider. It’s essential to read and understand these project outlines so that your chosen volunteer program meets your expectations and delivers an unforgettable experience!

At Volghano, we place special emphasis on our medical and wildlife volunteer in Ghana. These opportunities are designed primarily as observational experiences. While we do not guarantee or encourage hands-on activities, they must be performed under suitable supervision and are at the participant’s own risk if such opportunities arise.

Medical Volunteering – Your level of involvement in a medical volunteer program depends on several factors, including your medical experience, the program’s duration, and your willingness to get involved. Medical staff oversee all volunteers under their supervision, and ultimately, they decide what tasks you may undertake.

Some of our past medical volunteers have had opportunities to administer IV injections, dress wounds, and more. However, hands-on involvement is never guaranteed — this applies regardless of your medical experience or background. For most volunteers with little or no medical training, the role is primarily observational. If you’re pursuing a medical-related degree, you may have more chances to assist with basic tasks, but again, this is entirely at the discretion of the medical staff.

It’s important to note that most Travel medical insurance will not cover incidents related to medical practice abroad, so always proceed with caution.

Wildlife Volunteering – Working with animals is incredibly rewarding but comes with a level of unpredictability. That’s why all Volghano wildlife volunteers operate on a strict hands-off policy. Our focus is on creating a natural and ethical experience, where volunteers help provide for the animals’ essential daily and long-term needs, such as feeding, cleaning enclosures, and offering behavioural or environmental enrichment.

Physical interaction with animals is not permitted, and if hands-on opportunities arise, they are entirely at the participant’s own risk. Additionally, most insurance will not cover incidents involving hands-on activities with animals.

Wildlife volunteering can be both physically and emotionally demanding, so it’s crucial that participants are in good physical and mental health before committing to the program. If you have any concerns, we strongly encourage you to reach out to a member of the Volghano team — we’re here to help!

Each volunteer contributes in their own unique way, working at their own pace and utilising their individual strengths. We kindly ask that you respect the differences among your fellow volunteers and recognise that everyone’s efforts are valuable. Pushing beyond your abilities will only hinder your experience and potentially compromise your safety.

Travel Insurance

Having the right travel insurance during your time abroad is absolutely essential! That’s why it’s mandatory for all our international volunteers to have comprehensive coverage for the entirety of their trip.

While most of our volunteers enjoy a smooth and rewarding journey, sometimes the unexpected can happen. Having a solid travel insurance policy in place ensures you’re prepared to handle any challenges that may arise, giving you peace of mind to fully embrace your adventure.

We strongly recommend setting up your travel insurance as soon as you confirm your place with Volghano. Doing so may even provide you with protection for your trip in the event of an unforeseen cancellation (depending on the policy terms).

It’s your responsibility to choose a travel insurance policy that fully covers every aspect of your overseas experience. Make sure your policy includes the following: