Safety While Volunteering in Nepal

Is it safe to volunteer in Nepal? It's usually the first question every volunteer asks, and the honest answer is: Yes!

Safety while volunteering in Nepal comes down to good preparation and reliable local support, and Nepal itself is a safe and welcoming destination for volunteers, known for friendly communities and a strong culture of hospitality. As with any international trip, sensible precautions make all the difference, and that's exactly what RCDP's safety measures are built around.

Nepal is a welcoming and safe destination for volunteers. Since 1998, RCDP has been running volunteer programs through many changes and challenges in Nepal, including political transitions and the 2015 earthquake. Throughout this time, RCDP has reported no incidents involving volunteers.

Nepal has changed a lot over the past few decades, but its warm and welcoming culture remains. People are known for being friendly, helpful, and welcoming to visitors from around the world.

Traveling to a new country can feel unfamiliar, and it’s completely normal to have questions. Here’s what you can expect from RCDP to help keep you safe and supported throughout your time in Nepal.

Pre-Trip Support

RCDP helps you prepare for your volunteer trip to Nepal before you leave home. We guide you through the important arrangements and help you know what to expect.

Before traveling, it’s important to make sure your vaccinations are up to date. Talk to your doctor and check the CDC website for information about the vaccinations you may need for Nepal.

RCDP can also guide you through the visa process, advise you on what to pack and what to expect in Nepal, and answer any questions or concerns you may have before your trip. We are here to support you every step of the way.

Comprehensive Travel Insurance

Your safety and security are RCDP’s top priority. That’s why having comprehensive travel and medical insurance is required before you travel to Nepal.

Travel insurance can help protect you if something unexpected happens, such as an injury, flight problem, or other emergency.

RCDP coordinator can guide you on the type of coverage you should look for and share what has worked well for past volunteers. This way, you can choose your insurance with confidence.

In-Country Supervision and Support

Your RCDP project supervisor will be your main point of support while you are in Nepal. If you need help with anything, you needn’t worry; they will be there to assist you. They know the project, local area, and community well, so you can feel supported as you settle in and get familiar with your surroundings.

During your stay, your in-country supervisor will:

• Pick you up from the airport when you arrive.
• Arrange and manage your accommodation and meals, and support you while you stay with your host family or at the volunteer hostel.
• Give you a detailed orientation about the local culture, project rules, your host family, and Nepal in general.
• Introduce you to your project colleagues and other important people in the community.
• Check in with you daily and weekly to see how you’re doing and help you adjust to the local culture.
• Provide advice and support, and help resolve any problems or concerns that come up.
• Provide a 24/7 emergency contact number that you can call at any time, day or night.

A Safety Net of Other Volunteers

Being around other volunteers can make you feel more comfortable and supported, especially when you are living and working in a new country. It’s completely natural to feel more at ease when you have people around you who are going through a similar experience.

RCDP welcomes volunteers from around the world and, when possible, can place you with other volunteers. You may share a room or work on the same project together, depending on availability and what works best for everyone.

Along the way, you can also meet new people, make lasting friendships, and share the experience of working toward a common goal.

Trusted Host Families

RCDP works with trusted and respected host families who have been carefully selected to host international volunteers. Many of our host families have been welcoming volunteers for more than 26 years.

Staying with a host family offers you several benefits, including the chance to experience everyday life in Nepal, connect with the local community, and practice the local language. Most importantly, you will have the support of a welcoming family while living in a safe and comfortable environment.

Personal Safety Tips While Volunteering

Nepal is a safe destination for international volunteers, but it’s still important to follow the same basic safety precautions you would in any unfamiliar country:

• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in areas you don’t know well.
• Keep valuables such as your passport, passport copies, and cash secure. Carry only the amount of cash you need for the day.
• Drink bottled or properly filtered water, as tap water in Nepal is not safe to drink.
• Let your host family or coordinator know your plans if you’re going out on your own.
• Keep your family or friends back home updated about your general plans and whereabouts.
• Trust your instincts. If a place or situation doesn’t feel right, leave and contact your coordinator.

Before you travel, check your home government’s travel advisory for Nepal. Travel advice can change, so it’s important to check for the latest entry requirements and regional guidance before your trip.

Other similar articles:

• Free time and Weekend Exploration in Nepal
• How your money is allocated
• In country Support
• RCDP Nepal Volunteer Team