If you haven’t watched the interview above yet, make sure you do. Alex’s story is one of the most inspiring conversations we have had with a GoEco volunteer, especially for anyone over 40 who is considering meaningful travel or a midlife change of direction.
Alex has joined GoEco three times, and his very first experience was at the Rhino Sanctuary in South Africa. In the interview, he describes it simply as:
“An experience out of the ordinary.”
And he means it. When we asked him what made the program so unforgettable, he didn’t hesitate:
“If I won like a million dollars tomorrow, I would book it every month.”
Why His Rhino Sanctuary Experience Stands Out
During his two weeks there, Alex got closer to rhinos than he ever imagined possible:
“To get up close and personal to a massive animal like a rhino. And we even hand fed the babies, which I don’t think you could even pay for going to a zoo or something like that. So it’s just an experience that I’ll never forget.”
He saw firsthand the impact the sanctuary is making:
“You really see the difference that they’re making, for the rhinos… You actually felt like you were helping out, making a difference, even though it is just for a few weeks.”
And in his written review, he summed it up perfectly:
“My 2 weeks experience at the Care for Wild rhino sanctuary was truly an experience of a lifetime. Being so close to these majestic animals was both surreal and exhilarating.”
A Supportive Team and Volunteers Who Bond Instantly
Alex also talks about how welcoming the team was:
“The staff at the center… they were so nice even though I’m older than the staff. You can’t really tell ‘cause they just welcome you with open arms.”
And even though the volunteer group was small, the connection was instant:
“There was only about five of us, five volunteers in South Africa… You get together, sharing such a unique experience that you bond regardless.”
He is still in touch with two volunteers from that trip.
Why He Keeps Choosing GoEco
For anyone worried about planning or traveling solo, Alex’s words say it all:
“It was just very easy. You get the information, you get the project folder… It’s all laid out.”
And from his official review:
“I booked through GoEco and from the very start, it was easy and informative. I felt taken care of and was at ease.”
If You Are 40+ and Considering Volunteering… Watch the Interview
Alex is in his forties and proves that meaningful adventure is not limited to students or twenty-somethings. His journey shows what is possible when you choose purpose, step outside routine, and try something new.
If you want to hear his full story in his own words, including what pushed him to leave his old career and travel the world, watch the interview above. It is honest, inspiring, and a perfect look at what volunteering abroad can offer at any age.
