NPH USA Travel

Anyone interested in learning about NPH’s work can join a trip — long-time sponsors and first-time visitors alike. Trips are listed on the Travel section of the NPH USA website. To secure a spot, complete the online registration and pay the deposit by the deadline on the registration page. Trips often sell out, so it’s best to register early. 

Some youth trips include adult chaperones who volunteer their time. A chaperone fee may be included in pricing for minors to help offset trip expenses for these volunteers.  

Meals vary by home but are generally simple and include basic Latin American foods like rice, beans, eggs, tortillas, chicken, and cheese. Notify NPH USA in advance about allergies or dietary restrictions so they can work with the home. Visitors will oftentimes eat with the children and stay in dorm-style visitor housing, typically shared by guests by gender and age.  

Trip fees include meals, lodging, in-country transportation, emergency health insurance, and a charitable contribution to the NPH home. Some trips also include excursions, or special events. Vision trip costs may include additional expenses for offsite meals or hotel stays. Check individual trip details for specifics. 

Trip participants help in areas of greatest need at the home — such as the kitchen, garden, recycling area, or farm — contributing to daily life. Spending time with children through play and activities is central. Most groups spend afternoons and evenings with the children because the children attend school in the mornings.  

NPH clinics are staffed by professionals, but depending on need and at the home’s discretion, there may be opportunities for visitors to observe or assist with tasks like distributing medicine. Basic Spanish proficiency is recommended, and you should notify NPH in advance if you want clinical involvement. 

NPH offers international volunteer placements requiring a full-year commitment beginning in January or July, with an application process. NPH USA does not place short-term volunteers internationally but does offer local volunteer roles with regional and national offices.  

There are no language requirements to join a trip. All trips include at least one bilingual (Spanish/English) staff member or leader, though basic Spanish is helpful.

Yes. You may bring a gift for your godchild. NPH recommends gifts that can be shared with other children (like games, books, or art supplies) or meaningful personal items like a framed photo. Check guidelines in the NPH International Visitor Policy or ask your trip leader if unsure.  

NPH will try to arrange a visit between you and your godchild when logistically possible if requests are submitted at least three months before the trip. The godparent covers any extra travel or housing costs for the child and guardian during the visit. 

To see if the child is available for sponsorship, record the child’s full name (ask your trip leader if needed) and contact the NPH USA Sponsorship Department after your trip. They’ll tell you if the child is available and help you start the sponsorship process.  

NPH USA does not provide medical advice. Travelers should consult their physician about immunizations based on personal health history and check country-specific recommendations on the CDC website.  

Background checks are required for all visitors age 18 and older staying overnight at an NPH home to ensure the safety of children and other visitors. Background checks are valid for one year and included in trip costs. If you have completed a background check that is valid within 12 month of the trip’s dates, you’re welcome to submit it for review. Otherwise, NPH USA will send you a secure link to complete the process.

A valid passport is required for international travel and must typically be valid at least six months beyond travel dates. Most destinations served by NPH USA don’t require U.S. visitors to have a visa except Bolivia; travelers are responsible for checking the U.S. State Department for exact passport and visa rules.  

In-kind donations are appreciated if items are new and clothing is small to medium sizes. You can ask about specific needs of the home you’re visiting, but commonly useful items include socks, sneakers, underwear, t-shirts, toiletries, and sports equipment.  

Yes. Independent visits (individuals, families, or small groups) may be possible depending on housing availability at the NPH home. NPH USA is happy to connect you with the home’s Visitor Coordinator; however, all planning and logistics must be arranged directly between you and the Visitor Coordinator. This includes scheduling, housing, and visit details.

Please notify NPH USA at travel@nphusa.org if you are planning an independent visit so we can begin the required background check process prior to your departure.

If you prefer to wait for a future NPH USA–led trip, you may also complete the Travel Interest Form below. We will notify you if a trip becomes available that aligns with your interests.