
Lilas Hampe
RealStep
AlumniI was inspired to go abroad by the idea of experiencing something completely different from my everyday routine. The thought of waking up just steps a...
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AFS-USA
0
If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience that blends education, culture, and personal growth, consider attending a Folk College (in Danish: højskole) in Denmark! Folk colleges are unique, non-formal schools where you learn through experience rather than exams or textbooks. These vibrant co
GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization
77
GoEco offers more than 60 wildlife and animal conservation volunteer opportunities and internships worldwide! Our programs focus on the welfare and conservation of various species, both wildlife and domestic animals. We offer volunteer opportunities and internships at wildlife rescue centers, wildli
See All 49 ProgramsInternational Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
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Work to protect endangered sea turtles and their coastal habitats while supporting local conservation efforts. You will assist a dedicated conservation team to help ensure safe nesting and hatching environments and contribute to long term protection of marine life and shoreline ecosystems. Typical
See All 23 ProgramsInternational Medical Aid (IMA)
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IMA Safaris Africa and South America, an initiative of International Medical Aid, offers student travel, educational tours, and treks across Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Zambia, Peru, Ecuador, and beyond. Programs welcome university students, faculty-led groups, and other travelers interested in
Pacific Discovery
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Experience an unforgettable 10-week Gap Year Semester through New Zealand and Australia, two of the world’s most amazing travel destinations. This Pacific Discovery program is designed for students taking a gap year, seeking an alternative study abroad, or looking to combine travel with purpose. Jo
See All 24 ProgramsActionQuest Summer Adventure Programs
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Living aboard sailing yachts in small groups of 11 to 13 teenagers of similar ages, ActionQuest students discover the British Virgin Islands, learn new skills, earn certifications, and develop leadership abilities while having the time of their lives! Up to eight yachts sail together in a flotilla,
Rustic Pathways
38
Play games with Asian elephants, snorkel in crystal blue waters, and immerse yourself in village life as you explore a country known for its warm people. Our programs take you off the beaten path for an unforgettable journey through Thailand. This includes: Thailand Adventurer – Travel from the
See All 17 ProgramsTravel For Teens
20
We will explore the historical city of Chiang Mai, basking in the down-to-earth charm of this northern gem, shopping at local markets, enjoying a traditional Thai massage, and seeing lavish historic temples. Get ready to spend a day white water rafting down the mighty Pai River, taking in the scenic
See All 13 ProgramsGlobal Works
6
Get hands-on experience in the fields of pre-med and public health on this medical teen travel program! Aid in the improvement of Costa Rica's public health through clean water projects and educational outreach. Work side by side with physicians and healthcare professionals to expand your knowledge
See All 6 ProgramsGapforce
25
Visit two of South America’s most iconic countries—Peru and Ecuador—and discover the lost lands of the Incas! Start your adventure in South America with intensive Spanish lessons, then step up the adventure with an epic trek across the Andes to Machu Picchu on the remote Salkantay route—over icy m
See All 3 ProgramsArcos Journeys Abroad
13
Join us for a transformative adventure in Mexico! This action-packed program combines surfing, hiking, and cultural exploration, perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers. Kick off your journey in Oaxaca City, the cultural hub of Mexico, where you'll spend a couple of days discovering vibra
See All 4 ProgramsSeamester Study Abroad at Sea
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Seamester is the educational adventure of a lifetime! For more than 40 years, we have offered unparalleled educational voyages where students spend a semester at sea sailing between islands, countries, and even continents. We design our programs to provide engaging learning experiences with real out
InterExchange
24
Our Work & Travel Canada program gives U.S. citizens between the ages of 18 and 35 a chance to experience the beauty of our northern neighbor while earning money throughout the year. Start with an arrival orientation in Vancouver or Toronto and continue with job support throughout your program. If y
See All 3 ProgramsPutney Student Travel
4
Immerse yourself in local life in northern Tanzania on this high school service program. Collaborate with local residents on construction, agriculture, and education projects, learning firsthand about Tanzanian culture and community life. Play soccer with local children, practice Swahili, and explor
See All 10 ProgramsWestcoast Connection
15
Join us this summer on an amazing Greece and Italy adventure travel program for teens. Explore ancient ruins and breathtaking natural landscapes, and savour the freshest, most incredible food in this program that takes you off the beaten path. See breathtaking views from the seaside villages of Cinq
See All 11 ProgramsARCC Programs
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Join us for an unforgettable journey that immerses us in Bali’s vibrant culture and the pristine natural landscapes of Northern Sumatra. Our adventure begins in Sumatra, where we explore the rainforest and observe orangutans in their natural habitat. Working alongside rangers and NGO partners, we co
See All 6 ProgramsNosara Spanish Institute
6
Combine Spanish at Nosara Spanish Institute with two surf lessons per week at Playa Guiones, Costa Rica. Beginners are welcome. NSI coordinates lessons around your confirmed Spanish timetable and the tides. Choose 10 or 20 Spanish lessons weekly, each lasting 50 minutes. Groups average 2–4 students
See All 2 ProgramsGo Abroad China Ltd.
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Go Abroad China’s High School Chinese Language Immersion Program is designed for international students aged 13–18 who want to learn Chinese in China while experiencing authentic Chinese culture in a safe and supportive environment. Students can choose from University Chinese Language Programs, Sm
International Language Camps
0
Join an unforgettable international summer experience in the French Alps. Designed for young people aged 10 to 13, our Junior Program combines English or French language learning, outdoor adventures, cultural discovery and friendships with campers from around the world. Each week includes 15 hours
See All 2 ProgramsWhere There Be Dragons
0
In a country where the phrase "gross national happiness" appears on a list of key development metrics, Bhutan encourages us to ask what we can learn about notions of "happiness" as contributors to our own quality of life. Our journey into the Himalayan region gives us rare access to the sacredness o
Why settle for a day hike around the same neighborhood pond when you can hike somewhere new and spectacular? Hikes in these places are spectacular.
Costa Rica offers travelers a wealth of options for outdoor exploration. On your hikes, you’re likely to spot monkeys swinging through the branches and toucans calling out from above. Be sure to look down too, at the leaf-cutter ants marching in pulsing lines across the forest floor. Any hiking in Costa Rica is guaranteed to bring you closer to nature and awe you with its colorful diversity.
For travelers who are interested in animal conservation, hiking in South Africa can be the perfect opportunity. Different regions offer hikers a range of experiences, from exploring ancient forests and wetlands to spotting whales and dolphins along the coast. Travelers can also expect to spot giraffes, elephants, and lions while on safari, or help maintain game reserves while learning about endangered species.
If climbing up steep mountains is more your style, check out hiking adventures in Ecuador. This South American country has it all: towering Andean peaks, tropical rainforests, and the incredible biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands. Hike up an old Incan trail at 14,000 feet and camp out under the stars, trek up an active volcano, or float down an Amazonian river while spotting rare birds.
Many hiking adventures are paired with conservation projects, which can teach you about local flora and fauna while aiding the environment. Some project options include monitoring nesting sea turtles, surveying penguin populations, or maintaining African game reservations. During these hiking trips, you’ll often be provided basic accommodations at a guest house or lodge near the project site. Conservation-based programs often have varying lengths, so you can stay a couple of weeks or several months depending on interest.
If you’re more interested in learning about the local culture, some hiking trips offer participants a chance to contribute to community service projects, take language lessons, or go on cultural excursions. Stay with a host family in a rural village, help construct a community center, or trek on horseback with indigenous nomadic riders, you can have it all while hiking abroad.
Other hiking tours abroad are designed purely to get you outside and get the adrenaline flowing. If that’s your intention, you’ll have hiking opportunities that include white water rafting, volcano climbing, scuba diving, or zip lining, depending on your location. The majority of cultural and outdoor-specific hiking trips last from two to four weeks, but some will be longer depending on the itinerary.
Enjoy the Outdoors. Scientists have proven that spending time outdoors reduces stress and boosts well-being. Why not get an extra dose of happiness while you travel abroad by spending time hiking? Combine outdoor adventures, learning about other cultures, and taking in new sights, and you just may reach nirvana before returning home!
Feel Accomplished. Hiking tours are the perfect opportunity to challenge yourself. Spending a lot of time outdoors in an unfamiliar environment can sometimes be stressful, but returning home with stories of triumph is always an ego boost. Whether you sleep outside despite the creepy crawlies nearby or make it to the top of a monstrous peak to take in the view, you’ll be glad you did it, even if it made you a bit uncomfortable at first.
Understand the Risks. Most hiking trips abroad take place in remote locations where assistance and supplies are limited. Make sure that you’re comfortable with the fact that help might be a day or two away. Additionally, ensure you’re in good health before embarking on a strenuous hiking trip or choose a program with a more relaxed pace. The good news is that hiking tours are available for hikers of all abilities.
Choosing to spend your time abroad outdoors is sure to reward you! With each dusty step, you’ll be leaving footprints on the ground and a lasting impression in your heart. After having traveled across a new country the way ancient explorers did, you’ll gain strength you didn’t know you had and an appreciation for the intricate ways humans interact with their environment. Use this knowledge to make the world a better place, one small step at a time.
Hear what past participants have to say about their experiences
Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
It was one of the best decisions I have ever made and would recommend to anyone! So much fun and could take part in an array or activities including sky diving and hiking. I’ve learnt so much and met so many amazing people!
Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
I had an amazing time and I Genuinly had the best time ever ! All the staff were so kind and fun and they made the trip so much fun for all of us! Every day we did such cool activities and we were never bored - all the places we stayed were so nice and South Africa is such an amazing country, if I could do it again I would !



Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
What an amazing adventure trip! Rowena, Divan and Brett were all fantastic and made the experience so special. Full of excitement, fun and unforgettable memories, it was truly an incredible adventure!
Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
Warriors was really great and i had an amazing week where i met amazing people, pushed myself and had the best time. My favorite activities included volounteering at a crèche, meeting elephants, skydiving and hiking. Thank you!

Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
Best week of my life instructors were incredible every moment was so special would do it all over again if I had the option. Never a dull moment, the whole team was so special and kind. The activities made the experience insane !
Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
The staff were all so friendly and encouraging, I loved meeting lots of new people and i loved all the activities especially the sky diving. The food was all delicious especially the traditional south african ones
Program: Caribbean Scuba and Sailing Voyage
Broadreach is the best thing to do during your summer. I think that my biggest concern when going on my trip was that I might not have any friends on my boat and that was not the case at ALL. The diving is insane and every day is just nonstop fun. By being away from the world with just a couple of kids your age you will be best friends with everyone on that boat. You dive together, you sail together, you cook together, eat together, clean together, and you become a family. I had the best time of my life and there is really nothing like it.
Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
This program is extremely well organized in terms of activities and trips, all accommodations are of high quality and safe. Activities are extremely safe, and promote self growth, as well as give a thrilling experience. The base camp is beautiful and nature filled. 10/10.👍

Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
Doing MAI is so worth it I learnt even more this year than I did last year. Being in a leading position taught me patients and how to deal with many different people and personalities. Each adventure made me closer with each person whether they were facilitators or students
Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
My experience at Warriors Academy has been one of the best experiences of my life. When I first arrived, I knew I was going to do a lot of activities and meet new people, but I never expected to leave with so many memories, friendships, and lessons that would change the way I look at life. Warriors has taught me so much about myself. I have learned to push myself out of my comfort zone, face my fears, and try things I never thought I would be able to do. From hiking mountains and rafting rivers to abseiling, swimming, and taking part in different challenges, every activity taught me something new. There were times when things were difficult, but those moments helped me realise that I am capable of more than I sometimes believe. One of the biggest things I will take away from Warriors is the people I have met. The friendships I have made mean more to me than words can explain. The people on the farm have become like a family to me, and I will always be grateful for the role they have played in my life. I have met people I look up to, people who have challenged me to become better, and people who have made me laugh even when things were tough. The memories we have made together are something I will carry with me for the rest of my life. The staff and instructors have also played a massive role in my journey. They have helped me learn new skills, overcome challenges, and understand the importance of responsibility, teamwork, and leadership. They have shown me that growth does not always happen when things are easy, but often when we are uncomfortable and have to push through challenges. Warriors has also helped me appreciate the small things in life. Spending time around the fire, having conversations with friends, enjoying the outdoors, and laughing together are moments I will miss more than I can explain. Sometimes, it is the simplest moments that become the best memories. Looking back, I can honestly say that I did not leave Warriors as the same person who arrived. I have grown in confidence, learned more about who I am, and gained a better understanding of the person I want to become. I still have a lot to learn, but Warriors has given me a strong foundation to keep growing. Leaving is not easy because I am leaving behind people and a place that have become such a big part of my life. However, I know that the purpose of this journey was never to stay comfortable forever, but to grow and take what I have learned into the world. I will forever be thankful for my time at Warriors Academy. The experiences, friendships, lessons, and memories will always have a special place in my heart. Warriors was more than just a gap year. It was a chapter of my life that helped shape the man I am becoming, and I will never forget it.
Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
The MAI program at Warriors Academy was an incredible experience that pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow both personally and professionally. I gained valuable qualifications, developed my leadership and guiding skills, and discovered just how much I’m capable of. The program challenged me in ways I never expected, while giving me the opportunity to learn, grow, and experience amazing adventures. I’m so grateful for the skills, friendships, and memories I’ve gained, and I would highly recommend MAI to anyone who loves the outdoors and wants to challenge themselves!
Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
Completing the Fourth Quest at Warriors Academy was the ultimate capstone to my journey. As the final quest, it focused heavily on bringing everything we had learned together—stepping up into true leadership, taking ownership, and pushing past mental limits. From high-adrenaline outdoor adventures to deep personal reflection, every single day challenged me to move far beyond my comfort zone
Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
Warriors changed my life in so many ways. it gives you opportunities that you never thought would come your way, and connections with people you never thought could be so special. I absolutely recommend this program for everyone.
Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
When i first arrived i had no clue what to expect since i signed up very late. I began the first week thinking the quest would never and but every day i started to enjoy the things more and i made a lot of new friends. I had the tike of my life with amazing activities!! Today is my last day here and honestly, i wished it would last longer. I had an amazing time and i would definitely reccomend it!!
Program: Warriors Gap Year Experiences
It is an amazing program the people and the staff are amazing they will always make sure that you are safe and if there is a problem they are always there to help What i learned while at Warriors i insane i learned about myself and how to work with others
Program: St. Lucia: Advanced Scuba Voyage
Oh man, where do I begin? Broadreach has given me some of the most incredible experiences, memories, and skills in my life while being able to explore so many new places across the world! I got to try a whole lot of new food, give back to the communities across the world with service projects, see new life, gain new skills diving and sailing, and make lots of new friends and memories along the way! I remember one memory fondly where one of our instructors was able to make a lemon float mid-air using an air tank during some downtime, and its still one of the most bizarre but fun memories I have! I hope I can go back to sail with Broadreach again some day!
Program: Caribbean Scuba and Sailing Voyage
EXTREMELY FUN EXPERIENCE!! In summer of 2024, I did the 12 day Snorkeling + Sailing trip and it was an incredibly unforgettable experience. I especially enjoyed visiting the various islands included in my itinerary, cooking meals for the rest of the crew, and just having a fun, relaxing time! Highly recommend this for anyone looking for a fun time for their teen! I’m going next summer too! Edit 1: In summer of 2025, I attended the 12 day Scuba Diving and Sailing trip and it was (once again) spectacular. I was skeptical about scuba diving at first, but the instructors on my boat made sure myself and all of my other crew mates feel properly prepared and accommodated for the activity. I really enjoyed everything from the previous trip and ESPECIALLY recommend doing the scuba route which is truly unforgettable (we literally had a shark swim with us in Saba!). Yes, of course I still highly recommend Broadreach. To Broadreach: sorry, you're stuck with me (I'm gonna keep coming back :) Edit 2: Summer 2026 I attended the 17 day sailing and scuba adventures as part of the first program from June 14 to July 1st. When I tell you, this was my favorite Broadreach trip (so far) I mean it!!!!!!! 17 days was a much more laid-back experience and now that I am in high school it was so nice to have more chill, laid back students and instructors. We scuba dive so much and the certifications we got were well worthwhile. We did community service on Statia and Saba and overall had the time of our lives!! Don’t worry, Broadreach, I will be coming back :).
Program: 5 Day Ecuador Beach Towns Tour: Nature, Culture & Adventure
Este viaje me tocó el alma. 🥹❤️ No fueron solo los lugares que conocí, sino todo lo que me hicieron sentir: la gente, los paisajes, los sabores y esos pequeños momentos que terminan convirtiéndose en recuerdos enormes. Regresé con el corazón llenito y con una certeza: Ecuador tiene rincones capaces de enamorarte una y otra vez. Sin duda, volvería.
Program: 4-Day Luxury Galapagos Cruise Aboard the Elite Catamaran
Since the booking procesos, everything was smooth, my travel Advisor was the greatest, being in Galápagos in this catamaran changed my way of traveling form now on. I highly recomend this amazing trip.
Program: 8 Day Luxury Galapagos Cruise Aboard the Elite Catamaran
Me encantó la gran variedad de actividades a lo largo del viaje, desde caminatas por los paisajes volcánicos de Isabela y Fernandina hasta snorkel con lobos marinos, tortugas, rayas y pingüinos. Las visitas a Bartolomé y Rábida también fueron momentos destacados, especialmente las vistas desde la Roca Pináculo. Todo estuvo muy bien organizado, y la combinación de las actividades con la comodidad del catamarán hizo que la experiencia fuera aún mejor. Sin duda, una excelente opción si quieres ver gran parte de las Galápagos en un solo viaje.
Alumni and staff share what it's really like to go abroad

Lilas Hampe
RealStep
AlumniI was inspired to go abroad by the idea of experiencing something completely different from my everyday routine. The thought of waking up just steps a...
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Olivia Haan 2018
Travel For Teens
AlumniI have been abroad a few times now but I was very drawn to China based on its history and culture. I have been to Thailand before but wanted to explor...
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Carmen Ruiz Ricca
Worldwide Friends Iceland
AlumniI have always loved travelling around, so when I came across this program I thought it was such a great way to get to know this thrilling country.
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Savannah Petrelli
Travel For Teens
AlumniEver since I was young, I had an urge to travel. I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to travel in their lifetime. Being able to see an...
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Rachel Lyon
The Real Uganda
AlumniMy passion to work with children in childcare and my desire to travel whilst also volunteering
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Daan de Kraay
Nullarbor Traveller
AlumniI wanted to see the world and explore to see how Australia looked. I've heard many many stories about this country and they were all true!
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Kimberley Maessen
Nullarbor Traveller
AlumniI always enjoyed traveling and exploring new countries, which was also the main reason for choosing to study tourism.
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Blake Powel
International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
AlumniI love to travel and, specifically traveling abroad, as a way to broaden my cultural awareness. As I am usually traveling with friends or family, I wa...
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Ashley Allen
Travel For Teens
AlumniUltimately my love for adventure, cultural exploration, and stories. I wanted to experience life abroad before I went to university that would allow m...
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Michaela Rubenstein
University Studies Abroad Consortium
AlumniMy parents really pushed me to go abroad because they knew it would make me a well-rounded individual and they regretted not doing it themselves. I al...
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Ivanya Johnson
Broadreach
AlumniMy Mom found Broadreach for me; she knew that I loved adventure, meeting new people, and learning more about the world we live in. Each year I choose ...
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Dallas Fawson
Discover Corps
AlumniThis contrast can be seen in the beautiful church facade in San Andrés Xecul; though it is a Catholic church, it was constructed by Mayan slaves, and ...
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Matthew Ambrogi
Where There Be Dragons
AlumniFirst off, it wasn't an easy decision. But, for me, it was something I had to do. I was in my freshman year of college, working so hard everyday for a...
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Natalie Craun
Global Leadership Adventures
AlumniI wanted to discover what life was like in a developing country, step outside of my comfort zone, and sharpen my social and leadership skills.
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Sydney Harned 2014
Broadreach
AlumniI’d always had a hunch that I wanted to go on to get my Divemaster certification, and after diving the past two summers with broadreach I knew that Sc...
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Sydney Harned 2011
Broadreach
AlumniI’d always been interested in traveling abroad, especially to study marine science. I thought it would be a great experience for me to learn more abou...
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Sally Short
Tropical Research and Conservation Centre
AlumniI love to Travel and I love to dive, The UK is too cold!!!
Read Full InterviewExplore the destinations and program types travelers search for most
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