Mountaineering Programs Abroad

It doesn't get more epic than a 2000-mile tour across the Indian Subcontinent. Journey on this incredible adventure from the lofty, glacial landscapes of the Himalayas and the cool peace of Mcleodganj to the dreamy gardens of the Taj Mahal and hot sands of Goa. Go on the ultimate bucket list trip. Experience a jungle safari in the Royal Chitwan National Park; visit the home of the Dalai Lama; trek to the Everest Base Camp. Get ready to dig deep into your adventure roots, open yourself to exotic cultures, and give back to the communities you visit along the way.

"Looking to step outside your comfort zone and create lasting change? With over 147,000 past participants, International Volunteer HQ is the trusted choice for volunteering abroad. Offering life-changing experiences in Tanzania and 50+ destinations worldwide. In Tanzania, you’ll be immersed in the local culture while contributing to projects that matter. Whether you're passionate about education, healthcare, animal welfare, or community outreach, there are five impactful volunteer programs to choose from—based in and around the vibrant city of Arusha or the idyllic island of Zanzibar. Programs range from 1 to 16 weeks and include everything you need to feel supported and confident throughout your journey. That means airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals, and 24/7 in-country assistance are all part of the package. You can stay in a shared volunteer house with other like-minded travelers or opt for a local homestay to experience authentic Tanzanian life. Before you even leave home, your dedicated IVHQ Program Manager will help you prepare with personalized guidance, exclusive training materials, and travel support.

IMA Safaris Africa and South America, an initiative of International Medical Aid, offers student travel programs, treks, and educational tours across Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Zambia, Peru, Ecuador and beyond. Blending learning with adventure, these experiences build cross-cultural competency and a global perspective while encouraging meaningful engagement with local communities. In Africa, highlights include the Masai Mara, Serengeti, Mount Kilimanjaro, Victoria Falls, and Watamu Marine Park. In South America, signature experiences include the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu Trek, Rainbow Mountain, the Sacred Valley, and other Andean cultural and outdoor excursions that highlight natural beauty and regional history. Many programs are offered in collaboration with colleges and universities and are often led by faculty, creating a structured, supportive learning environment. Participants benefit from 24/7 US-based and in-country support, plus comprehensive accident and travel medical insurance—ensuring a safe, ethical, and memorable experience that supports personal growth, strengthens your resume, and inspires a lasting commitment to global citizenship.

Based in Queenstown, this program combines skills acquisition with the opportunity to truly embrace an outdoor lifestyle. Over 12 weeks, you'll hike, rock climb, pack raft, camp, and explore the backcountry in the adventure capital of New Zealand. Our favorite handpicked locations will provide you with a well-rounded learning experience and genuine connection with the diverse environment within the South Island. From iconic destinations like Milford Sound to hidden local gems that aren't on generic travel itineraries, you'll explore the diverse landscapes surrounding you as you embrace the Kiwi culture. If you're looking for a gateway to living, working, and exploring New Zealand, look no further. The industry connections and networking opportunities created through this program will unlock endless value for your future. This small group tour through New Zealand is perfect for those looking to take a gap year, change their careers, or simply look for a deeper connection to nature.

Explore diverse travel experiences in the USA! Rustic Pathways’ USA programs are designed to offer students impactful and adventurous experiences close to home. From immersing yourself in vibrant local cultures to engaging in meaningful community service, these programs are perfect for developing leadership skills and broadening perspectives. Whether you’re helping rebuild communities in New Orleans or exploring the pristine waters of Hawaii through surf and snorkel adventures, each program is packed with opportunities for growth, connection, and unforgettable memories. Surf, Snorkel, and Service in Hawaii – Join local organizations in preserving Hawaii's biodiversity and enjoy activities like hiking, beach relaxation, and surfing in your free time. Rebuilding New Orleans – Work with local organizations to rebuild homes and join community-building initiatives.

Discover the ultimate Himalayan journey combining the classic Everest Base Camp trek with a spectacular helicopter return to Kathmandu. Designed for international travellers seeking comfort, efficiency, and unforgettable mountain views, this premium package offers the perfect balance of adventure and luxury. Trip Overview Destination: Everest Region, Nepal Duration: 11 Days Max Elevation: 5,545 m (Kala Patthar) Trek Style: Tea House Trek + Helicopter Return Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging Best Seasons: March–May | September–November Detailed Itinerary Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu – Hotel transfer & briefing Day 02: Fly Kathmandu–Lukla (32 min) & trek to Phakding (2,600 m | 3–4 hrs) Day 03: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,410 m | 6–7 hrs) Day 04: Acclimatization at Namche – Hike to Everest View Hotel (3,800 m) Day 05: Namche to Tengboche (3,800 m) Day 06: Tengboche to Dingboche (4,400 m | ~6 hrs) Day 07: Acclimatization day at Dingboche Day 08: Dingboche to Lobuche (4,910 m | ~5 hrs) Day 09: Lobuche to Gorakshep & hike to Everest Base Camp (5,364 m) Day 10: Kala Patthar sunrise (5,545 m) & Helicopter flight to Kathmandu Day 11: Final departure

Travel to Tanzania for Putney’s most challenging adventure as you trek to the “Roof of Africa” and experience world-class wildlife on safari. Climb Mount Kilimanjaro via scenic high-altitude routes, crossing rainforest, moorland, alpine desert, and arctic zones as you learn about climate change, mountain ecology, and local guide culture. After your summit attempt, continue on safari in Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park, spotting elephants, lions, and rare wildlife while exploring conservation efforts and Maasai traditions.

As a country that has such a long and very rich history, Portugal is a solid European highlight to see. On your Global Adventure program with Westcoast Connection this summer, explore traditional villages and historic cities, scenery and seafood, winding alleys and sprawling plazas, dramatic cliffs and stunning views, and beautiful beaches with crystal blue waters. Feel the thrill of a waterfall canyoning adventure in Peneda Gerês National Park. Dive into the crystal blue waters of the Algarve region and the quintessential beach town of Lagos. Pedal the tree-lined streets and river paths of Lisbon, Portugal’s capital city. Hand ten at surf school at Costa de Caparica on the Atlantic. Explore rock formations, deserted beaches, and sea caves from your kayak. Admire the sunset cascading against the city of Porto as you cruise the Rio Douro. This small group adventure will provide you with memories to last a lifetime!

Discover China Through Language & Culture. Founded in 2003, Go Abroad China (GAC) offers immersive Mandarin programs for international high school students. This program combines intensive classroom learning with real-world practice, cultural workshops, and social activities. Program Types: Short-Term (2-8 weeks): Summer/Winter camps. Long-Term (Semester/Year): Study at top Chinese schools. Customized Programs: Tailored to individual needs. What’s Included: Mandarin instruction at leading schools. Homestays, shared apartments, or dorms. One-on-one tutoring and language exchange. Cultural tours, networking, and excursions. 24/7 support for safety and guidance. Why Choose GAC? Achieve Mandarin fluency with certification. Gain cultural fluency and global exposure. Enhance college applications and career prospects. Build lifelong friendships and professional networks.

Volunteer to help impoverished women and their children in Peru with GoBeyond. Casa Mantay, a Cuzco center founded by Raquel and Sergio, serves as a refugee center for teenage mothers and children. Here, they are taught sustainable skills that will help them survive and even succeed in the future. Yuri, an inspirational director at Aldea Yanapay, helps alleviate the social injustices faced by the children through alternative and after-school programs. Earn the Presidential Service Award upon completion of this 100-hour service trip.

A Journey of Adventure, Purpose, and Connection — Discover Nepal & India Beyond the Ordinary Journey into the heart of Nepal and India on a 10-week adventure designed for growth, connection, and purpose. Trek Himalayan trails, practice meditation in mountain monasteries, explore the vibrant energy of Indian markets, and volunteer alongside local communities. This is more than sightseeing—you’ll live the culture, learn from local leaders, and contribute to meaningful projects. Every moment is built for transformation: cultural immersion for the curious, hands-on service for the changemaker, guided reflection for the gap year adventurer, and skill-building for those preparing for what’s next. With experienced instructors and a supportive group, you’ll gain confidence, resilience, and clarity about your path ahead. Whether you’re seeking a reset before college, an alternative to traditional study abroad, a sustainable way to travel, or a deeper connection with global communities, this journey helps you grow into who you’re becoming—while seeing the world through new eyes. Reach out to learn more!

Are you looking for an adventure gap year in South Africa? Then look no further than the Warriors Academy. Our gap year program is the perfect combination of travel, fun, adventure, and self-development. How is our program structured? Our Gap Year program is structured to include four 7-week Quests. Each Quest has its own set of adventure activities, soft skill workshops, and personal mentoring sessions. During each Quest, you will travel through different parts of South Africa, experiencing wild animal encounters, some of the most sought-after hiking experiences, scuba diving in Sodwana, wine tasting in Cape Town, river rafting on the Orange River, and more. You will be taught several different skill sets focused on equipping the skills needed to live the life you want to live, including TRE, Quantum Logic, Public Speaking workshops, Rebounding, and more. Battling with finding direction? We have you covered with career guidance and personal development workshops. We also aim to give back to the communities we visit through various community-building activities.

Join this gap year program designed for your adventurous soul and the part of you that craves out-of-the-box experiences alongside a group of fun-loving friends. We offer the chance to be seen and accepted for who you already are as well as see the world for what it is and what it could be. We inspire rather than coerce. We challenge you to be real. We get dirty. We think big. We work on organic farms, build using sustainable materials, make our own bread, and hike our brains out. As a group, we go on a road trip through the southwest down to Oaxaca, Mexico, looking for adventure and learning about what makes these areas rich and interesting. In the process, you learn the skills of self-sufficiency, community, and quality living. At the end of the program, you will possess new options for living the good life and experiencing the richness of the world. Fall '25 Where: Colorado, Mexico, and the Southwest When: 8/06 – 11/17 Spring '26 Where: Colorado; Utah; Arizona; Bordercountry When: 3/10 – 5/17

We believe that the best things in life are personalized; so we’ve launched our custom courses for 5 or more people. Tell us your dates, duration, and activities—we’ll do the rest! Step by step, we’ll create an unforgettable adventure to Costa Rica or Panama. Bring 7 others on your custom course and you will come for free! Our custom courses are for friends & family, sports teams, youth groups, Girl Scout Troops, and even business teams! Mix and match activities from the following categories: Outdoor Adventure, Volunteering, Skills & Training to create your perfect adventure. No matter your age, the activities you’re taking part in or who you’re here with you will be challenged, you will gain new skills and you will have a once-in-a-lifetime experience. *Please note that, for the health and safety of our participants, OBCR has made program adjustments to these courses. Please visit our website to view our COVID-19 considerations.*

Flying into Lukla—one of the world’s most challenging airports—and trekking to Everest Base Camp creates a sense of achievement that stays with you. Nepal Hiking Team’s Everest Base Camp Trek leads you through some of the Himalaya’s most striking and dramatic landscapes. Views of Nuptse, Everest, and the Khumbu Glacier captivate trekkers at every turn. As you leave the busy pace of Kathmandu behind, the trail passes through rhododendron and cedar forests, gradually opening to the quiet of the high mountains, a place long chosen by sages for meditation. This 16-day journey reaches 5,550 meters and begins with a short cultural tour in Kathmandu before a scenic flight to Lukla. From there, you follow classic trails through Sherpa villages and high valleys toward the iconic Everest Base Camp—an adventure that rewards determination and a deep love for the mountains.

Travel Hype Adventures offers a range of safari tours, mountain treks, and beach holidays across the country's diverse landscapes. Our safari packages include visits to renowned national parks such as Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire, providing opportunities to witness Tanzania's rich wildlife. For adventure seekers, we organize climbs to Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru, catering to both novice and experienced climbers. Beach enthusiasts can enjoy serene getaways to Zanzibar, exploring its pristine beaches and vibrant culture. With over a decade of experience, Travel Hype Adventures ensures personalized and memorable experiences for all travelers.

Ready for an unforgettable Guatemala adventure? Skip the stress of planning and let Do Guatemala, based in Quetzaltenango, craft your perfect trip! Whether you’re after customized travel itineraries, meaningful volunteer programs, Spanish courses, authentic homestays—or a mix of all—our friendly local team has you covered. From iconic spots like Antigua, Lake Atitlán, Semuc Champey, Tikal, Río Dulce, and Chichicastenango to hidden gems and even beach escapes to the tropical islands of Belize, we design your trip around what you want. Solo travelers, couples, families, and groups—all are welcome! Guatemala’s compact size means you can explore multiple highlights in just 5-7 days. Staying longer? We’ll include off-the-beaten-path adventures to make your journey truly special. Excited? Reach out anytime for a no-pressure, personalized itinerary. We can’t wait to help you! #TakeABreakAndDoGuatemala

Nicknamed the “Whiskey” route, the Machame Route is a popular yet challenging path to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its scenic beauty and better acclimatization profile, it's ideal for adventurous trekkers with some hiking or backpacking experience. Though more expensive than the Marangu route, it offers excellent value for those seeking a varied and rewarding climb. The route begins on the southwest side of the mountain and descends via the Mweka route. Trekkers enjoy stunning views across the Shira Plateau, an optional scramble up Lava Tower, the dramatic ascent of the Great Barranco Wall, and a traverse below Kilimanjaro’s southern ice field. 7-Day Itinerary: • Day 0: Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport • Day 1: Hotel to Machame Camp • Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp • Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp • Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp • Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp • Day 6: Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Camp • Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate to Hotel This route combines physical challenge with dramatic landscapes for an unforgettable trekking experience.

Embark on the adventure of a lifetime on our GIVE Tanzania Excursion! Soak up the incredible sights, culture, and wildlife of both the mainland and Zanzibar Island! Give’s Tanzania Excursion takes you from the tropical oasis of Zanzibar Island to the wild plains of mainland Tanzania. Work alongside local residents to build critical infrastructure in the form of Kairo’s only school, provide fundamental English education to community members of all ages, and protect this country’s world-renowned wildlife. Explore one of the most beautiful places on the planet as you swim with wild dolphins in the Indian Ocean, sail over crystal clear waters, snorkel through vibrant reefs, and embark on a two-day safari through the African savannah. Wake up each morning to the sun rising over the sandy white beaches and turquoise waters of Zanzibar Island. In between project work, go for a swim, play soccer with the local community, visit nearby beach markets, or relax with your toes in the sand! After volunteering, continue the adventure with GIVE’s Kilimanjaro Add-on and summit the tallest freestanding mountain in the world! Earn academic credit with our optional Eco-tourism course!

Our 16-day Nordic Elements program balances backcountry trekking with an adventurous road trip down the southern coast. This program is designed for active participants who want to hit Iceland's highlights, camp beneath the midnight sun, and test their backcountry skills on our 4-day Laugavegur trek. Program Includes: Cultural Immersion, Explore, Swim, Hiking Expedition, Thermal Pools, Whale Watching, Glacial Lagoon Tour, Folklore Tour. Completing Grades: 9-12 Sessions: Multiple sessions - See our website for dates and full details!