Rafting Programs Abroad

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 mountain passes and through mysterious cloud forests to the remains of a fallen civilization. Then, it's time to explore Ecuador's natural beauty. From surfing and whitewater rafting to hiking and exploring volcanoes, Ecuador has it all! For your second project, you will spend three weeks deep in the Ecuadorian rainforest and complete vital conservation work. Get face-to-face and hand-to-paw with rainforest inhabitants while volunteering at a rescue center for wild animals. And learn the secrets of life in the rainforest directly from an Indigenous community while staying at an eco-lodge. Finish your epic journey with a visit to one of the most famous national parks on Earth, the Galapagos Islands! Hike, sail, and snorkel your way around the islands made famous by Charles Darwin. You will then return to Quito for the final trek to the center of the world!

Join the Eco-Agriculture program in San José, Costa Rica with International Volunteer HQ and help support sustainable farming and community agriculture initiatives in and around the city. Volunteers assist with planting, harvesting, gardening, composting, farm maintenance, and environmental education projects designed to promote sustainable living and food security. This placement is an excellent fit for anyone interested in environmental stewardship, sustainable development, or agriculture, including gap-year travellers, students, or anyone seeking a hands-on volunteer experience abroad. Your hosted experience includes airport pick-up, a full orientation, accommodation in a volunteer house or homestay depending on placement, two meals daily, and 24/7 support from the local team. Before you depart you will also receive guidance from your IVHQ Program Manager along with access to training tools to help you feel prepared. Programs begin every Monday. Volunteers join an international community and have time to explore Costa Rica’s vibrant culture, city life, and nearby natural landscapes while contributing meaningfully to sustainable agriculture and community wellbeing.

Join Maximo Nivel work-study-travel programs in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru. We have been a leading educational travel and study abroad provider since 2003. - Volunteer Abroad - International Internships - TEFL Certification & Paid Teaching work - Native Spanish Program - and more... Volunteer abroad and get involved! Volunteer projects include Working with Kids, Construction, Animal Care, Conservation, Eco-Agriculture, Teaching English, and Medical and Healthcare placements. International internships provide excellent work experience abroad. Internship placements are available in Education, Special Education, Hospitality and Tourism, Human Rights, Micro-Business, and Medicine. TEFL Certification is your ticket to traveling and teaching anywhere in the world, and getting paid for it! Intensive teaching certification programs are available on-site in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru or via our online TEFL program. Native Spanish Programs immerse you in the language and takes your skills to the next level. All Maximo Nivel Spanish programs emphasize oral communication and integrated skills development to truly help build your Spanish language proficiency.

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. Journey across dramatic landscapes, from the fjords of New Zealand to the tropical reefs of Australia. Hike, surf, snorkel, and dive while building global perspective through hands-on conservation and meaningful service learning. Learn directly from Māori and Indigenous Australian communities through authentic cultural exchange. Along the way, develop real-world skills in leadership, teamwork, and sustainability with the option to earn U.S. college credit. With experienced instructors by your side, you’ll gain clarity, confidence, and lifelong friendships while exploring two iconic destinations for adventure and growth. Whether you’re preparing for college, building your resume, or redefining your education through travel, this immersive journey will leave you inspired and ready for what’s next. Inquire today to start your New Zealand & Australia Semester with Pacific Discovery.

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.

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 mountains to the beach and Chiang Mai to Bangkok as you go rock climbing, snorkeling, and rafting. Plus, interact with Asian elephants. Thai Elephant Conservation Project – Learn how to be an elephant trainer while doing hands-on tasks at an animal sanctuary. Ocean and Rainforest Service – Explore Thailand’s vibrant ecosystems as you snorkel pristine reefs, learn conservation techniques in ancient rainforests, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of a unique seaside community. Come with Nothing – Dive into service projects at three remote villages in Northern Thailand, and then spend time with your host families as you learn about local life in this culturally immersive program.

Global Works specializes in teen service trips and educational experiences to Costa Rica for high school and middle school students. These student travel programs have been our most popular over the years for good reason. Incredible biodiversity and a welcoming culture make Costa Rica an awesome choice for a summer adventure. Global Works offers volunteer programs in different focus areas. We offer opportunities for community service, Spanish immersion, cultural exchange, pre-med and public health, wildlife, adventure travel, and a middle school-focused program to this special corner of the globe. Program Options: * Costa Rica: Service & Sand (15 days) * Costa Rica: Wildlife Adventure (17 days) * Costa Rica: Intro to Pre-Med & Public Health (17 days) * Costa Rica: Middle School Service Adventure (10 days)

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 mountain surroundings and enjoying each other's company on the quiet river banks. Next, get ready for the Southern islands as we swap the jungle for the beach! We will swim, snorkel, scuba dive (optional), trek, and relax through this idyllic part of the world on the tropical island paradise of Koh Phi Phi and Krabi. Finally, jump into the bustling hub of Southeast Asia, Bangkok. Explore culturally historic icons, including the Royal Palace, Emerald Buddha, and Ayutthaya, before immersing yourself in the fast-paced street food scene, savoring pad Thai, and hunting for a bargain on Khao San Rd.

The Costa Rica: Cloud Forest Community Initiative program offers the perfect mix of adventure and service. Whitewater raft through the lush rainforest of the Pacuare River, spotting wildlife like monkeys, sloths, and toucans along the way. Live in a remote cloud forest village, contributing to important infrastructure projects. Learn to surf the calm waves of Costa Rica’s Pacific Ocean, while enjoying the country’s stunning palm-fringed beaches. Discover the process of coffee production in the lush green mountains where it’s grown, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of rainforests, pristine coastlines, and hidden waterfalls, all while connecting with and supporting local communities.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to become a certified surf instructor on the breathtaking beaches of Australia! The Academy Surfing Instructors (ASI) accredit this program, which blends expert surf training, ocean safety education, and hands-on teaching experience, equipping you with the skills to conquer waves and inspire others. You will gain a surfing technique and a globally recognized certification. If you're looking for adventure, a career change, or a chance to connect with nature, this program offers the perfect balance of skill development, adventure, and environmental awareness.

Help care for elephants at an elephant nursery, living the life of a mahout, and helping to protect Thailand’s vulnerable population of these magnificent creatures. Explore the ancient temples, buzzing markets of Chiang Mai, and the unspoiled beauty of the northern Thai countryside. At the elephant sanctuary, where you’ll spend the bulk of your trip, rescued elephants are cared for by expert mahouts, who you’ll work alongside and learn from. You’ll immerse yourself in the life of a mahout, rising early to walk and bathe the elephants, collecting grass for meals, and feeding them. As you work, you’ll learn about these beautiful, intelligent creatures and gain a deeper respect and appreciation for their relationship with humans. In addition to our interactions at the elephant sanctuary, we’ll delve into the ancient history and culture of Chiang Mai, exploring beautiful monasteries and savoring Thai cuisine at food markets. We’ll also venture into the beautiful countryside of Northern Thailand, experiencing all that the country has to offer.

This program goes beyond ordinary high school travel programs and build cross-cultural community service summer trips perfectly geared to your interests and curiosities. Whether you’re looking to contribute to authentic service projects, experience exhilarating adventure, or develop your language skills, GoBeyond will immerse you in a new culture where you can make a meaningful difference while on the journey of a lifetime. Our high school community service summer programs proudly serve in many under-resourced communities and environments throughout the world. Explore our journeys in the British Virgin Islands, Costa Rica, Galapagos & Ecuador, Peru, Iceland, Spain, China, Thailand, India, Sri Lanka, and Australia. Beyond experiencing the adventure of a lifetime and creating lasting memories, we believe our community service summer trips enable lasting positive change in the world. For over forty years, we’ve been transforming communities, environments, and students’ lives through meaningful, collaborative adventures and service that develop skills and a more sophisticated worldly outlook—ultimately shaping the person you become.

This is truly the ultimate West Coast teenage road trip! The program begins in San Francisco and Lake Tahoe in Northern California. Then, cruise down the coast and fall in love with the beaches of Santa Barbara and the most famous hotspots in LA and San Diego. Next, it takes you into the American Southwest, exploring the majesty of dramatically changing scenery with a stay in Vegas. The grand finale is in beautiful Scottsdale. Our program leaders are experts at creating a close-knit, inclusive family atmosphere where everyone feels welcome. With so much adventure and excitement on this teen tour, you’re in for an unforgettable summer with plenty of new friendships ahead! This program is available to students completing grades 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 (ages 13-17). Separate departure dates are assigned to create compatible co-ed age groups. We offer an exclusive departure for middle school students completing grades 7 and 8.

Explore the best of Australia with a 12-month visa. You'll have the ability to choose where you live, travel, and work; receiving support in the background during your adventure! Earn money to fund your travels, make a million friends and memories, and maybe take a side trip or two (Fiji anyone?). This program is geared towards travelers who want to do their own thing, but with a leg up in the job search. There are many seasonal jobs throughout Australia for proactive and independent travelers. Qualifications U.S. Citizen, 18-30 years old.

Volunteer at one of the largest & most successful wildlife rehabilitation/release centers in Africa! Participants on this project work with a range of animals; anything from chimpanzees to baby cheetahs. Experience beautiful Zimbabwe all while making a positive impact on the delicate African ecosystem. The orphanage is a haven for animals with little hope for survival in the wild; these are creatures that have been orphaned, abandoned, injured, born in captivity, or brought up unsuccessfully as pets. Additionally, it is home to an increasing number of animals confiscated from illegal wildlife traffickers. The orphanage has been featured in countless documentaries & is now world renowned for its pioneering work as well as famed as one of Africa's largest & most successful wildlife rehabilitation/release centers. Eligibility: - Good level of English - Vaccinations (please consult doctor) - Age 18+ (exceptions for 17 year olds if there are more than 2 volunteers wanting to come)

Journey through the South Pacific on an immersive adventure that spans Fiji’s coral-rich waters, New Zealand’s alpine landscapes, and Australia’s rugged Outback and iconic reefs. Begin in a coastal Fijian village, where you experience island traditions, explore waterfalls, and snorkel alongside local dive experts. Ski New Zealand’s Southern Alps, join a welcoming Kiwi homestay, and then sail through Australia’s Whitsunday Islands as part of a working crew. Cap it off with time in Sydney and epic hikes around Uluru and Kata Tjuta.

Take your paddling and leadership skills to the next level on our 29-day expedition down the legendary Missinaibi River, a Canadian Heritage River. Over 530 km you’ll navigate thrilling rapids, paddle through pristine wilderness, and experience breathtaking waterfalls along the way. Expect big days on the river, hands-on learning, and meaningful leadership challenges that build confidence, resilience, and teamwork. This immersive program is designed for dedicated young paddlers between the ages of 15-17 years old, who want to develop advanced tripping skills, gain leadership experience, and earn certifications such as Canoe Tripping and Intro to Moving Water Canoeing. As the journey concludes in Moose Factory, participants will spend time engaging with local community members, learning about Moose Cree culture, northern history, and life along James Bay. This cultural experience offers a powerful perspective on the land and its people. By the end of this journey, participants leave with advanced paddling skills, leadership confidence, a deeper appreciation for the wilderness and the communities that call it home, and lasting memories from one of Canada’s most iconic rivers.

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.

Establish a solid foundation for life in this exceptional program for teens. ISSFT provides young people from around the world with the opportunity to study and have fun together in a supportive, safe, and nurturing environment. We encourage intellectual curiosity while supporting the development of a healthy sense of independence and self-esteem through our unique curriculum. We offer a diverse, engaging, and stimulating range of educational classes. To ensure the highest teaching standards, we maintain a limited number of places and guarantee small class sizes, providing individualized student attention. Our learning outcomes provide new opportunities for students, including the chance to appreciate different perspectives. Our main objective is to provide a world-class education, help them grow in confidence, and ultimately make informed life decisions. We aim to prepare them for the future and equip them with the tools to flourish.

Work alongside conservationists and researchers and dive with sharks in a controlled environment in this exciting program for young participants who are at least 15 years old and have a PADI Open Water Diver or equivalent scuba certification. Dispel negative myths surrounding sharks and discover their importance to ocean ecosystems. On a single dive, observe bull, lemon, and tiger sharks. At the Shark Reef Marine Reserve, dispel the myths surrounding sharks and observe multiple species in a controlled setting. Learn all about shark biology and behavior. Contemplate their incredible survival over the past 400 million years and discuss their future. Even assist with research and conservation efforts. In Fiji, the study of sharks isn't limited to the ocean. Listen to locals tell stories of Dakuwaqa, the ancient Shark God in a Fijian village. Develop a greater understanding of these beautiful and often misunderstood creatures. And discover a newfound love and respect for the Fijian people and their islands. On this extraordinary South Pacific adventure, you’ll acquire much more than college credit.