Gapforce

Costa Rica was one of the most meaningful and transformative experiences of my life. It was my first solo trip, and what started as an opportunity to travel and earn my Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver, and Divemaster certifications became so much more than that. I made lifelong friends, immersed myself in a new culture, and discovered the beauty of living simply through my homestay experience. I loved being surrounded by the warmth of the local people, learning about their way of life, and experiencing a culture so different from my own. Everywhere I turned there was something new to appreciate. The incredible wildlife, vibrant marine ecosystems, and natural beauty made even the simplest days feel special. I spent much of my time diving, exploring beaches, discovering nature, and learning more about marine biology. I especially loved being able to turn my passion for the ocean into something meaningful by participating in beach and underwater cleanups, collecting marine debris, contributing to coral restoration projects, and gathering data to support conservation efforts. What made Costa Rica truly unforgettable, though, was the people. The friendships I formed, the kindness I experienced, and the sense of community I found made me feel connected to a place thousands of miles from home. Costa Rica taught me independence, adaptability, appreciation for simplicity, and the importance of protecting the natural world. I left with more than certifications and memories; I left with a deeper appreciation for different cultures, a stronger connection to the ocean, and a desire to continue exploring, learning, and making a positive impact wherever I go.

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Going to Sri Lanka was an experience I’ll never forget. During my time there I got to meet the most wonderful people and experience so much culture I never knew had existed. From the moment I got there till the day I left I felt very safe within my accommodation as well and the staff members who would help me with anything I needed. I would recommend.

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The program 100% met my expectations. I learned so much even in just four weeks. I would definitely recommend it to others; the program is also very flexible. I actually got my nudibranch awareness diver certification, which isn't part of the program, but I was interested in it, so I worked with the amazing people there to get it. The best part, as obvious as it is, was the diving. I loved learning new skills, but being able to apply them underwater was next level. I've definitely unlocked a new obsession. If you want to be a confident diver and learn about coral health and marine life, this program is for you :)

I had an amazing time in Peru and Ecuador! I made friends that will last a lifetime and experienced things I will never forget. Seeing one of the seven wonders of the world was surreal. I couldn’t have asked for a better guide either. Colin was attentive and kind to everyone always!

This was the teip of a lifetime.The other people in my group were from all over the world, yet we bonded almost imeadiately. Even though the activities, treks and itinerary were all fantastic, the 7 weeks was made unforgetable by the people. Collin, the group leader, was also extremely kind, funny and energetic the whole trip. He gave the group support whilst giving us the freedom to tailor the trip to our preferences, spend time alone or do other activities which we all really apreciated. This trip not only keeps you very engaged with the nature and culture of South America but also physically active aswell. You will be challenged mentally and physically at some point of the trip in the best way possible. I would highly recomend for any gap year students looking to get out of their comfort zones and meet new people. I am truly bonded for life with my group and will never forget the time we shared together.

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I had so much fun doing the Eco Internship in Koh Tao. I’m very grateful for Gapforce’s support before my trip and also very grateful for the support we had on site by the lovely dive instructors and especially Matt. Everyone was really looking out for us which made for a lovely atmosphere.

Very very close to the breathtaking rice fields, location very close to Ubud. The staff were very friendly and was unforgettable. The excursions were amazing(rafting, coffee farm, massage) and the smile on everyone's faces.

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This trip was the best it gave me so much travel confidence while still being in a secure and safe environment met so many new people and have made freinds which I can visit all over the world as well as in quepose

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The program has been absolutely amazing! I have loved everything about Australia, formed a lot of new friends/relationships, and made so many great memories so far. I would 100% recommend it to others, I think everyone should get to experience this beautiful place. My favorite part was the camping trip on Frasier Island, but I have also loved sky diving, snorkeling, and all of the nights out have been a blast. Overall, this has been the best experience I’ve ever had and I’m so glad I got out of my shell and booked it.

A very enjoyable 50 days spent with fun like minded people. Our leader Gaz was very knowledgeable about travel and had plenty of tips. We did a variety of activities with tubing and white water rafting being highlights along side Machu Picchu we also did lots of day hikes to some amazing views! Would recommend as a great confident booster to first time solo travelers. About half the group went home after the trip and half stayed in South America to do further travel. Would recommend bring a waterproof cover for day bag as it can rain a lot on treks and this helps to keep stuff dry.

This was an amazing experience in which I learnt a lot about the world around me and myself. The trip has the perfect balance of Independence and being led as well as a balance of adventure and chill time, all amazing to bond with team mates. The trip has a nice mix of urban areas and countery side and beautiful views. Would definitely recommend. There are so many awesome opportunities to take part in and range of activities keeping you on your toes.

Doing the South America Explorer trip was one of the best decisions i’ve made in my life! I got to experience some amazing things, like spending so much time in a foreign country, volunteering with animals for over a week which has been a longtime dream of mine, and trekking in the jungle seeing amazing landscapes!! I think my favorite activities were the white water rafting, walks around cusco, the spanish school and the chance to play fútbol at a local venue. Gaz was an amazing leader and made things fun and adventurous the entire time. I felt so lucky to have such an amazing and knowledagable leader and great group of people to travel with!! I would recommend this trip to anyone in a heartbeat. Even the harder things we did, pushed me to do things out of my comfort zone and I am so glad to have had the opportunity to experience all that we did

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I really enjoyed this trip! I loved the Salkantay trek as well as the other hikes we did as it felt very accomplishing and also found it to be a really beneficial way to connect with the group. The volunteering at the animal rescue centre was definitely a highlight as it was a unique experience that I’m very grateful I got to interact with such amazing animals I would have never seen otherwise. Overall I really loved the trip and would say our guide had really made the trip as well. He really helped to me to make the most of the opportunities and I think really brought the group together.

My Gapforce trip to Peru and Ecuador was amazing and full of adventure, culture, and volunteering. I loved exploring Machu Picchu, hiking through the rainforest, and meeting locals in small communities. Our guide was super helpful and made sure everything ran smoothly. I didn’t enjoy the lack of freedom at times, but I understand it was for safety reasons. Overall, it was an unforgettable experience that helped me grow, make friends, and see the world in a completely new way.

I absolutely loved the South America Explorer trip organised by Gapforce! All the activities, food and accommodations were amazing - personal highlights include the Salkantay trek and the volunteering at the animal rescue centre. My leader, Gaz, was also incredible, from his organisational skills to his insane jungle knowledge! I would thoroughly recommend this trip for anyone who wants to explore Peru and Ecuador whilst getting to know others and visiting places off the traditional tourist trail. It also offers a combination of pre-departure support and support during the trip as well as a a certain level of independence. Overall, it was a once in a lifetime opportunity and I am so grateful to Gapforce for allowing me to experience this and create special memories!

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It has been an amazing trip. I have had the best time, and enjoyed all of it. There have been such a wide range of activities, so I've not gotten bored at all, and the timings of staying at each place have been really good. Everything is organised really well, it seems really smooth, and the leader was above my expectation: a really nice, friendly man, who was also very experienced with what he does. Volunteering at the animal sanctuary was my favourite part of the trip, it was an insane experience, doing things you won't do again, such as being so close to all the animals. The trip exceeded my expectations so much, and those who came on the trip as well were so nice and friendly. The trip included so many things I wouldn't think to do if I booked my own trip, making it really good. I have had such a good time, and 100% recommend people to go on it. I will remember this forever.

My South American trip happened as a result of my previous trip being cancelled. This trip was referred to me as it included volunteer work, something I am focusing my gap year around. I’m happy to say that I had the best time ever with the most amazing people and rich experiences. From the Spanish classes to the treks to the volunteer work everything was planned properly and allowed us to properly experience South America to its fullest. My highlights were Punta Hermosa and Yanacocha/Tamandua. The beach was such fun with the surfing and stunning sunsets, the perfect time to relax after Salkantay. The jungle experience and volunteer work was more than I could have imagined, working with animals and becoming our own leaders by the end of it. I learnt so much and had the best time!

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Everything on this trip was organised so well that it all fit together without it feeling rushed and giving plenty of free time to explore things individually as well. The homestay experience was a highlight for me as it let me practice my Spanish and meet an amazing family. Although the Salkantay trek was tough at times it was so worth it and everyday you got to see something new and amazing and alongside the jungle experience and working at the animal sanctuary you really feel like you get to grips with the wildlife that Peru and Ecuador have to offer. In addition the adventure activities were definitely adrenaline fuelled and so much fun. I would recommend this trip a million times over to anyone who is looking for adventure and culture combined!

This was my first travel experience and it was great. Starting in Cusco was a great place to meet everyone and the city is amazing. The Salkantay trek was some of the best days of my life with Machu Picchu capping it off. So the whole trip with Quilatoa,the activities in Baños, the wildlife volunteering and the otovalo market it’s overall a great trip. I would also say though if you are going bring a bit of soap unless you’re ok with 3in1 :) and pack a bit of variety in your clothing as you will be trekking but there are opportunities to go out at night with the others on the trip.

I had a lot of fun Cusco was a good start to the trip. After that the Spanish school was a nice to stay in a house. Salkantay trek was great! Some other highlights was banos and punts hermosa, that’s all.

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