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Ultimate Gap Year Adventure
by: Impact Gap Year
Embark on a life-changing journey through Asia, Africa, and South America, where you'll make a positive impact and create lasting memories. Beginning in Nepal, you will get involved in various volunteer roles, like teaching at local schools, and taking care of rescued pets. Next, you will head on to Cambodia, where you will take part in sustainable gardening and construction initiatives before traveling to South Africa for the Big 5 conservation volunteering. You will conclude your journey in Costa Rica, where you will help alleviate social and economic issues by assisting in various industries, including organic gardening, handicrafts, and cheese and jam-making businesses. Eligibility requirements: - Must be in good physical and mental health - At least 18 years old during travel - Have a fluent understanding of English Don't miss this chance to forge meaningful connections in each country you visit. You may visit our website and inquire today for complete information about this program.
Embark on a life-changing journey through Asia, Africa, and South America, where you'll make a positive impact and create lasting memories. Beginning in Nepal, you will get involved in various volunteer roles, like teaching at local schools, and taking care of rescued pets. Next, you will head on to Cambodia, where you will take part in sustainable gardening and construction initiatives before traveling to South Africa for the Big 5 conservation volunteering. You will conclude your journey in Costa Rica, where you will help alleviate social and economic issues by assisting in various industries, including organic gardening, handicrafts, and cheese and jam-making businesses. Eligibility requirements: - Must be in good physical and mental health - At least 18 years old during travel - Have a fluent understanding of English Don't miss this chance to forge meaningful connections in each country you visit. You may visit our website and inquire today for complete information about this program.
Program Highlights
Embark on a 14-day trekking and adventure extravaganza in the breathtaking Himalayas.
Explore the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat in Cambodia on a captivating journey like never before.
Experience various outdoor activities—catch waves, surf, hike, and explore the stunning Wild Coast of South Africa.
Experience the rich forests, amazing wildlife, and stunning beaches of Costa Rica.
Enjoy an amazing adventure where you'll make a difference and cherish memories in every country you explore.
Quick Details
- Costa Rica
- Nepal
- South Africa
- Cambodia
- 7-12 Months
- Agriculture
- Animal Welfare
- Building & Construction Projects
- Community Centers
- Community Development
- Conservation
- Wildlife
- Adventure Travel
- Animals
- Volunteering
- Wilderness
- American
- Australian
- Austrian
- Belgian
- British
- Canadian
- Chinese
- Czech
- Danish
- Dutch
- English
- European
- Finnish
- French
- German
- Greek
- Greenlandic
- Hawaiian
- Hungarian
- Icelandic
- Italian
- Japanese
- Korean
- Luxembourg
- Manx
- Marshallese
- Mauritian
- Micronesian
- Norwegian
- Polish
- Portuguese
- Russian
- Saint Helenian
- Saint Lucian
- Saint Vincentian or Vincentian
- Sammarinese
- Scottish
- Serbian; Montenegrin
- Seychelles
- Singaporean
- St. Barts
- Swiss
- The Vatican
- Turkish
- Virgin Islander
- Welsh
- Liechtenstein
- Maltese
- Mexican
- Spanish
- Swedish
- Statian
Awards

Program Reviews
Hear what past participants have to say about the programs
Overall Rating
Total Reviews
Heart Full of Awe
January 18, 2024by: Cilina J - CanadaHonestly, I don’t want to leave! I’ve met a lot of incredible people from different countries, I’m in love with the staff here, the kids at my site have stolen my heart. I feel so content – my heart is full.”
I arrived safely in Cambodia
January 18, 2024by: Denise P - DenmarkI received a warm welcome. The guest house hostess is kind and lovely.The school teachers and staff are awesome. All the volunteers are friendly and caring too. Immersed in this welcoming community, every moment feels like a step towards unforgettable experiences and lifelong friendships.
I’m loving it here
January 18, 2024by: Brenda M - CambodiaIt was an amazing experience and I have come away with a profound respect for the country and people I volunteered with. The accommodation is lovely, the food is great, and the girl I’m rooming with is really nice too. Everyone at the project so lovely and welcomed me warmly.
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- Costa Rica
- Nepal
- South Africa
- Cambodia
Types and Subjects
- Causes
- Agriculture
- Animal Welfare
- Building & Construction Projects
- Community Centers
- Community Development
- Conservation
- Wildlife
- Types
- Adventure Travel
- Animals
- Volunteering
- Wilderness
Availability
Years Offered: Year Round
- 7-12 Months
- Career Break / Mid-Career
- After College
- Post High School
- During College
Age Requirement
18-30
Guidelines
- American
- Australian
- Austrian
- Belgian
- British
- Canadian
- Chinese
- Czech
- Danish
- Dutch
- English
- European
- Finnish
- French
- German
- Greek
- Greenlandic
- Hawaiian
- Hungarian
- Icelandic
- Italian
- Japanese
- Korean
- Luxembourg
- Manx
- Marshallese
- Mauritian
- Micronesian
- Norwegian
- Polish
- Portuguese
- Russian
- Saint Helenian
- Saint Lucian
- Saint Vincentian or Vincentian
- Sammarinese
- Scottish
- Serbian; Montenegrin
- Seychelles
- Singaporean
- St. Barts
- Swiss
- The Vatican
- Turkish
- Virgin Islander
- Welsh
- Liechtenstein
- Maltese
- Mexican
- Spanish
- Swedish
- Statian
This Program is also open to Solo, Group
Starts At
Program Cost Includes
- Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
- Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
- Airport Transfer (Drop-Off)
- Required Equipment
- On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
- Pre-Departure Orientation
- In-Country Orientation
- Training
- Cultural Training / Program / Orientation
- Some Meals / Partial Meal Plan
- Emergency Support
Accommodation Options
- Dormitory
- Group living
- Guest House
- Home-stays
- Other
Qualifications & Experience
- English
Language Skills Required
- High school graduate, diploma or the equivalent (for example: GED)
- University Freshman (1st Year)
- University Sophomore (2nd Year)
- University Junior (3rd Year)
- University Senior (4th Year)
- University 5th Year or More
- Some college credit, no degree
- Bachelor’s degree
- Associate degree
Accepted Education Levels
Application Procedures
- Online Application
- Other
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the 8-month gap year fees?
Program fees include airport transfers, accommodation in all destinations, select daily meals (South Africa and Nepal), bicycle use in Cambodia, project training, local coordinators, safety support, and 24/7 emergency assistance. Pre-departure guidance and orientations are also covered. Flights, visas, insurance, vaccinations, excursions, and certain mandatory contributions are excluded.
How long is the Ultimate Gap Year Adventure?
This structured volunteer gap year runs for 8 months across Nepal, Cambodia, South Africa, and Costa Rica. It includes 4 weeks in Nepal, 12 weeks in Cambodia, 12 weeks in South Africa, and 7 weeks in Costa Rica. The program blends trekking, conservation, construction projects, and community development for long-term global impact.
What volunteer activities will I do abroad?
Participants trek to Annapurna Base Camp, teach or support shelters in Nepal, build classrooms and garden in Cambodia, monitor Big 5 wildlife in South Africa, and assist with conservation and sustainable development in Costa Rica. Tasks include habitat restoration, farming, construction, data collection, and community-based initiatives.
Who can apply for this global volunteer program?
This program is ideal for motivated gap year students seeking international volunteer work, adventure travel, and leadership growth. Applicants should be adaptable, physically prepared for outdoor activities, and willing to contribute to hands-on projects. Background checks, visas, required vaccinations, and a sustainability contribution fee apply.
Are excursions included in the gap year program?
Cultural highlights such as trekking in the Himalayas, visiting Angkor Wat, exploring South Africa’s Wild Coast, and hiking Costa Rican rainforests are part of the experience. However, optional excursions, monument entrance fees, and extra activities are not included in the base cost and require additional payment.
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