An Adventure with Purpose

Are you ready for the challenge to change lives and transform yours?

WE ARE RALEIGH INTERNATIONAL

Who we are

Transformational. Impactful. The beginning of the rest of your life.

This is how Venturers describe our Expeditions.

For 40 years, over 55,000 volunteers have transformed their lives on an adventure with purpose with Raleigh International. We run Expeditions to South Africa, Costa Rica and Borneo where you’ll volunteer on change-making projects which not only create a sustainable difference, but can spark a change in your life.

Now, it’s your turn.

Our Expeditions Our impact

“Challenging, but ultimately massively rewarding and fulfilling experience!”

Maria | Raleigh Alumni

It starts with Raleigh

Your new friendships, passions, confidence, and purpose: It all starts with Raleigh.

Expeditions

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What is a Raleigh Expedition?

Experience Adventure. Create Impact.

Volunteering with Raleigh is unlike anything else. You’ll take part in three phases.

Environmental project – contribute to projects which support wildlife havens and the fragile eco-systems.

Community project – immerse yourself into a world of new cultures while you volunteer in the heart of rural communities.

Adventure trek – embrace the transformative power of challenge as you take the lead in spectacular and untamed landscapes.

Whether volunteering on a 4, 7 or 10 week programme, joining an Expedition is just the first step to changing your life.

Open to 17–24-year-olds.

Where can I go on Expedition?

Thinking about going on a Raleigh Expedition? The big question is where to go? We’re always here to help you make the right choice for you.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, home to national parks, volcanoes and stunning landscapes. You’ll be immersed in an indigenous community while on volunteer projects supporting access to education and helping protect it’s fragile eco-systems. Conquer a whopping 250km trek through rainforests and mountains.

Costa Rica Expeditions

South Africa

There is nowhere better than Greater Kruger to walk in the footsteps of the world’s most spectacular wildlife. Become one with local community life and the African bush on community and environment projects. Experience South Africa’s highest mountains whilst trekking approx. 250km from Fieldbase to the incredible Drakensberg Mountains.

South Africa Expeditions

Borneo

Malaysian Borneo is home to a huge 6% of the world’s biodiversity and it’s ancient rainforest is the largest in Southeast Asia. While Borneo is rich in biodiversity and home to many species, it has one of the highest global deforestation rates. You’ll be volunteering on projects to help combat this and support remote, underdeveloped local communities.

Borneo Expeditions

Why a Raleigh Expedition?

Described by our Venturers as “absolutely life-changing”. Expect a memory-making adventure full of fun, rewarding experiences and real world connection.

People your age

Apart from staff, you're grouped with people aged 17-24. This is unique to Raleigh.

Digital detox

There are no phones on project sites, only at Fieldbase. Be truly in the moment.

Varied experiences

Take part in up to three phases - community and environmental projects and a trek.

Inclusive

Join diverse teams of young people from across the globe as well as National Venturers.

Real adventure

We're booze-free and adventure filled experience that will push you out of your comfort zone (safely!).

Future ready

Gain the skills, confidence and perspective to play a leading role in building a better world.

Why Raleigh?

The impact we make

Quality education

Provide safer places for children to study, teaching assistance and homework clubs.

Environment

Reduce the impact of human-wildlife conflict, create and restore healthier bio-systems and reduce pollution.

Reduce food insecurity

Set up and maintain cooperative farming initiatives to supply extra meals for children and communities.

Water and sanitation

Improved health and well-being by increasing a community’s access to clean water and sanitation.

Our impact

Over 25?

Become a Venturer Manager

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Raleigh International FAQ's

Frequently asked questions about volunteering on a Raleigh International Expedition

How inclusive is Raleigh International?

Raleigh International welcomes volunteers from all backgrounds and cultures. Raleigh Expedition is a safe and inclusive environment where young people can bring their authentic selves to the programme. One of the best things about Expedition is that you can make friends with people you might not normally meet.

How many people will be on Expedition with me?

You will be part of a team of roughly 14 international volunteers, 2-3 national volunteers and 2-3 volunteer managers.

How safe are the projects?

Safety is at the heart of everything. This starts with selecting the appropriate places to volunteer, all the way to providing comprehensive safety training to all volunteers. Our Safety Management Systems are robust, practical, and effective.

Every programme has qualified medical staff supporting the volunteers.
Every team is accompanied by an experienced tour leader who is with the group 24/7.
In the event of emergency, professional and skilled operators such as medical air rescue services and medical practitioners are available as part of our support network.
Experienced In-country staff and Volunteer Management team on every Expedition