Expeditions for 17-24-year-olds* in Borneo, Costa Rica and South Africa. Different environments, same life changing experience. Where will you go?
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What is a Raleigh Expedition?
Its more than a volunteer or gap year trip
It’s a life-changing experience which blends adventure, challenge, and impactful projects to build resilience and develop leadership skills.
If you’re aged between 17 and 24* you can go to Borneo, Costa Rica or South Africa for 5-, 7- or 10-weeks. You’ll volunteer on environmental and community projects in remote locations, detox from your phone and test yourself on an adventure challenge.
Don’t just see that part of the world – live it.
*increasing to 18 in 2026.
Special offer
Get up to £310$380$380$380 off South Africa Expeditions
Be one of the first 50 bookings on Cycle 3 2025 and bag a discount!
Costa Rica
A tropical paradise where you’ll work to support the fragile ecosystems and with indigenous communities on access to education and sanitation.
South Africa
Renowned for it’s wildlife, you’ll work to take action on development in local communities and conservation projects while exploring breath-taking landscapes.
Borneo
Volunteer in Borneo to help combat mass deforestation and support underdeveloped communities. Explore ancient rainforests and see orangutans.
Expedition price overview
South Africa
10 weeks £4,490$5,610$5,610$5,610
7 weeks £3,590$4,490$4,490$4,490
5 weeks £2,950$3,690$3,690$3,690
4 weeks £1,990$2,490$2,490$2,490
Limited offer
Costa Rica
10 weeks £5,490$6870$6870$6870
7 weeks £4,400$5500$5500$5500
5 weeks £3,700$4650$4650$4650
Borneo
10 weeks £5,250$6,560$6,560$6,560
7 weeks £4,590$5,750$5,750$5,750
5 weeks £3,200$3,995$3,995$3,995
How do Raleigh Expeditions work?
Expedition life
A Raleigh Expedition is made up of three main phases as well as time at Fieldbase.
It starts well before then, in the build-up when you’re raising the funds to go.
And lasts long after you come back and join our Alumni community.
Fundraising
Even before you embark on an Expedition, it’s begun. There’s a phase before you get out there which will make it all possible. Fundraising.
Being away for an extended period of time is never cheap and it can feel like a huge mountain to climb. But there are options out there to make it easier. You simply need to commit to the idea and be prepared to work for something that will be worth it in ways you can’t imagine yet.
Just ask some of the 57,000 people who’ve done it.
We’ve partnered with easyfundraising to help with this > Find out more
Community Phase
We contribute to UN Sustainable Development Goals:
GOAL 2: Zero Hunger; GOAL 3: Good Health and Well-being and GOAL 4: Quality Education. GOAL 5: Gender Equality. GOAL 6: Clean Water and Sanitation.
You’ll work side-by-side project partners and local community leaders in rural areas on development initiatives that support poverty alleviation and improve access to education. At the same time you’ll learn important skills in project management, active citizenship and international development. You’ll also take part in cultural exchange sessions to integrate into the culture of the communities you’re working with.
The impact you’ll make will last long after you leave > Find out more
Environmental Phase
We contribute to UN Sustainable Development Goals:
GOAL 13: Climate Action. GOAL 14: Life Below Water. GOAL 15: Life on Land
You’ll work with local experts on conservation projects that support the protection of local wildlife and biodiversity. While on project, you’ll live within nature and learn about the importance of nature conservation, climate change and living sustainably, giving you a grounding in environmental issues from multiple perspectives and sustainability.
The impact you’ll make will last long after you leave > Find out more
Adventure Challenge
You’ll go on a journey of personal growth that’ll continue for the rest of your life. No matter your trekking experience, everyone starts and finishes the trek together – come rain or shine! Supporting one another, not giving up and sharing your achievements together will be some of your Expedition’s most memorable and defining moments.
In addition to embarking on awe-inspiring treks spanning up to 250km across stunning landscapes, you’ll will take on essential roles during trek. This includes being a part of the Day Leader and Navigator ROTA, where you’ll lead the strategic planning and execution of trekking objectives, such as reaching designated food drop-off points, all while ensuring the team’s welfare under the guidance of Venturer Managers.
Fieldbase
Induction
At the start of your Expedition you’ll arrive at Fieldbase and have time for training – including safety briefings, codes of conduct and plenty of teambuilding activities to get to know each other.
Changeover
During each phase you’ll return to Fieldbase to ‘changeover’ groups, wash and sort out your kit, learn about your next project and pack up again for the next phase.
Endex
This is when you’ll get the chance to reflect on all your experiences, receive some final feedback from our Venturer Managers and other staff members which should help you continue your personal development and time to say your goodbyes (or plan your next adventures together).
How will a Raleigh Expedition benefit me?
On your Raleigh Expedition, you’ll develop life skills through unique experiences that will impact you for the rest of your life.
Transformational
- Leadership skills
- Problem solving
- Communication skills
- Team working and collaboration
Purposeful
- Understanding of global issues
- Gaining perspective
- Cultural understanding
- Sense of satisfaction mentally
Challenging
- Mental resilience
- Physical endurance
- Commitment
- Taking the initiative
“My experience on my Raleigh Expedition has given me foundational skills and confidence in my next life choices.”
Marie | Raleigh Alumni
Who can go on Expedition?
Anyone aged 17-24
No matter where you’re from, what your background is. Proud to be an inclusive programme.
Over 25? Venturer Manager roles
When can I go on Expedition?
CYCLE 1 – February – April
CYCLE 2 – June – August
CYCLE 3 – October – December
Expedition lengths include 5, 7 and 10 weeks.
*From 2026 you will need to be aged between 18-24. We won’t accept anyone aged 17 while on Expedition. Find out more
How our Venturers rated Raleigh last year
95
say they would recommend Raleigh
94
say Raleigh developed their leadership skills
87
say its one of the best things they've ever done
Why go on a Raleigh Expedition?
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 an Adventure Challenge
Inclusive
Join diverse teams of young people from across the globe as well as National Venturers.
Real adventure
We're an adventure filled experience that will push you out of your comfort zone.
Future ready
Gain the skills, confidence and perspective to play a leading role in building a better world.
Raleigh Expedition FAQs
Frequently asked questions about Raleigh Expeditions
How many people will be on Expedition with me?
On a Raleigh Expedition there will be between 30 to 70 Venturers during a cycle, depending on the time of year. During projects, you will be split into smaller groups of roughly 15 international Venturers, 2-3 national Venturers and 2 Venturer Managers.
Where will I be staying on a Raleigh Expedition?
This will vary depending on whether you are at Fieldbase, on project sites or on trek. However, you can expect your living arrangements to be simple as you will stay in remote locations alongside local communities.
There will often be access to cold showers and flushing toilets. However, this may not be possible in some remote locations. You will also have access to community kitchens when local people are not using them.
You can find more information on the specific pages for Borneo, Costa Rica and South Africa.
What do I need to take with me on Expedition?
This will vary depending on your Expedition location. Your Venturer Coordinator will ensure that you are given a thorough packing list.
Packing guidelines for Costa Rica and South Africa can be found on our website.
Can anyone join a Raleigh Expedition?
We welcome Venturers from all backgrounds and nationalities. If you are aged 17-24 and are seeking adventure, wanting to make a difference and striving to learn about yourself and other cultures – then Raleigh Expedition could be right for you.
Are the meals provided on Expedition?
Yes, all meals are provided on a Raleigh International Expedition. Food will vary depending on the country you are in but will always be freshly cooked and healthy.
Food will usually be provided at Fieldbase. However, on projects you can expect to turn recipe cards and ingredients into satisfying meals with your teammates.
Projects usually take place in remote areas with access to fridges. The Raleigh pantry consists of ingredients like rice, pasta, beans, chickpeas, porridge, eggs, bread and other local foods.
We can cater for most dietary requirements. However, you must inform us in advance so we can prepare.
How can families keep in contact?
We have a no phone on project policy so Venturers will not be able to contact home for the duration of the 19 day phase. In between project phases, Venturers will have access to phones and phone charging facilities and be able to call. Ahead of the Expedition we will provide all next of kin information on how to get in touch.
How does Raleigh International ensure the safety of Venturers?
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 Venturers. Our Safety Management Systems are robust, practical. Please see below for some valuable insights for anyone looking for how to plan a gap year safely and responsibly.
- Raleigh has support from local clinics and medical insurers to respond in the event of an emergency.
- Every team is accompanied by a trained Project Coordinator who is with the group 24/7. All project coordinators are first aid trained.
- All project sites are risk assessed ahead of time and have MEDEVAC and CASEVAC plans in place, including nearby hospitals and evacuation routes.
- Our full-time operations staff is trained and experienced in incident management.
- In the event of an emergency, professional and skilled operators, such as medical air rescue services and medical practitioners, are available as part of our support network.
How inclusive is a Raleigh Expedition?
Raleigh International welcomes Venturers from all backgrounds and cultures. One of the best things about Expedition is that you get the chance to make friends with people you might not normally meet. Why do people take gap years? It’s because these experiences help build connections with diverse individuals and broaden your perspective, making your journey even more rewarding.
Raleigh Expedition is a safe and inclusive environment where young people can bring their authentic selves on programme
Need more Expedition information?
Hear from Raleigh Alumni about life on Expedition
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