Life changing volunteer abroad programmes for young people on our Raleigh Expeditions in Costa Rica and South Africa.
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What is Raleigh Expedition?
Raleigh Expedition is a truly unique international volunteer experience for young people (17-24). You can take part in different projects, equip yourself with new skills, create lasting change and work with communities to take urgent action on the world’s most important issues.
Whether you are taking a gap year or want to do something meaningful in your summer, join young volunteers from across the world and a community of thousands of Raleigh Alumni.
“33 years on from Expedition I still feel the positive impact.”
Terry | Raleigh Alumni
Which countries can I go to?
We currently offer two different countries for our Expeditions.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica in one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, home to national parks, volcanoes and stunning landscapes. The country’s national motto, ‘pura vida’ (pure life), is more than just a saying but a way of life.
Kruger, South Africa
The Greater Kruger area lies between Mozambique, Eswatini and the world-famous Kruger National Park. This area encapsulates Africa at its heart. It is a wildlife haven with natural beauty unlike anywhere else.
Raleigh Expedition:
The beginning of the rest of your life
On Expedition, you will create unique memories to last a lifetime and partner with communities to identify where change is needed most to create a positive, lasting impact.
What makes Raleigh Expedition unique?
Volunteering with Raleigh International is an immersive, one-of-a-kind experience. Described by our volunteers as “absolutely life-changing”, it’s a journey you will never forget. Don’t expect tourist hotspots, five-star hotels and 24/7 wifi (we are all about the digital and alcohol detox); instead, expect a memory-making adventure full of fun, rewarding experiences and real world connection.
Be with people your age
Apart from team leaders and staff, you will be grouped with people aged 17-24. This is unique to Raleigh.
A community environment like no other
We're no phones programme so you can share the experience fully with the same group during your trip. Learn to support each other and make friends for life.
Varied experiences
You will have the opportunity to take part in up to three phases contributing to community and environmental projects allowing you to gain more skills and experiences.
Diverse and Inclusive
Volunteers join diverse teams of young people from across the globe as well as volunteers from the country you are based in.
Real adventure
We're booze-free and adventure filled. Raleigh Expedition is an exciting and fun experience that will push you out of your comfort zone (in a safe environment!).
Future ready
Gain the skills, confidence and perspective to play a leading role in building a better and more sustainable world for everyone.
Over 25 and looking for a Volunteer manager role?
Our Volunteer Managers (VM) are the driving force behind the Expedition and are vital to ensuring the programmes run smoothly and effectively. You can apply for these roles on the main application page.
Need more information about Expedition?
Consultation call
Whether you have a specific question or want to discuss which Expedition is right for you, schedule a call with a member of the team at a time convenient to you.
Join an info event
On our monthly online info events, we’ll tell you all about Expedition. Have your questions answered, meet other volunteers and find out what Expedition is really like from an alumni.
Download a guide
Find out all about Raleigh International and Expedition in our helpful information guide.
How does a Raleigh Expedition work?
Whilst on Expedition, you can take part in up to three project phases.
01. Community projects
Imagine a world where everyone has access to clean water and basic hygiene services. Where everyone, even the most marginalised have access to education. You can play your part in making this a reality by working on impactful projects alongside local communities.
02. Environmental projects
We don’t need to tell you that our world is facing unprecedented environmental challenges. Our projects make small steps toward long-term impact. You will take an active role in protecting natural resources and vulnerable environments.
03. Adventure Leadership
Our leadership adventure projects take teams on challenging treks through rainforest and up volcanos on a variety of stunning routes that tourists don’t get access to. This is a chance to develop your leadership skills and learn about the power of team effort.
The Raleigh Impact
Over the years Raleigh has made some significant impacts on communities, the environment and people
100
Over 100,000 people now have long-lasting access to safe and accessible hygiene facilities and access to toilets, handwashing and drinking water.
74
of volunteers feel happier after being without their phones during Expedition. 63% said they had improved mental health.
65
Volunteers have built or rehabilitated more than 65km of trails and conservation infrastructure
500
Over 500 rural households supported to protect income from environmental challenges.
Why choose Raleigh?
Raleigh International are committed to transformative volunteer experiences with long-lasting cultural and environmental impact. Our projects are developed alongside local communities to ensure our work is ethical, responsible, and relevant to the needs of these communities.
With over 40 years of experience running Expeditions for young people, Raleigh International offers real adventure without compromising safety.
- Raleigh is a global community of over 55,000 alumni and supporters from over 100 countries
- Volunteers have contributed to over 100 million volunteering hours on 600+ Expeditions.
- We have worked alongside 198 rural communities reaching 100,000 people
“The togetherness and the acceptance, the hard work and the culture is (Raleigh’s) intrinsic value.”
Joanna | Volunteer Manager
Choose your country
We currently offer two different countries for our Expeditions
Costa Rica
Volunteer in one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, home to national parks, volcanoes and stunning landscapes. The country’s national motto, ‘pura vida’ (pure life), is more than just a saying but a way of life.
South Africa
The Greater Kruger area lies between Mozambique, Eswatini and the world-famous Kruger National Park. This area encapsulates Africa at its heart. It is a wildlife haven with natural beauty unlike anywhere else.
Expedition length
With 3 different expedition lengths you are sure to find a programme that fits.
10 Weeks
The 10-week programme is the most immersive of our Expeditions. You will take part in all three project phases, in three locations and with three different groups.
Prices from £3,995$5,300$5,300$5,300
7 Weeks
If you don’t have as much time, the 7-week programme is a great option. You will take part in two different phases – one trek and one project – in two different locations, with two different groups.
Prices from £3,570$4,800$4,575$4,575
4 Week Summer Expedition
These special Expeditions run only between June and September. 4 weeks will allow you to participate in one full project and a shorter trek. Perfect for a summer break.
Prices from £2,350$3,300$3,120$3,120
“My experience on my Raleigh Expedition has given me foundational skills and confidence in my next life choices.”
Marie | Raleigh Alumni
WHO
Who can go?
We welcome applications from young people aged 17-24 from all over the world.
Our expeditions are challenging but we are here to support you from when you apply. All you need is an open mind, commitment and a desire to do good!
We are proud to have volunteers from a range of backgrounds and life stages. Raleigh Expedition is a safe and inclusive environment where young people can bring their authentic selves on programme.
If you are aged 25 and over, we have volunteer manager positions available.
WHEN
When can I go?
We run three cycles every year during the following times.
CYCLE 1 – February – April
CYCLE 2 – June – August
CYCLE 3 – October – December
Expedition lengths vary from 4 to 10 weeks.
Apply (17-24)
How will Raleigh Expedition benefit my personal development?
Through a Raleigh Expedition, you will gain new knowledge and unique experiences. These support University applications and personal statements as well as help develop character and invaluable life skills.
Personal development
- Leadership
- Initiative
- Interpersonal skills
- Self-awareness
- Mental resilience
- Endurance
Professional and educational development
- Problem solving
- Committment
- Communication skills
- Team working and collaboration
- Planning
Culture learning
- Understanding of global issues
- Cultural understanding
- Experience and learn different languages
Raleigh volunteers go on to make a difference long after Expedition. 7,625 young people have developed entrepreneurship skills and started more than 2,000 micro-enterprises which give them sustained, safe, fair and dignified work opportunities.
