Work out what duration, time of year and destination of Expedition works best for you?
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Which Expedition length is right for me?
An Expedition involves 3 different sections we call Phases: Community, Environmental and Adventure Challenge. Depending on the length of your Expedition you will take part in 1, 2 or all 3 phases.
No matter which Raleigh Expedition you choose, you’ll have an experience like no other, shared with like-minded people from the moment you arrive.
10 WEEK EXPEDITION (MOST POPULAR)
The only option with all three phases
It is the only Expedition that includes all three phases lasting around 19 days each including: an in-depth community project, environmental project and an adventure challenge. This option is ideal for those who are really wanting to get stuck in, fully commit to self-development and experience all three phases. This is a truly unique and immersive experience.
70 days of pushing your boundaries, 1,680 hours of making a lasting impact, and countless moments of self-discovery. You’ll forge bonds with like-minded individuals from around the world, connect with communities in ways you never thought possible, and uncover strengths within yourself that you never knew existed. It’s an opportunity to leave a legacy that will be remembered long after you’ve returned home.
7 WEEK EXPEDITION
The option to extend to 10-weeks
A 7-week Expedition offers an incredible experience but in a slightly shorter duration. You’ll do two phases lasting around 19 days (instead of 3 phases in the 10-week option).
One meaningful project: either community or environmental and the adventure challenge. This option is ideal for those with limited time but still want to get stuck in!
5 WEEK EXPEDITION
Shorter option available every cycle
The 5-week Expedition includes one meaningful project – either community or environment project (around 19 days) and then a shorter adventure challenge phase (between 5-9 days). You’ve also got the option to extend to 7 weeks! It’s ideal for anyone wanting to take time out after school before heading straight to further education, an apprenticeship or work.
- How’s it different to the 7-week option? – you only experience the adventure challenge phase for 5-9 days.
- How’s it different to the 4-week option? – you get to do adventure challenge!
4 WEEK EXPEDITION
Shortest project only option
The 4-week Expedition is designed to fit into a summer break and includes one meaningful project – either a community or environmental project (around 19 days).
A key difference from the 5-week option is that it focuses on the volunteering project only. It’s the ideal length for anyone looking to do something adventurous and meaningful overseas in the break after school before starting a course or work.
How’s it different to the 5-week option – you’ll be doing a volunteering project and no adventure challenge phase.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking your place between 6-18 months in advance to ensure you get the place you want, organise flights, medical forms, kit and vaccinations and give you time to raise the money. You have to sign up 3 months prior to the Expedition start date.
Best Expedition length for different age groups
School leavers/Gap Year takers
If you have just finished your A-levels and are taking a gap year, the 10-week Expedition is a no brainer. Contribute to two amazing projects and fully immerse yourself in the culture and experience. However, if you have limited availability, the 7-week summer Expedition is still an excellent choice.
University/College students
The 4- & 5-week summer Expedition in August may be the most suitable option for a student looking for a meaningful summer experience. You can gain valuable experiences without taking an extended leave of absence from your studies. If you have a free summer before your first year of university, a Raleigh Expedition is your chance to build confidence and skills that will help you with the next chapter in your life.
How do the Expedition destinations compare?
If you…
- Are adventurous but new to expeditions – we’d recommend Costa Rica – accessible, fun, moderate challenge
- Want a balance of culture, wildlife, and adventure – we’d recommend South Africa – well-rounded and immersive
- Are physically confident and want a remote, intense experience – we’d recommend Borneo – survival elements, high challenge
Challenge
Borneo:
High (Demanding Adventure)
Costa Rica:
Intermediate (Adventurous)
South Africa:
Moderate (Balanced Challenge)
Focus areas
Borneo:
Jungle survival, wildlife, research
Costa Rica:
Indigenous communities, education, mountains
South Africa:
Habitat restoration, antipoaching, grassroots projects
Environment
Borneo:
Dense jungle, remote villages
Costa Rica:
Tropical rainforest, beaches, remote mountain communities
South Africa:
Bush, remote villages
Accommodation
Borneo:
Jungle camps, hammocks, longhouses
Costa Rica:
Camping, community halls
South Africa:
Camping – some bigger communal tents, some 3 man tents
Cultural immersion
Borneo:
High – deep rural integration
Costa Rica:
Moderate – working with local community partners
South Africa:
High – strong local involvement
Wildlife
Borneo:
Orangutans, sun bears, monkeys
Costa Rica:
Birds, sea turtles, sloths, monkeys
South Africa:
Big Five, monkeys, giraffe
Please note these sightings aren’t guaranteed
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
What time of year should I volunteer?
New Year's Resolution
Cycle 1
February - April
Fundraise during the first half of your gap year ready to head off on an adventure in the New Year! You’ll gain the tools and confidence to continue with the rest of your gap year and also make friends to continue your travels with.
Summer adventure
Cycle 2
June - August
If you’re looking for options that fit into the summer holidays, there’s the 4-week option which is volunteering only and the 5-week option which also includes an adventure challenge!
Start your gap year
Cycle 3
October - December
If you’re taking a gap year, then cycle three means you can get going in the Autumn after finishing your exams! It’ll leave you a bit of time to work and raise the funds too.
What will the weather be like?
Whether you’re a sun-seeker or you prefer the cooler climate, your experience of our Expedition countries will likely be different depending on when you volunteer. So it’s good to be in the know about what to expect from the local climate.
Costa Rica
December to April: Dry season/Summer. Enjoy clear skies and warm temperatures.
May to November: Rainy season/Winter: Expect sunny days and afternoon rain showers where you’ll dry off as quickly as you got wet.
South Africa
October-April (summer): hot and humid, most days will be sunny with heavy rain in the early evenings.
May- September (winter): temperatures can be chilly in the evenings and early mornings.
Borneo
The weather is hot and humid for most of the year. You can expect brilliant sunshine in the morning and rain in the afternoon.
March to September: dry season
October to February: wet season
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