Backpacking Programs Abroad

Visit two of South America’s most iconic countries—Peru and Ecuador—and discover the lost lands of the Incas! Start your adventure in South America with intensive Spanish lessons, then step up the adventure with an epic trek across the Andes to Machu Picchu on the remote Salkantay route—over icy mountain passes and through mysterious cloud forests to the remains of a fallen civilization. Then, it's time to explore Ecuador's natural beauty. From surfing and whitewater rafting to hiking and exploring volcanoes, Ecuador has it all! For your second project, you will spend three weeks deep in the Ecuadorian rainforest and complete vital conservation work. Get face-to-face and hand-to-paw with rainforest inhabitants while volunteering at a rescue center for wild animals. And learn the secrets of life in the rainforest directly from an Indigenous community while staying at an eco-lodge. Finish your epic journey with a visit to one of the most famous national parks on Earth, the Galapagos Islands! Hike, sail, and snorkel your way around the islands made famous by Charles Darwin. You will then return to Quito for the final trek to the center of the world!

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally—from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservation, Medical Outreach, and Environmental Sustainability. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported over 147,000 volunteers on life-changing journeys. We specialize in fully-hosted volunteer trips that are safe, affordable, and accessible—starting from just $20 per day. Your experience includes airport pick-up, accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock support from our local teams. With flexible booking options and no change fees, planning your volunteer adventure has never been easier. Our programs run year-round and are available for 1 to 24 weeks across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, South and Central America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Volunteering with IVHQ is about more than giving back—it’s about growing, learning, and building genuine global connections.

IMA Safaris Africa and South America, an initiative of International Medical Aid, offers student travel programs, treks, and educational tours across Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Zambia, Peru, Ecuador and beyond. Blending learning with adventure, these experiences build cross-cultural competency and a global perspective while encouraging meaningful engagement with local communities. In Africa, highlights include the Masai Mara, Serengeti, Mount Kilimanjaro, Victoria Falls, and Watamu Marine Park. In South America, signature experiences include the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu Trek, Rainbow Mountain, the Sacred Valley, and other Andean cultural and outdoor excursions that highlight natural beauty and regional history. Many programs are offered in collaboration with colleges and universities and are often led by faculty, creating a structured, supportive learning environment. Participants benefit from 24/7 US-based and in-country support, plus comprehensive accident and travel medical insurance—ensuring a safe, ethical, and memorable experience that supports personal growth, strengthens your resume, and inspires a lasting commitment to global citizenship.

Based in Queenstown, this program combines skills acquisition with the opportunity to truly embrace an outdoor lifestyle. Over 12 weeks, you'll hike, rock climb, pack raft, camp, and explore the backcountry in the adventure capital of New Zealand. Our favorite handpicked locations will provide you with a well-rounded learning experience and genuine connection with the diverse environment within the South Island. From iconic destinations like Milford Sound to hidden local gems that aren't on generic travel itineraries, you'll explore the diverse landscapes surrounding you as you embrace the Kiwi culture. If you're looking for a gateway to living, working, and exploring New Zealand, look no further. The industry connections and networking opportunities created through this program will unlock endless value for your future. This small group tour through New Zealand is perfect for those looking to take a gap year, change their careers, or simply look for a deeper connection to nature.

Experience an unforgettable 10-week Gap Year Semester through New Zealand and Australia, two of the world’s most amazing travel destinations. This Pacific Discovery program is designed for students taking a gap year, seeking an alternative study abroad, or looking to combine travel with purpose. Journey across dramatic landscapes, from the fjords of New Zealand to the tropical reefs of Australia. Hike, surf, snorkel, and dive while building global perspective through hands-on conservation and meaningful service learning. Learn directly from Māori and Indigenous Australian communities through authentic cultural exchange. Along the way, develop real-world skills in leadership, teamwork, and sustainability with the option to earn U.S. college credit. With experienced instructors by your side, you’ll gain clarity, confidence, and lifelong friendships while exploring two iconic destinations for adventure and growth. Whether you’re preparing for college, building your resume, or redefining your education through travel, this immersive journey will leave you inspired and ready for what’s next. Inquire today to start your New Zealand & Australia Semester with Pacific Discovery.

Join us this summer for an unforgettable experience in Berlin, Paris, and London, three cities that are not only historically intertwined but also among Europe’s most vibrant and cultural. See Berlin by bike, visit its museums and memorials, and get a glimpse of what it was like to live during WWII with a tour of its bunker system. In Paris, stroll the wide boulevards and browse the quaint riverside bookshops, cruise down the Seine at sunset, eat on an outdoor terrace, and of course, go to the very top of the Eiffel Tower! Finish off this trip of a lifetime in London, where you’ll shop the eclectic stalls at Camden Market, see the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, and get the best view over the Thames from the London Eye! Learn how to be a savvy traveler as you ride the train from France to the UK, interact with locals, and immerse yourself in these three metropolitan cultures. Don’t miss out on this life-changing experience–join us this summer for a trip you’ll never forget!

Join us for a transformative adventure in Mexico! This action-packed program combines surfing, hiking, and cultural exploration, perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers. Kick off your journey in Oaxaca City, the cultural hub of Mexico, where you'll spend a couple of days discovering vibrant street art and savoring the incredible local cuisine. Next, venture into the stunning mountainous terrain of Hierve el Agua, known for its bubbling springs and petrified waterfalls. Then, travel to Puerto Escondido and settle into surf camp on the spectacular coastline. Spend a week surfing the Pacific, taking lessons, and exploring the breathtaking beaches of Puerto Escondido and Chacahua. Surf in the morning and enjoy coastal activities, including snorkeling, paddle boarding, aquatic tours, and more! This program has everything you’ve ever dreamed of, and more—adventure, culture, and unforgettable experiences await! What are you waiting for? Join us for this incredible journey filled with waves, nature, and camaraderie.

Explore diverse travel experiences in the USA! Rustic Pathways’ USA programs are designed to offer students impactful and adventurous experiences close to home. From immersing yourself in vibrant local cultures to engaging in meaningful community service, these programs are perfect for developing leadership skills and broadening perspectives. Whether you’re helping rebuild communities in New Orleans or exploring the pristine waters of Hawaii through surf and snorkel adventures, each program is packed with opportunities for growth, connection, and unforgettable memories. Surf, Snorkel, and Service in Hawaii – Join local organizations in preserving Hawaii's biodiversity and enjoy activities like hiking, beach relaxation, and surfing in your free time. Rebuilding New Orleans – Work with local organizations to rebuild homes and join community-building initiatives.

Our Work & Travel Canada program gives U.S. citizens between the ages of 18 and 35 a chance to experience the beauty of our northern neighbor while earning money throughout the year. Start with an arrival orientation in Vancouver or Toronto and continue with job support throughout your program. If you already have a job in mind we can also help you organize your 12-month working holiday visa! A Working Holiday is an opportunity to travel and explore a new country while taking on short-term jobs at places like ski resorts, restaurants and hotels or in manual labor positions. We offer pre-departure support, including visa application information and general advice, as well as job search and travel support throughout your time in Canada.

Live on a private reserve in Limpopo, surrounded by wildlife in their natural habitat. Collaborate with GVI staff and other participants to contribute towards meaningful conservation and research efforts for wildlife protection and longevity. Learn about biodiversity and habitat monitoring, and how to track and identify each species using radio telemetry techniques. This is also an opportunity to work alongside Field Guide Association of South Africa (FGASA) experts while seeing well-known South African predators, herbivores, and other species populations first-hand. You’ll contribute to the research efforts of the reservation’s natural resources. Your assistance provides reserve authorities and conservation organizations with the data they need to manage and preserve ecosystems. All GVI projects align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) and have short, mid, and long-term objectives. In your free time, travel with other like-minded participants to the nearby Kruger National Park, one of the largest game reserves in Africa.

Are you interested in learning Spanish? Study at our school/hostel in the heart of Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and take morning language lessons from Monday to Friday. In the afternoons, enjoy dance classes and cultural excursions. We also have weekend trips to the beach and a two-night/three-day road trip to Viñales. This is a busy program and offers the possibility of immersion into Cuban life—past and present—and the opportunity to understand what makes this amazing country so special. Our programs are for participants 18+, but we also welcome minors accompanied by an adult. Accommodation is in our licensed Casa Particulare, where you’ll share a dorm room with other students. You could also stay in a private room with an en suite bathroom for an extra fee. Couples, friends, and family who book a program together are automatically upgraded to a private room. Breakfast and lunch are included, as well as activities such as group discussion/planning meetings and impromptu social gatherings. Airport transfers can be arranged on request. Our programs comply with travel restrictions for US citizens. Feel free to contact us for more information!

ARCC’s Western U.S. Gap Semester provides access to some of America’s most beautiful and remote landscapes ranging from the jagged peaks of the Grand Tetons to the depths of Utah’s most spectacular canyons to the expansive deserts of Arizona and the dazzling turquoise waters of Hawaii. Explore some of the most pristine wilderness of the West and partner with local conservationists to understand threats to native species, ecological systems, and our waterways. Building upon our 40-year history of running domestic programs in the U.S., this semester provides hands-on opportunities and access to areas usually unavailable to the everyday traveler. The newfound insights gained from this in-depth look at some of the most famous landmarks of the American West leave our perspectives and appreciation for our own backyard changed forever.

Volunteer in a wildlife sanctuary that houses a variety of wild cats such as cheetahs, lions, and leopards and works to rehabilitate as many of them to be released into the wild again. Sadly not all the animals can re-enter the wild again, so they are used as ambassadors for their breed to educate the public about conservation efforts. The sanctuary also works on breeding leopards and cheetahs to help re-populate these species that are currently declining. Volunteers will mainly help with the animal welfare and care, but can also assist with educational seminars and tours. You will be taught how to properly take care of each animal by feeding and cleaning their enclosures. Volunteers will also help with research efforts and nursing sick animals back to health.

Experience the best of Western Europe on this high school exploration across Switzerland, France, and Holland. Begin in the Swiss Alps, hiking through alpine meadows, canyoning through mountain gorges, and taking in sweeping views of glaciers and peaks. Continue to Paris to immerse yourself in iconic art, architecture, cafés, and historic neighborhoods. Then set out on a multi-day bike journey through the Dutch countryside, pedaling past windmills, sand dunes, and coastal villages. Conclude your adventure in Amsterdam, exploring vibrant canals, museums, and neighborhoods while building deep cultural connections along the way.

There's nothing like visiting France through a Westcoast Connection program. As one of the top tourist destinations worldwide, we'll show you that France is even more beautiful and amazing than you thought it could be. You won't simply visit the star landmarks of Paris like the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre—home of the Mona Lisa. You might also discover quaint local areas, not to mention the historic cathedrals and castles at every other turn, on a guided bike tour. You will also have croissants for breakfast and fresh baguettes for lunch. Maybe exploring Tignes in the Northern Alps is more of your style with skiing, snowboarding, soccer, hiking, and a wild Aquaslide - there's no lack of activities for you to try. France is bold and adventurous, yet also chic and modern; come discover what part you love best on one of our programs.

Discover China Through Language & Culture. Founded in 2003, Go Abroad China (GAC) offers immersive Mandarin programs for international high school students. This program combines intensive classroom learning with real-world practice, cultural workshops, and social activities. Program Types: Short-Term (2-8 weeks): Summer/Winter camps. Long-Term (Semester/Year): Study at top Chinese schools. Customized Programs: Tailored to individual needs. What’s Included: Mandarin instruction at leading schools. Homestays, shared apartments, or dorms. One-on-one tutoring and language exchange. Cultural tours, networking, and excursions. 24/7 support for safety and guidance. Why Choose GAC? Achieve Mandarin fluency with certification. Gain cultural fluency and global exposure. Enhance college applications and career prospects. Build lifelong friendships and professional networks.

Volunteer to help impoverished women and their children in Peru with GoBeyond. Casa Mantay, a Cuzco center founded by Raquel and Sergio, serves as a refugee center for teenage mothers and children. Here, they are taught sustainable skills that will help them survive and even succeed in the future. Yuri, an inspirational director at Aldea Yanapay, helps alleviate the social injustices faced by the children through alternative and after-school programs. Earn the Presidential Service Award upon completion of this 100-hour service trip.

Join the educational trip to Spain offered by Seville Abroad. This is a truly memorable and unique way to gain a deeper love and respect for the country’s language as well as develop more interest in your future studies. Our Spanish educational trips help you learn firsthand about a lot of things - language, way of life, culture, and history. You will have the chance to add the program with “family immersion”, allowing you to experience daily life, habits, customs, and local foods of a local family. Our network of host families consists of hospitable people who welcome foreigners with open arms. They are eager to share their life as well as experience the culture of visitors. They are typically affluent families who are respected and known in their local community. The trip will be based in Seville because of its truly Spanish characteristic. Although it is a cosmopolitan city, it boasts of rich artistic historical legacy. From Seville, you will participate in a broad selection of excursion together with other students. If you cannot find a trip that matches your preferences, let us know and we will design a trip you will enjoy.

Begin your international teaching journey with an accredited 120-hour TEFL course, now available for teachers heading to China. This program is ideal for aspiring teachers eager to gain a globally recognized qualification and unlock exciting opportunities to teach English abroad. The course provides a solid foundation in teaching methodologies, classroom management, and lesson planning, alongside practical tools to build confidence in the classroom. With flexible online study and expert tutor support, you’ll graduate with a qualification respected by schools and employers across China and worldwide. China is one of the most in-demand TEFL destinations, offering a vibrant mix of culture, history, and modern innovation. Whether you want to teach in the bustling capital Beijing, the cosmopolitan hub of Shanghai, the cultural city of Guangzhou, or the fast-growing metropolis of Shenzhen, this TEFL course equips you with the skills to succeed. Benefit from international accreditation, flexible study options, and lifelong access to resources. Join a global network of successful graduates and step confidently into your new career teaching English in China — and beyond.

Our Whole of Europe route is a fast-paced tour of Europe’s most popular cities. Experience authentic European backpacking, travel with a small group of likeminded people, stay in great hostels, and ride on public transport with an experienced guide. You’ll have between one and four nights in each city, making this the ultimate way to experience many of Europe’s most famous destinations in a short amount of time. We offer a mix of unmissable included activities, exciting optional excursions, and plenty of free time, allowing you to tailor your adventure to your interests and explore at your own pace with your new friends. Travelling with you throughout, your trusty tour leader will ensure your trip goes smoothly, making sure you arrive in each destination safely. Euroventure take all the stress out of travelling so that you’re free to relax and enjoy your trip!