Heritage Tourism Programs

A country known for its welcoming attitude, intersectional cultures, and abundant natural wonders, Colombia offers a host of opportunities to expand your worldview. Here, in the second most biodiverse country in the world, a vibrance for life is reflected in its people, history, and environment. Colombia’s diverse lifestyle is influenced by its indigenous, African, and European heritage. Venture off the tourist track to experience a view of the culture through the eyes of a host family in the mountains of Popayán. You and other students will explore dynamic culture, starting with the ornate churches, colorful markets, and fascinating archeological sites of Popayán! You will also have the chance to venture into lush natural landscapes and take part in activities like horseback riding and hiking. By living with a local host family, you will truly become a part of Colombian daily life as you share conversations and cultural insights around the dinner table. Round out your cultural experience with fun activities like dance lessons, nature walks, and city bike tours. You might even spot a condor – a gigantic bird native to the Andes Mountains – soaring overhead!

Saddle up for Africa's most exhilarating horse-riding safaris, set against the backdrop of Namibia's magnificent and hauntingly beautiful landscapes. With over two decades of expertise in guiding equestrian expeditions across these rugged terrains, this program promises the ultimate experience for those seeking the thrill of the wild and the freedom of the open plains. Your possessions are transported by truck which sets up camp, allowing you to sleep beneath the African night sky, making memories that last a lifetime. Each day starts with the sunrise, departing around 8 am. You'll spend 4-5 hours in the saddle before lunch, followed by a 1-3 hour break, then another 2-3 hours of afternoon riding across diverse terrains, including tough stretches that test your spirit. Step into a world where the desert becomes your playground and the vast horizons of Namibia's Damaraland. These true adventures take you through ancient craters and prehistoric remnants, revealing the delicate yet intricate tapestry of colors that paint these extraordinary landscapes. Create meaningful connections with other riders and the horse you'll be riding throughout the adventure.

Are you looking for meaningful conservation work? Join International Volunteer HQ, the world’s leading volunteer travel organization, and support the Turtle Conservation project in Bali. The program is based on the naturally breathtaking island of Nusa Penida - a 45-minute speedboat ride from mainland Bali, with start dates every Monday throughout the year. Tasks include identifying turtle species, collecting eggs, feeding and cleaning turtles at the center, monitoring nests and watching baby sea turtle hatchlings find safe passage to the sea. Additionally, you can assist with proactive conservation efforts which include the improvement of the surrounding environment via beach cleanups, waste management improvement and educating locals about the issues facing Indonesia’s sea turtles and what can be done to help. Ranging from 1-12 weeks and starting at just $325 for 1 week, your fully-hosted experience includes airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 support. You’ll be accommodated in a volunteer house with the opportunity to meet other like-minded, impact-driven travelers.

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.

Embark on a 30-day adventure through Ecuador, combining culture, adventure, and meaningful volunteering. You’ll start in Quito, exploring its historic streets and vibrant atmosphere before heading to the Andes to marvel at breathtaking landscapes like Cotopaxi Volcano and Quilotoa Crater. Along the way, you’ll learn Spanish, dance salsa, and enjoy thrilling activities such as mountain biking and zip-lining in Baños. In Puyo, you’ll make a difference by volunteering at an Amazon rescue center and caring for wildlife. Finally, unwind on the coast in Montañita with yoga, surfing, and beachside relaxation. This trip is your chance to connect with Ecuador’s beauty, culture, and people in a small international group of travelers hosted by a local tour guide.

Come and join the leading Spanish-language immersion program in Mexico! Iguana Abroad offers you the chance to live in one of the best locations in Mexico and learn Spanish in a fast, authentic, and immersive way. Whether you are a complete beginner or you already speak advanced Spanish, our personalized courses will bring you to the next level! Our trips include 30+ hours of Spanish tuition, a unique program of cultural immersion, and a series of excursions to diverse and exciting locations around Mexico. Iguana Abroad will take care of all the details: Spanish lessons, excursions, activities, and much, much more! Get in touch today to find out more!

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.

Embark on a French adventure that takes you through the Alps, the streets of Paris, and more! Make local friends, experience homestays with French families, and earn community service hours while working with locals and through environmental projects in the Alps! Experience the famous Bastille Day the French way on this unforgettable teen travel program to France! All the activities we do allow you to put your French language skills to use in real-world contexts. This adventure allows you to experience all that France has to offer! Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Join us on this student trip to France!

Join Travel For Teens on this journey to Japan, the Land of The Rising Sun. Japan is a country of ancient cultures, strong traditions, and the technology of the future. Perform meaningful community service in Tohno – an area devastated by the 2011 Tsunami. You will enjoy a cultural exchange with teens from a local high school, spend a day in the rice fields, and get to know the people who call Tohno home. In addition to our service work, you will visit the evocative sites of Hiroshima, try your hand at the ancient art of karate, taste the best sushi of your life, and experience the scramble at the world-famous Shibuya crossing. From the flashy cityscape of Tokyo to the peaceful temples of Kyoto and the majesty of Mt. Fuji, Japan will astonish even the most well-traveled students.

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!

Travel through Ireland and Scotland as you build your writing craft in two countries with world-renowned literary traditions. Begin in Edinburgh, drawing inspiration from storytellers, historic streets, and daily writing excursions. Continue west to Inishbofin for a quiet island writers’ retreat, then conclude in Dublin, where you share your work at a public reading. With guidance from published authors and mentors, develop new pieces, refine your voice, and return home with a polished portfolio and a strong creative community.

Fun living in Seoul! VOYAGE Korea offers the "Fun Living Seoul" program, which lasts 4 to 12 weeks. We ensure a smooth landing and adjustment in the country, arrange safe accommodation during your stay, and provide ongoing support and emergency assistance. Immerse yourself in Korean culture and history, travel to major cities, and expand your knowledge of the Korean lifestyle. If you plan to work or establish a start-up, learn about the country's business ethics and industry. Not only will you experience "Seoul Living," but this program will also make you dig deeper into Seoul life. Join this exciting trip to Korea. Students, business people, and families are welcome!

Join our one-day cooking course and learn to prepare traditional Italian cuisine. Choose from various topics, including hand-made pasta, fish and seafood, meat, vegetables, rice and risotto, bread, and pizza. Of course, our chef is open to discussion and we can tailor the course based on your personal preferences and specific diet. Experience cooking in a professional kitchen with a chef. And then? You have to taste everything you cook, of course! Practice the Italian language and learn idioms and expressions, too. Price list: Individual = 90€ 2 participants = 70€ 3 and more participants = 60€

Iceland is one of the hottest destinations of the year. Here is your chance to discover it with Westcoast Connection. Join a program that lets you discover breathtaking landscapes together with like-minded teens from around the world! Revel in the land of fire and ice as you hike to the top of glaciers and relax in bubbling hot springs. Explore magma chambers of dormant volcanoes and partake in an incredible whale watching experience. It doesn't take long to be amazed by Iceland's extraordinary natural beauty, as well as its kind and friendly people. Since you’re visiting in summer, expect bright nights - a truly incredible phenomenon in Iceland from May to August. Enjoy mesmerizing sunsets that never end, also referred to as the midnight sun. This occurs as the sun lowers into the horizon, but never sets! This program is part of our Iceland & Greece Global Adventure.

Traverse this legendary landscape and leave forever inspired by the other-worldly beauty of Iceland. This Nordic oasis transforms the mundane into the extraordinary. Stroll amid active glaciers, bathe in steaming lagoons, feel the welcoming warmth of the local people, and swim the crystal clear water between continents. As the development of the outside world accelerates, the cinematic horizons of Iceland remain timeless. You’ll earn 30 hours of community service working to protect and restore the natural environment through reforestation and coastal cleanup projects. All while learning who you are and what the world can be in the land of fire and ice.

Embark on a remarkable journey through Ghana, the gateway to West Africa, where history, culture, and vibrant traditions come alive. From the bustling streets of Accra to the historic centers of Kumasi and Cape Coast, this 7-day tour unveils the soul of Ghana through its people, heritage, and timeless landmarks. Begin in Accra, exploring Independence Square, the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, and the colorful National Cultural Center. Continue to Kumasi, the royal capital of the Ashanti Kingdom, where ancient symbols of power, artistry, and unity await. Discover the craft villages of Ahwiaa, Ntonso, and Bonwire, where woodcarving, Adinkra cloth making, and Kente weaving have been passed down for generations. Your journey then leads to Cape Coast and Elmina, home to the UNESCO-listed slave castles that tell powerful stories of resilience and remembrance. Walk through the “Door of No Return,” stand where history was made, and reflect on Ghana’s profound past. Along the way, enjoy the warmth of its people, the rhythm of local life, and the beauty of its coastal landscapes.

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.

Immerse yourself in China in this tailored journey of adventure, business culture, and language. Go on an unforgettable summer program designed to blend academic learning with deep cultural discovery. Offered in partnership with top Chinese universities and language institutions, it allows you to fully engage with local culture through student exchanges, visits to Chinese enterprises, and an optional weekend homestay. No prerequisite Mandarin skills are required to join! Plus, you can request short-term job shadowing if you want to make the most of your time in China. We offer a comprehensive package starting at $1,890 USD.

In a country where the phrase "gross national happiness" appears on a list of key development metrics, Bhutan encourages us to ask what we can learn about notions of "happiness" as contributors to our own quality of life. Our journey into the Himalayan region gives us rare access to the sacredness of the vast and wild landscapes, challenging us to reevaluate commonly held notions of our role in the natural world. Since the arrival of television in 1999 and a cascade of global influences, Bhutan has experienced a steady increase in foreign tourism, which contradicts long-held traditions. How can we understand the pressures and adaptations of Bhutanese culture in the face of a globalizing world? In our questioning and exploration of Bhutan in this summer abroad program, we hope to understand better the worldviews and assumptions that shape our lives and happiness back home.

Gain a rare insight into Mexican culture and the indigenous Zapotec people on this fascinating trip into the communities of the Oaxaca Valley. See how non-profits such as Fundación En Vía are working to empower and uplift historically disadvantaged women in the region and learn how you can help. You will be invited into the homes and workplaces of local women to learn traditional cooking and craft techniques passed down through the generations. It’s a unique glimpse at a side of Mexico that most will never have the chance to see and an opportunity to play a role in supporting local women and girls in the community. Over six impactful days, you’ll get lost amid the winding colonial streets of Oaxaca City’s 16th-century historic district, visit the ancient ruins of Monte Albán, and discover the bizarre rocks of Hierve el Agua. Along the way, you’ll taste a rich cross-section of cuisines that thrive in the region. By the time your dive into the local culture draws to a close in Oaxaca City, back where you started, you’ll have built up a multifaceted picture of what life is like here and fostered connections with some unforgettable women.