Gap Year Programs in Chile

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and medical initiatives. GoEco operates in over 50 countries, providing unique cultural immersive experiences that aim to make a positive impact on the environment and society. The organization also offers internships and academic programs for students. GoEco provides safe and meaningful experiences while promoting sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions.

Built upon dozens of steep hillsides overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Valparaíso boasts a labyrinth of streets and cobblestone alleyways, embodying a rich architectural and cultural legacy. Nicknamed “The Jewel of the Pacific,” it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its improvised urban design and unique architecture. Founded in 1536, Valparaíso is one of Chile’s most important ports and the third-largest city. Valparaíso remains a source of inspiration for artists of all types, including the well-known Chilean poet Pablo Neruda. Students can visit Neruda’s seaside home in Valparaíso, and the Chilean Congress. Offering strikingly beautiful views from the top of its numerous hills, it is reminiscent of San Francisco. Valpo, in short, the city is where students can amble away an afternoon exploring its steep and winding streets, which are peppered with colorful houses, and admire the sparkling Pacific Ocean below. It is only a two-hour bus ride from Santiago, Chile’s capital city.

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller grassroots NGOs and local specialists in more than 80 countries. All these with just one click! Find projects in wildlife, teaching, community development, and several other areas. Simply choose your desired destination and desired travel date, and our search engine will compare the best volunteer abroad programs on your behalf. Whether you wish to gain experience at a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa or teach English at a monastery in Nepal, we've got you covered. Volunteer World guarantees a quick and easy application. We will guide you through this process, as well as help plan your next meaningful trip. We provide free access to quality-checked projects and flexible options. And if anything goes wrong, we've got your back with our qualified support team and our refund guarantee.

HMI Gap is designed to be a unique and refreshing break from our busy world – an uninterrupted journey of adventure, self-discovery, and growth. These are for high school graduates and current college students, ages 17-22. With rock climbing and wilderness travel-focused programs in Patagonia and the American West, participants spend 3 months traveling to some of the world’s wildest places, gain independence as outdoor adventurers, and give back by helping with real-world conservation projects. We emphasize building a strong, intentional community, where students make lasting friendships with people who encourage them to become their best selves. Since 1998, HMI has offered empowering experiences in inspiring surroundings, boldly uniting place-based and hands-on learning with the natural world. Students return from HMI transformed, carrying with them the confidence, passion, and readiness to excel in college, graduate school, and beyond. Our alumni stand out in an increasingly competitive environment, as colleges and employers view HMI alumni as risk-takers in the best sense who have the skills to work effectively on a team and emerge as leaders in their community.

Interested in taking a gap year? Do it with an organization well regarded for its responsible travel and gap year travel opportunities - Oyster Worldwide. Whether you are taking a break before pursuing higher education or taking time off from university, we have the perfect opportunity for you! Our programs and projects across 6 continents are open all year. Sign up for a program within a field that matches your skills and interests - animal welfare, child care, veterinary, medicine, conservation, etc. Go on a trekking holiday or volunteer on a project you are passionate about. No matter what you do, where you go and how long you stay, we guarantee amazing experiences you will treasure for a lifetime. UK-based Oyster Worldwide has been sending young people to take part in gap year experiences for more than 17 years. We offer over 60 volunteer and paid programs in over 20 countries around the world. We have been working with many host countries for years and have great relationships with them. Our aim is to provide happy, safe and fulfilling experiences, as well as to help participants to return home with a long-term affection for the country they have visited.

Alzar Gap’s signature program, Patagonia Exchange, runs from September to December each year and explores some of the most stunning and interesting locations in South America. This gap program builds on Alzar's nearly twenty years of experience in offering leadership development programs. Still, it is specifically designed for recent high school graduates, with a focus on experiential learning. Through our accreditation with the Gap Year Association, Alzar Gap students can earn college credit for participating.

Combine it all by joining a NOLs gap semester or gap year program – adventure, wilderness education, academic study, and plenty of invaluable experiences! Connect with yourself and the outdoors and gain a head start in your university studies or career with a life-changing gap year (or semester). Gain personal growth, different perspectives, and newfound confidence—all providing useful throughout your lifetime. We have worldwide campuses in India, New Zealand, Alaska, Mexico, the Rockies, Patagonia, East Africa, and so much more. Travel where you want, immersing yourself in new environments and diverse cultures. Join us for around 2.5 to 4.5 months, depending on whether it's a gap semester or a gap year program. Looking to make the most of your time out from school after high school graduation, mid-university, or after getting your degree? Visit our website or inquire today for complete details about our gap semester or gap year programs at NOLS.