Across Africa, Asia, Central, and South America
Imagine diving into a world of meaningful volunteer work and thrilling adventures, all while bonding with fellow gap year students who share your passion for making a difference. It's more than just a trip—it's a chance to give back, grow personally, and connect with new cultures.
Our Leap Team Programmes are designed to blend volunteering, adventure, and cultural immersion. From protecting wildlife to supporting local communities each moment is crafted for growth and impact. Our programmes are unique due to:
Diverse Itineraries: Our programmes combine conservation, community projects, and adventure for a dynamic travel experience. You'll explore beyond typical tourist spots, delving deep into the heart of each location.
Team Travel: We love team travel as its social, collaborative and many hands make light work.
Personal Growth: Without knowing it your self-confidence and independence will rocket through the mix of experiences. You'll develop those essential soft skills that enrich your CV and set you apart in the professional world.
Expert Support and Guidance: New to backpacking? No worries. Our experienced leaders are with you every step of the way, offering support and expertise. Plus, our team back home is always available, ensuring your journey is smooth and worry-free.
We've been in this business for over 20 years, and have sent gappers to all corners of the globe. We've had many years of helping intrepid explorers plan their adventures and feel confident helping Leapers find their perfect programme, or independent travellers plan their routes and itineraries. There's no question too weird or wonderful, at this point we really have heard it all and we're here to help you plan a gap year filled with exciting and contrasting experiences.
Embarking on your gap year journey with The Leap ensures a seamless start, with safety and support at the forefront. Our gap year programmes offer you the opportunity to make a meaningful impact, explore off the beaten path, forge lifelong friendships, and cultivate essential 'soft skills' that are highly valued in the professional world, enriching your CV along the way.
With The Leap, you'll gain invaluable travel expertise, reassured by our 24/7 support in case of any hiccups along the way. By the end of your programme, you'll be equipped and eager for the challenge of independent backpacking, perhaps alongside the new friends you've made during your transformative Leap experience.
Travelling on a Leap programme will ensure you develop specific CV worthy skills that make your gap year count. Don't be just another traveller.
We are Duke of Edinburgh award approved. Travel with us on our programme and you will qualify for the 'residential' part of your training.
Travel as part of a team of like-minded gappers providing a guaranteed social scene and great campfire moments.
It's impossible to showcase all our gap year programmes on this page, so we have chosen four gapper favourites to get the ball rolling and inspire you. All our programmes weave a mix of projects and adventures but, of course, some are better for community, others for conservation. Keep scrolling until you find your perfect fit. Alternatively, arrange a Zoom call with Milly or Zoë and they will walk you through each one (without being biased).
1. What are the benefits of taking a gap year to volunteer abroad?
Taking a gap year to volunteer abroad offers a unique blend of personal growth, cultural immersion, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact. Participants often develop essential soft skills, such as self-confidence, independence, and teamwork, which can enrich their CV and set them apart in the professional world.
2. What types of projects can I get involved in during my gap year?
Our programmes offer diverse itineraries that include conservation efforts, community projects, and adventure activities. You might find yourself protecting wildlife, supporting local communities, or exploring cultural sites off the beaten path.
3. How does team travel work and why is it beneficial?
Team travel involves joining a group of like-minded individuals who share the same passion for volunteering and adventure. It is social and collaborative, allowing you to make lasting friendships and work more effectively on projects. Many hands make light work, and the shared experience enhances personal growth.
4. What kind of support and guidance is provided during the programme?
We provide expert support and guidance throughout your journey. Experienced leaders accompany you every step of the way, offering their expertise and ensuring your safety. Additionally, our support team back home is always available to assist with any concerns or issues that may arise.
5. Are these programmes suitable for someone new to backpacking and international travel?
Yes, our programmes are designed to accommodate beginners. Whether you are new to backpacking or international travel, our experienced leaders and support team will help you navigate the challenges and ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
All of our Leap gap year programmes contain an element of contributing back to the countries you're visiting. Whether that's building jiko stoves for local women in Kenya, helping baby turtles reach the ocean in Costa Rica, or teaching in a local school in Colombia. We're passionate about the NGOs we work with, and we know that the work that they're doing, that you would help with, is hugely impactful. If you've wanted to help with something bigger than you whilst on your gap year then now is your chance.
Because it's fun and the camaraderie is tangible. 99% of our Leapers join a team without knowing anyone else, so if you're worried that you'll join a team where everyone is already friends then don't be. Everyone joins because they want to experience contributing and adventure with a like minded travellers. Not only will you all have a great time on the programme together, but we've found that many Leapers then go on to backpack together afterwards with their newfound travel buddies.
We're here to help you every step of the way with your travel planning admin. As soon as you've signed up to a team programme, we'll then advise you on what flight to book, what vaccinations you'll need, if you'll need a visa, and what gap year insurance you'll need to buy. Closer to the time Milly will host a Zoom call with the team to talk through any other admin such as money, SIM cards, safety etc. We know that many of our Leapers have never travelled before so we're on hand to offer any advice and help you could need.
