Where There Be Dragons: Gap Semester Programs

Our approach is simple: build meaningful and long-lasting relationships with local communities, work with the best instructors, and stay true to our responsible travel ethics. Travel with purpose and gain skills. Hear stories, discover fresh perspectives, and engage with critical global issues.

Dragons students are travelers, not tourists. Dragon Gap Year Programs are authentic, rugged, and profound opportunities that expose students to the beautiful and complex realities of the countries in which they travel. Programs give students the rare opportunity to genuinely experience the places they travel and create meaningful connections across cultures. Several of Dragons Gap Year programs are available for college credit.

Immersive + Well-Rounded: Dragons students are travelers, not tourists. Course itineraries are built around nine Program Components which engage students in a wide range of hands-on activities such as homestays, trekking, apprenticeships, and language learning.

Small Groups + Professional Instructors: A typical group consists of 12 students and 3 instructors to ensure each student receives individual support and mentorship. On average our instructors are 30+ years of age, have 4+ years living abroad, and are fluent in the local language.

Handcrafted Experiences: We run a limited number of programs because we value quality over quantity. And we never run the same trip twice; each program itinerary is intentional and directly infused with the regional expertise and passions of instructors.

Safety: Safety is our first priority. Over almost 30 years we’ve built robust risk management systems and have been vetted by key partners including Princeton University, Tufts University, the Gap Year Association, and the US Secret Service.

Responsible Travel: Dragons programs are environmentally conscious and committed to building meaningful connections. We run longer programs that maximize time abroad, offset carbon emissions, and empower students to learn service responsibly.