Raleigh International Gap: Costa Rica

A Raleigh Expedition in Costa Rica is a truly unique international experience for 17-24 year olds. Join young volunteers from across the world and a community of over 55,000 Raleigh Alumni.

Where will you be based?

The Raleigh International fieldbase is in Turrialba, about 2 hours from the capital, San Jose. 

Between each project phase you will stay at fieldbase. However, you will be in different locations (all within about 3 hours of fieldbase) for each project phase.

How long can you go for?

Each summer we run a 4, 7 and 10 week Expeditions in Costa Rica. 

The 10-week program is the most immersive of our Expeditions. You will take part in all three project phases, in three locations and with three different groups.

If you don’t have as much time, the 7-week program is a great option. You will take part in two different phases – one trek and one project – in two different locations, with two different groups.

The 4-week program is perfect for a summer break. Volunteers take part in one full volunteering project and a shorter trek. 

The three project phases:

1. Community volunteering project

Improve access to education in indigenous communities and support young people to develop the tools they need to prosper in later life. Raleigh works with and in remote indigenous communtities who need support to improve the facilities of both primary and secondary schools.

You will work on the construction of new safer school buildings, and undertake awareness raising activities with the community on topics such as waste management and climate action.

2. Environmental volunteering project

Volunteers are essential in supporting park rangers, aiding in infrastructure maintenance, and wildlife research within national parks and private reserves. You will collaborate with local communities to expand environmental knowledge and conduct workshops on topics like waste management and reforestation. Additionally, volunteers organise community activities to raise awareness and promote action on these crucial environmental issues, which also benefit the local economy.

3. Adventure Leadership Trek

The trek will take you and your team on a challenging trek through rainforests and up volcanoes on various stunning routes that tourists don’t get access to.

You could be trekking up to 260 km through the towns and landscapes of Costa Rica. The trek will take you on a journey of personal growth that will equip you with skills and experinces that will stay with you for the rest of your life.

Supporting one another on trek, not giving up and sharing your achievements together will be some of the most memorable and defining moments of your Expedition.

4 Weeks- $3,680 

7 Weeks- $5,380

10 Weeks- $5,970