FAQs: General Adventure Expedition QuestionsHow old do I have to be to participate?
Anyone can join a Real Gap Year Expedition abroad. All you have to be is 18 or over.
What is the typical age range?
It really can vary on a group-by-group basis; however, most people are between the ages of 18 and 25. The average age is usually around 23.
Where do the expedition volunteers come from?
Most of the Expedition groups are mainly European, with a majority of people from Denmark, the UK, France, Sweden, Switzerland and Poland. The common language will be English.
What is the typical group size?
Again, this can vary, but most of our Expeditions abroad have between 8 and 25 people. This can vary for the time of year, the popularity of the Expedition etc.
What qualifications/training do I need?
None of Real Gap Year Expeditions' programmes require you to have any special qualifications or training. If you already have any, that would enhance your experience, however, there are no pre-requisites.
Do I need to speak the local language?
In short, no. In each country you will receive a language orientation, with useful phrases etc. In South America, you will have full language lessons.
Where are the Real Gap Year Expeditions?
There are several expeditions abroad. You can choose from the following:
When can I start?
Each of the programmes have their own start dates each year. Please see the individual programme pages.
When should I book?
The Real Gap Expeditions are extremely popular and it is generally advised that once you have decided on an expedition, you should book. Some of the programmes have booked up 6-9 months in advance. However, always ask a Real Gap adviser for availability.
How long do the adventure expeditions last?
The expeditions last from 1 to 6 months. The average adventure expedition length is 3 months.
Can I extend my stay?
Yes, it would be possible to extend your stay in most countries.
Will I be able to travel around?
During your spare time you will be able to visit local places of interest. After your expedition, you are able to travel the country or perhaps continue your travels into other countries. A lot of the other expedition volunteers choose to travel around with each other after the programme has finished.
Will I be met at the airport?
If you arrive at the same time as other group members, there is no charge for your airport pick-up. If you cannot arrive at the same time, there is a minimal fee for your pick-up.
Where will I live?
The accommodation is usually in camps, huts, tents, private homes or hostels. It depends on the Expedition, but the accommodation is simple.
What will I eat?
Most Adventure Expeditions have all meals included, based upon the local style. There will be opportunities in the major towns for you to purchase other foods if you get any craving for something in particular.
Can the Adventure Expeditions cater for special dietary requirements?
If you have any special dietary requirements you must inform Real Gap Expeditions before you go. Most diets can be catered for e.g. vegetarians, however, if you have a particular diet or have food allergies, these may not be possible - because you eat local food, you have to eat what is readily available.
For any further questions regarding special diets, please ask a Real Gap Adviser.
What should I bring?
Before you depart, we will provide you with a comprehensive kit-list, detailing everything that you should consider bringing with you.
Are the countries safe?
All of the Expedition destinations are considered safe, however, political situations change all of the time. We adhere to what is recommended by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and will not send people away to countries advised against all travel to.
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