6 of the coolest travel programs for your adventure abroad

What if your next adventure didn’t just change your view, but also changed your life? That’s exactly what today’s most meaningful travel programs offer. Summiting volcanoes, photographing lions in the wild, or volunteering in tropical villages—you’re not just passing through, you’re also making an impact.

GoAbroad’s Adventure Travel directory makes it incredibly easy to find once-in-a-lifetime programs that fit your vibe, goals, and bucket list. Whether you’re in a post-grad slump or just itching for something new, these programs combine culture, adrenaline, and purpose.

In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the coolest programs available right now, show you how to pick the right one, and share insider tips to make your travel experience unforgettable.

6 coolest travel programs on GoAbroad right now

Ready to explore the world and actually do something with your travels? These six programs are all about real-world impact, bold adventures, and unforgettable experiences.

1. Volunteer adventure in Costa Rica with Raleigh International

Live the pura vida while making a difference.

If hiking through the jungle, sipping coconut water after a day of building eco-toilets, and learning Spanish from local villagers sounds like your kind of vibe, this one’s for you. Raleigh International combines cultural immersion and community service, so you’ll be doing everything from trail maintenance to sustainable infrastructure projects.

Costa Rica is a dream for adventurers, and volunteering here adds even more depth to the experience. You’ll grow your leadership skills, live simply, and connect deeply with both the land and the people.

2. Asia, Africa, & South America adventure with Impact Gap Year

The name says it all: this is your ultimate round-the-world gap year.

Why settle for one country when you can explore three continents? This epic itinerary—from Nepal to Cambodia to South Africa and then to Costa Rica—takes you through jungles, villages, savannas, and coastlines while engaging in hands-on community and conservation work.

You'll live with host families, support grassroots initiatives, and check major life experiences off your list. Bonus? You’ll come back with global awareness, new friends, and a profound sense of purpose.

^{Three continents, countless experiences - the world becomes your classroom}

3. Photography safari in South Africa with Penda Photo Tours

Take your wildlife photography skills to the next level.

Think safari meets storytelling. With this program, you’ll be guided by professional photographers through the Greater Kruger Area, capturing lions, leopards, and elephants in their natural habitats—through your lens, that is.

This isn’t just about the ‘gram, it’s about using photography as a tool for conservation. If you’re passionate about wildlife and want to refine your visual storytelling, this is the program to bring the wild to life through your photos.

4. Adventure guide program in New Zealand with Pure Exploration

Train, travel, and become a certified outdoor leader.

New Zealand is basically a giant outdoor playground, and this 12-week program lets you fully lean into that. Learn technical guiding skills in hiking, climbing, and navigation while exploring some of the most jaw-dropping scenery on Earth.

This is a hands-on, boots-on-the-ground course that prepares you for a career in the outdoor industry or just equips you for a lifetime of adventuring like a pro.

^{New Zealand's wilderness transforms students into skilled outdoor leaders}

5. Europe summer adventure with Travel for Teens

Three countries, one unforgettable summer.

What do flamenco dancing in Spain, surfing in Portugal, and camel trekking in Morocco have in common? They’re all part of this wildly fun and culturally rich summer program designed for teens who want more than a basic beach vacation.

This isn’t a tour—it’s an experience. You’ll live, eat, and explore like a local across three incredible countries, each offering something totally different.

6. Southeast Asia gap semester with Pacific Discovery

Live intentionally, travel deeply, and make a difference.

Spanning Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, this program takes gap year travel to another level. You’ll work on service-learning projects, get up close with elephants, and spend time meditating in local temples.

It’s designed for students aged 17–22 who want to unplug, reconnect, and grow personally while experiencing the vibrancy of Southeast Asian cultures. Think of it as a crash course in global citizenship—with rice paddies and waterfalls along the way.

^{The right program finds you when you know what moves you}

How to choose the right travel program for you

Finding your perfect-fit program is like planning your dream playlist—it has to match your mood, your goals, and your timeline. Here's how to start your search with confidence:

1. Match the program to your goals and travel style

Before jumping in, think about what kind of experience you're after. Do you want to volunteer? Build outdoor skills? Learn a language?

Ask yourself:

• What type of impact do I want to make?
• How much structure vs. freedom do I want?
• What region am I drawn to?

The answers will help you filter thousands of programs to the few that feel right.

2. Use MyGoAbroad to save favorites

MyGoAbroad is a free tool that allows you to create an account and save your favorite programs as you browse. It’s a total time-saver when you’re comparing options or applying later. Think of it as your digital travel wish list.

3. Read verified reviews

Don’t just go off the glossy photos—read what other travelers say. GoAbroad’s verified program reviews give you honest insights into accommodations, support, and what the day-to-day experience is really like.

This is the closest thing to having a friend on the inside. Use it!

^{Real stories from real travelers - the best way to preview your adventure}

4. Chat with the Online Advisor

Feeling overwhelmed with choices? GoAbroad’s Online Advisor is like a digital travel matchmaker. Answer a few questions about your interests and goals, and it’ll suggest programs that actually fit you. It’s free, fast, and way easier than browsing aimlessly.

5. Don’t forget flights & insurance

Once you choose a program, don’t sleep on the logistics.

• Set flight alerts to find deals.
• Book early if your destination is popular or remote.
• Get travel insurance, especially for adventure-based trips. It’ll cover you for accidents, delays, or unexpected changes.

5 tips for making the most of your adventure travel experience

Here’s the secret sauce to making your travel experience unforgettable:

• Pack light, pack smart. Focus on quality essentials. You’ll thank yourself later.
• Be open to surprises. The best stories often come from the unexpected: a missed bus that turns into an epic hike, or a street food stall that becomes your go-to lunch spot.
• Document everything. Journal, vlog, or start a photo series. These moments are worth remembering.
• Engage with local culture. Learn a few phrases, try the weird snack, and listen more than you speak.
• Leave no trace. Follow ethical travel practices. Respect nature, local customs, and the people you meet.

Your adventure starts here

Whether you're chasing wildlife in South Africa, learning to surf in Portugal, or building trails in Costa Rica, one thing’s for sure: the world is calling, and it wants you to explore it with intention.

The right travel program can transform a typical trip into something meaningful—something that teaches you about yourself, your values, and your place in the world.

So go ahead, check out GoAbroad’s Adventure Travel directory, start saving your faves, and get ready for the kind of journey you’ll be talking about for years.

Your next adventure is another chapter in a story you’ll never forget.

^{This isn't just a trip - it's the beginning of your next chapter}

This article is written by GoAbroad, a leading resource for meaningful travel and international education, connecting students and travelers with life-changing programs around the world. From study abroad to volunteer experiences, GoAbroad empowers global citizens to explore with purpose.