Travel is the
answer

We offer a broad range of programs which appeal to different areas of interest and travel styles. For example, our Adventure and Explorer programmes are leader-led group experiences combining backpacker style travel with a mix of activities. Our outdoor courses are run by experienced Instructors and provide professional training and qualifications, and our volunteering and internship programmes are individual placements overseen by local project co-ordinators. 

Broadly speaking, the typical age range on Gapforce programs is 18 – 29. However, it varies depending on which program you are interested in. For example, our Adventure and Explorer programs typically appeal to first time travellers such as Gap Year and University students so the age range tends to be 18 – 22. Whereas our outdoor courses, volunteering and internship placements are more independent by nature and tend to appeal to a wider demographic with a typical age range of 18 – 35. The minimum age for all programmes is 18. 

Generally speaking, all our programmes will include arrival transfers, activities listed in the brochure, accommodation and some, if not all, meals. Details of exactly what is included in your programme fee can be found under the “what to expect” section of the program webpage and the programme brochure. The main components that are not included in the program fee and you will be responsible for acquiring yourself are: flights, insurance, visas, vaccinations, personal kit and spending money. 

You should let your friends and families know that you won’t have constant access to the internet while you’re on your trip. Whilst Wifi is widely available in most countries, not every place you visit will have free wifi so you may wish to bring an unlocked phone and purchase a local pay as you go sim card. As we take pride in exploring off the beaten track locations as part of the experience, there will definitely be times where you are out of contact so we encourage you to let loved ones know in advance times when will be out of communication for a few days so they don't worry. Gapforce staff and project partners will always have a way of getting messages out in case of an emergency. 

Gapforce is committed to the highest levels of safety and security. We cannot remove risk from overseas travel altogether but by following a clear set of processes and management systems, we aim to reduce your level of risk compared to independent travel in the same location. To guide us, we follow the standards set by BS8848 "Specifications for visits, fieldwork, expeditions and adventurous activities outside the UK". 

Once you’ve found the programme you want to join, you can book your place online by following the instructions under “book now” section of your chosen programme page. You only need to pay a 10% deposit when you book to secure your place and this will also grant you access to your online portal. As well as securing your place on the program, your deposit also secures the price and means you can start planning and getting excited about your adventure. 

Yes. Through our membership of Protected Trust Services (PTS), we offer full financial protection for all customer money paid to us through Package Travel Regulations compliance and the PTS trust account. In the unlikely event that Gapforce was go become insolvent, any money you have paid towards an unused trip to Gapforce will be returned to you from the trust. Businesses must have extensive experience in travel and undergo stringent financial and risk checks to qualify as a member of PTS. Our PTS membership number is 5482. 

If you need to cancel your booking, please notify us in writing as soon as possible. The cancellation fee will depend on how far in advance you notify us: 

• More than 63 days – Deposit only 

• 63 days to 36 days (inclusive) – 50% of the full price (excluding deposit) 

• 35 days or less - 100% of the full Price (excluding the Deposit) 

If you wish to transfer your deposit to a later date and/or a different programme, you can do so free of charge upto 63 days prior to the start of your original programme. Amendments requested within 63 days of your original start date will be treated on a case-by-case basis and additional charges may apply. If we cancel your booking, you will receive a full refund of all monies paid to Gapforce.