The 7 questions people always ask about Rustic Pathways.
What are the accommodations like?
We’ve got you covered with clean, comfortable spaces. They’re not luxury suites, but you’ll have all the essentials you need for a cozy stay.
How old are the students?
Most kids are 12-19 and are grouped by age to keep things fun and balanced. Our Young Explorers programs are for ages 12-14, the bulk of our travelers are 15-17, and we even have college-age options.
Can my kid go with a friend or sibling?
Yes, your child can attend with a friend or sibling! Just let us know during enrollment, and we’ll do our best to place them together. And if they join solo, that’s perfectly fine too—most kids travel alone and quickly create new friendships.
What is the gender breakdown of programs?
Most programs are near 50/50, though this can change a bit depending on the program and destination.
What is the supervision like? Do kids have 24/7 supervision?
Staff are with students 24/7. During activities, there’s a 7:1 student-to-leader ratio, and during free time, staff are at designated spots with clear meeting times. All leaders are trained in first aid and safety.
Who’s the staff on the program? What training do they have?
Our Program Leaders are a diverse group, including educators, wilderness guides, nurses, and more. Your program leaders are trip leaders, there with you from start to finish, ensuring safety and making the experience engaging and fun.
How do flights work?
Most families use our chaperoned group flights from major gateway airports like LAX, JFK, or Miami. Just get your kid to the designated airport, and our staff handles the rest of the flights and travel, including customs and baggage.
If you prefer, you can book flights yourself. We’ll give you the specific arrival and departure windows to make sure everything lines up. Just note that only group flights are chaperoned, so self-booked flights are independent.
School Group Travel
Private, custom student travel programs to 50+ countries.
Lead your class on an educational travel experience while receiving top-notch customer service throughout. Travel plans aligned with your curriculum.
Learn more
Student Travel
Students 12-22 looking to learn a language, develop a new skill, and make friends.
View our 2025 Spring and Summer Teen Travel Programs.
Learn more
Parents / Guardians
Top Teen Travel Locations
Greece |
Italy |
Japan |
Thailand |
All countries
Teen travel:
Featured in the World’s Top Media Outlets
Student Travel Resources from Rustic Pathways
Get your travel documents
Learn all about U.S. Passports: the fastest way to get a passport, how much passports cost, and know the countries Americans can travel to and where Americans can’t travel.
Get prepared
Read FAQs that cover safety protocols and common worries from students and parents, learn what to pack for your trip, and study how to prepare for cultural differences.
Get your travel program
Read program reviews, testimonials, and video explainers of student travel global destinations and summer travel program types.
Get your flight pricing
Get your options
Get scholarships and understand the costs of summer programs abroad.
Highest-Rated
Student travel company
4.8
Based on Google Reviews 4.8/5 star rating, GoOverseas 4.9/5 star rating, TrustPilot 4.8/5 star rating and GoAbroad 9.5/10 star rating and compared to the leading student travel brands. As of March 6, 2025, the information provided is for general informational purposes only. All information herein is provided in good faith; however Rustic Pathways makes no promise or guarantee as to the outcome from the use of its products and services.
Awards
we've won
“…Rustic Pathways designs each travel itinerary with precision, purpose, passion and adventure in order to transform the ordinary teen travel moments into extraordinary memories.…”
“…the real growth may be for the parents who let their kids go..”
“…conducts leading immersive and authentic student travel programs…”
Rustic Pathways is exploring the world while preserving it
We believe in creating experiences that create positive energy to change the world and ourselves for the better
Student Travel Alums: Watch Alumni Testimonials
We’re Nominated for Best Group Tour Operator!
Rustic Pathways has been nominated for Best Group Tour Operator at the 2025 International Travel Awards. This honor recognizes our commitment to creating safe, meaningful, and transformative travel experiences for students worldwide. After winning Best Tour Operator in 2024, we’re proud to be recognized again this year. We need your vote to win.
Educational Tours For School Groups
Educational Tours
Customize Your School Group Program
Teachers Travel Free
Frequently Asked Questions About Educational Tours
Student Travel Programs
High school students can explore the world through educational tours led by experienced Rustic Pathways trip leaders. Designed for students ages 12-22, these programs offer cultural immersion, new friendships, community service, and personal growth.
In small groups, students deepen their understanding of climate change, explore education in South America, and learn local languages and history—all while having the adventure of a lifetime.
Real learning happens beyond the classroom. Discover student travel programs today. Learn about student travel programs.
Educational Tours
Rustic Pathways elevates class trips and educational travel, preparing students for the world through impactful experiences. Our program leaders craft must-experience itineraries filled with adventure while ensuring safety and meaningful moments.
Explore tour reviews from past students to see how Rustic Pathways transforms student travel.
Learn more about Rustic Pathways student travel
Teen Travel Programs
Join an international teen travel program designed for students ages 12-22 and transform your teenage years. Our teen travel programs offer cultural immersion, new friendships, community service, and personal growth across global destinations.
Rustic Pathways Online Jobs for Teens
Rustic Pathways offers online jobs for teens that build valuable skills and provide an opportunity to earn money. Instead of working in fast food or customer service, teens can develop marketing skills by managing social media, designing graphics, or editing travel videos.
These jobs enhance technical abilities, encourage creativity, and improve writing skills. Earn money while gaining meaningful experience for the future.
Learn more about Rustic Pathways online jobs for teens
School Group Travel –
Student Travel –
Summer Travel Camp –
Gap Year Travel –
Leadership Development Program
Student Travel –
Summer Travel Camp –
Gap Year Travel –
Leadership Development Program
Discover our travel programs safe, enlightening and awesome!