Transform your education through meaningful travel experiences across 6 continents. Since 1983, Rustic Pathways has offered safe, supervised programs in 38+ countries for students ages 12–22.
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Argentina Teen Travel Programs
Explore Patagonia, the Andes, and vibrant local communities while participating in immersive cultural learning and environmental projects in Argentina.
Australia Teen Travel Programs
Experience Australia’s reefs, wildlife habitats, and Indigenous cultural learning through safe, student-focused adventure and conservation programs.
Belize Teen Travel Programs
Discover Belize’s coral reefs, rainforests, and Maya heritage while contributing to conservation and cultural exchange projects.
Cambodia Teen Travel Programs
Support education and community initiatives while exploring Angkor Wat and engaging in meaningful cultural exchange in Cambodia.
China Teen Travel Programs
Experience ancient traditions and modern innovation through student travel programs focused on history, culture, and safe exploration across China.
Costa Rica Teen Travel Programs
Our #1 destination for first-time travelers—students explore rainforests, join wildlife projects, learn Spanish, and experience sustainable travel in Costa Rica.
Croatia Teen Travel Programs
Travel along Croatia’s coastline while participating in environmental awareness, cultural immersion, and hands-on learning opportunities.
Cuba Teen Travel Programs
Engage with Cuban culture through music, arts, history, and locally guided learning experiences that emphasize cultural understanding.
Dominican Republic Teen Travel Programs
Join sea turtle conservation, reforestation, and community development efforts while exploring Caribbean culture in the Dominican Republic.
View Dominican Republic Programs
Ecuador Teen Travel Programs
Explore the Andes and Amazon through student programs focused on biodiversity, cultural exchange, and community partnerships in Ecuador.
Fiji Teen Travel Programs
Experience island culture and support marine conservation while learning from community partners in Fiji’s coastal villages.
France Teen Travel Programs
Immerse in French culture, history, and language through experiential travel programs designed for global-minded teens.
Germany Teen Travel Programs
Explore sustainability, culture, and modern history through safe, educational student travel programs in Germany.
Ghana Teen Travel Programs
Engage in health, education, and cultural learning initiatives while experiencing Ghana’s music, traditions, and community life.
Greece Teen Travel Programs
Discover ancient history and Mediterranean culture through teen travel experiences combining education, exploration, and cultural exchange.
Iceland Teen Travel Programs
Explore glaciers, volcanoes, and sustainable living while participating in ecological learning and adventure in Iceland.
India Teen Travel Programs
Experience India’s cultural diversity through community partnerships, service learning, and safe educational travel programs.
Italy Teen Travel Programs
Explore Italy’s history, cuisine, and cultural landmarks through immersive, educational teen travel programs.
Japan Teen Travel Programs
Experience Japan’s traditions, innovation, and cultural beauty while participating in structured, well-supervised student travel.
Laos Teen Travel Programs
Travel through rural Laos and contribute to community-led education and cultural learning initiatives in safe small-group settings.
Mexico Teen Travel Programs
Participate in cultural immersion, service learning, and ecological exploration across Mexico’s landscapes.
Mongolia Teen Travel Programs
Live alongside nomadic families and explore Mongolia’s remote landscapes through high-adventure, culturally immersive student programs.
Morocco Teen Travel Programs
Explore desert landscapes, ancient cities, and community-led initiatives that deepen cultural understanding in Morocco.
Myanmar Teen Travel Programs
Experience Southeast Asian culture and support local learning efforts through responsible, student-centered travel in Myanmar.
Nepal Teen Travel Programs
Trek Himalayan trails and support rural education programs through safe, structured teen travel in Nepal.
New Zealand Teen Travel Programs
Engage in outdoor adventure, marine conservation, and cultural learning with Maori communities in New Zealand.
Panama Teen Travel Programs
Explore Panama’s biodiversity, Indigenous communities, and coastal ecosystems through hands-on learning and service.
Peru Teen Travel Programs
Travel through the Andes, visit Machu Picchu, and join community-led service projects in culturally rich Peruvian communities.
Portugal Teen Travel Programs
Participate in sustainable tourism projects and cultural learning along Portugal’s Atlantic coast.
Puerto Rico Teen Travel Programs
Travel without a passport while supporting environmental restoration and cultural learning in Puerto Rico.
South Africa Teen Travel Programs
Join wildlife conservation and youth leadership programs while learning about South African history and community life.
South Korea Teen Travel Programs
Explore South Korea’s cultural, historical, and technological richness through immersive student travel programs.
Spain Teen Travel Programs
Learn Spanish and experience Spain’s regions through cultural exploration and community engagement.
Tanzania Teen Travel Programs
Experience wildlife conservation, safaris, and community learning in Tanzania’s remote regions.
Thailand Teen Travel Programs
One of our top destinations—students join elephant care, cultural immersion, and community projects across Thailand.
United States Teen Travel Programs
Develop leadership and explore American landscapes through supervised domestic travel programs.
Vietnam Teen Travel Programs
Experience cultural immersion and youth-led service projects in Vietnam’s cities and rural regions.
Explore Our Destinations by Region
Americas (12 Countries)
Join us in the Americas. From the Amazon rainforest to the Caribbean shores, students immerse in Spanish language, support wildlife conservation, and contribute to local development efforts. They engage with indigenous communities, protecting nesting sea turtles and tracing ancient civilizations from Machu Picchu to Mayan ruins.
Argentina, Belize, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, United States
If you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of baby turtles making their way into the sea. Copyright: © 2016 Rustic Pathways
Asia-Pacific (14 Countries)
Explore Culture and Conservation in Asia-Pacific. From mountain trails in Nepal to coral reefs in Fiji, students experience life. They visit Buddhist temples, help protect endangered animals, and join local efforts to support the environment. These program blend hands-on learning with deep cultural exchange.
Australia, Cambodia, China, Fiji, India, Japan, Laos, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, New Zealand, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam
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Credit: Rustic Pathways
Copyright: © 2015 Rustic Pathways
Usage with express permission only.
Africa (4 Countries)
Experience Africa: the wildlife, culture and community as these nations above others. Students take part in wildlife tracking, help build schools, and learn from local communities. They explore busy markets, visit remote villages, and work on real-world projects that build leadership and cross-cultural understanding.
Ghana, Morocco, South Africa, Tanzania
On safari in Tanzania
Europe (8 Countries)
Europe discovered on student travel programs. Enjoy the history, partake in the culture, and build community. Students explore Europe’s rich history and everyday life. They visit landmarks, practice local languages, and learn about sustainable travel. These programs offer a chance to connect with communities while seeing how old and new come together.
Croatia, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Portugal, Spain
Canoeing in Kefalonia
Popular Student Travel Destinations
Most Popular for First-Time Travelers
- Costa Rica: Wildlife conservation, Spanish immersion, zip-lining adventures
- Thailand: Buddhist culture, elephant sanctuary work, island hopping
- Peru: Machu Picchu trek, community service, llama farms
Best for Adventure Seekers
- Mongolia: Nomadic homestays, horseback riding, Gobi Desert expedition
- Tanzania: Safari wildlife tracking, Mount Kilimanjaro climb, Zanzibar coast
- New Zealand: Glacier hiking, Maori culture, marine conservation
Best for Service Learning
- Cambodia: School construction, English teaching, Angkor Wat
- Ghana: Healthcare initiatives, water projects, cultural festivals
- Dominican Republic: Sea turtle conservation, reforestation, community development
How to Choose the Best Country for Your Student Travel Program
Which country is best for first-time student travelers?
Costa Rica and Japan are top choices for first-time student travelers, thanks to their stable infrastructure, welcoming culture, and strong safety records.
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Costa Rica is ideal if you’re seeking rich biodiversity, hands-on service-learning opportunities, and a balance of adventure and cultural immersion.
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Japan offers a safe, structured environment with a mix of tradition and modernity. This program is perfect for students interested in language, food, and cultural exploration.
Your best option depends on what experience you’re looking for, and which destination is more convenient for your departure location.
Are Rustic Pathways programs available in Europe?
Yes! Rustic Pathways offers student travel programs in eight European countries: Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Portugal, Croatia, Germany, and Iceland.
These programs emphasize cultural immersion, language learning, and hands-on exploration of historic sites. Students also engage with local communities through meaningful service projects and guided experiential learning.
What are the safest countries for teen travel?
Some of the safest countries for teen travel include Japan, South Korea, Costa Rica, New Zealand, and Portugal. These destinations are known for their strong infrastructure, political stability, and reliable local support systems.
That said, all 38 countries where Rustic Pathways operates uphold our rigorous safety standards. Each program is supported by trained program leaders and full-time, in-country staff who provide 24/7 supervision and emergency response support.
Do you offer programs in multiple countries?
Yes! Rustic Pathways offers multi-country and Gap Year programs that allow students to explore 2–4 countries in a single, seamless experience.
Popular combinations include:
- Japan – South Korea
- Portugal – Italy – Greece – Spain
- Thailand – Cambodia – Vietnam
- Peru – Ecuador – Costa Rica
These programs are ideal for students seeking broader cultural exposure, service-learning opportunities, and adventure across multiple regions. Each itinerary is carefully designed to ensure smooth travel logistics and consistent support throughout the journey.
What ages can participate in each country?
Most Rustic Pathways programs are designed for students ages 14–18. Some destinations also offer specialized programs for middle school students (ages 12–13) and college or gap year travelers (ages 18–22).
Age requirements may vary depending on the country and program type, so be sure to check individual country pages for specific eligibility details.
Why Choose Rustic Pathways
100,000+ families trust us for safe, meaningful teen travel experiences with:
- 24/7 supervision (6:1 student-to-leader ratio)
- Full-time, in-country staff in every destination
- 40+ years of experience since 1983
- Service projects aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals
- Comprehensive travel insurance included
- Chaperoned group flights available
Start Your Journey
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