Gap Year Expeditions, Global Volunteering & Conservation Projects – Greenforce

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Over the years, we've been asked all sorts of questions. Below, we answer some of your most frequent.

What is Greenforce?

Greenforce aims to deliver sustainable and rewarding volunteer conservation projects that directly aid local communities. Greenforce provides programmes for gap year, career break and other adventurous participants looking to visit a remote region of the world and help local communities there.

Does Greenforce conduct gap year projects?

Short answer: Yes. We specialise in volunteer gap year projects. Our programmes

Why Choose Greenforce?

How long in advance should I book?

What is the age range of the volunteers?

The minimum age is 17 and we do not have an upper limit.  A large number of our volunteers are aged between 18-25, although our programmes attract all ages.

How many participants and staff will there be on my programme?

Greenforce programmes are usually around 8-15 people but this can vary depending on the needs of the project. Generally each project is staffed by two expedition leaders and a medic.

What will I gain from this programme?

Greenforce volunteer projects have many benefits for the participants. Gain valuable skills for your CV such as project management and leadership, health and safety, team building and immersion, and all-important life skills. Our projects present an opportunity to demonstrate how well you can cope outside your comfort zone and how well you can adjust to physical and mental challenges.

What are your Safety and Backup plans and procedures

Please refer to our Safety Page for more details.

What are the living arrangements?

Although living arrangements on our projects differ, volunteers generally live in a base camp for the project.  All meals are provided by Greenforce and are often cooked communally with cooks being appointed on a rotational basis within the group. For teaching placements, you will stay with a local family or one of the teachers at your school. All of your food and water will be provided by them.

Is there any written agreement between the organisation and I?

When you sign up for an expedition, you agree to the Greenforce terms and conditions.  We would ideally like you to attend a briefing event in the UK that outlines the emphasis of each programme and introduces the spirit within which Greenforce conducts its expeditions and programmes. This event, along with a intensive seven-day Jungle or Environment / Cultural training programme (covering jungle operations, mountain operations, cultural sensitivities, health and safety, medical and communication training) at the start of every expedition will give the volunteers a clear and detailed understanding of the physical, cultural, and behavioural code of conduct on a Greenforce programme.

What does the cost include?

The finances include all the project logistics, food, accommodation and local transportation in country. It also includes a Briefing Day, jungle training, and emergency back-up. The costs will also be used to benefit the conservation project you will be working on and helps to provide the materials, labour, planning and development of the project. Your contribution does not include flights or medical travel insurance, so you will need to pay for this in addition. You will also need to budget for your vaccinations and required kit. During your time with Greenforce, you will need some extra pocket money for souvenirs, treats etc. 

What are the payment terms? What are the cancellations terms?

Once you apply, you will need to pay Trekforce £300 deposit. This confirms your place on the expedition.

Full payment should be made at least 3 months prior to departure.   If you are unable to go on the expedition you signed up for due to personal circumstances, we can transfer your money to another expedition of your choice.

Tell me more about the projects. How will I be helping others?

All of our conservation projects are carried out at the request of sponsoring bodies (such as National Parks, NGOs in country). They identify the most urgent projects and Greenforce is asked to fund, aid and develop the specific project. At least 2/3 of your financial contribution goes towards the projects and your time will be wisely spent in aiding them. Once we complete our portion of the project, host country partners take over and it will be used for its intended purpose. For example, Greenforce has constructed various science research facilities to help wildlife researchers and to curb deforestation. There is also a close relationship with the local communities and indigenous cultures and we work closely with them as well.

What are the organisation’s policies?

We have field base staff working in each country we operate in during expeditions.  We are in a unique position to be able to monitor our reputation because we are asked back by the same organisations and communities year on year and highly recommended to others.  Dignitaries, both tribal and governmental, often attend our project opening ceremonies.

Trekforce directly coordinates all projects and therefore do not contract work out to suppliers thus taking full responsibility for all practices.

What certification, reference or testimonial will the organisation provide?

Trekforce is happy to provide written references for individuals on request.  In addition, taking part on an expedition qualifies Duke of Edinburgh Gold participants for the Residential Phase of their award.  You will also receive a Jungle Training certificate on completion of the Training package.