Welcome to The Leap, where our game-changing midlife adventures promise to invigorate, reboot, and inspire you. As demand for enriching and dynamic travel experiences soar, Midlifers are seeking opportunities that go beyond the typical, which is where we step in as our adventures are a unique offering in the travel space - taking you off the beaten track to meet local communities, contribute to development projects, and conquer bite-sized challenges.
The Three C’s: Culture, Contribution, and Challenge
Through our unique combination of culture, contribution, and challenge (the Three C’s), you will high-five your inner self, fuel your mojo, and return home enriched with a guaranteed sense of achievement. And that’s a promise.
Who Are We?
I’m Milly, and together with my amazing team at The Leap, we’ve been organizing gap year adventures for nearly 20 years. Partnering with overseas NGOs who spearhead inspiring development projects. it is through their local knowledge we craft our unique itineraries that allow everyone to experience local culture, discover hidden gems, and make a life-changing contribution - enabling you to be a traveller, not a tourists.
The Birth of Midlife Leap
Four years ago, when I turned 50, I quietly, (promise) reached for the HRT and 101 supplements. Watching my friends sign up for various retreats or mad challenges, I thought, ‘I want to do more than that... I want to put my rucksack on and do what our gap year leapers do. I want to step out of my comfort zone and experience the sense of adventure and achievement we offer our gap year teams.’ Just like that, Midlife Leap was born.
Now, I lead, encourage, and organize teams of midlifers to venture around the world, nailing their bucket lists in an organized bubble of ‘sisterhood’ that fosters camaraderie, laughter, and friendship. It’s a true tonic, exactly what we need in midlife.
Join the Adventure
I invite you to join a scheduled departure or go bespoke by choosing your own dates and a team of friends (minimum of 8). Our current scheduled adventures are heading to Sri Lanka, Peru, Costa Rica, and Colombia (Kenya is imminent).
And the best bit of feedback from fellow midlifers? Once you get to the airport, you can literally switch off as we take over the logistics.
It's Time to Make Midlife Rock
So, fellow midlifers, it’s time to put yourself first, try something a little different, and make midlife rock. Get in contact and let’s start a conversation. Embrace the adventure with The Leap and transform your midlife into an unforgettable journey.
Unleash Your Inner Explorer: Midlife Adventure Options with The Leap
Sri Lanka: Tea Plantation + Beach + Central Highlands (8 days)
Welcome to an inspiring adventure in Sri Lanka, where you will contribute to a women’s empowerment center, invigorate yourself with yoga, surfing, and hiking, and reboot at the tranquil tea plantation of Tekanda. This adventure is sprinkled with The Leap’s magic extras, including an elephant safari, exploration of Galle Forte, and delicious local food.
Contribution: Help deliver English lessons at Gamata Atak, a women’s empowerment center, and learn local recipes from the community.
Culture: Experience the vibrant culture of Southern Sri Lanka through Galle Forte, plantations, culinary delights, and the gemstone industry.
Challenge: Practice yoga and surfing, and scale Ella’s Peak in the Central Highlands—a 5-hour hike through stunning landscapes.
Scheduled Departures: 27th January 2025 and 6th May 2025
Colombia: Canyons + Jungle + Caribbean (12 days)
New for Midlifers in 2025, our Colombia adventure promises giant canyons, Tayrona National Park, and the Caribbean groove. Expect breath-taking hikes, mindful yoga, and a 'family in need' project, along with exploring Santa Marta and Cartagena’s historic towns.
Contribution: Participate in a community-chosen social work project in Barichara, making a life-changing difference to an individual or family.
Culture: Discover hidden gems, artisanal goodies, and local delicacies with our community partners Brendan and Josi.
Challenge: Enjoy three hikes, including the colonial ‘el camino real’ footpaths and Tyrona National Park’s diverse ecosystems.
Scheduled Departure: 27th October 2025
Peru: Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu (12 days)
For those seeking a gritty challenge and a chance to see Machu Picchu without the crowds, this adventure offers a 4-day off-grid trek to the famous citadel. Experience local culture, contribute to environmental projects, and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Contribution: Assist with high-altitude reforestation and organic farming projects with the Andean Alliance.
Culture: Immerse in modern and ancient Inca culture, living with local families and experiencing their way of life.
Challenge: Undertake a bespoke 4-day trek to Machu Picchu, hiking through remote mountain valleys and glacial lakes.
Dates: 30th September 2024, 14th April 2025, 29th September 2025, 3rd November 2025
Costa Rica: Cloud Forest + Waterfalls + Volcanoes + Pacific Beaches (12 days)
Explore Costa Rica’s stunning landscapes, including national parks, beaches, and volcanoes. This adventure is perfect for rebooting your adventurous spirit and engaging in conservation efforts.
Contribution: Focus on turtle conservation at Cirenas, helping with hatchery work and learning about permaculture projects.
Culture: Enjoy the community-driven, environmentally focused lifestyle of the ‘Ticos’ and savor their delicious cuisine.
Challenge: Engage in daily hikes, a spectacular waterfall trek, and a thrilling zip wire adventure.
Dates: 6th May 2025
Shared: £2851 | Single: £3364 (not possible in Cirenas)
Frequently asked Questions
Team Size, Average Age, All Female?
Our teams typically consist of 10-12 Midlifers, aged between 50-70, who join alone or with a friend or two. While most participants have been adventurous women, we also curate private, bespoke adventures for families of mixed ages and sexes. A minimum of 8 participants is needed to capture the team vibe essential to The Leap experience.
Challenge and Creature Comforts?
Finding the perfect fit is key, and our quick quiz and a call with Milly, who has experienced all the adventures, help match you with the right level of challenge. Challenges vary, from the physical like the Machu Picchu trek to the level of creature comforts. Sri Lanka stands out for its luxurious settings. We aim to ensure you return home empowered, not overwhelmed.
Logistics: Flights, Insurance, Injections?
We handle all logistics from the moment you arrive, so you can relax and enjoy the adventure. Pre-departure, we provide advice on flights, insurance, necessary injections, and packing. Many Midlifers appreciate us taking the "in charge" role, making the journey stress-free.
