2002
Guy & Milly founded The Leap
…on the kitchen table with the assistance of an old green dinosaur Apple Mac. We soon upgraded our technology and moved to the heady heights of our offices in Marlborough.
At our core, we're driven by a profound "why." We're not just another travel company; we're on a mission to ignite a global movement towards responsible and sustainable travel. Our volunteering adventures aren't just about ticking off destinations; they're about leaving a lasting, positive impact on the planet. We're creating a legacy that future generations will thank us for, one where every traveler becomes a steward of our Earth.
But we're not just shaping the future of travel; we're nurturing the leaders of tomorrow. In an ever-changing world, Leapers are the decision-makers who will drive progress. Through immersive experiences in conservation and community engagement worldwide, we're empowering young adults to be ambassadors for change. They're not just witnessing challenges; they're becoming catalysts for solutions.
Yet, our mission extends beyond travel. We're a catalyst for personal growth. Our gap year programmes aren't just about seeing the world; they're about discovering oneself. We push boundaries, both mental and physical, because we know that's where true growth happens. Our Leapers emerge not only with a newfound understanding of the world but with invaluable soft skills that will serve them for life. From leadership to resilience, budgeting to public speaking, our programs are a masterclass in personal development.
But what truly sets us apart are our values. Honesty, compassion, professionalism—these aren't just buzzwords to us; they're the foundation of everything we do. From the moment you join us, you become part of a community built on empathy, respect, and yes, even a bit of humor. Because while we're serious about our mission, we know that laughter is often the best companion on the journey to change.
The Leap stands as an independent, family-owned pioneer in experiential gap year travel. Since our inception in 2002, we've proudly guided thousands of Leapers on transformative overseas volunteering projects across Africa, Asia, and South America, earning accolades along the way.
But what truly distinguishes us is our vibrant leap culture, meticulously crafted by our knowledgeable, caring, and supportive staff. Whether in our UK office or overseas, you'll encounter a warm and professional atmosphere that fosters a sense of family. Here, everyone goes the extra mile to ensure your experience is not only fulfilling but profoundly positive. From the moment you embark on your journey, you're enveloped in our commitment to your growth and well-being.
Co-founder
Keeps the show on the road and makes sure we're all on the straight and narrow
Co-Founder
Responsible for programme development and Midlife Leap
Marketing Manager
Responsible for our marketing across school expeditions, gap year and midlife travel
Operations Executive
Zoë is responsible for all pre-departure admin
Content Creator
Erin is in charge of all our social media channels and engaging with our Leapers
Costa Rica
Chris, your host in Costa Rica, is passionate about conservation and the environment. Along with his brilliant team Chris will enthuse, inspire and lead you throughout the program.
Colombia
Brendan and his family will be looking after all our teams in Colombia and will show you life beyond the tourist trail.
Peru
Kerri is your host in Peru to help get you all the way to Machu Picchu - what she doesn't know about Peru isn't worth knowing.
Kenya
Tilda is the other half of this dynamic couple who are all about conservation. Tilda helps Milly build the programme and makes sure everyone is happy.
Kenya
Des is truly dynamic and has created the marine conservation zone which needs your help.
Costa Rica Marine
Founders of Marine Conservation Costa Rica, this dyanmic duo run our Costa Rica Marine programme.
Costa Rica
Peggy is the booking and spanish director.
2002
…on the kitchen table with the assistance of an old green dinosaur Apple Mac. We soon upgraded our technology and moved to the heady heights of our offices in Marlborough.
2006
From the dusty plains of Africa, we branched out into South America and Asia, providing diverse projects, adventures and challenges in each continent.
2009
From business and law to teaching and journalism, we start offering opportunities that enable Leapers to gain invaluable work experience whilst travelling off the beaten track.
2010
Champagne and celebration - we've helped 2000 leapers travel. We begin looking for new countries and projects to meet the needs of the gap year traveller. Cambodia still wins the popularity contest.
2012
A proud moment; together we've built schools and orphanages, educated children, helped protect endangered wildlife, planted trees and improved health and hygiene in remote communities.
2014
This year, we added Cuba, Madagascar, Nepal and The Bahamas to our roster... twelve different countries across four different continents.
2016
Namibia welcomes our Leapers, Peru comes on board and the lovely Jenny joins our team in Leap Towers - what did we do without her?
2018
Central America is now the new place to go, (apparently, and Guatemala wins the popularity award.) Alice joins us and starts to find even more destinations, so watch this space.
2018
9 day trips to Namibia, Guatemala, Costa Rica and Madagascar for teams of MidLifers who want to embark on a volunteering adventure. Check out our new website.
2019
We take our first team of CR directors on a bespoke conference to the Philippines where they will combine strategy meetings with volunteering projects. See what they are up to.
2020
We launch our first school Expedition for Dauntsey’s school to Namibia where they will contribute to the development of a new national park.
2020
The year of corona and a what year it has been. But not to be beaten - we created Leap VIP to help all gappers find a way to travel and navigate the new rules imposed on us.
2021
We were one of the very few companies to get gappers away this year through our team Leap programs and Leap VIP, saving the gap year for hundreds of leapers.
2021
Re-accredited - full gold star membership.
2022
We celebrate 20 years in business and survived the pandemic.
2022
We bring on new and exciting destinations: Vietnam, Colombia and Peru
2023
The Midlife takes off again with adventures to Sri Lanka, Peru and Colombia.
2024
Plans are being made to start taking corporate teams abroad again.
