This expedition will wake you up to high-altitude trekking, as you explore the isolated peaks, wild-flower meadows and unique landscape of Kyrgyzstan.
Taking part in exploration, science and media projects – you’ll work together on a high-altitude adventure, exploring dramatic ridge lines, lush valleys and meeting the nomadic Kyrgyz herders who are kindly hosting our basecamp in their pastures. As night falls, you will cook dinner and reflect around a campfire, exchanging stories of spotting wildlife such as golden eagles and ibex – and maybe even the elusive snow leopard.
- Applications are open for 2026
- Age 18-25
- Means-tested fundraising targets
- 25th July – 22nd August 2026 (+/- 3 Days)
- Kyrgyzstan
- Induction Weekend 10th - 12th April 2026
- UK Training Expedition 23rd – 27th May 2026
- No visa required if traveling on a British passport
- List of required vaccines will be provided once offered a place on the programme.
Someone like me who had lost themselves trying to be someone else, never really knew how much they needed time away from the constant pressures of society.
Hannah - Young Explorer, Kyrgyzstan 2023
The programme includes:
- A four week overseas expedition with the opportunity to take part in a diverse programme of scientific study, research and creative media projects to document your expedition.
- An Induction Weekend and UK Training Expedition to prepare you for your overseas expedition
- Working towards a means-tested Fundraising Challenge to develop your confidence and gain invaluable skills to help you in adult life and employment
- Completion of the Gold residential for your Duke of Edinburgh Award
- Participation in the ‘Explorer Celebrations’ reunion and reflection event after expedition
- A British Exploring Society Expedition Certificate
- Lifetime Membership of British Exploring Society
- Support to continue your development journey after expedition
Use the initial sign up form below to express interest in joining. You will then receive a Welcome Pack via email with more information on how to complete your application.
JOIN US. YOU'RE ABOUT TO CHANGE YOUR LIFE.
"What I have found the most interesting post-expedition is realising how much I’ve learnt from the other people in my fire and on expedition. 5 weeks is a long time to be around people you don’t know very well 24/7, so there’s a lot of time for talking, sometimes about trivial things but also about some serious issues and debates. I’ve found this is what I have been applying to life back home the most – reminiscing on these conversations and applying new world views to my own thinking."
Edie - Young Explorer, Kyrgyzstan 2022
As the only brown Asian boy among a diverse group of explorers, my nerves initially got the best of me. But my worries vanished as soon as I met my fellow expedition members. They greeted me with open arms, radiating friendliness and inclusivity. I quickly realized that I was among people who saw me as an equal, not an outsider.
Musa - Young Explorer, Canadian Yukon 2023
I feel like I’m taking on a more resilient attitude because of what I accomplished; Now I also understand and manage my emotions better. I’ve also been in regular touch with friends from the expedition and I will keep cherishing them.
Olu - Young Explorer, Hartz Scottish Explorers 2023
British Exploring Society gave me the opportunity to be myself without judgment, I was more than just a label for the first time in my life. I was able to share my specialist interests with like-minded people and I could channel my impulsivity into exploration. This allowed me to see my diagnosis of autism and ADHD as a positive, because I wasn’t being told to sit inside the box, and I loved it! This was a whirlwind of self-exploration, going somewhere you’ve only ever seen on a map. Someone like me who had lost themselves trying to be someone else, never really knew how much they needed time away from the constant pressures of society.
Hannah - Young Explorer, Kyrgyzstan 2023
Now that I’m home and the reality has all passed, I always try to seek the best in every circumstance. Iceland was a real eye opener. Being on expedition wasn’t easy and I learnt more about myself than anything else. It has also made me realise that we can get too caught up in the things that don’t matter instead of focusing on the beauty of everything around. It has taught me to look beyond the negatives and see what life has to teach me.
Jake - Young Explorer, Dangoor Next Generation Iceland 2023
"I’m so happy I took the plunge with this expedition. It was even better than I had anticipated and I made some great friends. It grew my social skills, fitness, care for the environment and self-awareness. I felt such a deep connection to nature in the highlands; I never thought I would enjoy the rainy outdoors, let alone swimming in a freezing lake! To anyone thinking about giving this a shot – feel the fear and just go for it! You’re in for all sorts of growth and generally an amazing time."
Niveah - Young Explorer, Hartz Scottish Explorers 2023