SCOTTISH ISLANDS

Immerse yourself in Scotland's wild isles. Learn how to survive and work together to face unknown challenges on our island based expedition.

Applications are open for 2025

Start your journey to expedition with us today and explore the remote islands of the Outer Hebrides.

From the base camp in the Outer Hebrides, Young Explorers will get to plan their own expedition – working with their expedition Leader teams to choose their objectives, plan their routes and agree their remote campsites. This is a unique opportunity to challenge yourself and to truly experience one of Scotland’s hardest to reach remote wildernesses.

Whilst this is a complete, self-contained expedition journey in itself, it may also act as a stepping stone onto future adventures and our international expeditions.

Please note you must be a British citizen or UK resident to join one of our expedition programmes.

  • Applications are open for 2025
  • Age 16-21
  • Means-tested fundraising targets
  • 11th – 31st August 2025 (+/- 3 Days) 3 Weeks
  • Induction Weekend 11th – 13th April 2025
  • UK Training Expedition 24th – 28th May 2025
  • Outer Hebrides, Scotland
  • Not Required for British passport holders
  • Recommended vaccinations for life in the UK

After the expedition I really do feel that I have a greater sense of self-confidence.

Nye - Young Explorer, Hartz Scottish Explorers 2022

Led by experts, the expedition has been designed to take you out of your comfort zone in a challenging yet safe environment, with a real focus on the skills and personal development you will gain from the experience. The safety and support of our Young Explorers is the cornerstone on which we build and develop an expedition from conception through to departure and return.

The vast majority of young people return from our expeditions with a wealth of new-found practical skills, new friends-for-life and a real sense of personal development – all of which can have tangible benefits for the future.

What's Included?

  • An adventurous expedition programme built on 90 years of experience
  • An induction weekend to help prepare you for your expedition
  • British Exploring Society Expedition Certificate
  • Support with your Duke of Edinburgh Award (residential only)
  • Participation in the ‘Explorer Celebrations’ reunion and reflection event after expedition
  • Lifetime membership of British Exploring Society
  • Support to continue your development journey after expedition

What's Involved?

  • You will have the opportunity to explore the natural world, being mentored and supported by expert leaders, alongside expedition medics, scientists and adventure professionals
  • Work towards a Fundraising Challenge to develop your confidence and gain invaluable skills to help you in adult life and employment
  • Enjoy a diverse programme of scientific study and research and take part in creative media projects to document your expedition.
  • Build your character, resilience, determination and teamworking ability while exploring amazing wilderness
  • The opportunity for DofE participants to complete the residential section of their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

EXPLORE IMAGES FROM PREVIOUS YEARS

It doesn't matter where your starting point is; you'll return with more confidence in your own abilities; greater resilience, determination and courage - and a sense of self-belief that will stay with you for life.

Scottish Islands 2025 and The Hartz Family

The Hartz family helped us create and generously support our expedition programmes in Scotland – encouraging us to take our long-tested expedition model to a location providing the greatest opportunities for inclusion.  They continue to ensure that any young person, regardless of their background, can benefit from the potentially life changing impact of our programmes.

 

JOIN US. YOU'RE ABOUT TO CHANGE YOUR LIFE.

EXPRESS INTEREST FOR 2025

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Families

Information for parents, carers, families and social workers

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Leaders

Find out about our Leader Roles and how you can get involved

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