PHOTOS

Itinerary

DAY 1

Arriving into Bali from the air, you will see the lush volcanic landscape giving way to some of the world’s best surf breaks. Bali is a slice of paradise in the Java Sea. Once you arrive at Denpasar airport are group leader will be waiting to pick you up and take you to your hotel.

You can then relax by the pool, at the beach or explore Kuta itself before we head out in the evening for our ‘Welcome Dinner and Drinks’ where you will meet the rest of your group.

 

DAY 2

 

Get your exploration flip-flops on, today were off to explore Bali´s Tod vibrant culture. No visit to Bali is complete without checking out Tanah Lot. Perched on a rocky outcrop surrounded by the sea it’s like something out of a movie.

Then it’s on to see another temple, The Royal Temple of Tamun Ayun. On our way back to Kuta we stop off at La Plancha for an ice cold drink & to watch the sun set on our first full day in Bali before we get ready to enjoy the nightlife that Kuta is famous for!

 

DAY 3

 

When in Paradise hit the beach! Surfs up in the morning, with lessons led by our laidback local surf instructors at Kuta Beach. Then it’s a short drive up the coastline to visit the beautiful Padang Padang Beach and we hit our final stop of the day at Uluwatu Temple. Uluwatu is famous for having some of the biggest waves and gnarly a surf breaks in the world. Fresh from the ocean you are going to love it!

Expect more beautiful sunsets and good times.

 

DAY 4

 

It’s time to go to the beautiful town of Ubud – on the way we will get dressed up in some traditional Balinese attire and visit Batuan Temple. Afterward, we’ll cool off with a dip in a stunning natural waterfall.

Monkey Forest

In Ubud itself, we stop off to visit the “little locals” at the Monkey Forest and relax by the pool or explore the local markets as we take an evening to just chill out after a busy three days.

 

DAY 5

 

In the morning we head to a local primary school for the unique opportunity to spend time in class with the local kids and stop for a coffee at a local plantation where you can see how the world’s most expensive coffee is made (you will be very surprised!).

We’ll have lunch overlooking an active volcano and the afternoon will be spent wandering around the famous Rice Terraces of Ubud.

 

DAY 6

 

Let’s explore the islands! We board a boat to the picturesque island of Gili Trawangan and settle into our beachside accommodation before getting on the only mode of transport available on the island (push bike) to cycle around, see the sights and marvel at an amazing sunset!

Then in the evening its time to party… island style!

Tip: Avoid the Arak arak. That shit is nasty!

 

DAY 7

 

For our last day together, we spend the day island hopping – heading to some of the best snorkeling spots in Indonesia and making the most of some amazing beaches!

This evening we enjoy a farewell dinner and party in style, to celebrate having just had the best seven days of your life!

 

 

Duration	Option	Price
8 (Days)	Shared	£ 499 Book Now

INCLUDED

• Airport pick up
• 7 nights accommodation
• All transport
• All activities
• Private guide & driver
• Breakfast
• Support & advice for onward travel around south east Asia

DAY 1 – 3

• (Kuta / Legian / Uluwatu)
• Welcome Dinner & Drinks
• Tanah Lot Temple
• The Royal Taman Ayun Temple
• Party Night in Kuta
• Surf Lesson *
• Padang Padang Beach
• Uluwatu Temple

DAY 4 – 5

• (Ubud)
• Tegenungan Waterfall
• Monkey Forest
• Local Markets
• Local Primary School **
• Coffee Plantation
• Volcano
• Rice Terraces

DAY 6 – 7

• (Gili Trawangan)
• Bike ride around Island
• Beach Party
• Boat trip around Gili T, Meno & Air *
• Snorkeling *
• Farewell Dinner & Drinks
• * Activities dependant on weather conditions!
• ** School Holidays from June 15th to July 17th!

 

EXCLUDED

• Flights
• Travel insurance
• Meals
• Drinks

DATES

We have multiple departures per month. Please contact us for start dates.

PHOTOS

 

Bali Fitness Bootcamp Details:

At the Bali Fitness Bootcamp, we have teamed up with some of the best personal fitness trainers to put together the ultimate fitness training environment.

Our professional roster of cross fit trainers will push you to your limits and help you smash all of your goals. Whether it’s weight loss, muscle tone or a total re-haul our expert coaches are here to advise and make you the best you can be.

The boot camp combines  Crossfit, Cycle, WOD and TRX across the schedule so there is no way you’ll come home not feeling and looking your best.

We train hard; we play chilled and what’s best is that there are heaps of people in the same boat as you doing it all too!!

Training Overview

By combining instinctive, natural and functional movement with science-based highly efficient training programs. We offer the best of what your body deserves.

And all that while having fun, being safe and shedding these pounds you want to get rid of and firing these muscles you want to get back.
We provide the space, the equipment and the expert coaching. You just need to show up and go full out. Results Guaranteed.

With our constantly varied programming, you will rarely do the same workout. You will never have to program your workouts or spend hours in the gym. Instead, each day a workout will be provided for you that is scalable to suit your fitness level.

Nutrition Planning

Is equally important as the training when striving to reach your fitness goals, is nutrition.  It is the fuel that powers your workouts, and assist your recovery in between sessions. With our Bali fitness boot camp, Our we include a nutrition service that will maximise your workouts.

Warning: here comes the science stuff! We require three basic macronutrients to survive – protein, carbohydrate and fat. Each of these macronutrients has a vital role to play not only in developing our body and performance but also for us to survive as human beings. It’s basic science. Not a fashionable diet. With this in mind, we control the timing, portion and ratio of your macronutrients to help you achieve your goals whether it’s to cut,

Considering this, it is crucial that we control the timing and proportion of what you eat with how you work out. It’s like having a highly experienced food guru watching over you, giving you all the motivation and information you need to reach your goals.  This applies to whether you want to cut, gain or maintain.

Our nutritionists will inform you how much you need to eat of what for your body to change, with a personalised, tailored plan.  You are then able to apply this plan to the many beautiful restaurants in and around Bali. We are also able to recommend the perfect locations to eat out in Bali, and stick to the plan.

The Training Facilities

Both facilities are a relatively short distance from the accommodation (2 km away)  and the transport is arranged for you.

You have a couple of different options for getting around while you are at the boot camp. We provide a complimentary rental pushbike to get you to the various fitness classes. This will take you less than five minutes and it’s a great way to warm up as you commute through lush green rice paddies!

If your legs just can’t take it after a serious leg workout session you can opt for drop-off and pickup from the training facility at 40kIdr a day , that’s roughly 2 pounds.

Blissful rooftop sunset yoga sessions

Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday as the sun sets over the Java Sea, you have the option to join Yoga sessions. These are fully included in the price three times per week.

Accommodation

The Accommodation is located in beautiful Canggu in a newly built very modern flashpackers and is situated 250m from the beach in Canggu and just down the road from the training facility.With a short 35 minutes drive from Bali’s international airport. There are different accommodation options.

• Standard Fan (available in single/Twin)
• Standard Aircon (available in Single/Twin)

All rooms have a hot shower, a personal locker and there is free wi-fi, a pool and a nice bar and restaurant plus you’re only short distance away from heaps of restaurant and bars on the front at Echo Beach.

Breakfast is included.

The local beaches of Canggu just 200 meters from the hotel, provide the perfect place to relax after a hard day’s training. We have opted not to accommodate people right next door to the training facilities because the location of the accommodation is much better being by the beach.

Really Motivating.

Many people struggle to get motivated into taking their health and fitness seriously. Think about it, who has the time to hit the gym properly or go for a run in our busy lives? When you do get round to it, where is the motivation?

The great thing about the fitness Boot Camp is that you can take time out of your hectic schedule to do something that is really great for your well-being, and you know you will be supported every step of the way.

What can the Bali Fitness Boot Camp do for you?

Everyone is different, with different goals. Some people are really unfit others have a good base level of fitness, either way you will benefit from spending some time training here and you will see remarkable improvements.

You will be impressed by what you can achieve.

It is a really motivating environment. The majority of people at the camp travel there on their own which leads to a really social and supportive atmosphere because everyone has there  with the same goal.

When this is coupled with superb trainers, scheduled classes and all the equipment you could need, there really is nothing stopping you. You will be amazed by what you can achieve, because with group training sessions slacking off is less of an option, and the training is quite addictive once you get into it.

We have had clients who have gone from 1 week to 8 weeks, and the feedback is consistently excellent. With a varied and flexible training timetable, morning and evening you will not be bored.

At the Xtreme Gap fitness Boot Camp relaxation is just as important as the training.

The training can take it out of you, so to relax after a hard session you stay in a beautiful resort set in a peaceful Balinese tropical garden, with a beautiful pool, and your own boutique villa style room all ensuite.  You have the perfect blend of healthy fitness workouts and complete relaxation at the end of the day.

The Training

With an impressive roster of trainers, we are constantly improving our fitness routines incorporating the latest methods and techniques. At the Xtreme Bali fitness boot camp we use high-intensity cross fit training to develop strength fitness and flexibility.

With so many people coming and training the camp, naturally the latest fitness techniques are incorporated and developed in the training programmes. With just one month spent training at the Xtreme Gap fitness Boot Camp, we can confidently state that you can develop so much further than six months with a personal trainer back home.

During the first couple of sessions, you will be enrolled on a lighter version of the training programme. This is to ensure you can get up to speed and benefit the most out of the workouts.

Fitness: Personal Training Session and Group Sessions.

Three times per week you will have a mentor session with a professional personal trainer.  This is designed to keep you on track and monitor your progress weekly.

As well as the personal training sessions, there are group training sessions, Monday to Friday, with Gym access available on Saturday too (Sunday is taken off for a well-deserved rest). Whilst there is plenty of training activities included, perhaps even more than most can handle.

Getting To Training Sessions

While you are there to train, no one is going to get you out of bed to attend classes. You need to make your own way to the fitness classes every day. These are located a short distance to the accommodation, but not right next to the training camp. It is approximately just under 2 km between the training facilities and your accommodation. As your accommodation is located by the beach, and the training facilities are little bit more inland we provide you with a complimentary bicycle to enable you to get to the sessions. This is the perfect way to do pre-exercise warming up, and it’s a really cool commute to the gym through rice fields!

Although we would be surprised if you chose not to take the bicycle option, after all you are in Bali to train, if your leg muscles can’t handle it one day, you can take a taxi to the facilities and this will cost approximately Three Dollars AUD.

On Arrival

On arrival in Denpasar, we will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to your accommodation. We recommend a Sunday arrival although we can be flexible.

On the first day of your training, our Xtreme Gap rep will give you a full introduction, introduce you to the trainers, show you around the camp and help you meet other Xtreme Gappers, and talk you through the training timetable.

The rep is your first point of contact should you have any issues in Indonesia, perhaps you just want to know where to go to get your laundry done, where to have a good spa treatment or get the inside information on which restaurant has the best Nasi Goreng in town, all you have to do is ask.

Everything is made really easy for you, allowing you to just focus on having a great time, getting fit and having a really great holiday.

How long should you go for?

Most people go for four weeks, due to time constraints with work, and four weeks is enough to start to see some good results. The main benefit you will take home the knowledge of how to maintain and improve your fitness back home along with a solid foundation or fitness.

Of course you also have had an amazing holiday in Bali as well and it is not that often you can say you’ve come back from holiday feeling better than when you left!

Short-term guests will receive an amazing kickstart to their health and fitness routine. Many who travel with us use this as a kick start to their travels as well, after all if you are hitting the beaches in Bali, you want to look and feel good!

The maximum amount of time you can join is eight weeks. We are limited by the Visa limitations, you are able in most cases to get a 30 day Visa on arrival and extend this to 60. If you wish to train longer you can always join this Boot Camp with our Thailand fitness bootcamp as well.

Really want to make a difference? Go long-term.

If you are really serious about making this a life changing trip, and completely give yourself a physical overhaul, to improve your health and fitness the way you look at the way you feel that you should definitely consider joining the long term.

Our clients who stay 8  weeks really feel the benefit and the transformation can be incredible. An improvement in your fitness levels is guaranteed, and spending 8 weeks devoting yourself to improving your health is surprisingly cheaper than spending the same amount of time at home.

Flights

Flights are not included, and please do not book your flights before booking with us as we do need to reserve your spot, and make sure there is availability. Submit your booking form and we will come back to you within 24 hours to confirm. Once we have issued you your confirmation invoice you are then good to book your flights into Denpasar, Bali.

Travelling alone.

Most people who attend the camp, are independent travellers and arrive at the camp on their own. If you are concerned about travelling solo, don’t be. There is such a social atmosphere at the camp, and it is a really supportive environment that everyone gets to know each other very quickly. Serious physical exercise in a group can be quite a bonding experience we assure you! So really it does not take long for people to get to know one another.

Duration	Option	Price
1 (Week)	Ultimate – Fitness &3 PT/ Wk Fan	£ 559 Book Now
2 (Week)	Ultimate – Fitness & 3 PT/ Wk Fan	£ 899 Book Now
3 (Week)	Ultimate – Fitness 3 PT/ Wk Fan	£ 1299 Book Now
4 (Week)	Ultimate – Fitness &3 PT/ Wk Fan	£ 1599 Book Now
5 (Week)	Ultimate – Fitness & 3 PT/ Wk Fan	£ 1749 Book Now
6 (Week)	Ultimate – Fitness & 3 PT/ Wk Fan	£ 2159 Book Now
7 (Week)	Ultimate – Fitness & 3 PT/ Wk Fan	£ 2459 Book Now
8 (Week)	Ultimate – Fitness & 3 PT/ Wk Fan	£ 2799 Book Now

DATES

You can start this trip any Sunday. Arrival and departure is Sunday and also your day off!

PHOTOS

FIRST WEEK INTRO & CULTURE

Starting on the Sunday, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your new home in Singburi, a couple of hours from Bangkok, to embark upon a comprehensive introduction to Thailand.

The first week is all about getting to know everyone and doing lots of activities with The other members of the group. This is great if you have never travelled before, or you are travelling alone because you will be meeting other like-minded people and making friends very quickly and easily.

During the intro week you will learn more about Thailand, It will be an eye opening experience. With lots of day trips to get to know the local surrounding areas and places of interest. Emphasis will be placed on learning about Thai culture, Thai language and even try your hand at some Thai cooking.

You will also check out the famous Buddhist Temple: Wat Phranon Jaksi, the old capital of Ayutthaya (including a visit to the elephant village), Lopburi’s museum and pagoda, and even have a cruise along the river.

SECOND WEEK ADVENTURE OPTIONS

The second week you can choose from a range of activities depending on how adventurous your feeling.

TAKE YOU PICK IN THAILAND!

If you do not know which option week you would like to be your second week do not worry, you can make that decision once you are out in Thailand. It might be that you want to hook up with some people if you have become friends with on the intro week and decide to join them on the trekking week, or maybe you rather join someone else who decided to do the Buddhism week. It is very easy to go with the flow! So let’s look at some of the options.

NIGHTLIFE & BEACH TIME

Koh Tao is not only famous for its great diving and beautiful beaches, there is quite a party scene there too! Picture cool beach bars, fire shows, awesome night clubs like Moov and Fizz bar all within easily stumbling distance to your accommodation. If you want to have some serious fun after the sun sets, you will not be disappointed.

This is a great way to finish up on your trip, after experiencing the culture its time to party. Speaking of which…

The Full Moon Party.

You can´t go to Thailand and miss the full moon party. That would be criminal! So we arrange a trip over to Koh Phangan for the night to party your butt off at Haad Rin, if the full moon party coincides with the trip dates.

When  the sun comes up it is back to Koh Tao for a well deserved sleep in the ultra-comfortable resort avoiding the messy crowds left in Koh Phangan.

This is a much better option than staying in Koh Phangan because it allows you to get in and get out while staying on a much nicer island.

The Full Moon Party is one of the once in a lifetime experiences and a great way to finish your Thailand Experience.

There are some estimates predict there are up to 10,000 people who attend the party hard to predict, but it is great fun and very busy. Be sure to leave all of your valuables in Koh Tao not take things like cameras and sunglasses with you. Oh and you will lose your flip-flops. They may have cost you less than a pound to buy but probably several hours to pick! Way too many flip flops to choose from.

ACCOMMODATION

Because you stay in various different locations throughout the trip accommodation does vary, however expect to stay in comfortable and clean and secure accommodation. On the islands, you will stay in a luxury resort, with a swimming pool set in beautiful Thai Gardens just a short walk from the beach.

It’s the main resort Xtreme Gap uses in Thailand, Xtreme Gappers to hang out with and share adventures. Accommodation is shared on a twin share in a Fan Room. Upgrades to Aircon rooms are only possible with a local payment.

Frequently Asked Questions

FINALLY

We can also send you loads of information on this trip and the locations so get trip notes for more details!

Full details on your options to get back to Bangkok are included in a very detailed predeparture pack, which we send you after booking.  You will also be set up with an online buddy list so you can chat to other members of the group in Koh Tao. The trip ends on the Saturday morning in Koh Tao. Check the FAQ section for details on how to get back to the airport.

Please do book early

This can be a very popular trip so make sure you get booked up ASAP! You can secure your spot for only £100 by submitting a booking form. Do it now! So now you have read about the trip, you might want to check out where you will be staying or a break down of everything included.

HOW THE XTREME THAILAND EXPERIENCE WORKS

Duration	Option	Price
4 (Week)	Yoga Option	£ 999 Book Now
4 (Week)	X- Fit Option	£ 999 Book Now
4 (Week)	Muay Thai Option	£ 999 Book Now
4 (Week)	Discover Scuba Option	£ 1019 Book Now
4 (Week)	Rock Climbing Option	£ 1129 Book Now
4 (Week)	Diver Open Water	£ 1229 Book Now
4 (Week)	Freediving Option	£ 1219 Book Now

What makes this trip different from other companies tours in Thailand? A lot. Literally: we include way more in our trips than other companies. Take this program for example we include all food for the first two weeks which if you had to add this on to your budget would come to over £300 more.

Xtreme Gap began on Koh Tao, and we are one of the only gap year companies to actually have a base and staff located there. We know the island we know the country and we know how to squeeze the most amount of fun out of 28 days. Compare this to other trips you will quickly discover that we have way more inclusions, and budget a lot more to make your trip as exciting and fun as possible. We can do this because we are an online company, we keep our overheads low enabling us to include more about trips without having to increase the price of our packages.

Included

The fun stuff

• Koh Tao adventure day which includes:
  • Speed boat around the island (not the longtail boat like other tours)
  • Abseiling to get the best views of Koh Tao
  • Snorkeling in crystal clear waters round a tropical paradise island
  • Lunch the gorgeous beach
  • Other adrenaline activities like zip lining, rock climbing and off-roading through the jungle.
• Koh Tao activity option Week inclusions (pick one option):
  • Get fit pack: 5 Muay Thai Sessions (5 hours), all equipment (for rent included) and training one on one with a Muay Thai Trainer
  • Get ripped pack: 4 Crossfit sessions. These 4 classes will teach you all the basic movements and techniques for CrossFit
  • Xtreme Freediving Pack: a 2 day beginner free diving course worth £399!
  • Xtreme rock climbing package: A 2-day rock climbing course worth £459!
  • Relax With Yoga: 5 yoga sessions spread out over 5 days
  • Save Koh Tao: very rewarding! 5 days full save Koh Tao land based conservation activities
  • Discover Diving Package the half discover SCUBA diving session including basic equipment familiarisation and the dive in the Gulf of Thailand.
  • The learn to dive course includes a full PADI open water course, course materials, instruction and 4 dives
• Full moon party included!
• Return Ticket to the amazing Full Moon party in Koh Phangan included! (if dates go inside with trip)
• Island introduction: on arrival we will take you out for a gorgeous Thai meal and introduce you to other Xtreme Gappers  on the island. In Koh Tao there are plenty of Xtreme Gappers doing other programs as well as the Xtreme Thailand experience
• Plenty of beach time on one of the most beautiful tropical paradise islands of the world

On The Intro And Option Weeks

• Excursions as per itinerary
• Thai Cooking lesson / Thai Language lessons
• Tour of Ayutthaya Thailand historic second city
• Dinner in a famous Thai BBQ restaurant
• Tours of loads of temples and monuments and museums fully guided.
• Visit to a Market, Zoo,
• Temple Stay to meet Monks(If doing the cultural week)
• Amazing five-day elephant experience (if the elephant option)
• Trekking in Phutoei National Park, visits to waterfalls, caves, Hill tribes, (Trekking Week)
• 1 night in Bangkok luxury hotel before going to Koh Tao with breakfast right next to the Khao San Road

The Essentials

• Personally met at the airport
• All meals for the first two weeks – This will save you approximately £300 from your spending money budget!
• Free Extra nights accommodation if arriving one day early (Saturday)
• All Accommodation
• Transport taking you to 4 different parts of Thailand.
• Overnight Transfer to Koh Tao
• 12 nights accommodation in standard fan room in Koh Tao at our luxury resort
• Free Wi-Fi at our basic Koh Tao, and during your stay in the intro week and some option weeks.
• Pick up from the boat and transfer to the resort in Koh Tao by taxi
• Back up & support second to none. Services of our tour leaders and English-speaking reps who are available and based locally  24/7.

Excluded

• Flights
• Visas (if staying longer than 30 days this will cost approx Euro 30 for a 60 day visa)
• Insurance
• Return transfer from Koh Tao (but can be arranged locally for approx Euro 15)
• Meals on Koh Tao (Approx £6 – 15 per day)
• Every extra option week  on top of the standard 4 weeks £299.

Dates

Your arrival day is always the Sunday (but you can arrive Saturday if flight prices work out better for you). Make sure when arriving on the Sunday this is before 3pm.

The end day is always a Saturday. The trip end on Koh Tao. There are 2 ways to get back to Bangkok international airport.

1. Take a boat at 10 am to the neighbouring island Koh Samui. there is an airport here. Book a flight for after 2 PM to be save. The flight takes about an hours. make sure you have at least 2 hours before your international flight home departs. Its a big airport and you need to check in 2 hours before.

2. Take the boat and bus to Bangkok. You leave Koh Tao at 10 am and arrive in Bangkok at 8 pm. the you need about an hour to get to the airport by taxi, depending traffic. Again keep in mind you need about 2 hours before the plane leaves.

A Week You Will Never Forget

The itinerary is structured to make sure your first week down under is jam packed with the best activities Sydney has to offer. What´s more, accommodation and many meals are included, along with great company and dedicated expert guides for practical support and, of course, to help you milk the most out of every experience along the way.

Meet Your Mates On Monday

Straight from the plane you drop into the Xtreme Gap base in Sydney, where you´ll meet up with all the other arrivals. For many this is the start of long friendships, that last for the duration of Gap time in Oz and beyond, so it´s super exciting to see everyone meet.
You´ll get an introductory session from your guides, who´ll let you know everything about the practicalities of being in Oz and what you can expect from the first week with us in Sydney. It´s low-key and fun, and everyone´s excited to get going, but before we do, you´ll also get all the arrival admin out the way. This is sorted by us before you get here and includes bank cards, mobile SIMs and tax numbers; all the requirements to set you up for your stay in Oz, beyond your Sydney experience.
From here it´s straight into the city, for a full and comprehensive tour of all the major sights. You´ll see all the fantastic architecture of the Sydney Harbour  from the iconic Opera House, to the formidable steel curves of the Harbour Bridge. Then, it´s on to the Royal Botanical Gardens, where the multitude of Australian fauna blooms in the shadow of the city´s looming skyscrapers.
In the night, you can unwind with a meal and a drink on us, getting to know your fellow travellers late into the Australian night.

Explore Sydney On Tuesday

After an early start, the Xtreme Gap crew give the whole group a comprehensive introduction to all the ins and outs of working and living in Australia. These guys really are in the know, with first-hand experience of Gapping in Oz, so they have all the answers for what´s what when it comes to setting up camp here.
Afterwards, the focus of Tuesday is all about adventure and exploration. We´ll take you on a Harbour cruise to show you the city sights from a whole new perspective and we´ll delve deeper into the New South Wales cityscape by adventuring to Fort Dennison (a prison-cum-lighthouse glowering over the bays downstream from the Sydney harbour), Luna Park and Watson´s Bay in Woollahra (where the sandstone cliff peninsulas jut dramatically into the ocean).
In between seeing the sights you can swim in the warm waters of the coastline that straddles the harbour, take photos, or just chill in the Sydney sun as you please.

Wildlife and Wild Land On Wednesday

Wednesday sees us get out of the metropolitan centre of Sydney and into the New South Wales wildlife. The Xtreme Gap basecamp is an area of 6 acres, covered in rich rainforest fauna and home to a myriad of very Australian critters. We set off early from town, to let you get the most of this different setting, where you´ll stay for the next three days and two nights.
Relax in the day in the company of Josie the Kangaroo, or go wildlife spotting to try and catch a glimpse of some koalas, echidnas or possums in the forest, or dolphins and whales in the nearby coastline shallows (the sea is just 5 minutes´ walk from the basecamp!).
After an evening swim watching the Aussie sun dip below the horizon, it´s pizza night at the basecamp!

Thrilling Thursday

We start Thursday with some adrenaline pumping sand boarding in the nearby dunes. We get up in the 4x4s and ride back down again, so there´s no dune here too high to conquer!
After everyone´s had their fill, it´s of for an adventure filled bush walk, guided by the Xtreme Gap crew. There´s loads of wildlife to see, and the walk ends on one of New South Wales´ best lookout spots, where there´s a chance to take photos and go Koala spotting (here, families are observable the entire year round!). Then, as the sunlight fades and night creeps in, we light the BBQ in true Aussie fashion, and chill out around the camp fire into the early hours.

Party Boat Cruise on Frickin Awesome Friday

Friday´s a real high-point. The Xtreme Gap crew launch our very own boat and everyone gets up close and personal with the rich marine life of the New South Wales seas.

Aside from the bucket list beating dolphin spotting (when you´ll also have a chance to sit in the boom net while dolphins glide through the water below you), it´s also possible to spot whales in the water here.
The bonus here is that you´ll be on board your very own private boat, with just your guides and fellow gappers as company. We´re in full control of where we go, and we can explore the waters as we please; there really is no better way to experience this amazing place.
After the cruise we depart for Sydney and arrive at the highly rated WakeUp hostel. With a central location and a great selection of nightly entertainments, it´s a great way to get back into ´city mode´ and enjoy the Sydney night in style.

Shindig Saturday

While the day time may all be about chilling and getting some hard earned rest, the night time is about donning your dresses and brushing up nice. We meet in the early evening at one of the city´s best bars, where backpackers and locals enjoy the famous Australian beers, and gear themselves up for a night on the town.
From here, we get hedonistic on the Xtreme Gap Sydney Pub Crawl. With entry and drinks at 4 bars and clubs included, you´ll experience all the facets of nightlife that has made this city so famous.

Slow down, Surf’s up Sunday

Where better than to coax away those hangovers and unwind than the soft-sanded white beaches of Sydney? On Sunday we´ll

transverse some of the most famous coastline in the Area, visiting six along the way. From the wide yellow stretches of Coogee, to the famous surf-swells of Bondi, this is among the most coveted beach territory in the world, and today it´s all yours!

Most people opt to start their Oz travels between October and March, as this is when you´ll get the best weather, and Sydney really is fantastic at this time of year. That said, there´s something to be seen here all year round, and the Xtreme Gap Sydney arrival package is a no-holes-barred, full-frills introduction to Gap Years in Oz, with the added bonus of a great bunch of like-minded travellers and fun-hungry tour guides ready and waiting for you in one of the country´s most endearing of cities.

Accommodation

You will be staying in downtown Sydney in the wakeup hostel, voted one of the best hostels in Australia, and consistently hitting the top of trip advisor.

The wakeup hostel is an awesome place to be located as everything is on your doorstep including our team who have their offices based directly in front of where you’ll be staying.

That means you can pop in there at any stage, access their free Internet (kind of handy in Australia is everywhere tends to charge you) but also you’ll be staying in one of the swankiest hostels in Australia.

There are loads of facilities available at the wakeup hostel, good chill out areas, comfy beds and safe and secure rooms. Is also slap bang in the middle of backpacker district, which means it’s really social, and everything is on your doorstep.

Trip Frequently Asked Questions

Jobs In Australia & Support Finding Work

Taking the stress out of finding a paid job in Australia!

After an amazing first week in Sydney we will help you get a job.  Great so you have made loads of mates and now you’re going to make loads of dough!

After the first week is up you can arrange appointments with our job support team at our offices in Sydney. They are constantly recruiting for work and travel positions all over Australia. So when you are ready to commit to finding work abroad in Australia It is really easy for you.

The job assistance team is available in the office Monday to Friday and can help you out by reviewing your CV, giving you advice and running through the latest backpacker jobs.  The service is not just limited to Sydney, they find jobs all over Australia and you can communicate with them on the move via e-mail and phone.

There are thousands of amazing jobs on offer for backpackers in Australia. You are pretty much only limited by your imagination, you can find work in the cities, in surfer towns, the mountains or outback. It really takes the pressure off knowing that there is a team dedicated to help you apply and setup job interviews.

Even though you may not be looking to find paid work in Australia for the entire year, the job support service lasts an 12 months. That’s great because you never know way Australia adventure will take you.  A large percentage of people on a working holiday Visa, do extend to a second year.

It’s not actually just the physical assistance that is beneficial in helping you with your job search.  You can use the free Wi-Fi access in the office if you have your own laptop or smart phone which helps you access the jobs database.  You can also use their printer for printing out your CV.  Now if this sounds petty, believe us it’s not.  Wi-Fi access in Australia is quite expensive so it’s the little things that really make your job search less hassle.

One of the great things about this program is that the Australia job support service is totally flexible around you.  That means you can go after the jobs that inspire you, after all your Australia trip is more about fun but working. That worklife balance is completely in your control. With plenty of access to loads of Australian jobs, it can really make your trip amazing. Work for a couple of weeks in one location, and then move onto another having more money saved up then you started with!

What you get with the job support programme:

• An entire year’s access to an exclusive online jobs database and job finding service.
• A CV review service.  You will be amazed how a few changes can mean more job offers.  Our team are experts in reviewing Australia work travel Cvs
• The best advice about living working in travelling around Australia from expert mentors.
• Your own Australian bank account set up online for you to enable you to manage your finances easily.
• We will set you up with an Australian telephone (mobile) number.  You will pick up your Sim card in Sydney but your mobile phone number will be e-mailed to you before you leave.  That means before you even enter Australia you can get contacted by employers offering interviews!
• A Tax File Number – To receive an income in Australia you need to have a Tax File Number And without it you would get taxed heavily. The moment you arrive we will sort this out for you.
• Help getting your refund tax back.  On average we get people nearly $3000 ( Australian) or £1500 of tax back prior to coming home. Now that’s enough to kill those travel blues.
• Medicare Arranged.  This means you could get health cover on an Australian national health service equivalent.  This is a reciprocal agreement between the UK and Australian authorities but it needs to be set up on arrival.
• You can use Wi-Fi at our offices.  You can use our printers as well.
• Expecting snail mail?  No worries we will hold your  Post for you for up to 12 months.  It’s pretty handy to have a fixed postal address in Australia when you are moving around.
• We will give you all the help and advice you need about finding long-term accommodation the duration of your stay.
• We also arrange a travellers discount card which says you loads of money on hostels, tours and travel products all over Australia.
• If you are looking to work in hospitality: we will set you up with an inclusive bar skills course.
• You will also get an online responsible service of alcohol course valid in Queenstown, Northern Territory, South Australia and Western Australia.  Please note the New South Wales And Victoria one is different you can have access to that as wellPaying a small local payment supplement.
• The Australia job finding service is pretty amazing.  It helps sort you out on arrival, and covers pretty much everything you need.  It genuinely can help you get a job in Australia from the very start.  Please note it is just a job finding service, your employment contract is between you and your end employers.  We are not responsible for what happens during your employment.

More on the types of jobs available to you jobs

While let’s just say it’s pretty comprehensive.  Up to 2000 jobs available in a wide spectrum of industries:

How much can I expect to earn?

Wages vary depending on where you are and what you are doing obviously.  On average people earn up to £15 per hour.  Now this is a huge improvement on the UK minimum wage, but the Australian dollar is strong and wages are good.  Also the economy is very point in Australia.

Will you help me out with tax?

We will sort out your tax file number, and your employers will be dealing with your tax as you earn.  It works on a very similar systems the UK.  Whilst tax is a necessary evil, it’s nice to know you can claim much of it back when you leave Australia, with some refunds being up to $3000 on average!  That’s a great way to head home knowingly have plenty of money still in your bank account.

When should I book and when can I start looking for jobs?

Almost immediately. Although the best jobs get taken very quickly, so it’s better to sign up sooner rather than later before heading to Australia.  We do have limited availability on this program, so make sure you book early.  We will need a least two weeks to get everything together and usually the working holiday Visa comes through in two days. On average people book six months ahead because it gives them peace of mind that their places secured on this unrivalled job finding service.

Where can I go in Australia?

Anywhere you want!  Although after your first week in Sydney you may want to hang around for a bit as it is an amazing city you don’t have to do.  Are so many places to visit in Australia, and loads of jobs all over the place.  Where takes your fancy you can head there knowing that you have the full backup and support of our jobs team to help find you a job at a moments notice.

How long do I have to stay in Australia?

The working holiday Visa is valid for one year from the point of entry.  You do not have to stay for one year however.  In fact there is no minimum amount of time.  There are some restrictions, you are not allowed to work for one employer for more than three months.  If you want to stay for two years you can do that but you need to do agricultural work for a minimum of three months.

 

Duration	Option	Price
8 (Days)	Standard	£ 499 Book Now

Dates

This trip starts any Monday throughout the year. Most people choose to arrive on the Sunday, and we can book an extra nights accommodation for you prior to your arrival.

Start Dates 2015

• January 2015: 5th / 8th / 12th / 15th / 19th / 26th / 29th
• February 2015: 2nd / 5th / 9th / 16th / 23rd
• March 2015: 2nd / 9th / 16th / 23rd / 30th
• April 2015: 6th / 13th / 27th
• May 2015: 4th / 11th / 18th / 25 th 
• June 2015: 1st / 8th / 22nd / 29th 
• July 2015: 6th / 20th / 27th
• August 2015: 3rd / 17th / 24th / 31st
• September 2015: 7th / 10th (Thurs) / 14th / 17th (Thurs) /21st / 28th
• October 2015: 5th / 8th (Thurs) / 12th / 15th (Thursday) /19th / 26th
• November 2015: 2nd / 9th / 16th / 23rd / 30th
• December 2015: 7th / 14th

 

Start Dates 2016

• January 2016: 4th / 11th / 18th / 25th
• February 2016: 1st / 8th / 15th / 22nd / 29th
• March 2016: 7th / 14th
  

Later dates on request

Due to the popularity of this programme we have advise to book in time!

For the Thursdays start dates the itinerary will be the following:

• Thursday: City Walk and Welcome Dinner
• Friday: Group Info Session and Harbour Cruise
• Saturday: Beach Walk and Party Night
• Sunday to Tuesday: Basecamp
• Wednesday: time for laundry, individual Q&A, apply for jobs, relax

 

PHOTOS

Wildlife Conservation Experience

 

We have a highly skilled and professional team looking after you, so don’t worry we have you covered. From our advanced game rangers, who will take you out in groups of 10 onto the reserve to fulfil your activities. Two camp managers, who can cater for your every need when you are not out on the reserves.

When you arrive you will be given a full introduction session, we will run you through dos and don’ts, the house rules and set the scene for what will happen over the next two weeks.

What you will be doing is quite varied, because it depends on the demands of the reserve at the time. But there is always plenty of activities waiting for you to get stuck into.

The Wildlife Conservation Project

For the next two weeks, you will be involved in the management of the game reserve. What that means is you will be working with full-time staff, under the supervision of qualified game rangers. What you will be doing depends on the short-term goals of the reserve at the time. It could be capturing game, checking fences or removing alien plant species. But no matter what you do, you can be sure this will have a beneficial effect and is laying the foundation for the wildlife to thrive on the reserve for future generations.

Expect to roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty, some of the work can be quite hard, but ultimately very rewarding.

Work is generally divided into two categories:

Helping manage the land, and looking after the animals. Expect to do both during your time there. You could be feeding elephants, assisting with feeding big cats and doing wildlife surveys from converted land cruisers.

All accommodation and food is included so you do not need to worry about cooking or feeding yourself. During your downtime is plenty to do, and no doubt you will have a fair few stories to share over the campfire with your fellow volunteers.

ACCOMMODATION

You will be staying in a dedicated volunteer camp. We have single sex rooms, and shared common areas. The camp dispensed which is important because it’s located right inside the game reserve. It’s not unusual to hear the call of Africa’s wild as you sit around the campfire. Looking up and 1 million stars the location is really special.

Meals are taken at the camp, hearty traditional South African food is freshly prepared every day. Vegetarians are well catered for as well.

Adrenaline Tour Garden Route Road Trip

Day 1 ǀ Cape Town to Struisbaai:

One of the most scenic coastal drives in the world optional shark cage dive,  ending at the bottom of continental  Africa.

It’s an early start from Cape Town at 8.30. It’s going to be a hell of the road trip. Today we head East, as we leave behind table Mountain and the glorious Cape Town, we had along the N2 to the coast. We will be joining the famous Whale route which is one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world. Mountains descend into the Indian Ocean, which is loaded with whales and sharks.

If you did not pick the great white shark option in the second week you have the opportunity to go shark cage diving today. This will mean you leave even earlier than the main group to get out on the boat to see the sharks. You will then meet up with the main group directly after your shot cage dive.

Make sure your camera is fully charged because you’re going to be snapping away like a lunatic, we can have a stop in a craft beer brewery to quench your thirst before heading to Cape Agulhas National Park.

Despite most people believe the Cape of Good Hope holds this title, it is actually Cape Agulhas that is the most southern geographical point of Africa.

After a visit to the lookout point we make our way to the harbour where there is an option to embark on an exciting ski-boat cruise to search for dolphin and whales (June to November).

After our cruise we take a walk back to our accommodation along “Die Plaat”, the longest beach in the Southern Hemisphere. This day is designed to be a relaxing one for you to get to know your fellow travellers, to get used to travelling in our vehicle and to settle into the comfortable routine of life on tour.

• Accommodation:  Backpacker dorm -Cape Agulhas Backpackers
• Facilities Shared ablutions, bar, internet, swimming pool
• Route: Cape Town to Struisbaai ±260 km
• Travel time: ±4 hrs
• Optional Activities: Shark cage diving

Day 2 ǀ Cape Agulhas to Sedgefield: Canoeing & Hike

Goodbye whale route hello garden route. Day two brings beach time, kayaking and waterfalls.

Not such an early start this morning, enjoy your breakfast After a relaxing breakfast we start driving inland again, this time towards the famed Garden Route!

After a scenic drive we begin a beautiful canoe trip down one of the many tranquil rivers in the area, followed by a short hike to a stunning waterfall.
We finish off the day with some beach time down at Myoli Beach.

• Meals: Breakfast,
• Accommodation: Cape to Addo Backpacker dorm: Sedgefield
• Facilities: Shared ablutions, internet, pool, entertainment areas
• Route: Struisbaai to Sedgefield ± 340 km
• Travel time: ±4 hrs

Day 3 ǀ Oudtshoorn:

Driving through the desert Little Karoo. Exploring underground caves. Riding ostriches and swimming with crocodiles!

We begin the day with a drive over the picturesque Outeniqua mountain range into the semi desert region of the Klein Karoo and Oudtshoorn. Today you’re going to see more ostriches than you will probably ever see for the rest of your life. Originally not native to Oudtshoorn, settlers discovered that the ostrich thrives here. So you’re going learn a lot about them. If you’re up for it you can ride one one as well (don’t worry it doesn’t hurt the ostrich and it is really very silly).

Prior to that we are going to explore the amazing Cango Caves. Think massive caverns and a wonderland of stalactite and stalagmite formations, millions of years old. Cango Caves is a world heritage site and one of the great wonders of the natural world.

If you enjoy spelunking (yes that’s a real word we didn’t make that up) and don’t mind trying to squeeze through some smaller gaps then you are also welcome to take the 1.5 hour adventure tour!

Finally you can go see endangered wildlife act can go wildlife Ranch. This is the only place in the world we can go crocodile cage diving! They also have a big cat Sanctuary, where you can interact with cheetah as well.

• Meals: Breakfast,
• Accommodation: Cape to Addo Backpacker dorm in Sedgefield
• Facilities: Shared ablutions, internet, pool, free shuttle service to PiliPili Beach bar
• Route: Sedgefield to Oudtshoorn day trip ±190 km
• Travel time: ±3 hrs

Optional Activities:

• Standard or adventure guided tour of Cango Caves
• Tour of a working Ostrich farm + riding (weight restriction apply to riders)
• Cango Endangered Wildlife ranch

Day 4 ǀ Sedgefield – Jeffrey’s Bay:

Learn all about monkeys and Elephants. Throw yourselves down canyons and take on the mighty bloukrans Bungee. Hike through a national Park. Finish in one of the worlds top surf spots. Not a bad afternoon.

This morning we drive through Knysna on our way to the Crags where you have a number of options to choose from. This is an action packed itinerary today so you will not get to pick every single option, so pick the one that you would most like to do.

1. Elephant Sanctuary where you learn about, and interact with orphaned elephants.
2. Monkey Sanctuary where rescued monkeys roam free in a large jungle area.
3. Kloofing trip through a spectacular gorge with jumps, abseils and swimming.

Bloukrans bungee

Our next stop is the World’s highest commercial bridge Bungee Jump at 216 meters.  It is really bloody scary. If you cannot face the jump, you can face a pint, from the clifftop bar where you can watch the jumpers on a live video feed.

For those that have successfully completed the jump they are going to need a serious wind down. There is no better place to do this than the Tsitsikamma National Park. It’s like something out of the lost world, with an ancient rainforest descending down beautiful cliffs into the sea.  We will go for a hike over the suspension bridges to check out the scenery and stop for lunch in an amazing beachside lodge. Make sure you try the stake it is to die for.

If we have time we will head to Storms river swing bridges before we reach the world-famous surfing Mecca Jeffreys Bay. We will be staying right by the beach in an awesome Surf Lodge. The Surf Lodge will be your home for the next couple of days, although we will be doing road trips up to the addo national elephant Park.

• Meals: Breakfast,
• Accommodation Backpacker dorm; Island Vibe Backpackers, Jbay
• Facilities: Shared ablutions, bar, restaurant, internet
• Route: Sedgefield to Storms River/Jbay
• Travel time: ±2-3 hrs
• Included Highlight: Tsitsikamma Forest
• Optional Activities: Elephant Sanctuary, Monkeyland, Bloukrans bungee jump (216m), Bloukrans Bridge walking tour

Day 5 ǀ Jeffrey’s Bay – Addo National Park – Sedgefield: Game Drive (Addo), Surfing, shopping time (Jeffrey’s bay)

Wake up early and head to Addo Elephant National park where we go on a morning game drive to view the multitudes of wild animals. Addo is home to the Big 5 and it also has the highest concentration of African Elephants in the world!

Addo Game Drive

The Addo elephant Park is immense. It’s also one of the top elephant game reserves in South Africa. Miles and miles of endless African bush, will have surprises around every corner. We will go for a 3 to 5 hour game drive in the elephant Park so have your camera charged in your memory card is empty!

Weekend in Jeffreys Bay With Optional Surf Lesson

In the afternoon we had back to Jeffreys Bay, where you will set up for the next couple of days, learning to surf and getting some much-needed beach and chill time.

This is your opportunity to relax, take in the white sandy beaches and hang out with other backpackers. The week after we are heading into the African bush, so it’s nice to spend some time by the ocean.

Duration	Option	Price
2 (Week)	One week wildlife & Road Trip CT- PE	£ 899 Book Now
3 (Week)	One week wildlife & Road Trip CT- PE	£ 1189 Book Now

DATES

• 11th May
• 1st June
• 13th July
• 24th August
• 21st September
• 12th October
• 9th November

Dates listed above are for the two-week experience. If you would like to add extra dates and extend the wildlife conservation section please arrive one-week earlier. Or as many weeks earlier as you wish to extend by.

Photos

Morocco surf instructor course details

Once the exclusive territory of Berber fishermen, wandering hippies and seasoned wave riders spying the next rare break, thanks to some determined local surfers with a passion for sharing the swell with everyone, the Moroccan south coast is fast becoming a haven for anyone looking to conquer some waves while exploring the mosaic of desert, mountain, beach and bustle that this country , which is the  gateway to the African continent – offers.

Shrouded by the mountains that stretch deep into Morocco´s heart, perched perfectly on the warm swell of the West African Atlantic, the fishing town of Taghazout has become home to the Xtreme Gap surf instructor camp. Devoted riders themselves, these guys are passionate about everything surf and dedicated ambassadors of the waves.

The surf instructor course packages have been developed to maximise riding time and surfer development, while the opportunity to participate in a wholly immersive experience, with salt-spray waves in the day and spiced up tagine at night, is what´s given these guys their great local reputation.

About the surf Academy

We run the ASI (Academy of Surfing Instructors) level 1 course in conjunction with the SLS (Surf Lifesavers Qualification). The ASI is the worlds leading surfing accreditation and training organisation. It is a globally recognised qualification which can lead to real paid jobs as a surf instructor all over the world. At the Xtreme Gap surf instructor course we put both qualifications together in a nice hassle free course!

Itinerary

Morning:

We have an all local team of chefs and boy can they cook! All your food is included in the price of the course to make it completely hassle free. Breakfast is served at our beach front cafe over looking the waves, an absolutely perfect way to start a days surfing.

Depending on the waves…

Lunch is usually served at the beach as sandwiches, rice, salad, BBQ etc.

In the afternoon

Dinners are served on our beautiful roof top terrace overlooking Taghazout at sunset. Big hearty meals for surfers is on the menu with a mix of traditional Berber cuisine such as couscous and Tajines on some nights, and big BBQ´s of fish, kebabs and homemade burgers on other nights.

Accommodation

Living at a surf camp:

The surf camp is one of the nicest and most sociable surf camps in the whole European and North African area. The camp itself is situated just 2 metres from the water´s edge (in big swell and high tides you have to time your exit so you don´t get wet!) and we have a beautiful roof terrace that over looks the whole of Taghazout!

At the surf camp you really will live and sleep by the waves. The camp duck-dives the swell all night; sitting literally on the shoreline, you will never be too far from the action, and whether you´re dusting off a tagine on our dinner-time roof terrace or chilling out with some surf vid action in our lounge, we guarantee that reassuring sound of a crashing wave will never be too far away.

Your accommodation will be shared, in apartments close to the Xtreme Gap camp, nestled in the square roofed, sun baked buildings of Taghazout, just a stone´s throw from some of Morocco´s greatest breaks.

Trip Frequently Asked Questions

Duration	Option	Price
12 (Week)	Dorm	£ 4500 Book Now

Dates

We have 2 programmess running throughout the year in January and September:

• 13 September 2015 to 06 December 2015

How

You have to fly in to Agadir. Return airport transfers to Agadir airport is included, just email us your flight details.

Visa Matters

Some nationalities do need a visa for Morocco. European countries do not. On arrival you are given a 90 day visa which can be extended should you wish. Please check with your embassy if you have any doubts.

PHOTOS

Full Details

Cape Town Adrenaline Week One

On Arrival

Arrange your flights to land into Cape Town International airport. We will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to our base in Cape Town. A stress free way of arriving into Africa. When you book with Xtreme gap year you get access to a Facebook group buddy list prior to arrival, so you can already start chatting to fellow Xtreme Gappers is who will be joining you on your trip.

Check in, kick back and relax. On Monday morning you will be given a full comprehensive introduction and then start your week-long adventures in and around Cape Town.

Your accommodation for the week is located in table view its near the beach, and its a nice chilled out place to relax when dipping in and out of Cape Town. The views of table Mountain are spectacular as well.

Cape Town

For the first week Cape Town will be your playground. It’s an amazing destination with a distinctively European feel yet African flair. You have loads of activities arranged for you for the week, but also plenty of free time to explore with the group and check out some of the site sounds and highlights of the mother city.

As some of the activities are weather dependent the days you complete the activities might change, but we will aim to complete the following:

Table Mountain National Park & Abseil Africa

Take a trip to the top of table Mountain and check out the stunning scenery surrounding you. Awarded natural wonder of the world status, it’s easy to see why from the top. On a clear day you have impressive views of not only Cape Town but the Cape of Good Hope and the stunning scenery surrounding the mother city.

When you’re at the top, we are going to take full advantage of the altitude, because you are going to abseil of the world’s highest abseil from the top. Over 100 m in distance and the thousand metres above sea level you will learn the true benefits of adrenaline travel with Xtreme. If you do not have a head for heights or want to back out you will not be forced to participate in this activity, but you will miss out on one of the best experiences of your life.

Please note the cable car ticket is not included in the trip price and you must purchase this locally (or this can be done online the night before) allow approximately £25 per person for the return journey.

Xtreme Cape Peninsula Tour

We will take you off to check out the Horn of Africa, on a mission to see the Cape of Good Hope. Along the way we will show you a thing or two about the history of Cape Town and show you things that most tourists miss. Check out the penguins at boulders Beach, have lunch with the locals in Kalk Bay and of course taste some of the local wine which is spectacular. We will take you through Clifton, camps Bay and then the stunning coastal road to Hout baai. It’s a scenic drive and then some with the final destination being the Cape of Good Hope. Prior to reaching the Cape there is a 40 minute hike, surrounded by baboons, seabirds and all forms of exotic wildlife. This is an entire day out, and will take around eight hours.

Surfing

During the first week we will hit the beach and do a three-hour surf session!

Paragliding

When we look at table Mountain, we just want to jump off it . So as part of the Cape Town adrenaline week we will take you tandem paragliding. The views are insane from up there!

Please note this activity is wind and weather dependent so there is some flexibility as to when this happens. If we are unfortunate with the local conditions we will substitute this activity with something more appropriate.

Food Included

For the first two weeks breakfasts and dinners are included in the price of the programme (unless you are on the shark conservation option, in which case breakfasts and dinners will be included for the first week in Cape Town).

Week 2: Hero Week Pick An Option

• Xtreme marine conservation hero great white shark project option or
• Xtreme Kite Surf Qualification or
• Or the Xtreme community superhero option in a township

On your second week you have two different projects you can choose. Please note both projects are located in different locations. If you choose the community hero option, you will be located in table view in Cape Town. The shark conservation project takes place in Gansbaai approximately two hours from Cape Town. The group will be split depending on which activities you have picked and be reunited on the road trip one week later.

Great White Shark Option

And Xtreme Gap your exclusive we have partnered with one of the leading great white shark conservation projects in the world.

Every day (weather permitting) boats go out to monitor great white shark numbers in one of the world’s top great white shark hotspots.

Your role as an Xtreme reporter will be to get in the water with the sharks (in a cage) and observe the sharks in their natural environment. There are various research projects and data collection needs that you will get involved with, and you will be briefed on arrival as to what research tasks need to be completed.

Important scientific data collection work… That just happens to be bloody exciting.

For one week you will be going out on the boats, examining and interacting with great whites, collecting and collating data on their movements and markings.

You will also fulfill the role of an Xtreme reporter, by contributing to the Xtreme marine shark conservation blog with the aim of raising awareness of issues surrounding threats to the great white shark. The database and bloggers running conjunction with white shark projects, one of the world’s leading white shark conservation projects, and the work you do will be accessible to marine biologists throughout the world.

Now this is important work, because you will be located in the worlds number one hotspots the great white sharks. Very little is known about them, so the data that you collect is very important. Scientists from all over the world can use the data collected in Gansbaai to further their understanding of great white sharks, and help assist in the conservation of these magnificent animals. Sharks are under threat, this is common knowledge now is your opportunity to help do something about it.

We will aim to get you in the water as much as possible, but please note the activity is weather dependent, so there may be some non-sea days. During these days your focus will be on writing up the article that you are working on, or nonacademic activities like visiting some of the incredible hotspots in the area.

During the week you will be accommodated in a volunteer house, located in Klein Baai, a stones throw from the launch site of the shark conservation projects boats. After one week you will have gained an incredible insight into the issues surrounding great white sharks, and we hope got to know them a little bit better! Not only that you will come face-to-face on multiple occasions with a top apex predator and probably crapped your pants in the process!

Breakfasts Included

Please note breakfast is included during this week and lunches and dinners you have to pay for locally however there are cooking facilities at the volunteer house, and volunteers usually take turns to cook together.

Kite Surf Option

The third very exciting option in your second week is our learn to  Kite Surf option. You will be located a short stroll from one of the best kite surf beaches in the world. Cape Town is well known for its perfect kite surf conditions, warm temperate waters reliable steady wind and some of the top kite surfers in the world choosing this is the number one destination.

If you pick this option we will enroll you on an IKO beginner kite surfing course. As this option is wind and weather dependent, you have a week to complete your course, which should provide ample time to complete the necessary hours and modules.

What you will learn:

The kite surfing course will take you through the theory of kite surf, everything from wind conditions to the equipment and safety checks. You will learn how to fly the kite on land prior to getting in the water to start body dragging. (Controlling the kite in the water without the board). Finally you will get onto water start where you are up on the board under power from the kite. How far you progress is really up to how quickly you pick it up.

During the week you will be accommodated in the same backpackers hostel as in week 1.

All meals are included during this week and you get a total of 12 hours of instruction split throughout the week.

Breakfast and dinner included with this option

 Township Community Work. The community superhero project option.

For those not doing the white shark conservation project, you have an amazing opportunity to help some of Africa’s most vulnerable communities. Partnering with the save foundation, you are able to get involved in a series of different project to help benefit local impoverished communities. You will be visiting some of the most unfortunate and impoverished people in South Africa. There are significant social problems which need addressing with the help of overseas volunteers. Helping volunteer your time in community creches, playing with the children and being involved in construction projects like building classrooms can make a real difference to the local community.

Some of the work is heartbreaking, and some of it incredibly rewarding. You will be under the stewardship of very capable coordinators, who have been successfully running community projects in South Africa for many years. Nikki the project leader, comes from an NGO background whose drive and enthusiasm is infectious. Under her guidance hopefully you can give something back and contribute to the well-being of some of Africa’s most needy.

During the week he will stay in a shared volunteer house, located a couple of minutes from the beach in dormitory accommodation. The house is in one of the most picturesque parts of Cape Town, table view and each day you will be transported to the projects and set tasks.

Breakfast and dinner included with this option

 

Week Three Adrenaline Tour Garden Route Road Trip.

The third week involves an epic 1 ½ thousand kilometre road trip along one of the most beautiful drives in the world: the Garden Route. This is a fully guided adventure stopping off in some of the best places in South Africa.

This will be a non-stop quest for adventure with some seriously awesome activities in the itinerary:

What you can expect

• Opportunity to go shark cage diving (if you are on the community township option)
• Safari and game drive in the legendary Addo Elephant Park
• Two night stay in Jeffreys Bay with surf lessons
• Optional bungee jump at the legendary Bloukrans (Or cheer on your mates from the clifftop bar!)
• Tsitiskamma National Park the gateway to the otter Trail
• Ostrich riding and cango caves
• Cango Wildlife Park to see rare breeds and leaping crocodiles
• Option to do some crocodile cage diving
• Epic scenery of mountains, coastal roads and two amazing oceans
• Chilling out on the golden sands of Jeffreys Bay
• A breathtaking view from the top of Knysna Heads

Adrenaline Tour Garden Route Road Trip

Day 1 ǀ Cape Town to Struisbaai:

One of the most scenic coastal drives in the world optional shark cage dive,  ending at the bottom of continental  Africa.

It’s an early start from Cape Town at 8.30. It’s going to be a hell of the road trip. Today we head East, as we leave behind table Mountain and the glorious Cape Town, we had along the N2 to the coast. We will be joining the famous Whale route which is one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world. Mountains descend into the Indian Ocean, which is loaded with whales and sharks.

If you did not pick the great white shark option in the second week you have the opportunity to go shark cage diving today. This will mean you leave even earlier than the main group to get out on the boat to see the sharks. You will then meet up with the main group directly after your shot cage dive.

Make sure your camera is fully charged because you’re going to be snapping away like a lunatic, we can have a stop in a craft beer brewery to quench your thirst before heading to Cape Agulhas National Park.

Despite most people believe the Cape of Good Hope holds this title, it is actually Cape Agulhas that is the most southern geographical point of Africa.

After a visit to the lookout point we make our way to the harbour where there is an option to embark on an exciting ski-boat cruise to search for dolphin and whales (June to November).

After our cruise we take a walk back to our accommodation along “Die Plaat”, the longest beach in the Southern Hemisphere. This day is designed to be a relaxing one for you to get to know your fellow travellers, to get used to travelling in our vehicle and to settle into the comfortable routine of life on tour.

• Meals: Dinner
• Accommodation:  Backpacker dorm -Cape Agulhas Backpackers
• Facilities Shared ablutions, bar, internet, swimming pool
• Route: Cape Town to Struisbaai ±260 km
• Travel time: ±4 hrs
• Included Highlight: Land Based Whale Watching in Hermanus / Shopping
  Beer/wine tasting at Birkenhead Brewery
• Optional Activities: Shark cage diving

Day 2 ǀ Cape Agulhas to Sedgefield: Canoeing & Hike

Goodbye whale route hello garden route. Day two brings beach time, kayaking and waterfalls.

Not such an early start this morning, enjoy your breakfast After a relaxing breakfast we start driving inland again, this time towards the famed Garden Route!

After a scenic drive we begin a beautiful canoe trip down one of the many tranquil rivers in the area, followed by a short hike to a stunning waterfall.
We finish off the day with some beach time down at Myoli Beach.

• Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
• Accommodation: Cape to Addo Backpacker dorm: Sedgefield
• Facilities: Shared ablutions, internet, pool, entertainment areas
• Route: Struisbaai to Sedgefield ± 340 km
• Travel time: ±4 hrs
• Included Highlight: Canoe trip & hike to waterfall

Day 3 ǀ Oudtshoorn:

Driving through the desert Little Karoo. Exploring underground caves. Riding ostriches and swimming with crocodiles!

We begin the day with a drive over the picturesque Outeniqua mountain range into the semi desert region of the Klein Karoo and Oudtshoorn. Today you’re going to see more ostriches than you will probably ever see for the rest of your life. Originally not native to Oudtshoorn, settlers discovered that the ostrich thrives here. So you’re going learn a lot about them. If you’re up for it you can ride one one as well (don’t worry it doesn’t hurt the ostrich and it is really very silly).

Prior to that we are going to explore the amazing Cango Caves. Think massive caverns and a wonderland of stalactite and stalagmite formations, millions of years old. Cango Caves is a world heritage site and one of the great wonders of the natural world.

If you enjoy spelunking (yes that’s a real word we didn’t make that up) and don’t mind trying to squeeze through some smaller gaps then you are also welcome to take the 1.5 hour adventure tour!

Finally you can go see endangered wildlife act can go wildlife Ranch. This is the only place in the world we can go crocodile cage diving! They also have a big cat Sanctuary, where you can interact with cheetah as well.

• Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
• Accommodation: Cape to Addo Backpacker dorm in Sedgefield
• Facilities: Shared ablutions, internet, pool, free shuttle service to PiliPili Beach bar
• Route: Sedgefield to Oudtshoorn day trip ±190 km
• Travel time: ±3 hrs
• Included Highlight: Standard or adventure guided tour of Cango Caves

Optional Activities:

• Tour of a working Ostrich farm + riding (weight restriction apply to riders)
• Cango Endangered Wildlife ranch

Day 4 ǀ Sedgefield – Jeffrey’s Bay:

Learn all about monkeys and Elephants. Throw yourselves down canyons and take on the mighty bloukrans Bungee. Hike through a national Park. Finish in one of the worlds top surf spots. Not a bad afternoon.

This morning we drive through Knysna on our way to the Crags where you have a number of options to choose from. This is an action packed itinerary today so you will not get to pick every single option, so pick the one that you would most like to do.

1. Elephant Sanctuary where you learn about, and interact with orphaned elephants.
2. Monkey Sanctuary where rescued monkeys roam free in a large jungle area.
3. Kloofing trip through a spectacular gorge with jumps, abseils and swimming.

Bloukrans bungee

Our next stop is the World’s highest commercial bridge Bungee Jump at 216 meters.  It is really bloody scary. If you cannot face the jump, you can face a pint, from the clifftop bar where you can watch the jumpers on a live video feed.

For those that have successfully completed the jump they are going to need a serious wind down. There is no better place to do this than the Tsitsikamma National Park. It’s like something out of the lost world, with an ancient rainforest descending down beautiful cliffs into the sea.  We will go for a hike over the suspension bridges to check out the scenery and stop for lunch in an amazing beachside lodge. Make sure you try the stake it is to die for.

If we have time we will head to Storms river swing bridges before we reach the world-famous surfing Mecca Jeffreys Bay. We will be staying right by the beach in an awesome Surf Lodge. The Surf Lodge will be your home for the next couple of days, although we will be doing road trips up to the addo national elephant Park.

• Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
• Accommodation Backpacker dorm; Island Vibe Backpackers, Jbay
• Facilities: Shared ablutions, bar, restaurant, internet
• Route: Sedgefield to Storms River/Jbay
• Travel time: ±2-3 hrs
• Included Highlight: Tsitsikamma Forest
• Optional Activities: Elephant Sanctuary, Monkeyland, Bloukrans bungee jump (216m), Bloukrans Bridge walking tour

Day 5 ǀ Jeffrey’s Bay – Addo National Park – Sedgefield: Game Drive (Addo), Surfing, shopping time (Jeffrey’s bay)

Wake up early and head to Addo Elephant National park where we go on a morning game drive to view the multitudes of wild animals. Addo is home to the Big 5 and it also has the highest concentration of African Elephants in the world!

Addo Game Drive

The Addo elephant Park is immense. It’s also one of the top elephant game reserves in South Africa. Miles and miles of endless African bush, will have surprises around every corner. We will go for a 3 to 5 hour game drive in the elephant Park so have your camera charged in your memory card is empty!

Jeffreys Bay With Optional Surf Lesson

In the afternoon we had back to Jeffreys Bay, where you will set up for the next couple of days, learning to surf and getting some much-needed beach and chill time.

This is your opportunity to relax, take in the white sandy beaches and hang out with other backpackers. The week after we are heading into the African bush, so it’s nice to spend some time by the ocean.

Weekend in Port Elizabeth

P.E for the weekend. You will be based in a hostel near the center and have serveral activities planned. An interesting city tour (Donkin trail ) combined with township tour finally dinner at a Jazz Club in the township (New Brighton Township).

When we depart from the Jazz club after dinner we stop at the beer shack for beer tasting (beers own cost).

This section is guided from Jbay alth the way through PE until the wold life section of the trip. You willl have free time at the weekend. You can shop, explore or if you thirst for some more adventure: Rent a bike from the hostel and do a few kilometres cycle to a SAMREC penguin rehabilitation centre and or you can do  a 9 km hiking trail of the Cape Nature Recife/light house.

Week Four & Five Wildlife Conservation & Safari

Week four and Five are all about the animals of Africa. Staying in the big five wildlife reserve near Port Elizabeth. Guided by expert game rangers you will have access every day to Africa’s wildlife. Early in the mornings and in the afternoons you will head out in modified land cruisers, looking for wildlife and getting involved in conservation activities.

It is spectacular as it is adventurous, but more than that you will gain a deeper understanding of the issues African wildlife is facing. For example the exploitation of the rhino, or combating poaching from elephant ivory poachers. There are so many different projects and tasks that need your assistance you can really contribute something back. But it’s not all hard work out on the reserves, its incredible experiences as well. Face-to-face with raw African wildlife, you will track lions, buffaloes leopards and more.

During these weeks you will stay on the reserves, in a shared volunteer house, all food is provided for you, although there is the opportunity to purchase extra snacks and soft drinks. With days full of wildlife interaction, your nights around the campfire will be filled with incredible story swapping as you relive the moments of the day.

You also have the option to contribute to our wildlife conservation database, and write reports on your findings, a great way to show future employers or university tutors what you got up to with your time off.

At the end of the weeks you will be dropped off in Port Elizabeth (Monday 11 am) where you can catch your flight home. If you wish to travel further on through South Africa, we can also help organise Baz bus tickets, a hop on hop off bus network so let us know all about your travel plans.

ACCOMMODATION

On this trip you stay multiple locations. Accommodation is mainly in dorms or twin to triple share single sex rooms.

Trip Frequently Asked Questions

What are the group sizes

Group sizes do vary but expect up to 12 people per group. We keep it nice and intimate because this ensures the road trip section is truly unforgettable. You will make good friends with other Xtreme Gappers and have some incredible experiences along the way. [/toggle]

What spending money should I take

South Africa is very cheap, the exchange rate is very favourable so if you are on a tight budget you should only need around £80 per week. Most of your food is included in the second and fourth weeks, and there are cooking facilities available as well.

What are the average ages?

The majority of people on this trip are between 18 and 30, but it is popular with people of all ages. [/toggle]

As a first-time traveller as the suitable for me?

Yes absolutely. The majority of people on this trip book on their own, and you are well looked after throughout. It’s a great introduction to travelling, and you will be with other people in a similar position. You also get access to our online Facebook buddy lists prior to travel so you can make friends with other people on the same trip prior to leaving.

Is South Africa safe?

Yes it is. Throughout the trip you have assistance from our guides and coordinators, you will be well looked after.

Duration	Option	Price
5 (Week)	Xtreme Community	£ 1599 Book Now
5 (Week)	Kitesurf 5 Week Option	£ 1749 Book Now
5 (Week)	Xtreme Marine 5 Weeks Option	£ 1749 Book Now

DATES

Arrival first Sunday of the month

Photos

 

Wildlife Volunteering in South Africa

 Xtreme gap wildlife conservation experience: the difference.

Plenty of gap year companies offer wildlife conservation programmes. On the face of it they seem the same, but how do you tell them apart? Without visiting the reserves, and checking out the projects it’s hard to know what you’re getting.

Well we have, and we have selected an exclusive partner in South Africa to run a wildlife conservation programme.

This Experience You Are Not Just Getting a Conservation Programme, You Are Getting a Completely Immersive Experience.

The Volunteer House is located smack bang in the middle of a big five game reserve. As you enjoy a cold beer, by the swimming pool as the smells of the barbecue carries off into the bush, it’s not uncommon for lions to come right up to the fence in your garden.

From the moment you leave the sanctuary of your accommodation you are in it and it is on!

While other companies will station you off the reserve, you will be located in a stunning region. We purposefully run small groups (there is a maximum of 10 participants at one time) whereas other companies can run 60 to 80 volunteers. This means you will get an intimate and personalised experience. You will learn all about the animals and gain a deeper understanding of African nature.

The work you do will genuinely make a difference, with rhino conservation at the forefront of your activities.

So what will you do?

There is no set schedule as such but your itinerary will be filled with some incredible moments. From game drives, game walks and hikes to waterfalls, you can expect plenty of interaction with African wildlife.

You will be working alongside leading African conservationists, and have your own mentor Throughout. On arrival you will be given a full introduction, and your programme will be laid out in full. You will be given some essential do’s and don’ts, and it is obviously important that you stick to these as you will be living with potentially dangerous animals all around you.

Game drives

As the name suggests game drives is where you go out looking for the animals. Our wildlife volunteers have at their disposal one specially modified land cruiser that can take up to 10 people. These landcruisers are virtually indestructible, and you will not believe the terrain we can cover with them. Steep rock paths get devoured by the 4×4 which means you will be taken to some quite inaccessible places on a quest to discover the wildlife.

The activities you partake in each week, will have a genuine benefit. From collecting scientific data on animal populations, kills and any other areas of interest that affects the wildlife population.

There are other activities that you can partake in as well. It’s a fairly close-knit social experience, with other volunteers from all over the world. You are sure to make friends very quickly. We take you on excursions, the local town canton on Sea is only 15 minutes away and has some of the best beaches in South Africa.

The reserve has a sea view, not only does this make it an already impressive location even better, it serves to bring in the cool winds from the sea, meaning you are not so roasting when you are out in the field.

Safety and guidance

Bear in mind you will be staying surrounded by the wildlife, it’s good to note that there is a fully trained conservation guide stationed with you. Should you have any questions, needs or issues during your stay help is at hand. Not only that our team is young, dynamic and impassioned about wildlife conservation. This will no doubt rub off on you as you work closely with our highly experienced team.

Accommodation

You are located in a shared volunteer house right in the heart of the reserve. The compound is secured with an electric fence, which is completely necessary as there are lions, elephants and other dangerous game roaming freely around the perimeter. Incredible views giving way to the sea and the stunning South African bushveld. It is a haven that constantly reminds you you are in the heart of Africa. There is a gorgeous plunge pool, barbecue area, and garden few to enjoy after a hard days work. There are multiple bedrooms and you share with members of the same sex. Wi-Fi Internet is available although a little slow, but all of the creature comforts you could need are there. We even have a treehouse overlooking a watering hole to enjoy a nice sundowner in the company of wildebeest and warthogs!

Find out more about the accommodation on our blog here.

Meals

You cook meals in the house. There is a cooking rota so once per week you will be expected to cook for the rest of the volunteers with a partner. Food is purchased once per week, and rationed accordingly. Males are basic but hearty, and dinner time is a very social experience.

Pickup

Airport pickup is included from Port Elizabeth on a pay on arrival basis. There are set arrival dates so please see the date section for availability.

Some of the projects you might become involved in include:

• Elephant impact monitoring identifying elephants and monitoring their movement, so that they can be managed effectively in the future.
• Lion prey selection monitoring this is not for the faint-hearted! You must record as many lion kills as possible, so it´s possible to form a picture of what they are eating. As lions are fitted with collars, you´ll get regular glimpses of this majestic beast.
• Population status of leopards as one of the most elusive animals in South Africa, recording the population of leopards is tough. You´ll help to monitor them, and will be part of a privileged group to have seen this amazing cat.
• Rhino monitoring  rhinos are becoming rarer and rarer, so it is vital that the remaining animals are monitored effectively. With 633 rhinos poached in South Africa in 2013 alone, protecting them is one of the biggest conservation priorities for the whole continent.
• Birds in Reserve Project (BIRP) mething that lets you see the beauty of this part of the world first hand!
• Conservation projects  these include projects such as game counts, sex and age surveys for certain species, controlling invasive plants and controlling soil erosion.

You won´t just get to do one of these projects though you´ll be able to have a go at many of them! That way, you´ll get a real feel for how this important game reserve works. Occasionally, exciting projects such as animal releases and captures will also spring up, but these are not regular and therefore can´t be guaranteed. You´ll also get a number of educational lessons before each activity  don´t worry, they are informal and not like the formal classes found at schools and universities!

What Else Is There?

Don´t worry: it isn´t all work, no play on this trip! You´ll get plenty of days off and will have the choice of many different activities to complete or you can simply sit back and relax for the day, while you take in the sun and the beautiful scenery in the game reserve. Some of the additional activities you can complete are:
Horse riding on the beach

• Deep sea fishing
• Quad biking
• Two day canoe trip on the Kowie River
• Trips to the Addo Elephant National Park
• Shark cage diving
• Tandem sky-diving

Additionally, the closest town, Kenton, is only 15 minutes away and has an absolutely amazing beach, with a bar overlooking the sea the perfect place to grab a beer and reflect on what you´ve done during the day. The town also has shopping facilities, where you can stock up on essentials. Port Alfred and Grahamstown are also close by, should you fancy a change of scenery.  

Trip Frequently Asked Questions

Duration	Option	Price
2 (Week)		£ 599 Book Now
3 (Week)		£ 899 Book Now
4 (Week)		£ 1199 Book Now
5 (Week)		£ 1499 Book Now
6 (Week)		£ 1799 Book Now
7 (Week)		£ 2099 Book Now
8 (Week)		£ 2399 Book Now
9 (Week)		£ 2699 Book Now
10 (Week)		£ 2999 Book Now
11 (Week)		£ 3299 Book Now
12 (Week)		£ 3579 Book Now

Dates

There are no set arrival/departure dates for this project, but please note all arrivals are scheduled on Mondays. Departure days can be Fridays, Saturdays or Mondays (please note: no Sundays). Volunteers are required to sign an indemnity form acknowledging and accepting the consequences of working in close contact with wild animals. Applicants must be 17 years of age or older. The minimum time period for a booking is a two week placement and the maximum period is 12 weeks.

Please note that our activities are based on a minimum stay of four weeks. Although many of the activities listed below may take place in two to three week placements, not all are guaranteed. So the longer your stay, the more in depth your experience.

PHOTOS

We will show you Rio de Janeiro like a local in 7 days.

On arrival you will be picked up from the airport. Our driver will be waiting for you in arrivals with a sign with your name on it. You will be driven to your accommodation for check-in. Over the next 7 days you will explore the city fully guided and we will even take you into one of the favelas. Xtreme Gap Year believes an adrenaline travel, and there’s nothing like exploring the slums of Rio de Janeiro to get the pulse racing. Despite what you may have seen in films such as City of God, it is pretty safe and you will be in good hands.

Boat Party (Monday)

A two floor boat turned into a night club with bars, a professional light & sound system and
much more. Touring Guanabara Bay, this is an exclusive party for 150 people with an
 unrivalled atmosphere and breathtaking scenery. This is only available on Monday night.

Chill and Beach time

Yes you will need a day to catch up with some sleep… on the beach maybe?

Rio de Janeiro Favela Tour (Wednesday)

The favela tour is designed to be non-intrusive and respectful of the lives of the people living in the Rocinha favela. We will not cram you into cars and herd you around like sheep. We focus on a genuine experience with the aim to educate our guests about the favelas which are such a big part of life in Rio. Out transport is by public transportation (van and moto-taxi) to and from the favela. The guide will inform you of the history of the favela as well as the social and economic challenges found here. As the tour groups are small you will be able to meet some of the locals, inside the favela and hear their stories. You can also take photos of the breath-taking views offered by the favela, of Ipanema, the Sugarloaf and Christ the Redeemer. The favela tour usually takes about 4 hours.

Rio city tour (Thursday)

The exciting day tour starts with pick up at the front of your hotel or hostel in Rio. You will be met by a professional English speaking tour guide and driven around on a mini bus. Our first stop will be the Tijuca National Park so you get a glimpse of the greenest tropical rainforest. From there we head to the Christ The Redeemer Statue (ticket price is included to the price of the package). Make sure you take enough photos! After our visit to the Big Dude we will stop for a lunch (lunch is not included in the price of the package) in Santa Teresa. This is one of the traditional old neighborhoods of Rio. It still retains much of its original architecture and character of previous years. At the end of your Rio day tour we will see The Great Madness (Escadaria Selaron) or secretLapa steps where Snoop Dogg shot his famous video for Beautiful with Pharell. Finally, you will be offered two options. The first option is to be dropped off at Sugarloaf Mountain(ticket is not included in the package price) in time for sunset – this is an especially romantic time for couples! The second option is to simply be dropped off in front of your hotel or hostel.

Chill Time (Friday)

Samba Experience (Saturday)

A real samba show in Rio is not to be missed. It is a party that you can only find here. Our English speaking guide picks you up and drops you off in front of your hostel in Rio de Janeiro. It’s a fantastic experience and available most of the year- consider it like an off-season Carnival. Come and party with the locals at one of the most traditional samba schools of Rio de Janeiro. Available Saturdays only.

Time to move on (Sunday)

Check out is Sunday. not to worry there is plenty more to do in South America!

ACCOMMODATION

The Copa Hostel

The Copa Hostel is located next to a beautiful national park, one block from the metro and just a few minutes from the famous Copacabana Beach. Our large colonial house is fully renovated with new clean spacious dorms and bathrooms with hot showers and excellent social areas (indoor and outdoor), in a street with 24hr security. Our friendly hostel has a good balance of nightlife and quiet atmosphere, with an onsite bar & lounge open until around 10pm. Also we offer has some nice little essential features like complementary breakfast, high-speed internet and Wi-Fi, bed linen, maps and even free drinkable water. You are right by Copacabana beach. How good is that!

Duration	Option	Price
1 (Week)		£ 459 Book Now

DATES

You can start this any Sunday. Please contact us with your travel plans. Please note during Carnival period this tour will not run however we do have specific Carnival options for you.  

Photos of the Tropical Fitness Bootcamp

Tropical Fitness Bootcamp Full Details

The Thailand fitness boot camp is suitable for all ages and all fitness levels. The one unifying goal of people attending the camp to get fit or fitter and have a great time in a beautiful location doing something healthy. It combines ultra luxurious accommodation with world-class fitness training at incredible prices.

Arrival day: You will be met at the airport and taken to your accommodation by an Xtreme Gap representative. Settle in relax after a long flight and then walk to the fitness boot camp located 2 min away where you will have your full introduction session.

You make your way to the reception of the training camp, and our rep will introduce you to the trainers, give you a training schedule and give you your vouchers for the meal plan. The meal plan starts on the day of the introduction. You just need to go there in your training gear, shorts, sneakers, t-shirt and a towel and water. The water you can buy at the resort or the training camp.

Motivating. With  Time To Achieve Those Results.

Many people struggle to get motivated into taking their health and fitness seriously. Think about it, who has the time to hit the gym properly or go for a run in our busy lives?

When you do get round to it, where is the motivation? The great thing about the fitness Boot Camp: You can take time out of your hectic schedule to do something that is great for your well-being. Even better you know you will be supported every step of the way.

What can the Tropical Fitness Bootcamp do for you?

Everyone is different, with different goals. Some people are unfit others have a good base level of fitness, either way you will benefit from spending some time training here, and you will see remarkable improvements.

You will be impressed by what you can achieve.

It is a motivating environment. 90% of people at the camp travel there on their own which leads to a social and supportive atmosphere because everyone has there with the same goal. Coupled with superb trainers, scheduled classes and all the equipment you could need, there is nothing stopping you.

You will be amazed at what you can achieve, because with group training sessions slacking off is less of an option, and the exercise is quite addictive once you get into it. The included meal plan, two meals a day, (designed by an American celebrity chef) provided you with healthy and delicious food helping you to tone up, lose weight or build muscle extremely quickly.

We have had clients who have gone from 1 week to 12 weeks, and the feedback is consistently excellent. With a varied and flexible training timetable, morning and evening you will not be bored.

At the Xtreme Gap Fitness Bootcamp Relaxation Is Just As Important As The Training.

This is a holiday as much as a bootcamp. The training can take it out of you, so to relax after a hard session you stay in a super luxurious resort, just 2 min from the training area. Set in a peaceful Thai tropical garden, with two beautiful pools, and your own boutique villa style room all ensuite (or a suite if you choose Deluxe or Luxury), you have the perfect blend of healthy fitness workouts and complete relaxation at the end of the day. See the accommodation tab for more.

All you need is on your door step.

The location is superb, in Phuket, towards the south centre of the island the camp is located away from the touristic mess of Phuket Town, located on a quiet road bordering the jungle, there are lots of nice little restaurants, spas and restaurants to enjoy.

World Class Crossfit Style  Training. Strength, Conditioning & Weightloss.

It is the training that really sets up camp apart, not just the quantity but also the quality of the workouts really get results. With an impressive roster of trainers, we are constantly improving our fitness routines incorporating the latest methods and techniques. We also invest in the latest equipment like TRX and cross fit equipment to really deliver results. A fully equipped gym worth over $20,000 and 8 separate training areas are attached to the camp.

On average there can be 100 people training at the camp, from all over the world and it is not unusual to be working out with celebrities, professional athletes and fitness professionals who are on holiday and want to get in shape, as well as people of poor fitness levels who really want to learn how to improve their physique. With so many people coming and training the camp, naturally the latest fitness techniques are incorporated and developed in the training programmes. With just one month spent training at the Xtreme Gap fitness Boot Camp, we can confidently state that you can develop so much further than six months with a personal trainer back home. Fitness results are really delivered.

To see what we mean request trip notes.

Personal Training Session and Group Sessions.

Once per week you will have a mentor session with a professional personal trainer, who has competed at international level in bodybuilding competitions, and is well placed to advise nutrition, techniques and give you a road map during your stay to really get the most out of your workouts.

As well as the personal training session, there are group training sessions, Monday to Friday, with Gym access available on Saturday too (Sunday is taken off for a well-deserved rest).

Whilst there is plenty of training activities included, perhaps even more than most can handle, there is the option to book extra personal training sessions locally, and you can even try other fitness activities like Muay Thai training (for a small local payment).

Full introduction and orientation on arrival.

So what’s the catch? Well nothing really, except you have to arrange your own flight to Thailand, you fly to Phuket which is very well connected internationally or via Bangkok and you need to make the effort in training of course! Just book early online and we will get you all prepared for your trip.

Fitness Bootcamp beach training excursions.

The group training sessions are very diverse, we like to mix it up to keep it interesting and there are a couple of training sessions that take place every week away from the camp.

On Tuesdays, we do the Big Buddha Run, so the class is longer on that day. 8-10:30 AM. The Big Buddha sits at the summit of a mountain, the highest in Phuket. It’s not a steep ascent, but it’s all uphill and a serious test of your fitness abilities. It is an optional running class, you do not have to attend but those who do reach the summit of the mountain can check out the big Buddha.

This is not your average run, you will be jogging up through the jungle passing elephants on the way, if you are seriously out of shape then you might be tempted to ride one up instead, but do not worry, most people make it.

Thursdays we go to the Beach for Beach Boot Camp. Cross fit style workouts with the Andaman sea as the backdrop. The Beach Boot Camp days are legendary, and they are probably the toughest training sessions throughout the week. The reward is you get to jump in the crystal clear sea after a one-hour session!

Our client feedback consistently mentions how surprised they have been at their progress and improvement on these two fitness excursions days. You will definitely be surprised by what you are capable of.

Everything is made easy for you.

After booking, we will set you up with an online buddy list so you can chat to other people going to the camp, or people already training at the camp before you even set off.

We are of course here to answer all your questions before you go and before booking, but after booking we also include a very detailed predeparture pack for you to familiarise yourself with the trip before you go, and we will help you every step of the way making your travel arrangements as simple as possible.

On Arrival.

On arrival in Phuket, we will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to your luxury boutique villa. We recommend a Sunday arrival although we can be flexible (request trip notes for further details on the accommodation).

On the first day of your training, our Xtreme Gap rep will give you a full introduction, introduce you to the trainers, show you around the camp and help you meet other Xtreme Gappers, and also talk you through the meal plan and training timetable (more on that below).

One of the best things about the camp is the atmosphere, most travel there solo so there is a very welcoming and social side to the camp. (More on that later).

The rep is your first point of contact should you have any issues in Thailand, perhaps you just want to know where to go to get your laundry done, where to have a good spa treatment or get the inside information on which restaurant has the best Thai red curry in town, all you have to do is ask. Everything is made really easy for you, allowing you to just focus on having a great time, getting fit and having a really great holiday.

How long should you go for?

Most people go for 2 to 4 weeks, due to time constraints with work, and two weeks is enough to start to see some good results. The main benefit you will take home the knowledge of how to maintain and improve your fitness back home along with a solid foundation or fitness.

Of course you also have had an amazing holiday in Thailand as well and it is not that often you can say you’ve come back from holiday feeling better than when you left!

Short-term guests will receive an amazing kick start to their health and fitness routine.

Many who travel with us use this as a kick start to their travels as well, after all if you are hitting the beaches in Thailand, you want to look and feel good!

Really want to get impressive results? Go long-term.

If you are really serious about making this a life changing trip, and completely give yourself a physical overhaul, to improve your health and fitness the way you look at the way you feel that you should definitely consider joining the long term.

Our clients who stay 8 to 12 weeks really feel the benefit and the transformation can be incredible. An improvement in your fitness levels is guaranteed, and spending 12 weeks devoting yourself to improving your health is surprisingly cheaper than spending the same amount of time at home. For example 8 weeks is under £3000, pretty much fully inclusive (except for one meal per day which costs about two pounds in Thailand).

Great Value Compared to Other Thailand Fitness Boot Camps.

The fitness Boot Camp is incredibly good value and when you compare the prices to similar boot camps and considering the quantity and quality of the training combined with a luxurious stay in a boutique resort, it becomes unsurprising that the majority of people who book revisit the camp.  At half the price of other fitness boot camps. It is little wonder it is so popular.

Luxurious Accommodation Options.

Boutique Villas.

Don ´t hold back and really spoil yourself!  Located in walking distance to the Thailand Fitness Bootcamp we have a choice of 2 stunning 4* resorts. Set in a beautiful landscaped Thai gardens, you will find the uttermost peace and tranquility, with 2 pools – (the pools are heaven after a training session), a breakfast room and high quality service.

The first resort is 5 minutes walk to the training camp.

Retreat Option.

The second resort we refer to as the retreat is 2.3 Kms to the training camp but has its own Spa and yoga sala and gym. It could be considered an upgrade but at expense of being in the immediate vicinity of the camp.

Guests staying at the retreat benefit from a complimentary shuttle service. The retreat is the spill over resort. If you would like the inconvenience of being closer to the training facilities please book early. There is no price difference between the two resort options.

Each private boutique villa comes with a large bed, air conditioning, flat screen TV/cable, DVD, WiFi internet, hot water ensuite shower and your own little outside veranda. The perfect place to relax after your day training, the outside communal lounge spaces are accompanied by easy sounds of fountains and bird song.

We also have deluxe boutique villas available, with an extra living space. see details below.

The Deluxe  Boutique Villas.

Each resort has upgraded rooms available. These have a separate living and kitchenette. Consider this a suite. This accommodation option is perfect if you wish to work while you are training at the boot camp. There is a desk and a living area that could be perfect office terrain.

Also ideal if you want to share accommodation. Maximum 2 people. Special prices apply for sharing accommodation. Please e-mail us for information. Please note the camp is not located right on the beach, although the beaches are accessible by taxi or bike.

The Standard UFH Option New For 2015

If your budget doesn’t stretch to the luxury options new for 2015 we have partnered with ultimate fitness holidays to bring you the standard UFH option. Set in another resort, you have a clean comfortable room, beautiful swimming pool for a significantly discounted price. Also there is no meal plan included with the UFH option.  Find out more details about this option here.

The Training Timetable.

Early Morning

If you wish you can start with a good stretch in the morning by joining the Yoga class for an hour before the ‘real’ work begins. Please note all training is voluntary, and no one is going to drag you out of bed to attend. Having said that everyone is really motivated and it’s a great start to the day.

Boot Camp Training 3 x Per Day.

After Yoga comes the serious cardio (fat burning) classes, using highly advanced techniques (request trip notes for further details and videos about this). These sessions, called Body fit boot camp sessions, are designed to increase your fitness fast and effectively. The groups typically have s mix of people training in poor condition and peak physical condition, this works well as the exercises are modified depending on your fitness levels and ability so no one is left behind.

The first session starts at eight for one hour, and there is a second and third session in the afternoon at two o’clock and three o’clock.

Through out the weeks your fitness levels can be measured on a fitness test so you know how your are progressing.

Personal Training Schedule

You also have a 1 hour a week personal training session, one on one with one of the most respected fitness trainers in Asia!

This session is designed to monitor your progress, and to guide your fitness regime so that you arrive at your desired goals. During these weekly sessions you will develop the ideal schedule, diet and supplement plan.

Your trainer is a professional body builder: gold medal winner in Mr Asia bodybuilding competitions. He is a diet and nutrition counselor as well so if you want the low down on what you should eat and how you should exercise this is the perfect opportunity.

Peter ´s instruction is all about teaching you proper form to maximize your work out goals, and give you that little extra push you need. He will teach about nutrition, weight-lifting and workout structure and provide you with an invaluable boost in the know how of correct work outs. More often than not, our clients can double their effectiveness with minor modifications to their work outs.

The weekly personal training session is designed to keep you on track and teach you how to get the most out of your sessions. One hour per week is more than enough considering all the groups fitness sessions included in the programme, however should you want more personal sessions to utilise peter as a spot partner you can book them locally or purchase a pack of 4 extra sessions per week for £150 at the time of booking.

Yoga, Muay Thai. Do It All.

There are also options to join Yoga sessions taught by a highly qualified yoga instructors. The Yoga groups first thing in the morning are perfect to warm up your muscles and get them ready for a hard session at body fit.

As you are training in Thailand you can also join Muay Thai training sessions (for beginners). Muay Thai is the national martial art and is superb for fitness and good fun as well. Many Western style “body combat” classes take a lot from Muay Thai training sessions. Even if you have no experience you can join the morning Muay Thai groups, with 80% of people signing up with little or no experience you will be in good company.

Flights

Flights are not included, and please do not book your flights before booking with us as we do need to reserve your spot, and make sure there is availability. Submit your booking form and we will come back to you within 24 hours to confirm. Once we have issued you your confirmation invoice you are then good to book your flights into Phuket.

When should you go?

In our experience, the cheapest time to fly is between mid-April and October. This is traditionally low season. The price of the Boot Camp remains the same throughout the year however this can seriously affect the price of flights. So if you are on a budget consider coming during those months.

Travelling alone is no problem it’s a very social environment.

As we mentioned most people who attend the camp, are independent travellers and arrive at the camp on their own. If you are concerned about travelling solo, don’t be. There is such a social atmosphere at the camp, and it is a really supportive environment that everyone gets to know each other very quickly.

We set you up on our buddy list system before you go (to chat online with other people attending the camp, and we promise you will make really good new friends, (serious physical exercise in a group can be quite a bonding experience we assure you!)

So really it does not take long for people to get to know one another.

While 2 meals a day are included in the meal plan, you are free to have dinner where every you like, which tends to be very social.

People come from all over to train at our camp, so expect to meet new friends from all over the world and really broaden your horizons and extend your connections at the same time.

The fact that most people travel there alone, also adds to the motivation factor, because everyone is there to succeed in their fitness goals so everyone encourages and pushes each other to do more.

Location & Activities.

You can expect great weather, amazing food and exciting environment. Lots of culture and interesting day trips to be had. The training camp is about a 10 min drive from the beach, (taxis are cheap) there are temples, spas, and numerous activities like elephant trekking, diving and snorkelling, trekking and you can even head out to Phi Phi for some to die for beaches.

You can’t go to Thailand without trying a Thai massage as well, and after a few days training you might just want one! There are ample spa facilities in the vicinity of your accommodation so it is very easy to reward yourself with a bit of pampering after all of your hard efforts with your training.

Request trip notes (on the right and we will send you further information on some other things you can do there.)

Visas.

You can enter Thailand on a 28 day Visa exemption if arriving by air, so for our clients staying just four weeks or under there is no need to arrange a Visa. If you are intending to stay longer, you will need to pre-arrange a Visa, after booking we can send you all the information you need to do this, and our partners can even take care of this for you.

Booking Process

The booking process is relatively straightforward, but please note spaces to fill up so we advise booking well ahead, last-minute bookings can be taken occasionally, but we do need it least 10 days notice. Having said that we can rarely guarantee you a space if you book last-minute, so please contact us if you want to make a last-minute booking.

To book all you have to do is submit your booking form, we will then check availability and send you your confirmation invoice, you can take this into the bank to pay (no charge), or pay online to a UK account, or you can pay online with PayPal (there is a 5% charge for this option).

If you are travelling within 12 weeks, you will need to pay the full amount. If you are travelling later than 12 weeks you only need to secure your place with £200 deposit, then pay the balance 12 weeks before departure giving you plenty of time to save flights and spending money.

So for only £200, you can make a commitment to yourself to get fit and healthy, tone up and feel incredible you just need to submit your booking form. Don’t think too long about it, as spaces to fill up so get it in early.

Trip Frequently Asked Questions

Duration	Option	Price
1 (Week)	Boutique Villa	£ 599 Book Now
1 (Week)	Deluxe Villa	£ 669 Book Now
2 (Week)	Boutique Villa	£ 969 Book Now
2 (Week)	Deluxe Villa	£ 1199 Book Now
3 (Week)	Boutique Villa	£ 1289 Book Now
3 (Week)	Deluxe Villa	£ 1459 Book Now
4 (Week)	Boutique Villa	£ 1499 Book Now
4 (Week)	Deluxe Villa	£ 1699 Book Now
5 (Week)	Boutique Villa	£ 1859 Book Now
6 (Week)	Boutique Villa	£ 2199 Book Now
5 (Week)	Deluxe Villa	£ 2049 Book Now
6 (Week)	Deluxe Villa	£ 2659 Book Now
7 (Week)	Boutique Villa	£ 2699 Book Now
8 (Week)	Boutique Villa	£ 2849 Book Now
8 (Week)	Deluxe Villa	£ 3099 Book Now
9 (Week)	Boutique Villa	£ 3399 Book Now
7 (Week)	Deluxe Villa	£ 2999 Book Now
10 (Week)	Boutique Villa	£ 3659 Book Now
10 (Week)	Deluxe Villa	£ 3799 Book Now
9 (Week)	Deluxe Villa	£ 3799 Book Now
11 (Week)	Boutique Villa	£ 3899 Book Now
12 (Week)	Boutique Villa	£ 3959 Book Now
11 (Week)	Deluxe Villa	£ 4199 Book Now
12 (Week)	Deluxe Villa	£ 4329 Book Now

Dates

Please contact us now to check availability for you.

You can start any Sunday throughout the year, please note the camp does get very full so please book well in advance.

Although our dates can be flexible it is best to arrive on Sunday as there is no training at the camp on Sundays.