Planning your trip and joining a project

When can I go?

Most projects run all year round.  Please see the individual project pages for when the project runs.  The 'Extra Information' download at the bottom of the project page contains details of start dates, durations and prices.

How long can I stay for?

Projects are available from one week to a whole year in duration!  Please see the individual project pages for details of durations and dates.  If you would like to stay for a length of time not specified on the project page please get in touch as we may be able to arrange a longer stay for you. 

How much does it cost?

This all depends on which project you choose.  Prices are dependent upon the project location and the activities included - have a look at the 'Extra Information' downloads on each project page for a full outline of prices or download a price list here.

Where does my money go?

The cost of each project is carefully calculated according to its country, location and the activities available there.  The money that you pay goes directly to the project in the destination country and covers costs associated with your stay.  Your money covers your accommodation, food, utilities, facilities, excursions, equipment provided, use of the horses on the project and the associated equestrian activities.  Your money brings a vital and much needed income to each of the projects - without you, they wouldn't be able to support their horses and the local communities.

What does the project cost include?

This varies between projects but generally it will include all your accommodation, meals, airport transfers, use of the horses and equipment, any training/tuition, and daily activities.  Please see the 'Extra Information' downloads on individual project pages for full details of what’s included and what's not.

Are there any extra costs?

No, your project cost will include everything you need while you are there.  You may wish to take some extra money for additional activities whilst staying at the project.  These might include trips to the local town, a trip to a local horse show or event, adventure activities, game drives or optional excursions in the local area.  It is also a good idea to take spending money for personal items and all those souvenirs!

What’s not included?

Flights, visas, personal insurance and any extra excursions at the project are not included.  There may also be a taxi transfer to get to the project which isn't included but this will be stated on individual project pages.

How can I pay?

You can pay us by cheque, bank transfer or by using Paypal.  Payment is in pounds sterling (GBP).  Cheques should be made payable to Globe Trotters International Ltd and if you wish to pay by Paypal please send payment to bookings@globetrotters.org.uk.

It's called Volunteering - why do I have to pay? 

The main priority of each of the projects is the welfare and happiness of their horses – something that each project leader invites you to be a part of.  Since the projects are based in countries with weak economies and poor backgrounds, they cannot afford to pay volunteers to come and share their skills.  Projects therefore need to be self-sustainable and bring useful skills in order to have a lasting benefit and assure long term security for the horses’ future. 

Through paying to volunteer you have the opportunity to become involved in a special and amazing project, to work and live with horses in some of the most beautiful places in the world.  You will be rewarded with the knowledge that simply by being there you are securing a long term future not only for the horses, but also for the community that surrounds the project and depends on the associated income.  You will become fully integrated with the project and gain so much more than a holidaying tourist ever would.  This is a real chance for you to give something back and help promote sustainable tourism and development of rural communities.

Can I fundraise?

Yes of course!  With a little planning and some hard work you can raise all the money needed for your project.  Ask us for tips on fundraising - we welcome updates and photographs of all your efforts!

Travel, Insurance and Visas

Can you arrange my flights?

To allow maximum flexibility we let all volunteers organise their own flights.  Many volunteers are already traveling or wish to do so after their project and so by making your own arrangements you can tailor the trip to suit you.  We will let you know exactly which airport you should fly into and where you will be collected.  We will also often tell you the exact flight to book to ensure that you arrive with all the other volunteers.

How can I book a place on a project?

Full details of how to book your place on a project can be found on our Book Your Place page.

You will need to complete a booking form to secure a place on one of our projects.  Booking forms can be downloaded here in PDF or here in MS Word.

Complete the booking form with all your details and return it to us by post or email with a deposit of 20% (cheque or Paypal).  Once we receive your application and deposit we will book your place on your chosen project.  We will write back to you to confirm your place, give you full details of your trip and advise you of which flights you will need to book.

The final balance is due ten weeks before departure.  Once the final balance is paid, you are off on a real equestrian adventure overseas!  

Can I visit more than one project?

Yes, of course!  You may combine any number of projects and spend time at several if you wish. 

We recommend a stay of at least four weeks on each project to allow sufficient time to settle in and to get to know the horses and people.  Projects in the same country are particularly easy to combine since this avoides the need for extra international flights.

I am not from the UK, can I still apply?

Yes!  All of our projects are English speaking and we welcome volunteers from all over the world.  You will meet people from many different countries all of whom have one thing in common – a love of horses and a sense of adventure!

How far in advance should I book?

This depends of which project you want to join.  Some of our most popular projects get booked up several months in advance and May to September is always a particularly busy time of year.  We advise you to book as far ahead in advance as possible to ensure you reserve a place on your chosen project and are not disappointed.

How many other volunteers will there be?

This depends on your chosen project and the time of year, but you can expect there to be between four and twenty other volunteers at each project.

Volunteers travel to our projects from all around the world so you will meet lots of different people, each who shares your passion for horses.  As you share so many experiences together, you will come away having made new friends for life.

How old is the average volunteer?

The minimum age is 18 and there is no maximum!  Most of our volunteers are between the ages of 18 and 26, many are on a post- or pre-university Gap Year, and many are taking part in our projects as experience for their University or College course.  We also have a lot of older volunteers taking career breaks or working holidays. 

Can I come with friends or in a couple?

Yes, of course!  Couples, friends and groups are most welcome.  Please specify on your booking forms that you wish to be placed together.  However, remember that you'll be with other volunteers at the project so you may be sharing with others.

Do I need insurance?

Yes, definitely.  Insurance is an essential part of joining one of our projects.  You won't be able to travel to one of our projects unless you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and provide us with a copy of the policy.

As horse riding is the main activity and purpose of our projects you must ensure that this is covered by your travel insurance policy.  You may need to seek specialist sports insurance cover if necessary which is available at http://www.sportscoverdirect.com/

Do I need a Visa?

This depends on the country you are visiting and your own nationality.  You'll need to arrange your own Visa and can check the Visa requirements at http://www.projectvisa.com/.  Most Visas can be collected as you arrive in the country but please check as you may need to arrange it before you travel. 

Your passport must also be current and valid for at least six months after your intended return date.

At the project

Do I need to be an experienced rider?

Not at all.  We welcome riders of all abilities, although some projects are more suitable for more experienced riders.  Some projects require a minimum riding ability due to the nature of the riding, for example the Indian Ocean Adventure which features fast riding but most are able to train and teach beginners.

Can I use my time on a project to contribute to College or University?

Most definitely!  If you are on a University or College course that requires you to undertake some equestrian, veterinary or animal related work experience then one of our projects would be perfect for fulfilling that requirement.

We would be delighted to provide references to your college or place of education or complete the necessary forms to verify that you spent time with us working abroad with horses.

If you need to complete a ‘Year in Industry’ or Sandwich Year as part of your course, then time spent on one of our projects is a great way to do it.  Not only do can you spend time working with horses but you get to travel, meet people and see the world at the same time!

How can I be sure of the welfare of horses on each project?

All our projects are operated by people who have a lifelong passion for horses and ensure the highest standards of care.  We only use reputable projects and the welfare of the horses is paramount to us.  We receive regular feedback about each of our projects and ensure that the horse’s welfare conditions are met and exceeded.  The horses on all of our projects are well cared for, happy and healthy.

Does Globe Trotters International have specialist knowledge?

All of our staff are passionate about the same things that you are – horses and travel!

Each of us has traveled extensively accross the globe and has a great deal of experience in the travel industry.  We have visited each of our projects personally and have experienced how amazing they are.   

We are all keen riders who own our own horses and enjoy riding and competing.  Collectively we hold British Horse Society qualifications, NVQs in Horse Care and Equine Studies, and are members of the British Horse Society, British Show Jumping Association, British Eventing, Endurance GB and British Dressage.

We understand the equestrian industry and the needs and requirements of people who share our passion.  

Can I travel before or after my project?

Yes, of course!  Many volunteers arrive early to do some exploring or join a project half way through a round-the-world trip.

A project with Globe Trotters International offers volunteers the chance to slowly acclimatise to the new country, integrating you with the locals and the culture and allowing you to ‘find your feet’ before you head off to travel independently.  You will also be introduced to a group of potential travelling companions and get to know locals who can help you make further travel arrangements once you are there.

Arriving at your project

What happens once I have booked?

Once we receive your booking form by email or post, and your 20% deposit by cheque or Paypal then we will send you written confirmation that your place has been booked!  We also advise you of the time, date and location of your project collection point which is normally the airport as you arrive.  We will let you know all the relevant details and also advise you of which flights to book to coincide with your collection point.

Most projects will collect you at the airport but if you need to arrange an in-country transfer to get you from the airport to the project we can provide full deatils on the options.  These can be arranged by a simple taxi transfer using safe and approved airport taxis.

Once we recieve your full balance ten weeks before departure we will send you the rest of the information, including project contact details and emergency contacts.

Where will I be met?

You will be met at the project collection point which is usually the airport, on the arranged date at the arranged time.  You will be met by the project leader or a project representative who will collect you and take you and the other volunteers back to the project.

What support and guidance is available once I’m there?

Before departure you will be given the name and contact details of the project leader.  They will be available for help and support once you arrive in the destination country.

You will also be provided with the Globe Trotters International emergency number which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  Of course we are also available in the office for questions and support before, during and after your project.

What is the accommodation like?

The accomodation on our projects has been described as "five star rustic"!  It depends where you stay but the accomodation will be clean and comfortable.  You will be sharing a room with other volunteers. 

What is the food like?

The food will be healthy and nutritious throughout your stay - often home cooked using local produce. 

Can you cater for special dietary requirements?

Yes, all projects can cater for special dietary requirements - just let us know on your application form.  

Do I need to be physically fit?

Due to the nature of our projects a moderate level of fitness is good to have but don't worry if you're not quite there - you will no doubt return home much fitter (and tanned) than when you arrived!

Will I have any free time?

Yes, all projects have at least one or more rest days per week. Often there are excursions and trips to local attractions available.

What do I need to take?

You should take your riding gear!  We'll let you know what else you need to take once you've booked a place.  We send you a kit list when you book a place which will be a list of recommended items to take and what clothing will be appropriate.  It's definitely a good idea to take your own boots for comfort and you'll definitely need a riding hat that conforms to the latest safety standards PAS 015 or BSEN 1384.

You can find more information about riding hat safety standards here.