If you’re starting to plan an unforgettable school trip for 2027, now is the perfect time to explore beyond the traditional destinations. More schools are turning to educational trip ideas that combine physical challenge, cultural insight, and personal growth. The most impactful trips don’t just take students abroad, they push them to discover resilience, collaboration, and a deeper awareness of the world around them.
At World Challenge, we specialise in educational trip ideas for schools that are adventurous, meaningful and student-led. Whether it’s paddling through Norway’s glacial rivers, navigating Croatian rapids, or going on safari in Namibia, our 2027 itineraries are designed to inspire. Each one includes trekking as a core component, allowing students to develop navigation skills, respect for the natural world, and a solid understanding of leave no trace principles. Below are five of our standout adventures where exploration meets education.
1. Norway – Canoe, Camp and White Water Raft the Otra River
For schools looking to blend natural beauty with outdoor learning, Norway offers one of the most complete educational trip ideas in Europe. The journey begins with a two-day canoe expedition along the breathtaking Otra River. Students work in pairs to navigate the river’s calm stretches and mild currents, all while building their skills in teamwork, route planning, and environmental responsibility.
Trekking forms part of the adventure as students move between wild campsites and take short hikes into surrounding woodlands. Here, they learn basic map-reading while deepening their understanding of how to travel responsibly in sensitive environments.
Camping on river islands adds a powerful layer of independence. Students take charge of setting up their tents, cooking over camp stoves, and following leave no trace practices to protect the landscape. These moments of self-sufficiency teach responsibility and foster resilience in a low-pressure, supportive setting.
Later in the school expedition, the mood shifts to high excitement with a white water rafting experience. Guided by expert instructors, students face a new kind of physical and mental challenge. The adrenaline rush is balanced by structured reflection, helping students understand what they’ve achieved. This duality of peace and thrills, planning and spontaneity makes Norway one of the most balanced and memorable educational trips for schools.
2. Croatia – Rafting, Kayaking and Riverbank Camping
Croatia delivers a dynamic combination of water-based adventure and hands-on learning, making it a standout destination for active learners. Over two days on the Zrmanja River, students navigate gentle rapids while immersed in one of Europe’s most pristine river valleys. Here, the emphasis is on teamwork, environmental awareness, and practical bushcraft; students collect firewood, prepare meals and learn to camp responsibly.
Incorporated into the itinerary are short trekking routes that wind through local terrain, giving students the opportunity to apply navigation skills. These treks reinforce a respect for fragile environments and foster a sense of shared responsibility within the group.
Camping by the river not only builds life skills but also encourages group bonding and self-reflection. In the evenings, students discuss what they’ve learned, often under starlit skies that highlight the value of simplicity and connection with nature.
The adventure continues with a kayaking expedition which navigates the Zrmanja River, passing the Jankovic Buk Waterfall and Old Mill, or through the canyon and out onto the sea. This section of the school trip encourages independence, as students paddle in small groups, manage their own equipment and take on new roles in navigation and safety. The contrast between the calm sea and the moving river creates a multifaceted experience that appeals to a wide range of learning styles.
This itinerary is perfect for schools looking for educational trip ideas that promote resilience, self-confidence and environmental responsibility, all wrapped up in an exciting and scenic adventure.
3. Namibia – Wildlife Safaris and Desert Discovery
Namibia is one of Africa’s most captivating locations for educational trips for schools. It combines big-sky landscapes with opportunities for deep learning, particularly around wildlife conservation, biodiversity, and cultural understanding. The journey begins in Etosha National Park, where students head out on game drives to witness elephants, lions, giraffes, rhinos and other species in their natural habitat.
Guided by local conservation experts, students explore the complexities of habitat management, species protection and human-wildlife conflict. These discussions are grounded in real-world challenges and successes, helping students connect classroom learning in biology and geography to urgent global issues.
Outside the safari parks, Namibia’s deserts offer a different kind of classroom. Trekking through ancient dunes and arid terrain, students learn how to navigate using landmarks. The experience builds their understanding of terrain, sustainability, and the importance of respecting fragile desert ecosystems.
Students also visit rural communities where they learn about traditional ways of life. These encounters offer unique insights into how people live in harmony with challenging environments and often spark rich conversations about resource use, resilience, and sustainability.
Namibia stands out as one of those educational trip ideas that blends exploration with empathy. It’s perfect for schools looking to foster global citizenship, scientific thinking, and a deeper appreciation for Earth’s interconnected ecosystems.
4. Costa Rica – Rainforests, Waterfalls and Volcanic Wonders
For students passionate about sustainability and science, Costa Rica provides one of the most immersive educational trip ideas available. The country is globally recognised for its commitment to conservation, with more than a quarter of its land protected. Students explore this green paradise first-hand through rainforest hikes, volcano visits and waterfall treks.
In Arenal Volcano National Park, students climb over 500 steps to the base of the powerful Fortuna Waterfall. This trek challenges them physically while offering unforgettable sights and sounds, from howler monkeys in the canopy to vibrant birds overhead. Lessons in erosion, biodiversity and hydrology come to life in this spectacular environment.
Trekking throughout the national parks also allows students to build navigational skills in a rainforest context. By observing how tourism impacts even the most remote areas, students learn how to tread lightly and think critically about sustainable travel.
The volcano itself becomes an open-air classroom. Students can discuss tectonic activity, geothermal energy, and the relationship between volcanic soil and agriculture. Each activity is designed to integrate multiple learning strands, from biology and chemistry to environmental ethics.
This trip is ideal for schools seeking educational trips that are physically active, scientifically rich, and socially conscious. Costa Rica doesn’t just show students the beauty of the natural world, it challenges them to think about how to protect it.
Find out more about Costa Rica
5. eSwatini and Mozambique – Ocean Study and Marine Conservation
This unique dual-country itinerary offers a rich blend of community connection and marine science. In eSwatini, students engage in cultural exchanges and community-based projects that foster empathy and broaden their global understanding. Short hikes through rural areas and natural landscapes allow students to experience daily life on foot, sharpening their observation and navigation skills.
The highlight for many students, however, comes in Tofo, Mozambique, where they embark on an ocean safari and snorkel in vibrant coral ecosystems. Guided by marine scientists, students learn to conduct biodiversity surveys and collect data that contributes to ongoing research efforts. This active involvement in scientific work gives students a sense of real contribution and academic relevance.
Throughout the experience, students reflect on the environmental impact of travel and engage in group discussions focused on sustainability, marine protection, and ethical tourism. The trekking elements further reinforce a respect for local environments, teaching students how to explore without leaving a mark.
As educational trip ideas go, few offer such a meaningful blend of physical activity, scientific engagement, and cultural respect. It’s an unforgettable journey for students who want to explore the world with purpose.
Find out more about eSwatini & Mozambique
Ready to Explore Some New Educational Trip Ideas for 2027?
The most meaningful school trips stay with students for years. They teach more than just geography or biology, they develop character, curiosity and compassion. These five educational trip ideas deliver on every front: bold adventure, immersive learning and unforgettable moments of self-discovery.
Whether it’s your first overseas school trip or a new chapter in your school’s travel programme, our team at World Challenge is here to help you plan something extraordinary.
Request a Quote today to start shaping a 2027 overseas school trip that educates, inspires and changes lives!
Written by Alan Ward
