FAQ

Who is this trip for?

Teens ages 15–17 who are curious, adaptable, and eager to explore the outdoors. No elite athletic background is required — just a positive attitude, good fitness, and willingness to learn and participate.

How challenging is the GR20 South?

The GR20 is one of Europe’s classic long-distance trails. The Southern section is rugged but accessible for motivated teens.
Daily hiking ranges from 6–10 miles with 1,500–3,000 ft of elevation gain. Students do not carry heavy packs — luggage assistance is provided on most days.

All hikes are led by two certified Corsican mountain guides, plus leaders Hortense and guest Lauren.

Do students need prior backpacking or hiking experience?

No. Experience helps, but is not required.
Teens must be:

Comfortable being active 4–6 hours/day
Open to uneven, rocky terrain
Willing to try something challenging

We train them with pacing, hydration, foot care, safety, and daily routines.

What are the accommodations like?

The trip includes a mix of:

Coastal hotels (2 nights in Ajaccio)
GR20 mountain refuges (6 nights) — simple, safe, communal dorm-style lodging
Private beach house (4 nights) — comfortable rooms, full kitchen, relaxation space

Refuges include basic bunk beds, bathrooms, and shared meals. They are clean, rustic, and absolutely part of the magic of the GR20 experience.

What does the Writing & Exploration Track involve?

When I did my expeditions in high school, we were required to keep a journal and reflect. I still have these journals to this day and love revisiting the experience through my 16 year old self's eyes, and love to read them to my kids.

Under the guidance of BSU writing instructor Lauren Allen, students engage in a variety of writing. We will share a specific plan ahead of the trip but here are some examples : :

Morning intention prompts
Mid-trail sensory writing
Evening reflections
Mini “Trail Writer Labs”
A final “Corsica Collection” booklet

No grades, no stress — just creative expression and reflection.

How many leaders and guides will accompany the group?

2 professional certified local mountain guides during the hiking portion of this trip
2 U.S.-based trip leaders (Hortense & Lauren)
Total supervision ratio: approximately 1 adult per 4–5 teens

Safety and attentive leadership are top priorities.

What is included in the cost?

✔ Round-trip flights from Boise to Ajaccio
✔ All lodging (hotels, refuges, beach house)
✔ All in-country transportation
✔ All meals except a few lunches and airport meals
✔ All activities, guides, excursions, and writing program
✔ Luggage assistance on the trail
✔ Travel/emergency insurance (medical + evacuation)

What is not included?

A few lunches, snacks, and airport meals.
Personal gear.
Spending money for souvenirs.

What about safety on the trail?

Safety is our highest priority. The GR20 South is challenging but very well marked and maintained.

Safety measures include:

Two licensed Corsican guides
Leader team trained in first aid and wilderness protocols
Pre-trip preparation for teens
Continuous assessment of weather and trail conditions
Strict ratios and monitoring

We never hesitate to adjust pace, distance, or plans as needed.

Will students have access to their phones?

Very limited.
Phones may be used for photos but no social media, texting, or recreational use during trail days.

We prioritize connection, presence, and independence.

During the last days at the beach, we also will require teens to keep their phone away except for photos. Of course, you are welcome to call/text your child - remember that France/Corsica is 8 hours ahead.

How do parents stay updated?

Leaders share periodic updates with photos via a private WhatsApp group or email (depending on signal availability).

What gear do students need?

We provide a detailed packing list prior to the trip. Pack light is our motto!

We will host a couple of pre-trip meeting for families to review trip details and gear.

Do you have any payment plans?

Yes we do. We ask for a non-refundable $1000 deposit to reserve your trip. Your retreat will be officially reserved once we have received your deposit.

Deposit: $1000 at registration
Payment #1: $3000 due January 15, 2026
Payment #2: $1700 due February 15, 2026

Note that many credit cards now offer pay as you go plans that you can find useful for these types of expenses. We recommend you get travel cancellation insurance. We will provide trip insurance that does cover emergencies during the trip.

What is your cancellation policy?

Due to the unique and personalized nature of each trip we offer, we dedicate significant resources to accommodate every traveler's reservation. However, we also understand that circumstances may require changes to your plans. Therefore, we have implemented a flexible cancellation policy as outlined below:

Deposit: While trip deposits are non-refundable, they are transferable. You have the option to transfer your deposit to another individual who can take your place on a retreat.

Up until 100 days from the tripstart date you may receive 60% of your purchase price upon cancellation. There will be no refund of your purchase within 100 days of the trip start date.

Do I need insurance?

Travel insurance is the guests’ responsibility and it is recommended by Teen Expedition, LLC. We highly recommend that you get one for any changes to your trip (sickness, flight delays etc...). Teen Expedition, LLC has no affiliation with insurance companies. It is your responsibility to find an insurer.

We will provide emergency medical insurance and the cost of that insurance is included in your trip cost.

Do I need a passport/visa?

US citizens will need a passport to visit France, but no visa is required at this time. All passports will need to be valid for at least 6 months after your scheduled return date and have at least one blank page for entry stamps. Entry information can change so please visit the State Department’s website for current information. Nationals of all other countries should check travel requirements well in advance of their retreat.

Can I come along with my kid?

Yes you may depending on the group composition and available spots. Just mention in on the reservation form and we will be in touch.

Can I meet my kid at the end of the trip and hang out in Europe a little longer?

Yes, that is a possibility. If you choose to make your own travel arrangements - book a different return date, you will need to communicate with us as soon as possible so we can work together on what makes the most sense.

What if I don't know any French?

Speaking French is not a requirement for our trip. Hortense will take care of you!

Can my teen dietary restrictions/needs be accommodated?

Most dietary restrictions can be accommodated. Please let us know when you sign up and mention Dietary restrictions. But remember France loves its gluten and dairy :)

What is the electrical current/outlet in France?

France is on plug type “E” and 220v. Anyone coming from a region with a different plug or voltage should pack their adaptor and/or converter.

What is the currency in France?

France uses the Euro and while we suggest you get cash in Euros when or before you arrive, credit cards are also widely accepted (purchase minimums may apply). Check the current rates of conversion from US dollars to Euros.