Since Operation Raleigh was founded in 1984 the charity has operated in 40 countries spanning 5 continents. Operation Raleigh was initially a 4 year expedition, undertaken by 2 ships, Zebu and Sir Walter Raleigh. Both these ships circumnavigated the world with venturers taking part in 3-month long land-based expeditions, in 22 countries, which combined the thrill of adventure with serious scientific research and community-aided projects.
As the initiative went from strength to strength, it was decided that Operation Raleigh should continue on a permanent basis, with the emphasis on land based expedition programmes.
Since 1989 we have delivered projects in many other countries. However, over the past 10 years, we have adopted a strategy of setting up a permanent presence in each of the countries we operate. Raleigh employs international and local staff that are based year-round at our operational headquarters, known as field base. In this way we are able to create long-term partnerships on the ground with host government ministries, NGOs and local communities to ensure the projects meet genuine needs and promote sustainable development.
Currently we operate core expeditions in Costa Rica and Nicaragua, India and Malaysia, plus tailor-made expeditions in Namibia.
