A Hope Journey is not a typical mission trip. It is a spiritually formative travel experience designed to create space to encounter God, build meaningful relationships, and participate in what God is already doing in another part of the world.

While there will be opportunities to serve and engage with local partners, the heart of this journey is not about “coming to help.” It is about coming with humility, presence, and openness. We listen, learn, serve, pray, and allow God to transform us as we walk alongside others.

This journey is for those who are spiritually hungry, open to growth, willing to step outside their comfort zone, and ready to engage with God, others, and themselves in a deeper way.

No. You do not need previous mission trip or international travel experience. You do need a willing heart, flexibility, emotional maturity, and openness to the preparation process.

The trip includes shared accommodations, in-country transportation, daily breakfast, select group meals, ministry and outreach opportunities, local excursions, cultural exchange experiences, pre-trip preparation calls, logistical support, and on-the-ground leadership.

The trip does not include international airfare, travel insurance, passport or visa fees if applicable, immunizations or medical expenses, some meals, snacks, souvenirs, personal purchases, or the Sacred Space curriculum book.

We intentionally do not include international airfare in the trip cost. This gives each participant the flexibility to:

• Use airline miles or credit card points

• Fly from different departure cities

• Arrive early or stay later if desired

• Choose preferred airlines, routes, and travel schedules

• Extend their time in South Africa or elsewhere in the region

We'll provide guidance and recommended arrival/departure windows, but you are responsible for booking your own flights.

The Hope Journey investment is $2,800, which covers your accommodations, in-country transportation, most meals, ministry opportunities, cultural experiences, preparation calls, administrative fees, currency exchange, and on-the-ground leadership.

In addition to the trip cost, participants should budget for:

• Round-trip airfare to Cape Town (typically $1,000–$1,800 from the U.S.)

• Travel insurance (approximately $30-45)

• Sacred Space curriculum book (approximately $10)

• Remaining lunches, dinners, snacks, coffee, and beverages

• Souvenirs and personal purchases

Most participants can expect their total out-of-pocket investment to be approximately $4,000–$4,200, depending on airfare and personal spending choices.

Many participants also choose to use airline miles or credit card points, which can significantly reduce the overall cost of the trip.

Hope Journeys are rooted in the Christian faith and centered on following Jesus.

We believe God is already at work in every person and place we encounter. Throughout the journey, we create space to pray, reflect on Scripture, listen to the Holy Spirit, serve others with humility, and pay attention to where God is moving.

Our desire is to carry the hope and love of Christ wherever we go while remaining open to how God wants to transform us along the way.

Because the spiritual foundation of the experience is distinctly Christian, participants should be comfortable engaging in a Christ-centered environment. You don't need to have everything figured out, but a desire to grow in your relationship with Jesus is important.

Yes. There will be three required preparation calls before the trip. These calls help us build connection, prepare spiritually and practically, and enter the experience with shared language and posture. *See main page for trip call dates.

There may be walking, stairs, uneven ground, and full days. You do not need to be an athlete, but you should be comfortable with moderate activity and flexible travel rhythms.

Like any international destination, South Africa requires wisdom and awareness. We will travel with local guidance, stay in vetted accommodations, and follow safety protocols throughout the journey.

Yes. Many people come without knowing the rest of the group. Part of the beauty of a Hope Journey is the sacred belonging that often forms along the way.

This will be a small group experience, curated to allow for meaningful connection, flexibility, and depth.

We will connect with local partners and participate in opportunities that may include prayer, leading gatherings, encouragement, outreach, relational ministry, community engagement, and practical service. Specific activities may vary based on the needs of our partners.

Yes. The rhythm will include ministry, cultural experiences, reflection, meals, rest, and some open space. The goal is not to pack every moment, but to create space to absorb what God is saying and doing in your own life as well.

Because this is an intimate and spiritually intentional journey, each participant must complete a short application and provide two references. The application helps with logistics, preparation, and making sure the trip is a good fit for us and for you. We take each application seriously and review with prayerful discernment.

Yes. A $500 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your spot after acceptance. More details will be shared during the registration process.

Yes. Many participants choose to invite friends, family, or their faith community to support their journey. You are welcome to fundraise personally toward your trip cost. We can provide resources available to help you.

You are welcome to reach out directly. We would love to help you discern whether this Hope Journey is the right next step for you. Email us at hello@thehopeadventure.com.