Explorer Belt
The Explorer Belt is the challenge of a lifetime, which is open to Explorer Scouts aged over 16 and members of the Scout Network. It is a chance to take part in a ten-day expedition that brings a real understanding of a different country, its people and way of life.
The Explorer belt is sometimes described as 'the antidote to the package holiday'. It is designed to help young people develop a real understanding of another country by travelling through that country, completing surprise projects, working as a small team and meeting local people.
To complete the Explorer Belt, an Explorer Scout or member of the Scout Network must:
- Be over 16 years old
- Plan and train for an international expedition as part of a small team
- Travel to another country and travel through that country over ten days
- Complete a self selected major project
- Complete about ten smaller projects
- Keep a notebook or diary during the expedition
- Take part in a debriefing after the expedition
- Make a presentation about the expedition
Travel
Most Explorer Belt expeditions are undertaken on foot, although other forms of transport including canoe, bicycle and horseback are equally acceptable.
Some teams may wish to use local public transport as part of their expedition and, as long as this provides real opportunities to meet and talk with local people, then it is acceptable.
Teams may wish to mix forms of travel. Please note that hitchhiking is not permitted by The Scout Association.
Duration
The expedition should last for at least ten days. It is more of a marathon than a sprint!
During this time, the team should spend at least 30 hours travelling from place to place and visit at least four different towns or villages.
For a typical team travelling mainly on foot, this would suggest a route of about 100 miles (160km).
However, it is important that the route and distance take into account the local geography, methods of transport, physical ability of the team members, daytime temperatures and likely weather.
Time spent travelling to and from the country of the expedition should not be included.
* Further information
Explorer Belt: An introduction FS452030
Explorer Belt: Going your own way FS452031
Explorer Belt: Organising a group expedition FS452032
Explorer Belt: Project Suggestions FS452033
