Upper School Trips 2025-2026

• On this year's Costa Rica trip, students will complete 16 hours of community service, plus practice speaking Spanish, learn about Costa Rican culture, and enjoy sightseeing adventures. The group will first travel to San José, the country's capital, before heading to the Osa Peninsula where students will support in-water sea turtle monitoring and mangrove reforestation. Over the course of the trip, they'll also participate in a cultural exchange at a local high school, learn how to make chocolate, and explore the country's diverse ecosystems through a birding tour, permacultural workshop, waterfall hike, and ocean canoe excursion. 

• 9th-12th grade students

• 15-21 students

Trip Prerequisites:

Priority will be given to students who have taken Spanish classes. Otherwise, the trip is open to all upper school students.

Sign Up Forms:

1. Complete the 2025-2026 SAAS Trips Student Interest Form-Student submitted
2. Complete the 2025-2026 Trip Registration Form - Must be completed by Parents/Guardians

• Skiers and snowboarders on this backcountry adventure will stay at The Mountaineers' Baker Lodge and work with professional guides from Cascade Mountain Ascents. They'll complete the AIARE Level 1 Avalanche course (the first step in gaining avalanche awareness, assessment, and rescue skills) during this January trip, before following up with another backcountry experience over mid-winter break. Students will learn skills in outdoor leadership, decision making, team building, risk mitigation, and resources management as they meet with guides daily to discuss hazard assessment, snow conditions, weather, and the day ahead. Utilizing the vast backcountry terrain that Baker has to offer, the group will earn some of the best turns in North America. With no lifts, they'll climb 4,000+ feet in "tour mode" and descend the same distance in "ski mode" each day.

• 9th-12th grade students (ability dependent)

• 8-20 students

Trip Prerequisites:

Must be a proficient skier or snowboarder. Must be able to carry own avalanche safety gear. Participants will be interviewed by trip leaders before acceptance to ensure preparedness.

Sign Up Forms:

1. Complete the 2025-2026 SAAS Trips Student Interest Form-Student submitted
2. Complete the 2025-2026 Trip Registration Form - Must be completed by Parents/Guardians

• A human-made paradise in the heart of South East Asia, Singapore is one of the smallest and yet most influential countries in the world. Between the bustling urban city that is a center of international trade and commerce, and ecological hotspots, a visit to Singapore is a must for those looking to expand their perspective and palate. During our 9-day trip to the city-state, students will explore the historical and cultural significance of Singapore with a focus on the diversity of the people and their palate. They'll alternate between learning about Singapore itself and the biodiversity of the island's many natural areas. From bumboats and botanical gardens to a night safari and a reclaimed island, Singapore has much to offer.

• Current 9th-12th grade students

• 15-20 students

Trip Prerequisites:

• Able to walk and travel in hot and humid weather.  Interested students should be eager to try different foods and different cultures.
• Must have valid passport to travel internationally.

Sign Up Forms:

1. Complete the 2025-2026 SAAS Trips Student Interest Form-Student submitted
2. Complete the 2025-2026 Trip Registration Form - Must be completed by Parents/Guardians

• On the beautiful Caribbean island of Curacao, students will combine daily yoga and mindfulness practices with learning about the area's ecology. This truly unique adventure is for those interested in wellness, looking inward through yoga, and learning about nature in an interactive way. With the help of an experienced marine biologist who's done extensive research on the island, attendees with explore Curacao's marine life through daily snorkeling excursions. They'll also spend a lot of time in quiet, introspective reflection, whether journaling or doing breathwork. The trip strikes a balance between rest and adventure—between learning about ourselves and studying the world around us. 

• Current 9th-12th grade students

• 12 students

Trip Prerequisites:

• Priority will be given to students who have participated in a SAAS yoga class as they will have a better understanding of the reflection aspect of our yoga practices and the vulnerability and engagement that is required in these practices.
• Must be a strong enough swimmer to snorkel various reefs without floatation devices or assistance (swim test will be required).
• Must have valid passport to travel internationally.
• Must be physically able to participate actively in daily yoga classes as well as hikes to beaches and snorkeling.

Sign Up Forms:

1. Complete the 2025-2026 SAAS Trips Student Interest Form-Student submitted
2. Complete the 2025-2026 Trip Registration Form - Must be completed by Parents/Guardians

• This immersive spring break journey on Oʻahu focuses on aloha ʻāina (love of the land), community service, and cultural connection. This isn’t a beach vacation; it’s a chance to give back in meaningful ways while exploring the island’s natural beauty and rich heritage. Students will work alongside local conservationists to restore coral reefs, clean shorelines, and help protect Oʻahu’s vital marine ecosystems. 

  Beyond service, we’ll explore the island’s cultural and historical treasures, including the Bishop Museum, ʻIolani Palace, the only royal palace on U.S. soil, and Waimea Valley, with its lush botanical gardens and sacred sites. Students will also experience the joy of a traditional Hawaiian luau filled with food, music, and dance. Our adventure will include a hike up Diamond Head (Lēʻahi), a volcanic crater formed approximately 300,000 years ago. Accommodations will be in shared cabins on the North Shore with communal bathrooms, creating a rustic, community-focused environment that fosters group bonding and reflection. 

  This trip is designed for students eager to serve, learn, and connect deeply with Hawaiʻi. Participants will gain 16 service hours as they develop a greater sense of global citizenship and cultural respect. 

• Current 9th-12th grade students

• 12-16 students

Trip Prerequisites:

• Able to work outdoors in a service related capacity (outdoors in the sun) and ability to participate in hikes. There will be two mandatory pre-trip meetings. 

Sign Up Forms:

1. Complete the 2025-2026 SAAS Trips Student Interest Form-Student submitted
2. Complete the 2025-2026 Trip Registration Form - Must be completed by Parents/Guardians

• Join us for an unforgettable journey to Argentina, where service, cultural immersion, and adventure come together.

  Our trip begins in San Nicolás de los Arroyos, a small city on the Paraná River, where we’ll spend time at Sunrise of Argentina (El Hogar El Amanecer), a children’s home filled with warmth and energy. Students will take part in daily life at the home—sharing lunches with the children, joining a pickup soccer game, lending a hand with projects, or taking some of the kids on outings like a walk for ice cream, a movie, or a swim and asado at the local park. In the evenings, students may also take small groups of children out to eat at local restaurants, giving them a chance to share food and conversation in the community. Because Argentine schools run on half-day schedules, there will always be children at the home, and some SAAS students may even have the chance to visit a local classroom for an authentic glimpse into school life in Argentina.

  From there, we’ll head to Buenos Aires, the “Paris of South America,” to immerse ourselves in its rich history and vibrant neighborhoods. Highlights may include La Casa Rosada, the presidential palace; Recoleta Cemetery, where Eva Perón rests; and cultural icons like Café La Biela, El Ateneo Grand Splendid bookstore, or Teatro Colón opera house. We’ll explore the antique stalls of San Telmo, the colorful streets of La Boca—with the possibility of visiting La Bombonera stadium if time allows—and the leafy parks of the Palermo neighborhood. Evenings may feature tango, whether through a show or a local milonga. 

  Food will be part of the journey at every turn—sharing mate during a pause in the day, grabbing empenadas or choripán between activities, or ending an evening with medialunas, alfajores, or creamy helado. We’ll also spend a day at a traditional estancia, where students can learn about gaucho traditions, taste artisanal chocolate, and enjoy a classic Argentine asado. Meals in Argentina are as memorable as the sights. While the cuisine is often heavy on meat and wheat, we will help any students with dietary restrictions navigate the experience so everyone can participate fully.

  This trip offers students the chance to build meaningful connections, practice their Spanish, and expand their global perspective while experiencing the warmth, beauty, and generosity of Argentine life.

• Current 9th-12th grade students

• 12-14 students

Sign Up Forms:

1. Complete the 2025-2026 SAAS Trips Student Interest Form-Student submitted
2. Complete the 2025-2026 Trip Registration Form - Must be completed by Parents/Guardians

• Students on this Red River Gorge adventure will spend a week camping, climbing, and exploring. This includes four days on the rock, challenging themselves and applying safety procedures on the Red's overhanging sandstone routes. At the end of each day, students will reflect on and discuss the challenges they faced, what they learned, and ideas that came to them as they explored outdoor climbing. Over the course of the week, they'll develop outdoor safety skills, build confidence and self-esteem, form new friends as they work as a team, and possibly gain a new passion for outdoor recreation.

• Current 9th-12th grade students

• 9-12 students

Trip Prerequisites:

• Climbing experience preferred, but not required.

Sign Up Forms:

1. Complete the 2025-2026 SAAS Trips Student Interest Form-Student submitted
2. Complete the 2025-2026 Trip Registration Form - Must be completed by Parents/Guardians

• Beyond a standard HBCU tour, students will dive into African American history and culture as they visit museums and embark on cultural excursions in New Orleans, Alabama, Atlanta, Tennessee, and Washington, DC. Along the way, we'll visit several Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Students will develop an understanding of the history and importance of these schools, learning about their strengths as college choices. The trip will kick off in New Orleans, followed by a series of visits to museums and other cultural experiences that reflect our country's civil rights struggles. The second leg of the trip includes visits to six HBCUs in various cities. 

• Current 9th-11th grade students

• 10-14 students

Trip Prerequisites:

• Interested students should demonstrate an interest in African-American history and culture and a desire to explore an HBCU as a college option. We will have pre-trip meetings in the winter/spring, including a review of our trip code of conduct and expectations. All students will be required to attend all 4 of the pre-trip meetings to be eligible for the trip. 

Sign Up Forms:

1. Complete the 2025-2026 SAAS Trips Student Interest Form-Student submitted
2. Complete the 2025-2026 Trip Registration Form - Must be completed by Parents/Guardians

• On our New Orleans (NOLA) trip, students learn and grow through meaningful service, integrated cultural tourism, and daily reflective discussions. We will spend the first week volunteering in the greater New Orleans area, rebuilding homes and supporting community projects. During the second week, we'll volunteer in rural communities along the Southwest Louisiana coast, restoring wetlands. On top of these important service opportunities, we'll visit a variety of historical and cultural museums, explore the historic French Quarter neighborhood, kayak down the Mississippi River, and enjoy delicious, authentic Southern food.

• Current 10th-11th grade students

• 12-22 Students 

Trip Prerequisites:

Four trip meetings that are required.

1. Meeting #1 (March) Get to know you, group values.
2. Meeting #2 (April) Introduction to Louisiana, New Orleans, and Hurricane Katrina.
3. Meeting #3 (May) Gear list/student panel.
4. Meeting #4 (June) Logistics/Gear Check. Trip Application NOLA 2025 Trip Application Preference given to rising juniors and seniors. 

Sign Up Forms:

1. Complete the 2025-2026 SAAS Trips Student Interest Form-Student submitted
2. Complete the 2025-2026 Trip Registration Form - Must be completed by Parents/Guardians

• This adventure through France prepares students to be independent world travelers after they leave SAAS. Participants pack light (just a backpack!), allowing them to explore a variety of French landscapes, from countrysides to big cities. While this isn’t a language immersion trip,  students can practice French as they engage with locals and navigate life in a foreign country.  

  Our tour begins in Nantes, Seattle's sister city located in the northwest of France's Atlantic coast. You’ll learn to navigate your way around on public transit as well as find a table at a café to eat your galette complète. You may ride a giant elephant one day and cycle through the French countryside the next, as well as spend a relaxing day at the beach. From Nantes, we will board our minibuses and head northeast to Normandy, making a detour to visit the walled city of St. Malo and the unmissable Mont-Saint-Michel before arriving at the countryside farmhouse that will be our home for the next four days. 

  In Normandy, students will learn about and reflect on the Second World War as we visit the D-Day memorial museum at Caen and the American Cemetery at Omaha Beach. We’ll also have the chance to celebrate, and maybe even participate in, France’s beloved Fête de la musique, an annual music celebration, as well as learn about the local terroir and pick up some cooking skills. Students will get to put those skills to the test, as we will mainly be preparing our own meals for this leg of our voyage. 

  As we head back towards Paris, we will visit Monet’s gardens at Giverny before ditching the vans and checking into our centrally-located hostel in the city of light. Over our four full days in Paris, we will visit museums, compare croissants, and explore various off-the-beaten path locales. 

  In addition to enjoying these unique experiences, students will gain the skills to travel independently as they navigate public transit, prepare their own picnics and meals, and practice adapting as travel complications inevitably arise. 

• Current 9th -11th grade students

• 10-12 Students 

• Priority will be given to SAAS students in upper level French classes.  

Trip Prerequisites:

• This trip is primarily geared towards French students. Priority for students in higher levels or native speakers. Possibility to include non-French students space permitting.
• It is important that the members of the trip are able to conduct themselves in a mature, independent and responsible manner.
• Pre-trip meetings will focus on efficient packing, how to move around on public transit, how to eat well on a budget, and having students reflect on their own preconception about France.

Sign Up Forms:

1. Complete the 2025-2026 SAAS Trips Student Interest Form-Student submitted
2. Complete the 2025-2026 Trip Registration Form - Must be completed by Parents/Guardians

• Students on this trip will have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to live among the Maasai tribe of Tanzania. During their two weeks in Makuyuni Village, they will work alongside tribe members on a variety of projects, such as sustainable farming, education, and youth development. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to engage in weekend trips and cultural activities like going on safari, Maasai dancing, and traditional fire making, as well as forming meaningful connections with locals. During this experience, students will also be participating in a Social Impact Project crafted by SAAS to shape their experience and actively engage in each of our Global Citizenship Principles. 

• Current 9th-11th grade students

• 10 Students 

Trip Prerequisites:

• No prior international travel experience is required. However, students should know that our accommodations, though comfortable, will be rustic and there are occasionally power outages. 

Sign Up Forms:

1. Complete the 2025-2026 SAAS Trips Student Interest Form-Student submitted
2. Complete the 2025-2026 Trip Registration Form - Must be completed by Parents/Guardians

• Student backpackers on this Swiss Alps adventure will hike about 5-12 miles per day for most of the trip, often with significant elevation gain and loss. We'll complete about 60 miles of the Via Alpina (also known as the Alpine Pass Route or Green Trail), which crosses Switzerland from East to West, reaching 186 miles. Trip participants will stay in idyllic Swiss mountain huts where warm food and shelter are provided at high elevations with views you'll never forget. Students will carry a light (20-25-pound) backpack with limited clothing, snacks, water, a bivy sac, and a small sleeping bag. 

• Current 9th-11th grade students

• 9-20 Students 

Trip Prerequisites:

• Individual fitness ensures group safety and we'll be sticking together on this trip. Students will need to hike with their gear and safely navigate 10-15 mile days of significant elevation loss and gain through the alps for days at a time. Throughout the spring we will coordinate extended hikes but participants should also engage in their own training.

Sign Up Forms:

1. Complete the 2025-2026 SAAS Trips Student Interest Form-Student submitted
2. Complete the 2025-2026 Trip Registration Form - Must be completed by Parents/Guardians