Who is this event for?
- Anyone age 18+ who wants to explore Switzerland with an exciting programme that doesn’t require a high level of physical fitness. Participants should also be excited to meet and mix with other people from around the world!
- Perfect for individuals, couples, friends, Rover/Ranger groups, and Trefoil groups. Ideal for inter-generational travel!
- Open to all genders, participants must be aged 18+.
- Participants are not required to be members of Guiding/Scouting.
What activities are involved?
This programme focusses on excursions to some of the highlights of the Bernese Oberland (and beyond)! The programme for 2026 is currently being planned and is expected to be published in early Autumn 2025.
As a guide, previous International Friendship Week events have included visits to Bern Parliament, Gruyere cheese and chocolate tour, Mt Pilatus and Luzern, kayaking on Lake Brienz, cable car ride up Schilthorn (the James Bond mountain!) with lunch in the revolving restaurant, boat ride on Lake Thun, and much more! The package includes five programme days, including one onsite day with activities at Our Chalet run by our international volunteer team. There is always one free day, where you can rest or plan your own adventure,.
What is the cost?
The cost varies slightly each year depending on the included programme activities. The price for 2026 will be set when the programme is published. As a guide, in 2025 the cost for the indoor accommodation event package (meals, accommodation, and all activities) is CHF 1,496 and for camping, self-catered package is CHF 824. Please note travel to/from Our Chalet is not included.
How do I book?
This event is not yet open for booking. Save the dates and check back in Autumn 2025 to book for 2026! If you know you would like to book, even before the programme and final package cost is confirmed, you can contact us to make a provisional booking now.
Scholarships available!
For this event we have two types of scholarships available:
- For girls and young women who are active members of Guiding/Scouting and can demonstrate benefit in attending this event, we have event scholarships available which can be used to cover all or part of the event fee. Applicants must be physically fit enough to participate in all programme activities. Applicants under 18 are not eligible for scholarships on this event. Travel scholarships are not available for this event. To apply fill in this form.
- For women aged 60+ with at least 20 years participation in Guiding/Scouting, we have Cheryl Watkins scholarships available. These scholarships cover the accommodation portion of the event fee only. To apply fill in this form.