* North America: Raleigh made two voyages to North America, in 1584 and 1587. On his first voyage, he explored the coast of what is now North Carolina and claimed it for England. He named the area "Virginia" in honor of Queen Elizabeth I. On his second voyage, Raleigh established a colony on Roanoke Island, which was the first English settlement in North America.
* South America: Raleigh also traveled to South America, where he explored the Orinoco River and the Guiana Highlands. He was searching for the legendary "El Dorado," a city of gold that was said to be located in the region.
* Africa: Raleigh also made several voyages to Africa, where he explored the coast of West Africa and the Cape of Good Hope. He was interested in finding a trade route to India and in establishing English colonies in Africa.