Galápagos: Preserving Nature's Wonders™
Highlights
Encounter different species of exotic island and marine life, many of them found nowhere else on Earth.
- Restore the habitat of native Galápagos tortoises
- Explore the natural wonders of two majestic islands
- Snorkel with sea lions and spot iguanas, sea turtles, and blue-footed boobies
- Explore the cobblestone streets and artisan markets of historical Quito
- Straddle the Northern & Southern hemispheres at the Equator line
On This Program you will...
Experience one of the most pristine natural environments in the world, where Charles Darwin first developed the Theory of Evolution. Volunteer alongside conservationists to help preserve this UNESCO-designated heritage site and unique ecosystem. Besides volunteering, you’ll have the opportunity to explore two different islands, snorkel with sea lions, and see the world-famous Galapagos tortoises.
Program Type:
Animal & Wildlife Conservation
Your Adventure is Just Around the Corner!
Community Service
The native wildlife of the Galapagos faces danger to its habitat from invasive species. Prepare to get your hands dirty! Work at a tortoise refuge center, digging up invasive plants, helping with groundwork and preparing habitat for the tortoises. You’ll plant trees to help protect endemic species and restore the natural habitat of the local wildlife.
Immersive Learning
The islands are a living classroom! Learn about the challenges of sustainably balancing human needs with biological protection and preservation. Issues such as the pressure to develop the islands for residents and tourism will be key discussion points during your time in the Galapagos. Encounter firsthand the diversity of species that led Darwin to formulate his thinking on natural selection and adaptation. Explore ideas about the complicated relationship between humans and wildlife as you contrast the islands with your city tour of Quito.
Adventure
The Islands and their rocky topography are incredibly unique – no two islands are alike – so there’s plenty to see as you island-hop by boat. Snorkel with sea lions and turtles. Observe the blue-footed boobies that perch on coastal rocks and spot silent marine iguanas. Visit a tortoise breeding center and see baby Galapagos tortoises. Swim in the emerald green waters of Las Grietas, an earth fracture created long ago by volcanic activity. Once on the mainland, wander the cobblestone streets of Quito’s colonial center, and visit the equatorial line and a local artisan market.
Lodging
Home Base will change throughout the program as we travel from island to island. In Quito, the gateway city to the Galápagos, our group will stay at a local hotel. On Santa Cruz and San Cristobal islands, we stay in simple, well-maintained accommodations. Each Home Base offers shared, gender-segregated rooms and common areas where meals will be served. Food will be healthy and locally sourced, including meats, beans, rice, vegetables and fresh fruit.
Dates & Tuition
Galápagos
Preserving Nature's Wonders™
14-Day Program
| 2023 Dates |
|---|
| JUN 12 – JUN 25, 2023 |
| JUN 17 – JUN 30, 2023 |
| JUN 29 – JUL 12, 2023 |
| JUL 17 – JUL 30, 2023 |
| JUL 22 – AUG 04, 2023 |
Tuition Includes All In-Country Expenses Including:
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
- In-country transportation
- Lodging
- 3 meals per day
- Professional full-time staff and experts
- 24/7 parent support hotline during the program
- Secondary medical and evacuation insurance
- Cultural activities, lectures and excursions
- Pre-departure materials and support
- Educational materials
