Kaya Environmental Volunteering in Mexico

  Mexico

• Oaxaca: 
Oaxaca

Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks, 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks and 9-12 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: The first Saturday of every month

Description: If you are an outdoors adventurous type and conscious about the problems facing the earth then an environmental project is for you. Our projects from around the world range from forestry development, ecosystem preservation, national park development to botanical research. Not only will you be involved in education and research but also hands on activities within national park development and maintenance of ecosystems.

Agri-Nutritional Education & Research in Mexico

The program promotes growing and eating one of Mexico's healthiest grains, amaranth, among low-income and often rural malnourished communities. Most rural Mexicans are not aware of the nutritional richness of this readily available crop. Program staff and volunteers hold workshops to explain the value of this traditional grain, and teach the fundamentals of how to plant, grow, harvest, and cook amaranth. These classes also teach about good nutritional practices beyond amaranth. Volunteers can research amaranth, and those with a high level of Spanish you can give talks to the communities about amaranth (Those with lower levels of Spanish can assist with these workshops). Volunteers can also help out with office administration.

Sustainable Ecosystem Program in Mexico

Help protect and sustain Oaxaca's incredibly diverse ecosystem by working for a project that promotes ecologically sound practices from traditional and scientific knowledge. Oaxaca has the most biodiversity out of all the states in Mexico and is home to several projects that support responsible eco-tourism on the coast and throughout Oaxaca. This project runs several programs with the same goal of supporting the environment and teaching the population about conservationism.

Botanical Conservation and Research in Mexico

Get ready for a remarkable research and education experience as you work in a spectacular botanical garden. Located in the courtyard of the ex-Convent Santo Domingo in Oaxaca's city center, the garden - formerly used by the military for training - covers 2.3 hectares and is home to hundreds of species of local flora.

The garden serves as a laboratory for scholars (as does the adjoining botanical library), a classroom for environmental education and awareness initiatives, a venue for expositions and cultural events, and a park for the enjoyment of Oaxacans and tourists.

Environmental Conservation in Mexico

Protect the natural habitat that provides water, climate control, and sustenance to those living on and near the San Felipe Mountains. Volunteers will help in one or more of the programs three main areas of interest: information and exchange, alternative technology, and conservation. Working in conjunction with project staff, volunteers participate in projects designed to address deforestation, soil and water contamination, and urban growth.

Highlights: As most of the world knows, Mexico has some of the most amazing white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and marine life on the planet, but it also has so much more to offer. It is making great strides economically. Nonetheless, income inequality between rich and poor, north and south, and between urban and rural is a major problem. As a result around 30%, or 31 million Mexican people are still living in poverty.

Great White Shark Cage Diving :
The iconic great white is one of the most feared ocean dwellers of all time due to its awe-inspiring size, power, and predatory abilities. It is the largest flesh-eating fish in the ocean today. Off the shores of Mexico is the Isla Guaudalupe, considered one of the best places on the entire planet to view great whites in their natural habitat -- from the safety of a sharkproof cage, of course.

Veracruz River Rafting:
Veracruz, located on the central gulf coast of Mexico, is a world-famous location for river rafting. There are 40 rivers in Veracruz with many originating from the volcanic mountains in the area. The best whitewater rivers are Pescados, Actopan, Antigua and Filobobos, with rapids ranging from class 2 to class 5.

Huasteca Canyon:
Located 15 minutes from Monterry City are the renowned limestone cliffs of the Huasteca Canyon. There are endless opportunities for rock climbing for people at all skill levels, with more than 200 bolted routes of varying difficulties. These limestone cliffs are stunning and can provide quite a challenge even for the experienced climber.

The richness of culture and landscape make Oaxaca a great place to explore! The weather is favorable year-round. There are many museums that explain the historical and cultural importance of the city and state in Mexico's history.

With the abundance of activities, Oaxacans generally have an active social life. It's also important to mention the culinary offerings of Oaxaca, which is said to have some of the best food in Mexico.

Qualifications: Experience and passion for working in the community and interacting with the people are needed. Participants must also possess enthusiasm and a willingness to learn about the environment and the place's culture.

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: A Kaya volunteer shows enthusiasm, spirit and life to stimulate and bring something new to the residents; love, patience and a listening ear for the people; and a good motivator with a positive and optimistic attitude.

Age Range: Must be more than 18 years old

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Mexico Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

Kaya Responsible Travel's Mission Statement: Kaya's mission is to promote sustainable social, environmental and economic development, empower communities and cultivate educated, compassionate global citizens through responsible travel.

Year Founded: 2008