Galapagos: Leadership in Conservation

  Ecuador

Galapagos Islands,  Quito

Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Dates: June- August 2010

Description: The Galapagos Islands are one of the most unique places on earth. These 19 islands have been called a "living museum and showcase of evolution". While the archipelago has been the center of attention from conservationists around the world, it is under constant attack from environmental threats.

Join GLA off the coast of Ecuador in the Galapagos Islands where you will experience one of the most pristine natural environments where conservationists are working to protect this unique ecosystem. You will volunteer at a breeding center for tortoises during the first week, and also have the opportunity to hike and snorkel and explore the surrounding islands, volcanoes and reefs.

Highlights: During the first week of the program, you will volunteer at a tortoise breeding center just outside the town of Puerto Ayora. In the spirit of service, we will do whatever needs to be done at the center. Duties may vary depending on their exact needs, but you may help feed the tortoises and clean their living area, or help collect eggs, tag the tortoises for tracking, or go to the high areas to check on how the wild tortoises are doing. You may also work in a tree nursery or help to release tortoises back to nature. During the second week of the program, there is no volunteering, it is reserved for further exploring the other islands in Galapagos National Park.

Program Schedule

*Day 1: Arrive in Quito at night
*Day 2: Fly to Galapagos, move in to host family's home, and meet with local biologist to learn about unique wildlife on the islands
*Day 3: Community service, afternoon visit to reefs to see turtles, iguanas, sharks and tropical fish
*Day 4: Community service, afternoon horse ride to top of volcano
*Day 5: Community service, visit Wall of Tears and farm promoting sustainable agriculture
*Day 6: Community service, snorkeling at Concha Perla sea lagoon to see penguins, sea lions and iguanas
*Day 7: Community service, sea kayaking along coast of Isabela
*Day 8: Travel to Puerto Ayora, meet new host family, see giant tortoises in natural habitat, visit Charles Darwin Foundation to learn about faun
*Day 9: All day snorkeling and hiking on Bartolome Island, the most picturesque island in Galapagos
*Day 10: All day hiking and snorkeling on Rabida Island, home to pelicans and flamingos
*Day 11: Hike on hardened lava trails to Tortuga Bay, one of the best beaches on the islands and enjoy our last day on the islands
*Day 12: Fly back to Quito, check into hostel, dinner out in Quito
*Day 13: Tour historic colonial center of Quito, stop at handicrafts market for last minute shopping, explore the shops of new Quito
*Day 14: Fly home.

Cost in US$: USD 3,195

Experience Required: no

This Program is open to American, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African and Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Ecuador in Groups

Typically Participants Work in Groups of 10

Application Process Involves:

• Transcript
• Written Application

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

Global Leadership Adventures's Mission Statement: To empower students to be agents of positive change across borders.

Year Founded: 2004