Iguana Preservation on the Bay Islands, Honduras

  Honduras

Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks and 9-12 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 5-8 weeks

Description: It's hard for these islands to live up to expectations; when you're called the Bay Islands and are in the Caribbean Ocean, people expect great things! Luckily though, they don't disappoint and manage to be the rarest of things; tropical islands without the crowds! That's not the only unique thing about the place either because the islands are the only place you can find the Utila iguana (frankly we can see why the little things didn't want to leave!) The project aims to protect their natural habitat as well as raising awareness about wider environmental issues. The islands are also renowned for being one of the best places on the planet to learn scuba diving, which is a great way to spend your time off.

* What does the sanctuary do?
Situated off the coast of Honduras on the Caribbean island of Utila, this project involves work which is dedicated to the protection and breeding of the Utila Iguana. It was founded in 1994 and is funded by two German companies. The centre was set up in response to the fact the swamper species of Iguana is endangered and threatened by unsustainable development of the mangroves and beaches, (where the females go to lay their eggs) by over-hunting and increasing pollution.

* Why does the project need volunteers?
The Iguana Station's efforts are focused upon understanding the natural history of the Utila and the Iguana through different scientific research. By joining this program you will contribute to protect Utila's iguana, other wildlife and their habitats.

Highlights:
* Living and volunteering on the Bay Islands. It doesn't get much better than this!
* Helping the project to preserve the habitat of the Utila Iguana
* Chilling out and soaking up the laid back Caribbean vibe

Qualifications: Though it is often quoted as the one thing that you should never do- a love for working with animals as well with people will be required for this project!

Your role as a volunteer:

You will be participating in daily activities, such as: feeding the iguanas and watching over there general welfare, going out in the field for scientific programs, giving guided tours around our visitor center and cages, working for the community, among others duties. Past volunteers have also helped to promote the centre with each new arrival to the island.

Cost in US$: USD 1535.00 for 2 weeks, USD 300.00 for every week thereafter

* Accommodation: Shared dormitory room in at project
* Food: Food is not included; you will need to purchase your own food (budget approximately USD 60 per week)
* Airport Pickup: Included on arrival date. Ask us for details if you're arriving early!
* Training: In-country orientation
* Support: Pre-departure helpdesk, Local in-country team and 24hr emergency support

Experience Required: no

Age Range: 18-80

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Honduras Independently

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

i-to-i Meaningful Travel's Mission Statement: i-to-i is an award-winning organization providing unique opportunities for you to travel, work and live abroad. Thousands of travelers aged 18 to 80 have joined our volunteer vacations and over 50,000 have learned to Teach English as a Foreign Language through our tailor-made TEFL courses. With over 400 projects on 4 continents, you can join the worldwide i-to-i volunteer community on an extended adventure in areas such as teaching, community development, sports coaching, conservation, building or internships in tourism, marketing, journalism, or health.

Year Founded: 1994