Project Galapagos

  Ecuador

Galapagos Islands

Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Dates: Year-round

Description: VentureCo's projects on the Galapagos Islands are helping to repair and conserve the natural habitat so that endemic fauna can thrive.

Our project HQ is on San Cristobal Island where we work in partnership with the Galapagos National Park (GNP) and in consultation with Jatun Sacha. There is a tremendous amount of work to be done: tasks vary from doing site surveys, identifying and counting native species and eradicating introduced plants. We would also like to make links with local schools on San Cristobal Island to help strengthen awareness of conservation issues amongst the young population which is vital for the long-term survival of many endangered species.

Its not all work and no play! Weekends are free to explore some of the sites around San Cristobal Island and the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno is never far away for a taste of the local lifestyle.

Highlights:
* Get face-to-face with an astonishing array of indigenous wildlife on Darwin's "Enchanted Isles"
* Swim with seals off Santa Cruz's sandy beaches
* Make a tangible contribution to the conservation effort on the world's most impotant biological "hotspot"
* Enjoy a sail trek around the neighbouring island's of the Galapagos archipelago

Qualifications: No qualifications are required.

Minimum Education: High School

Cost in US$: $1790 for 2 weeks. $3590 for 4 weeks.

Included: All food, accommodation and transport within Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. Project funding from the VentureCo Trust.

Not included: international flights, travel insurance, visas and travel documents.

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: Volunteers are enthusiastic and motivated team-players, with plenty of initiative and a desire to make a positive contribution to this unique and fragile environment.

Age Range: Gap year Ventures: 17-21 years. Career Gap Ventures: 21 years and over.

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

Participants Travel to Ecuador Independently Or in Groups

Typically Participants Work in Groups of maximum of 16

Application Process Involves:

• Written Application

Post Services Include:

• Exit DebriefingAbroad
• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home

VentureCo Worldwide's Mission Statement: To provide 3-phase travel experiences that are inovative, imaginative and enjoyable. Phase 1: Language school and cultural orientation. That leads to: Phase 2: the volunteer developement project That leads to: Phase 3: the expedition that explores the neighbouring lands and environments of the host region.

Year Founded: 1999