Giant tortoises, rainforests, monkeys, parrots, volcanoes, sea lions, blue-footed boobies – oh my! An unforgettable experience in the world’s most biodiverse classroom.
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| PROGRAM DATES | COST | AVAILABILITY | |
|---|---|---|---|
| July 10 - July 29, 2023 | $7,280 | Call for options | Enroll Now |
“The instructors on this trip balanced fun with academics to the point where each complemented each other. The academic aspect allowed us, as students, to apply what we learn to the environment around us by creating an immersive experience. All in all, Broadreach has found the formula to making learning stick with young adults, and I highly recommend Broadreach to anyone wanting to have a fun time or experience different walks of life.” Connor, high school alumnus
Three natural science credits available through Lesley University.
Course description: This course explores tropical ecosystems and the ecological foundations of the rich biodiversity of these regions. Coursework includes studying animal and plant biodiversity as well as cultural approaches to conservation. Interactive projects, academic classes, discussions with local stakeholders and hands-on field research.
Course objectives:
15 hours of service learning through projects that may include data collection for research projects and conservation projects.
Requirements:
Our journey begins in the bustling city of Quito, the capital of Ecuador, where you spend the night in a little hotel and then head to Papallacta. Here, you’ll soak in the local hot springs as you learn about the adventures to come and begin to get to know your group. After spending some time acclimatizing and preparing for your upcoming journey, you’ll head to a biological reserve that Broadreach helped build, located just a few hours from Quito. It’s a challenging yet rewarding hike to this beautiful site located in the cloud forest. It’s overflowing with wildlife, including Andean spectacled bears, jaguars and more than 300 bird species. While there, enjoy the outdoors, help maintain the trails and conduct biological surveys to help support its environmental protection status.
It’s an adventure in itself just getting to your next stop, a research station deep in the heart of the Amazon jungle where few people have ventured before. Experience the excitement of scenic, open-air bus rides and a river boat journey before arriving at your destination. As you glide down the river, witness nature untouched by man and more species of birds, monkeys and butterflies than you’re able to count. You might even spot a pink river dolphin! Once you settle in, you can explore the labyrinth of research facilities and jungle cabins at the station. See a whole new perspective of the Amazon as you ascend into the trees and wander through the canopy’s walkway system, interacting with animals that can’t be seen from the jungle’s floor.
Return to Quito to spend a few days enjoying the incredible culture of Ecuador and its people. Explore open air-markets and soak in the view from the top of the Basílica del Voto Nacional. Walk the picturesque cobbled streets of the Old Historic District of Quito, taking time to stop at local shops, haggle for souvenirs and sample the local delicacies.
With fond memories of the jungle, you’ll bid Quito goodbye and head to the most incredible archipelago on Earth – the Galápagos Islands. This cluster of volcanic islands is nestled just below the equator, is over 5 million years old and is best known for its vast number of endemic species. The protected islands are home to countless species: lumbering giant tortoises, brightly colored iguanas, foot-high penguins, albatrosses, blue-footed booties, sea lions and more! Grab your camera and notebooks as the group heads out to snorkel among pods of sea lions, schooling fish, seahorses and frogfish. There is no better place on the planet to sit with your friends and observe the world’s extraordinary flora and fauna. Spend your last night under the stars gathered around good food, celebrating all the amazing things you have experienced and learned.
