Conservation in the Galapagos Islands - Ecuador

Day 1
On arrival, a Projects Abroad staff member will be waiting to collect your group from San Cristobal airport. The staff members are easy to spot because they’re by the airport exit holding a sign. You will then be taken by minibus to their accommodation at the Galapagos National Park.

During the drive, you can take in the incredible surroundings. Stay on the lookout, as there’s a good chance to spot sea lions, sea birds, and marine iguanas!

On arrival, staff will help you get used to your surroundings with inductions and a tour of the local area. You will learn about the project and the park and then take part in cultural awareness training. This will give you an insight into Ecuadorian culture, customs and traditions, helping you to better understand the people you will be working with.

After this, you will head out for a delicious welcome lunch at a local restaurant, followed by a trip into town and a walk along the beach.

Days 2-6
With support from expert conservationists, the students will learn a range of skills and complete tasks such as (but not limited to):
> Collecting biometric data on the giant tortoises
> Removing invasive plant species
> Working in the tree nursery
> Beach clean-ups
> Awareness work in local schools and community

The tasks your group take part in will depend on the needs of the Galapagos National Park at the time of your trip, but there will always be plenty for you to get involved with!

Days 7-8
Saturday
Loading onto a speedboat, local guides take your group to Santa Cruz Island. You will explore the impressive lava tunnels at the giant tortoise farm, El Chato Tortoise Reserve. Here, there are plenty of opportunities to see the giant tortoise in its natural habitat, roaming free.

Your group will also visit the stunning Tortuga Bay, famous for its black sea turtles and marine iguanas. You will stay overnight on the island so you are ready to start exploring again in the morning!

Sunday
On Sunday, you will further your conservation knowledge with a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station. This will give you a unique insight into the research techniques of conservationists stationed on the Galapagos Islands.
After this, you will jump back in the speedboat and return to San Cristobal Island.

Days 9-13
It's time to get back to work at the National Park! Continuing with the jobs that you took on during your first week, you will begin to develop a better understanding of the greater impacts of your work.
Through talking to the conservationists, you will learn how the activities are helping towards the larger goals at the reserve and feel proud of the impact that you are making.
On the final night, the staff will put on a farewell dinner to celebrate your groups hard work and thank you for your efforts. This is a great way to round off the trip and make some final memories.

Day 14
The final day is always bittersweet. You have had an amazing week of new experiences and learned so much about conservation and Ecuadorian culture.

With bags packed, you wave goodbye and head to the airport for your journey home.

It’s always sad to leave, but you are always welcome back anytime. We can’t wait to see what amazing things you do with the lessons you have learned during this trip. We wish you the best of luck in your future!

All group sizes of 5 or more. Free staff place with every 9 students.

Disabled facilities can be offered on request.

Projects Abroad provide an individualised service and schedule planning which is backed up by excellent pre-departure preparation and by a dedicated and highly experienced local team in each destination.

We aim to provide a challenging and rewarding experience for every student which promotes self-belief, resilience, leadership, teamwork, reflection, and a new perspective on the world.

Please contact us so we can support you with your trip planning.