Combine 2 weeks volunteering on the islands of San Cristobal with a wildlife cruise for nature lovers.
Flamingo Lagoon
The volunteer project offers you the chance to take positive steps to conserve the Galapagos Islands’ endangered unique species, most of which are not found anywhere else in the world. And if the idea of a magical, island-hopping, eight day Galapagos cruise appeals, you’ve found your adventure. 1000km off the coast of Ecuador in the Pacific Ocean, sea-bed volcanoes break the surface of the water to form an archipelago of sixteen main islands: the world-renowned Galapagos Islands. A kind of mecca to visiting biologists, the Galapagos is home to an incredible range of endemic wildlife, with 97% of the land designated a National Park, aimed at protecting species as diverse as the Galapagos tortoise, sea lion and the Galapagos shark. 27 species on the islands are found only in the Galapagos.
START: Quito
FINISH: Quito
Weeks 1-2
Due to the islands' isolated location, most Galapagos species are not found anywhere else in the world. It will be your job to assist conservationists in tackling some of the islands' most serious threats. Believe it or not, one of the ways you'll be helping is by hacking away hostile plant-life with a giant machete! The carefully planned removal of artificially introduced plant-species allows fragile native flora a fighting chance. You may also be required to help build a new school building or clear footpaths. The concept of conservation is introduced at primary school level through essential activities such as labelling trees. Be prepared to get your hands dirty: you may be working in remote bush conditions, with no facilities during the day - but look at your surroundings and the abundance of wildlife: worth any number of home comforts, we think you'll agree.
Planting time!
Weeks 3-4
Explore the rest of these rugged, volcanic islands on an eight day
cruise accompanied by an expert guide, where you'll be able to spot blue-footed boobies, iguanas and giant tortoises. There will be plenty of time for water fanatics to snorkel in the turquoise water, and no-one will want to miss out on the chance to relax on the white, pink, black and even green sandy beaches. These islands are a special part of our planet - a visit to them will not be regretted.
Choose a cruise to suit your budget or time restrictions - take a look at a few examples on our cruise page
PLEASE NOTE: A National Park Fee of $100 is payable on arrival.