2016 National Geographic Student Expeditions by National Geographic Expeditions

Summer Trips for Middle School and High School Students

SUMMER 2016

Dear Student Traveler, If you asked our students to name a favorite memory from their trips with us this past summer, here’s what you might hear: night snorkeling with marine biologists through bioluminescent water off the shores of Bali. Tracking and monitoring cheetahs and leopards with researchers in Namibia. Getting a close-up photo of a bison in Yellowstone, and becoming friends with young monks at a Buddhist school in Thailand. From Alaska to India, our students had experiences fit for a true National Geographic explorer. But there’s even more in store for next year. After the success of our university workshop in Boulder, Colorado, we’ve expanded the series to the MIT campus, where a talented group of National Geographic Emerging Explorers will lead a series of technology-focused seminars and experiments. We’re thrilled to invite students to Cuba, where they’ll have a rare opportunity to get to know all kinds of Cubans through an inspiring People-to-People program. In Argentina and Chile, students will delve into conservation issues while exploring Patagonia, Iguazú, and more.

HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAMS

University Workshops Massachusetts Institute of Technology 50 University of Colorado Boulder

EXPEDITIONS America's Southwest National Parks Adventure

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Alaska 16

Costa Rica

Belize 18

Dominican Republic

Peru 56

Wildlife, Fjords, and Glaciers

Oceans and Underwater Exploration

Cuba 20 Cultural Exploration

Ecuador and the Galápagos

Argentina and Chile

Biodiversity Hotspot Patagonia to Iguazú

Hawaii 57

We hope you’ll join us in the field in summer 2016—a world of adventure awaits!

Outback, Rain Forest, and Reef

Trip Leaders

India 46

Student Experiences

Scholarship Program

How to Apply

More Ways to Travel with Nat Geo

Terms and Conditions

Trip Calendar

Sincerely,

Italy and Greece

Alpine Adventure

Empires of the Mediterranean

Ireland 34

Costa Rica

Belize 68 Australia 69 Alaska 69

PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOPS Yellowstone 62 Edinburgh 63 Prague 64 Paris 65 Barcelona 65

Discovering the Emerald Isle

Wildlife Conservation and Tribal Life

Namibia 38 Wildlife Conservation and Desert Safari

Bali 40 Tropical Ecology: Sea to Summit

New Zealand

South Island Winter Adventure

Australia 44 Crossroads of Cultures

China 48 Journey to the Middle Kingdom

Lynn Cutter Executive Vice President, Travel National Geographic

France and Spain

Tanzania 61

Tanzania 36

Switzerland and France

Italy 67

Nepal 60

Next summer, we’re also opening the opportunity to explore with us to a whole new audience. Our new middle school expeditions will take budding adventurers to awe-inspiring destinations across the globe, from Australia’s Great Barrier Reef to the rolling hills of Tuscany. Knowledgeable trip leaders and a National Geographic expert accompany each expedition, providing insight, guidance, and inspiration as we explore in the tradition of National Geographic—focusing on themes such as photography and wildlife conservation.

Land of Fire and Ice

Thailand 59

Peru 26 Iceland 28

About Middle School Expeditions

Fiji 58

Adventure-seekers have two fantastic new opportunities: head to New Zealand with a National Geographic adventure photographer to go snowboarding and white-water rafting, and even spend a night in an igloo. Or venture into canyons of all shapes and sizes with National Geographic adventurer Cedar Wright on the America's Southwest expedition. New service programs will have students helping communities in the Dominican Republic or doing conservation work in Hawaii, and aspiring photographers can train their lens on Edinburgh, Scotland and the surrounding countryside during a new photography workshop.

Mysteries of the Inca Empire

MIDDLE SCHOOL PROGRAMS

RESOURCES About Our Trips

Choose Your Experience

National Geographic Experts

When you travel with us, you make a difference. Your participation on a National Geographic Student Expedition supports the National Geographic Society’s nonprofit work in conservation, exploration, education, and cultural preservation.

HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAMS

University Workshops Massachusetts Institute of Technology 50 University of Colorado Boulder

EXPEDITIONS America's Southwest National Parks Adventure

Alaska

Belize

Dominican Republic

Peru

Hawaii

Fiji

Thailand

Nepal

Tanzania

Wildlife, Fjords, and Glaciers Oceans and Underwater Exploration

Ecuador and the Galápagos

Argentina and Chile

Peru

Iceland

Switzerland and France

Italy and Greece

Ireland

Tanzania

Namibia

Bali

New Zealand

We hope you’ll join us in the field in summer 2016—a world of adventure awaits!

Australia

Outback, Rain Forest, and Reef

India

China

Cultural Exploration Biodiversity Hotspot Patagonia to Iguazú

Mysteries of the Inca Empire Land of Fire and Ice Alpine Adventure

Empires of the Mediterranean Discovering the Emerald Isle Wildlife Conservation and Tribal Life Wildlife Conservation and Desert Safari Tropical Ecology: Sea to Summit South Island Winter Adventure

Crossroads of Cultures Journey to the Middle Kingdom

Lynn Cutter Executive Vice President, Travel National Geographic

COMMUNITY SERVICE Costa Rica

Cuba

Sincerely,

MIDDLE SCHOOL PROGRAMS About Middle School Expeditions

Italy

France and Spain

Costa Rica

Belize

Australia

Alaska

PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOPS Yellowstone

Edinburgh

Prague

Paris

Barcelona

RESOURCES About Our Trips

Choose Your Experience

National Geographic Experts

Trip Leaders

Student Experiences

Scholarship Program

How to Apply

More Ways to Travel with Nat Geo

Terms and Conditions

Trip Calendar

“

This experience is unlike anything I’ve ever done before. I feel so lucky to have had the chance to see spectacular places, travel with an amazing group of people, and learn about a new culture by interacting with the locals. Sophia S., THAILAND COMMUNITY SERVICE, 2015

”

Explore the World with Nat Geo Innovative Programs

EDUCATION + ADVENTURE

The same spirit of adventure that has driven National Geographic explorers since our earliest days also shapes each of our trips. We tap into our vast network of researchers and explorers across the globe to design our programs, and select seasoned trip leaders who are pursuing careers in science, storytelling, and exploration—and are passionate about sharing their love of travel with students. To make these unique trips possible, we have partnered with Putney Student Travel—a highly respected student travel organization that has offered quality student expeditions for more than 60 years.

On each program, get immersed in the local culture, interacting directly with community members and learning about their daily life. Then set out to discover the area on outdoor excursions. To help you prepare, we’ll send you articles and media published by National Geographic about your destination so you can get the most from your trip.

ACCESS TO THE EXPERTS A National Geographic expert—a photographer, writer, researcher, or explorer—joins a portion of each expedition. On our photography workshops, a National Geographic photographer accompanies the entire program. Two or more experts join our university workshops for presentations about their work and related hands-on activities.

Roll up your sleeves and pitch in by participating in community service projects that allow you to become more engaged with the place you’re exploring. Many of our trips offer an opportunity for you to make a useful contribution—working on small-scale construction, tutoring students in English, cleaning up a park, or supporting a local conservation effort—depending on the location and the community’s needs. Or, focus on service work throughout the trip on one of our community service programs.

GO On Assignment

Authentic AND SUSTAINABLE EXPERIENCES

No matter which trip you choose, you’ll discover the world the way National Geographic always has—focusing on important topics like wildlife conservation or archaeology and learning how to tell stories about the people and places you encounter. You’ll be out in the field with true explorers, experiencing cultures and environments in a meaningful, tangible way that deepens your knowledge and enhances your skills.

National Geographic is committed to sustaining the character and integrity of each place we visit—its environment, culture, heritage, and the well-being of its residents. In providing authentic travel experiences for students, we strive to protect the sites we visit, support local economies in our choice of accommodations and services, and increase students’ understanding and appreciation of other peoples and customs through meaningful friendships and cultural exchange. National Geographic strives to minimize environmental impact and invests in offset projects for the carbon emissions associated with activities and travel once you're at your destination.

Stay in Amazing Places From deep in the jungle to the heart of a traditional village, the accommodations themselves are part of the adventure! The places we stay are comfortable, well-located, and give you a true feel for the local culture and environment. On most programs, we stay in small, family-run inns and hostels; university housing; or research stations.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

“

”

Explore the World with Nat Geo Innovative Programs

EDUCATION + ADVENTURE

GO On Assignment

Authentic AND SUSTAINABLE EXPERIENCES

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

follow your passion. choose your experience.

COMMUNITY SERVICE

FOUR WAYS FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS TO TRAVEL Experience what it’s like to be on assignment for National Geographic. On all of our high school programs, you’ll pursue a project related to your area of interest. That could mean creating a field guide, a portfolio of photographs, or a proposal for a project to carry out at home. At the end of the trip, you’ll share what you’ve created with the group and return home with a meaningful and tangible project.

Settle into small villages or communities and get involved with collaborative service projects focusing on infrastructure, education, or sustainability. Spend your days working alongside local people and a team of students; and documenting your experience through photos, journals, and video. Collaborative community projects provide an opportunity for deeper cultural interactions and insight into daily life in our host communities.

PHOTO WORKSHOPS

EXPEDITIONs Our expeditions are an in-depth active exploration of a country or region, and offer a choice from two or three areas of focus—On Assignment projects. Throughout the trip you will pursue your selected project—with guidance from your trip leaders and a National Geographic expert—through hands-on activities and excursions. Then share what you’ve created with the group. PHOTOGRAPHY Set out on photo shoots to improve your photography skills and capture the character of the places you encounter. Develop a photo-essay about a topic that sparks your interest.

CREATIVE WRITING Develop your writing skills with the assistance of a published writer. Learn how to incorporate a strong sense of place into your work as you explore your destination.

WILDLIFE & biodiversity Explore the local wildlife and their habitats with naturalists and biologists. Learn about regional and national efforts to protect natural resources, and investigate the threats that population and poverty pose to conservation initiatives.

Film & Video Work in production teams to document your journey, the people you meet, and the adventures you experience. Learn how to create time lapses, capture great GoPro footage, or even use your phone to craft short digital stories.

Archaeology & Ancient Culture Uncover complex layers of past civilizations by exploring ancient ruins, discovering the rich mythology behind treasured sites, and finding the links between ancient and modern worlds.

CULTURAL GEOGRAPHY Cultivate a sense of “space and place” by discovering the connections between people and their environment. Think like a geographer while exploring the history, ecology, and culture of the places you visit.

marine & tropical conservation Delve into underwater ecosystems and discover how the health of our oceans, seas, and shorelines impacts all life on Earth. Assist marine biologists and conservationists in the restoration of tropical habitats, from coral reefs to coastal rainforests. CLIMATE & GEOLOGY Examine Earth processes, witness dramatic geological forces at work, and discuss the science of global climate change. Learn how volcanoes, geothermal activity, and glaciers have shaped landscapes and civilizations.

Through assignments in the field, classes, and critiques, our photo workshops will challenge and inspire you to take your photography to the next level. Each day, you will have the opportunity to learn important photography lessons and apply them in and around some of the world’s most photogenic places. National Geographic photographers spend each day of the workshop with our students—teaching, shooting, and editing. We then work together to organize, curate, and install an exhibit featuring each student’s original work.

University Workshops Delve into important global challenges and build skills in science, leadership, and storytelling to effect positive change in your local community. Throughout the program, you’ll participate in stimulating seminars, handson workshops, and active excursions. Meet leading National Geographic experts and get inspired by their innovative work in our areas of focus. Develop a capstone project to raise awareness about the issues you’ve encountered, and pitch your idea for a chance to receive funding from National Geographic to launch your initiative.

NEW!

MIDDLE SCHOOL EXPEDITIONS ALASKA • AUSTRALIA • BELIZE COSTA RICA • FRANCE & SPAIN • ITALY National Geographic Student Expeditions invites young explorers to experience exciting destinations in a fun, engaging, and safe environment. Designed for students completing grades six through eight, these programs challenge, educate, and motivate through a variety of hands-on activities that combine authentic exploration of each destination with a focus on storytelling, conservation, cultural exchange, or community service. Each of our 10- to 15-day highly structured programs has been created to support and empower young teens, pushing them beyond their comfort zone, deepening interests they may already have, and helping them discover new passions along the way. They’ll focus on three themes carefully selected to enhance their experience in the places they visit. A low student-to-leader ratio ensures that students receive the personal attention they need at this age. Our experienced leaders and National Geographic experts provide a supportive group dynamic; facilitate positive interactions with local people; and create numerous opportunities for exploration, discovery, and, best of all, fun! Turn to page 66 to learn more about these exciting new programs.

follow your passion. choose your experience.

COMMUNITY SERVICE

PHOTO WORKSHOPS

CREATIVE WRITING Develop your writing skills with the assistance of a published writer. Learn how to incorporate a strong sense of place into your work as you explore your destination.

NEW!

Greg Goldsmith

MEET OUR EXPERTS

National Geographic grantee Greg Goldsmith is an ecologist studying the impacts of climate change on the world’s tropical forests. His research has led him to the furthest corners of Brazil, Panama, Mexico, Singapore, Costa Rica, and Peru. Along the way, Greg has become a leading expert in using innovative media to share science and promote conservation. His web-based learning platform, Canopy in the Clouds, allows users to virtually explore cloud forests while learning earth and life sciences through immersive media. Greg will join the Ecuador and the Galápagos expedition. p22

National Geographic’s researchers, explorers, and storytellers have been inspiring people for more than 125 years. They’ve pursued their dreams, become leaders in their fields, and are excited to share their stories and knowledge with students. National Geographic experts join all of our programs except for our community service trips. As you explore together, they’ll share their insights and experiences, and inspire you with their passion for the work they do and the places you’ll discover.

TIERNEY THYS National Geographic Emerging Explorer and grantee Tierney Thys is a marine biologist and filmmaker studying some of the ocean’s largest animals, including the giant ocean sunfish. She has led and participated in research expeditions worldwide from Alaska to Galápagos, and from Indonesia to Africa. Tierney works with all ages to promote ocean conservation through numerous creative means: from teaching underwater fieldwork techniques to leading beach-cleanups to filmmaking. Tierney will join the Bali expedition. p40 KEITH LADZINSKI

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An adventurer, photographer, and filmmaker, Keith’s assignments have sent him on mountain bike expeditions, traveling with a Shao Lin Grandmaster through China, big wall rock climbing first ascents, and swimming with great white sharks in South Africa. His work has been featured in National Geographic magazine, The New York Times, Outside, and ESPN magazine, among others. Also an accomplished filmmaker, he has produced more than 20 adventure films. Keith will join the New Zealand expedition. p42

Caleb Harper National Geographic Emerging Explorer and urban agriculturalist Caleb Harper believes the future of agriculture lies in urban farms, and uses the technology of computing, architecture, and engineering to explore and develop new food systems. A research scientist at MIT’s Media Lab, Caleb’s CityFARM project uses existing urban real estate and soil-less gardening to grow plants faster than a traditional farm 365 days a year (even during New England winters!), and produces food that is fresher and cheaper than what is available in grocery stores. Caleb will join the MIT university workshop. p50 Cedar Wright Cedar Wright is a professional climber, filmmaker, and National Geographic grantee. As a member of The North Face Athlete Team, he has traveled the world establishing daring first ascents, often documenting these exploits through writing and cinematography. While studying English and creative writing in college, Cedar fell in love with rock climbing, and decided to follow his climbing dreams full time. Today he is one of the most recognized professional climbers in the United States. He has won numerous awards for his films, including the popular Sufferfest franchise. Cedar will join the America’s Southwest expedition. p14

ASHIMA NARAIN Ashima is a photographer, filmmaker, and the former photo editor for National Geographic Traveler India. She has covered a diverse range of topics that have sent her wading through mudflats in search of flamingos in Mumbai, hiding out in bear caves, climbing sail masts mid-sea, dining with Maharajas, and documenting the conditions of sari weavers in the holy city of Varanasi. Ashima’s work has been published in National Geographic Traveler, Vanity Fair, Vogue, GQ, Marie Claire, Elle, and Teen People magazines. Ashima will join the India expedition. p46 Ulla Lohmann Photojournalist, filmmaker and adventurer Ulla Lohmann has sailed around the world, explored active volcanoes in Vanuatu, and traversed the African continent using only biodiesel. She spends much of her time working with indigenous cultures in Australia and the South Pacific. Based in the German Alps, she is a regular contributor to the National Geographic Channel and National Geographic magazine, and most recently, published a photographic book documenting a year-long journey hiking, biking, and skiing Italy’s Dolomite mountains. Ulla will join the Australia expedition. p44

Greg was AMAZING. From the moment we met him, “ he jumped right in—giving inspirational talks about his work;

connecting with each of us about our On Assignment projects; finding camouflaged spiders, birds, and frogs; and making our hikes through the forest a whole different experience. The trip was awesome because of him. Sydney W., Costa Rica, 2015

”

APPLY ONLINE AT NGSTUDENTEXPEDITIONS.COM

Greg Goldsmith

MEET OUR EXPERTS

Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

Greg was AMAZING. From the moment we met him, “ he jumped right in—giving inspirational talks about his work;

”

APPLY ONLINE AT NGSTUDENTEXPEDITIONS.COM

MEET SOME OF OUR TRIP LEADERS Heading up each program is a team of talented, dynamic trip leaders who have extensive experience in the field— and love working with students. With no more than nine students to every leader, we’ll have the freedom to break into small teams and explore your interests.

“

My leaders were incredibly kind, caring, and funny. It was inspiring to see how they had turned their passions into careers; they followed their dreams and are doing good in the world, which made me realize how I want to structure my own future.

”

Brian B., BOULDER, 2015

ANDRES (ANDY) MELO University of Central Florida, B.F.A.

NATHALIE CHARDON University of Colorado Boulder, Ph.D. candidate University of California, Berkeley, B.A.

A Los Angeles-based independent filmmaker and photographer, Andy has worked on media projects throughout the world. He received his degree in film with a minor in cultural anthropology from the University of Central Florida, and spent a year at Hunter College in New York City studying photography. He has worked with brands like Sony and Facebook, and has produced documentaries on topics ranging from the impact of land mines on children in Nicaragua to the documentation of modern Maya culture in Guatemala. He recently launched a project to teach photography to Colombia’s Misak community so they can document and preserve their own culture.

During her undergraduate studies, Nathalie (pictured above) discovered that she could combine her love of the outdoors with a research focus in montane and alpine ecology. While studying abroad, she gained a unique perspective on biogeography—a topic still at the heart of her research interests. Nathalie now spends her time in the Rocky Mountains and European Alps researching the effects of climate change and other human disturbances on alpine ecosystems. She recently began a yearlong research residency at the Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research in Switzerland, and previously has worked as a U.S. Forest Service botany technician.

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AVI DUCKORJONES Victoria University, M.A. University of Otago, B.A., B.L. Avi worked as a lawyer before turning his hand to travel and writing. Since then, his short stories have been published in newspapers, magazines, and anthologies; he has contributed writing to Lonely Planet’s literary anthology and BBC Travel; and while completing his master’s degree, he completed a draft of his first novel. Also a passionate educator, Avi spent a year as director of English reading and writing programs at Trinity Yard School in western Ghana. Avi’s extensive travels include volunteering at an orphanage in Bali, leading a conservation- and sustainability-focused expedition through Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji, and surfing the Pacific coastlines of Costa Rica and Nicaragua.

CLAIRE BANGSER

Brett Garner

Washington University in St. Louis, B.A.

Scripps Institute of Oceanography, UC San Diego, M.A.S. UCLA, B.S.

Claire focused her university studies on the intersection of cross-cultural education and visual storytelling. She is now a freelance filmmaker, photographer, and visual artist based in New Orleans. Her city-wide social media portrait project NOLAbeings has been featured in national media such as TIME and WIRED, and resulted in her being voted one of New Orleans Magazine’s “People to Watch in 2014.” Prior to moving to New Orleans, Claire wrote a book entitled Ride Somewhere Far about her three-month bicycle tour along the Pacific Coast, and spent four months on a National Geographic expedition photographing and filming traditional beekeeping practices in eastern Turkey.

A conservation biologist, photographer, and educator, Brett (pictured above) has worked and traveled extensively through Asia, Oceania, the Americas and the Middle East. In 2014, Brett received a Rapid Ocean Conservation grant from the Waitt Foundation to spend several months in Fiji producing the multimedia project, “Kia Over There,” highlighting traditional Fijian fishermen and the environmental challenges they face. Previously, he has worked as a marine science instructor for the Mission Bay Aquatic Center and a staff photographer for the Joshua Wilderness Institute. Brett holds certifications as a PADI divemaster, Wilderness First Responder, and American Red Cross Waterfront Lifeguard.

JUSTINE SHANTI ALEXANDER Beijing Forestry University, Ph.D. candidate Imperial College London, M.S. McGill University, B.S. Justine’s passion for travel and conservation developed at an early age while growing up in New Delhi, India and Geneva, Switzerland. Currently, Justine’s work is focused on the conservation of snow leopards in China, which earned her a National Geographic Young Explorers grant. Justine also studied wildlife hunting and consumption in rural West Africa, has worked at Canada’s Calgary Zoo, and co-founded an organization dedicated to raising awareness about conservation topics in China—the Wildlife Conservation Student Conference. She has volunteered and worked in local communities across India, South Africa, Canada, Panama, and Ghana; and is fluent in French and Mandarin.

APPLY ONLINE AT NGSTUDENTEXPEDITIONS.COM

“

”

Brian B., BOULDER, 2015

ANDRES (ANDY) MELO University of Central Florida, B.F.A.

NATHALIE CHARDON University of Colorado Boulder, Ph.D. candidate University of California, Berkeley, B.A.

Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

CLAIRE BANGSER

Brett Garner

Washington University in St. Louis, B.A.

Scripps Institute of Oceanography, UC San Diego, M.A.S. UCLA, B.S.

APPLY ONLINE AT NGSTUDENTEXPEDITIONS.COM

LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCES Our students may come from different backgrounds with varied interests, but to hear them tell it, they all come back with three things in common: great memories, new passions, and inspiration to share.

“

The scholarship program provided me with an unmatched opportunity to learn about the world, other cultures, languages, art, and about myself. Meeting new people and exploring a new country are by far the most valuable experiences I bring home with me.

”

— Anna S., Switzerland & France, 2015

What are some of the valuable lessons you learned? “The best thing about this program is that you will say, ‘that is the coolest thing I’ve ever done,’ and then the next day, you’ll be saying the same thing. There was never a lack of opportunity to challenge myself, and I was proud when I pushed my boundaries, both physically and mentally. I’ve gained a love of adventure, and I’ve grown substantially as a person because of the challenges I accepted. I’m going to continue to try things that shake up butterflies in my stomach once in a while.” NATALIA A., Age 17 Hometown: Brookfield, CT NGSE Trip: Ecuador and the GalÁpagos, 2015

Which experience IMPACTED you most?

What will you remember most about your trip?

“On our last day in the village, our group split up into pairs, and each pair went to have lunch in the home of a local family. The family I visited welcomed us into their home and told us that they were so happy to see the work we’d done in the community. It was great to know that our hard work had made a noticeable impact. We ate and chatted, and put our Spanish-speaking skills to the test. It was such a special afternoon because I felt like we had a genuine connection. It was amazing!”

“It is hard to describe how amazing my trip was. Some of the highlights include playing with cheetah cubs, climbing the biggest sand dune in Namibia, and all of the handson activities we participated in at the Cheetah Conservation Fund. I will never forget presenting my final project in front of Dr. Laurie Marker. An absolute dream come true. I learned so much from our trip leaders, who were an endless source of information and who taught us to open our minds and examine topics from new perspectives.”

Natalie V., Age 17 Hometown: Bettendorf, IA NGSE Trip: Costa Rica Community Service, 2015

Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

AlLison c., Age 17 Hometown: Lakeville, MN NGSE Trip: Namibia, 2015

OUR SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM The National Geographic Student Expeditions Scholarship Program provides financial support for students seeking educational summer experiences who could not otherwise afford them. Last summer, we awarded full scholarships to 22 students, providing learning opportunities to students from a wide variety of backgrounds, and creating a richer and more diverse experience for every student involved. Each summer, our scholarship students return home with stories of life-changing experiences that instilled in them increased confidence, global perspective, independence, and compassion for others. These transformational experiences are central to their development as students, leaders, and global citizens. For more details about scholarship eligibility and how to apply, visit: ngstudentexpeditions.com/scholarships

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

“

”

— Anna S., Switzerland & France, 2015

Which experience IMPACTED you most?

What will you remember most about your trip?

Natalie V., Age 17 Hometown: Bettendorf, IA NGSE Trip: Costa Rica Community Service, 2015

Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

AlLison c., Age 17 Hometown: Lakeville, MN NGSE Trip: Namibia, 2015

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

EXPEDITION

Great Salt Lake

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

America’s Southwest

national parks adventure

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

PHOTOGRAPHY Create a portfolio showcasing your adventures in the sandstone monuments and windswept deserts of America’s Southwest. Experiment with color and texture while photographing red rocks ablaze at sunset, rippling cliff faces, and serpentine slot canyons with sparkling emerald pools. Frame your friends in epic landscapes—from far-reaching deserts dotted with rock arches and spires to the Grand Canyon—and practice night shots while camping under the stars.

The deserts of America’s Southwest

showcase geology at its most extreme. Witness these wild and dramatic landscapes in four national parks: Zion, Grand Canyon, Arches, and Canyonlands. Hike at the base of towering cliff faces, rappel through rushing waterfalls, and embark on a rafting journey down the San Juan River, taking in the region’s breathtaking scenery from every angle. Through your On Assignment project, document these sights in a photo-essay, or capture the action in a short adventure film as you explore during the centennial anniversary of the National Park Service.

I T I N E R A RY–14 DAYS

FILM & VIDEO

Document thrilling moments in the national parks, using adventure-filmmaking techniques to record footage as you raft, bike, and rappel through desert canyons. Or, interview park rangers about the effects of adventure travel on the surrounding landscapes, and develop a storyline about local conservation efforts. Work alongside your peers and use mobile editing technology to produce a short film.

14 E x p e d i t i o n

day 1 Las Vegas, Nevada Meet your group for an orientation in Las Vegas, and then begin your expedition at the iconic Hoover Dam. Get a firsthand look at the impact the dam has had on its surroundings, and use your camera to convey the sheer size and magnitude of this engineering feat. Then travel to Lake Mead and cool off with a swim as we learn about environmental issues related to water use in the desert.

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Settle into our cabins on the grounds of a 4,000-acre ranch, located just outside Zion National Park. With its dramatic geological features and fiery hues of sandstone, Zion is the perfect place for budding photographers and filmmakers to experiment with texture, color, and light. Frame massive rock formations aglow in shades of orange and red while watching spectacular sunrises and sunsets; capture the curves of slot canyons on hiking excursions along the base of 2,000-foot cliffs; or film your friends while on a canyoneering adventure, shooting footage as you scramble across and rappel down rocky terrain and rushing waterfalls.

Salt Lake City

Utah Lake

Arches National Park

UTAH

Go mountain biking through gateways of sculpted rock in Arches National Park. Conquer rushing rapids on a two-day rafting and camping adventure along the San Juan River. Descend into the mile-deep chasm of the Grand Canyon. Photograph or film your canyoneering adventure in Zion National Park.

days 2–4 Zion National Park, Utah

WYOMING

UNITED STATES Zion National Park

Lake Mead

lorado Co

Las Vegas

CALIFORNIA

Moab

Canyonlands National Park

NEVADA

Hoover Dam

San Juan

Grand Canyon National Park 0

ARIZONA

100

MILES

The American Southwest “is truly a national treasure,

days 5–7 Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona Named one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon is a mile-deep chasm that has been carved by the forces of nature over millions of years. Settle into cabins near the edge of the North Rim, and set out to discover this geological marvel and its surrounding landscapes. Photograph endemic wildlife on hikes through alpine forests and arid desert, and experiment with time-lapse images while documenting a sunset over the Painted Desert. days 8–10 San Juan River Rafting Make camp on the banks of the San Juan River, then embark on a two-day river rafting adventure, conquering rushing rapids and exploring hidden canyons. Examine Native American carvings and petroglyphs on surrounding canyon walls, and try to decipher the meanings of these ancient symbols. Back at our campsite, swim in the river, cook over a campfire, and gaze up at the stars. days 11–12 Moab, Utah Sitting at the crossroads of Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, Moab welcomes adventurers looking for thrills among Utah’s red rock country. Spend a full day mountain biking across some of the best singletrack in the area,

learning skills to navigate the vistas and valleys of these incredible landscapes and capturing all of the action in photos or videos. Interview a park ranger about the rise of adventure-sports travel in the region, and find out what the National Park Service is doing to protect these habitats. days 13–14 Salt Lake City Spend the final day of your expedition exploring Salt Lake City, visiting the Great Salt Lake and Temple Square. Present your final On Assignment project to the group before returning home.

Dates & t u iti o n 2016 DATES: JUNE 27—JULY 10, JULY 3—16 TUITION: $5,990 Airfare is not included. The program begins in Las Vegas and ends in Salt Lake City. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: In Zion and Grand Canyon, we stay in small cabins, and in Moab, we stay in a family-run guesthouse. During the rafting expedition, we camp in tents on the banks of the San Juan River. NOTE: This expedition includes several full-day hikes and a full-day mountain biking excursion. To get the most out of the program, students should be physically fit and enthusiastic about hiking and active outdoor exploration.

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

home to the most surreal and beautiful landscapes in the country. Some of my best adventures have taken place here! — Cedar Wright

”

NATIONAL Geographic Expert

MEET YOUR EXPERT CEDAR Wright Cedar Wright is a professional climber, filmmaker, and National Geographic grantee. As a member of The North Face Athlete Team, he has traveled the world establishing adventurous and daring first ascents, often documenting these exploits through his writing and cinematography. In 2014, Cedar climbed 45 of the American Southwest’s iconic Desert Towers and produced a second installment of his award-winning Sufferfest franchise about the expedition. Cedar will join both groups in Zion and Grand Canyon National Parks.

Expedition 15

EXPEDITION

Great Salt Lake

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

America’s Southwest

national parks adventure

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

The deserts of America’s Southwest

I T I N E R A RY–14 DAYS

FILM & VIDEO

14 E x p e d i t i o n

Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

Salt Lake City

Utah Lake

Arches National Park

UTAH

days 2–4 Zion National Park, Utah

WYOMING

UNITED STATES Zion National Park

Lake Mead

lorado Co

Las Vegas

CALIFORNIA

Moab

Canyonlands National Park

NEVADA

Hoover Dam

San Juan

Grand Canyon National Park 0

ARIZONA

100

MILES

The American Southwest “is truly a national treasure,

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home to the most surreal and beautiful landscapes in the country. Some of my best adventures have taken place here! — Cedar Wright

”

NATIONAL Geographic Expert

Expedition 15

EXPEDITION

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Alaska

wildlife, fjords, and glaciers

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

PHOTOGRAPHY Take advantage of long summer days to capture changing light on glaciers, fjords, and the immense snowfields of Denali. Zoom in on a herd of caribou sky-lined on a high ridge, work on portraits with Alaska’s indigenous peoples, or try for a rare shot of a breaching whale or a bear fishing for salmon. Learn new photographic techniques, and develop a portfolio.

wildlife & biodiversity

Observe bears, wolves, beluga whales, and other wildlife in their natural habitat; and learn to identify the plants and birds of the tundra and taiga. Talk to park rangers and conservationists about challenges and opportunities in Alaska’s national parks.

Film & Video

Work in teams to document your travels through Alaska. Develop a story line about conservation efforts around the borders of Denali National Park, or interview park rangers and locals about the effects of climate change in Alaska. Capture grand landscapes and spectacular wildlife as you hone your filmmaking skills.

16 E x p e d i t i o n

In Alaska’s undeveloped wilderness,

towering peaks preside over massive glaciers, wild rivers cut through thick pine forests, and the Arctic tundra seems endless. Moose, bears, and caribou roam the land, while the waters teem with whales, sea lions, and seabirds. Head to America’s wild northern frontier and discover a spectacular wilderness—and the forces that threaten it—through the lens of your On Assignment project focusing on Photography, Wildlife & Biodiversity, or Film & Video.

I T I N E R A RY–1 2 DAYS days 1–3 Anchorage Our adventure begins in the far northern city of Anchorage. We’ll get to know each other during an orientation covering wilderness skills and Alaska’s history and geography, and then we’ll set out to explore Anchorage in our On Assignment teams. Go for an acclimation hike, and get acquainted with the native peoples of the north at the acclaimed Alaska Native Heritage Center. At the center, try your hand at traditional Alaskan games, get lost in timeless legends during an afternoon of storytelling, or visit with cultural ambassadors Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

ALASKA

Kayak into dramatic fjords, home to whales and sea lions. Delve into Alaska’s vibrant cultural heritage, meeting members of its native peoples. Hike across through Denali’s taiga and tundra, tracking moose, wolves, and caribou. Hike to the foot of the largest glacier in the United States.

at their authentic dwellings. Examine the threats facing Alaska’s indigenous cultures and the steps being taken to preserve their endangered languages. days 4–7 Denali National Park Travel north to Denali National Park, a remote and unspoiled wilderness cradling the icy summit of Denali, North America’s highest mountain. The park encompasses six million acres of subarctic taiga and tundra, and is populated by an astounding range of wildlife. From our base at the eastern edge of the park, meet our National Geographic expert and set out to explore one of America’s most pristine natural settings as the National Park Service celebrates its centennial anniversary. Venture deep into the wilderness to observe and photograph herds of caribou, a moose

Mt. McKinley (Denali)

Denali National Park and Preserve Kenai Peninsula Kenai Fjords National Park

Talkeetna Anchorage Seward

Gulf of Alaska 0

200

MILES

through the park “andHiking climbing on a glacier wading in a lake, or a grizzly bear feeding on blueberries. Track a wolf pack loping along a glacial riverbed, or catch a glimpse of white Dall sheep perched high on a mountainside. Learn about dogsledding at a working mushing kennel, bike alongside the Savage River, or trek to remote ridges to get a once-in-a-lifetime view of the colossal mountain the Athabascans call “the great one”: Denali. DAYS 8–12 Seward and the Kenai Peninsula Stop over in the quirky mountain town of Talkeetna, then head south to the mountains, fjords, and glaciers of the Kenai Peninsula. Our base is Seward, a traditional fishing village surrounded by glaciers and jagged peaks. Seward is the jumping-off point for exploring Kenai Fjords National Park, one of America’s newest and most dramatic national parks. At the Alaska SeaLife Center, the only coldwater marine science facility in the Western Hemisphere, learn about the region’s incredibly rich marine life and the effects of climate change on the Bering Sea ecosystem. Hike into the heart of Kenai Fjords National Park, past towering blue-ice glacial crevasses, to the spectacular Harding Icefield—an immense glacial relic from the last ice age. Scan the cliffs for mountain goats, spot bright-red salmon running in the river rapids, and watch for bald eagles and bears taking advantage of the easy

snack. Paddle a sea kayak through the fjords, taking in the incredible scenery and keeping your eyes peeled for sea lions, otters, puffins, and orcas. Spend one night at a kayakersonly hostel in a remote cove of beautiful Resurrection Bay. Our adventure concludes with presentations of our On Assignment projects. Fly home from Anchorage.

allowed me to experience the beauty of Alaska from a completely new perspective. —Micah P.

”

Alaska, 2015

Dates & t u iti o n 2016 DATES: JUNE 26—JULY 7, JUNE 30—JULY 11 TUITION: $5,790 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a roundtrip group flight between Seattle and Anchorage. Alternately, students may meet the group in Anchorage. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: In Anchorage, Denali, and Seward, we stay in family-run hostels. During our kayaking excursion, we spend one night in a kayakersonly wilderness hostel. NOTE: This expedition includes several full-day hikes in Denali and Kenai Fjords National Parks. To get the most out of the program, students should be physically fit and enthusiastic about hiking.

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MEET YOUR EXPERT drew rush National Geographic grantee and wildlife photographer Drew Rush has a long history of working in and teaching about the wildlife and ecosystems of America’s National Parks. Drew uses camera traps to capture never-beforeseen animal behavior in the wild, and uses his work to inspire the next generation of outdoor and wildlife enthusiasts. Most recently, he followed mountain lions and grizzly bears for the May 2016 issue of National Geographic magazine. Drew will join both groups in Denali.

Expedition 17

EXPEDITION

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Alaska

wildlife, fjords, and glaciers

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

wildlife & biodiversity

Film & Video

16 E x p e d i t i o n

In Alaska’s undeveloped wilderness,

ALASKA

Mt. McKinley (Denali)

Denali National Park and Preserve Kenai Peninsula Kenai Fjords National Park

Talkeetna Anchorage Seward

Gulf of Alaska 0

200

MILES

allowed me to experience the beauty of Alaska from a completely new perspective. —Micah P.

”

Alaska, 2015

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Expedition 17

EXPEDITION

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

BELIZE

Ambergris Caye Shark Ray Alley Caye Caulker (Cay Corker)

Snorkel or SCUBA dive on the world’s second-largest barrier reef. Work with marine biologists to collect data underwater and on land. Learn the art of underwater photography. Explore the world-famous Blue Hole.

oceans and underwater exploration

Belize City

BELIZE

Turneffe Islands

Lighthouse Reef Calabash Caye

Caribbean Sea 0

MILES

We worked with “ scientists and used a

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

PHOTOGRAPHY Photograph the marine habitats of Belize’s intricate barrier reef, using an underwater camera to capture brilliant coral formations and swirling schools of tropical fish. Employ photographic storytelling to convey the important role that our marine worlds play in maintaining the planet’s ecological health and homeostasis, and document the work of local biologists and conservationists.

marine & tropical conservation

Work with scientists underwater and on land to help research and protect Belize’s coral reefs. Document reef species, remove invasive lionfish, conduct an acoustic survey of bottlenose dolphins, or use high-tech equipment to detect sharks and rays on the sea floor. Interview fishermen and local conservationists about the interplay of conservation, livelihoods, and sustainable development.

18 E X P E D I T I O N

Blanketed with thick jungle and edged

by the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere, Belize is a small country with extraordinary biodiversity and great natural beauty. Its rich marine life makes it a perfect laboratory for learning about our planet’s amazing ocean habitats and for exploring ways to preserve them for future generations. Join top marine biologists, scientists, and conservationists to conduct research on the barrier reef. Photograph underwater species, snorkel the famous Blue Hole, and learn about local ecotourism and conservation initiatives as you develop an On Assignment project in Photography or Marine & Tropical Conservation.

I T I N E R A RY–1 2 DAYS day 1 TROPICAL EDUCATION CENTER Our expedition begins with an orientation at the Tropical Education Center, a research station outside of Belize City. During a night tour of the world-famous Belize Zoo led by professional keepers, hand-feed the national animal of Belize, the tapir, and meet an orphaned jaguar known as Lucky Boy.

Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

days 2–7 Calabash Caye Take a boat from the marina across the clear blue waters to Turneffe Atoll, where we’ll get settled at the University of Belize research facility on Calabash Caye. Here, spend each day snorkeling in the warm coastal waters and assisting in the collection of data and the monitoring of reef health. Come face-to-face with countless species of marine life—from colorful parrotfish and damselfish to eels, rays, and turtles. Join researchers in conducting a survey of the bottlenose dolphin population and assist with the removal and dissection of invasive lionfish. Participate in ongoing initiatives to protect dolphins, turtles, and reef sharks, and examine the threats to coral reefs around the planet. Improve your underwater photography and video techniques during one-on-one lessons with our highly qualified trip leaders and experts,

and learn to use photography as a storytelling tool to portray the integral role of our oceans and seas in maintaining the health of the planet. Begin work on your On Assignment projects, designed to raise awareness about the critical need to protect and conserve our marine habitat. Then put your new marine biology and photography skills to the test during a full-day excursion to Lighthouse Reef. This is the home of the world-famous Blue Hole, a remarkable circular limestone sinkhole in the seafloor that stretches nearly 1,000 feet across and more than 400 feet deep. Made famous by explorer Jacques Cousteau, this spectacular sunken cave harbors diverse marine life and jagged stalactites. In the evenings, unwind back onshore. Enjoy discussions with marine biologists, get to know your fellow travelers, and share coconuts straight off the tree while watching the sun set. DAYS 8–12 CAYE CAULKER Leave the outer reef and head north to Caye Caulker, one of the more developed cayes. Spend time working with locals and participate in environmental stewardship projects. Get out on the water with researchers working to preserve fragile marine habitat, and learn firsthand how overfishing and reef destruction impact the local ecology and economy. Snorkel and dive among groupers, rays, and nurse sharks at Shark Ray Alley, part of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve on the southern tip of Ambergris Caye.

Hol Chan was declared a marine reserve—the first in Belize—25 years ago, and has helped pave the road for marine protection throughout coastal Belize and the rest of the world. Spend a day kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding around the shallow waterways, keeping an eye out for endangered manatees and sea turtles. Learn about the development of marine-protected areas, examine the role of ecotourism and local conservation efforts in reef preservation, and collect data with one of Belize’s leading shark biologists. Present your On Assignment project to community members and local experts.

Dates & t u iti o n 2016 DATES: JUNE 30—JULY 11, JULY 6—17, JULY 12—23 TUITION: $5,990 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a round-trip group flight between Miami and Belize City. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: At the Tropical Education Center we stay in dormitory-style rooms and shared cabanas. On Calabash Caye, we stay in seaside cabanas at the University of Belize research facility. On Caye Caulker, we stay in a small, family-run hotel. NOTE: While SCUBA diving is not the main focus of this trip, students who are certified will have the opportunity to participate in up to four dives, dependent on weather and conditions. The supplemental fee for diving is $300.

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hydrophone to record dolphins—observing their behavior while listening to them communicate felt almost magical! —Sarah B.

”

Belize, 2015

MEET YOUR EXPERT Shah Selbe National Geographic Emerging Explorer and grantee Shah Selbe believes technology could be the answer to solving complex conservation issues around the world. His project, Conservify, uses technology to empower local communities to change our ocean’s future. He integrates crowdsourcing, smartphone apps, drones, and acoustic sensors to address ocean conservation issues including illegal poaching, overfishing, and the monitoring of marine protected areas. Shah will join the June 30 and July 6 departures in Calabash Caye.

EXPEDITION 19

EXPEDITION

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

BELIZE

Ambergris Caye Shark Ray Alley Caye Caulker (Cay Corker)

oceans and underwater exploration

Belize City

BELIZE

Turneffe Islands

Lighthouse Reef Calabash Caye

Caribbean Sea 0

MILES

We worked with “ scientists and used a

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

marine & tropical conservation

18 E X P E D I T I O N

Blanketed with thick jungle and edged

Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

hydrophone to record dolphins—observing their behavior while listening to them communicate felt almost magical! —Sarah B.

”

Belize, 2015

EXPEDITION 19

EXPEDITION

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

CUBA

PHOTOGRAPHY Photographic opportunities abound as we explore this colorful island through the eyes of its people. Zoom in on local artists at work in their studios, capture the movement of traditional dances, and photograph coffee farmers cultivating their crop.

Creative Writing

Engage with Cuban writers to learn about the country’s storytelling traditions. During writing workshops in the field, craft a narrative inspired by the people you meet on the lively streets of Havana, in AfroCuban Santería temples, or the young photographers and writers you explore with.

Cultural Geography

Discover the history of Havana’s barrios, or trace the myriad ethnic origins that have gone into Cuba’s melting pot. Hear from members of communities about local politics, and interview entrepreneurs to get their take on the expanding tourism industry and new freedoms in the private sector.

20 E x p e d i t i o n

Cuba is undergoing an unprecedented

transformation, making history as its economy, politics, and social structures evolve rapidly for the first time in decades. There has never been a more exciting time to experience this intriguing island. From the bustling streets of Havana to sleepy coastal fishing villages, get to know Cuban people and discover what life here is like—and how it’s changing. Engage with Cubans from all walks of life—artists, historians, dancers, farmers, and students— and explore the nature and meaning of these cultural exchanges through an On Assignment project in Photography, Creative Writing, or Cultural Geography.

I T I N E R A RY–1 1 DAYS days 1–5 Havana The streets of Havana are lined with beautiful, aging architecture, filled with vintage American and Soviet cars (and an occasional horse and buggy), and infused with spirit and art. This is a city with a vibrant heartbeat, and the best way to get to know it is through those who call it home. During our time here, we’ll be joined by Cuban students of photograpy, art, writing, and culture. Together, we’ll interpret Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

the folk art adorning the famous Callejón de Hamel artist colony, talk with artisans in their studios, and photograph little-known corners of Havana. From the elegant mansions of Vedado and the colonial buildings of Habana Vieja to the tombstones of the vast Necrópolis de Cristóbal Colón, explore the many sides of Havana with the insights of our student companions. Discuss urban agriculture with farmers at the Organopónico Vivero Alamar, and later participate in a workshop with the founder of Psicoballet, a program that uses dance to help young people with disabilities. Attend the canon-firing ceremony at La Cabaña seaside fortress, and learn from our Cuban friends about how this nightly tradition came to be. Visit with Cuban photographers at the Fototeca de Cuba archive, mingle with young local writers at the former home of

MILES

Explore the cities of Havana and Trinidad alongside local Cubans. Meet with local musicians and dancers at a rural arts initiative and in the French colonial city of Cienfuegos. Discuss Cuba’s rapidly evolving cultural landscape with university students in Santa Clara. Explore Topes de Collantes National Park with a local guide.

Cultural Exploration

Choose one of these On Assignment projects and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

Atlantic Ocean Topes de Collantes Protected Area

Havana

CUBA

Santa Clara Cienfuegos Bahía de Cochinos (Bay of Pigs)

Trinidad

Caribbean Sea

Cuba is a place where “history lives on, and the Ernest Hemingway, and conjure up ideas and inspiration for our On Assignment projects. days 6–8 The Southern Coast and the Sierra del Escambray Travel to the southern side of the island, where we’ll stay in rustic cabanas near the coast. Meet a local historian in Trinidad, one of the best-preserved Spanish colonial cities in the Americas, and walk along its cobbled streets, meeting residents and small business owners as you pass by their brightly painted homes. Then venture to a Santería temple to learn about Afro-Cuban religion with a santero, or priest. Use your On Assignment project to contrast your experiences in Trinidad with those in Cienfuegos, an elegant port city with French colonial roots. Here we’ll meet with students and teachers at the Benny Moré Art School and enjoy a traditional music and dance performance. Trace the southern coast to Playa Girón, site of the infamous Bay of Pigs invasion. Participate in rural arts initiatives at the nearby Korimakao Arts Community, where locals gather to express themselves through Cuban music, dance, and theater. Then head inland to the verdant Sierra del Escambray. Our local guide will introduce us to the unique ecology of Topes de Collantes park while sharing stories of the park’s conservation efforts and the protection of native species in Cuba.

days 9–11 Remedios and Santa Clara Spend the final days of your trip in a small town near the northern keys. Explore the captivating city of Santa Clara and connect with its vibrant Cuban youth scene. Chat with university students at a café, meet with young artists at the Casa de la Ciudad cultural center, and interview guards at the Boxcar Museum about recent Cuban history. Take time to put the finishing touches on your On Assignment projects, which we’ll present and discuss during a final dinner with our Cuban friends.

Dates & t u iti o n 2016 DATES: JULY 1—11, JULY 12—22 TUITION: $6,490 Airfare is not included. We have arranged group flights from Miami to Havana and Santa Clara to Miami. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: In Havana and Santa Clara, we stay in small guesthouses or hotels, the Southern Coast we stay in rustic cabanas. NOTE: This trip is permitted through the People-toPeople general license category from the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control. The itinerary was designed to provide numerous opportunities for students to engage in meaningful interactions with Cubans, using their On Assignment project as a medium for enhancing educational exchange and cultural exploration.

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vitality of the people makes travel to the country a consistently inspiring experience. —Tim Weed

”

National Geographic Expert

MEET YOUR EXPERT TIM WEED Author, outdoorsman, and independent explorer Tim Weed is a founding director of National Geographic Student Expeditions. He was among the first to bring American students to Cuba since the Revolution in the late 1990’s, and has created and led programs for writers, artists, and musicians in countries around the world. Tim’s articles have appeared in various magazines and journals, and he is the winner of a Writer’s Digest Popular Fiction Award and a Solas Best Travel Writing Award. His first novel, Will Poole’s Island, was released in 2014. Tim will join the July 1 departure in Remedios, and the July 12 departure in Havana.

Expedition 21

100

EXPEDITION

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

CUBA

Creative Writing

Cultural Geography

20 E x p e d i t i o n

Cuba is undergoing an unprecedented

MILES

Cultural Exploration

Choose one of these On Assignment projects and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

Atlantic Ocean Topes de Collantes Protected Area

Havana

CUBA

Santa Clara Cienfuegos Bahía de Cochinos (Bay of Pigs)

Trinidad

Caribbean Sea

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vitality of the people makes travel to the country a consistently inspiring experience. —Tim Weed

”

National Geographic Expert

Expedition 21

100

EXPEDITION

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

ECUADOR AND THE GALÁPAGOS

Biodiversity hotspot

Snorkel with playful sea lions and turtles in the Galápagos Islands. Hike through a cloud forest and learn about local conservation efforts. Ride horseback in the sweeping paramo landscape of the Andes. Trek to a glacier in Cotopaxi National Park.

Mist-shrouded cloud forests, rolling

Create a photo-essay depicting Ecuador’s diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, or spectacular wildlife. Capture the swirl of colors at an Andean market or assemble a series of portraits of townspeople you meet. Practice your wildlife photography skills on the amazingly approachable animals of the Galápagos Islands.

Andean highlands, and the species-rich Galápagos Islands have put Ecuador on the map as a biodiversity hotspot. In recent decades, the country has embarked on an ambitious program of environmental conservation. Discover ecological treasures ranging from toucans and condors to the endemic marine iguanas and giant tortoises of the Galápagos Islands. Explore Ecuador’s natural wonders through an On Assignment project of your choice— Photography or Wildlife & Biodiversity.

DAYS 3–6 MINDO AND THE CLOUD FOREST

I T I N E R A RY–1 8 DAYS

Travel northwest to the lower-altitude slopes of the Andes and settle into the relaxed and welcoming village of Mindo. Break into your On Assignment teams, and set out on daily adventures in the region’s impressive array of protected natural areas. Catch the tarabita, an open-air tram, to ride over a deep ravine into the unspoiled cloud forest of the Ecological MindoNambillo Reserve. Swim in freshwater pools, where waterfalls cascade down cliffs overgrown with orchids. Hone your wildlife observation skills by identifying some of Ecuador’s 1,500 bird species. Fly through the cloud forest canopy on zip lines, and float down the river on a tubing adventure. Get to know young Ecuadorians

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

PHOTOGRAPHY

WILDLIFE & Biodiversity

Study Ecuador’s conservation policies with local experts in the field. Set out in teams to interview community members about conservation efforts in the area. Conduct an ecological survey of the paramo, or research the symbolism of the Andean condor and the threats it faces. In the Galápagos, learn about evolution, biodiversity, and animal behavior firsthand by observing turtles and marine iguanas.

22 E x p e d i t i o n

days 1–2 quito Located at 9,000 feet in an alpine valley ringed by snowcapped volcanoes, Quito is the second highest capital city in the world. Its rich colonial architecture, built on the remains of an Inca city, has earned its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll along streets that have scarcely changed since the 17th century, past the well-preserved buildings of the Spanish Empire. Step into the bustle of everyday life in an ancient city plaza, where Andean music fills the air and vendors hawk exotic rain forest herbs and natural medicines. Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

From riding horseback “across the highlands to

by playing soccer together, or interview local researchers about their efforts to conserve this unique habitat. days 7–9 COTOPAXI VOLCANO AND THE HIGH PARAMO From Mindo, head south to our next base, a working hacienda high in the central Andes. Ride horseback over the paramo, a rare ecosystem found between the dwarf forest and the snow line in the equatorial Andes. Spot Andean condors soaring above a landscape of mossy bogs and tussock grasses. During a scenic hike, perfect your landscape photography or learn about the different plant adaptations of this ecosystem. Cotopaxi National Park is home to Volcán Cotopaxi, one of the world’s highest active volcanoes and the Earth’s closest point to the sun. Drive up the switchbacks of Cotopaxi, stopping to hike up to the mountain’s spectacular glacier (16,000 feet). DAYS 10–18 GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS Set off on an island-hopping adventure in the legendary Galápagos Islands. This volcanic archipelago, cut off from humans for millennia, helped shape Charles Darwin’s theory of natural selection. Discover the distinct character of each island we visit and get acquainted with its incredible endemic species. Climb to the crater of an active volcano, and explore the remarkable

landscape formed by recent lava flows. Spot fire-red Sally Lightfoot crabs sunning on the rocks alongside spiky marine iguanas—the only species of sea lizard on the planet. Learn about the late Lonesome George, the last member of one of the islands’ 11 tortoise subspecies, and the conservation efforts he inspired. Get closer than you ever imagined to blue-footed boobies; and snorkel with penguins, sea lions, and sea turtles in one of the most fascinating and fragile environments in the world. Return to Quito for the final night, and share your On Assignment project with the group before flying home.

Dates & t u iti o n 2016 DATES: JUNE 26—JULY 13, JULY 2—19, JULY 19—AUGUST 5 TUITION: $7,390 Airfare is not included. We have arranged group flights from Miami to Quito, Quito to the Galápagos, the Galápagos to Quito, and return to Miami. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay in rustic cabanas in Mindo, a hacienda in the paramo, and family-run inns and small hotels in Quito and the Galápagos Islands. NOTE: We will be traveling at high elevations while in Quito and the Paramo. Quito is located at an altitude of 9,350 feet, and our hacienda in the paramo is at 11,800 feet. Participants should be physically fit.

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snorkeling with sea lions—I felt like I was on top of the world, and I will carry these experiences with me for the rest of my life. —Michael D.

”

ecuador and the galÁpagos, 2015

MEET YOUR EXPERT maria fadiman Emerging Explorer and ethnobotanist Maria Fadiman combines her interests in biology and indigenous cultures to better understand the relationship between people and plants. Maria has conducted research throughout the world from Zimbabwe to Tibet, often focused on the rain forests of Latin America. She has worked in Ecuador for the past 25 years exploring a variety of issues including oil exploration in the Amazon and organic coffee production in the Galápagos Islands. Maria will join the July 19 departure in Mindo and Cotopaxi. Ecologist Greg Goldsmith will join the June 26 and July 2 trips. See his bio on page 9.

Expedition 23

EXPEDITION

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

ECUADOR AND THE GALÁPAGOS

Biodiversity hotspot

Mist-shrouded cloud forests, rolling

DAYS 3–6 MINDO AND THE CLOUD FOREST

I T I N E R A RY–1 8 DAYS

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

PHOTOGRAPHY

WILDLIFE & Biodiversity

22 E x p e d i t i o n

From riding horseback “across the highlands to

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snorkeling with sea lions—I felt like I was on top of the world, and I will carry these experiences with me for the rest of my life. —Michael D.

”

ecuador and the galÁpagos, 2015

Expedition 23

EXPEDITION Iguazú

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Argentina and Chile

Patagonia to Iguazú

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

A rgentina and Chile stretch along the tail

Create a photo-essay depicting the varied landscapes of Argentina and Chile—from the colorful streets of Buenos Aires to the dramatic glacier-carved peaks of Patagonia. Practice photographing wildlife while exploring lush rain forests and far-reaching wetlands, and try out new camera angles to convey the sheer magnitude of Iguazú Falls. Immerse yourself in local cultures to capture portraits of tango dancers, gauchos, and indigenous Guaraní people.

of the South American continent, spanning an array of spectacular landscapes—from glacier-glazed volcanoes to lush rain forests teeming with wildlife. Stroll the streets of bustling Buenos Aires, and then set off on foot, kayak, and horseback to explore three distinct ecosystems: the peaks and lakes of Patagonia, Iguazú’s rain forests, and the vast wetlands of the Esteros del Iberá. Work with local organizations on preserving these natural wonders, and examine conservation challenges in an On Assignment project of your choice— Photography or Wildlife & Biodiversity.

I T I N E R A RY–1 9 DAYS

PHOTOGRAPHY

wildlife & biodiversity

Explore how conservation groups are working to protect the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Argentina and Chile. Meet with workers at Argentina’s national parks headquarters, then help support their conservation efforts during a visit to the reserve at Iguazú Falls. Watch for endangered and threatened species on hikes through Patagonia, and record information about their habitats. Interview people living in protected areas about the challenges they face from developers.

24 E x p e d i t i o n

days 1–3 Buenos Aires, Argentina Our expedition kicks off in vibrant Buenos Aires. Set out with your On Assignment team and get to know the city’s historic neighborhoods. Take in La Boca’s funky multi-colored buildings and the elegant architecture of the Recoleta. Frame action shots of tango dancers performing in the Plaza Dorrego, and then join a milonga—a traditional Argentine dance social—at a youth dance hall, where a live orchestra marks the beat. Visit the headquarters of Argentina’s Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

Esteros de Ibera

Photograph tango dancers in the lively streets of Buenos Aires. Explore Patagonia’s towering peaks and glacial lakes by foot, kayak, or snowshoe, and work alongside local conservationists. Ride horseback through the wetlands of Esteros del Iberá alongside local gauchos. Witness the massive cascades of Iguazú Falls.

national park service and learn about the country’s conservation challenges. days 4–10 Argentine and Chilean Patagonia Fly to Bariloche, our jumping-off point for exploring Patagonia. The town sits on the shores of Lago Nahuel Huapí, a sapphire lake edged by snow-dusted Andean peaks. Delve into this wilderness on hikes through the surrounding forests and meadows, taking photos of area wildlife along the way. Hear about local efforts to conserve the region’s threatened and endangered species, including the South Andean deer, the huemul, and the Andean condor, then incorporate what you’ve learned into your On Assignment project. Then ride a gondola to the top of Cerro Centenario and shoot panoramas of the sparkling glacial lakes and towering Andean summits that stretch out before you.

ARGENTINA CHILE

Buenos Aires

Puerto Varas Bariloche

Atlantic Ocean 0

275

MILES

Patagonia’s beauty is “breathtaking, inspiring,

Board a ferry and cross into Chilean Patagonia, sailing through majestic freshwater fjords and disembarking in the lakeside town of Petrohue. During our time in the region, we’ll stay in a mountain refuge on the slopes of the mighty Osorno Volcano, overlooking Lago Llanquihue—Chile’s largest lake. If snow prevails, ski or snowshoe on the surrounding slopes, or, on mild days, kayak on Llanquihue’s sparkling waters. Explore the thick forests and glacial lakes of the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, and ride on horseback across volcanic landscapes. Transfer to nearby Puerto Varas, where we’ll meet with members of a local conservation group working to preserve the surrounding wilderness and support local communities through the creation of national parks. days 11–12 Iguazú, Argentina Travel northeast into the heart of Argentina’s lush rain forest, a protected jungle reserve. Get involved with local conservation projects geared toward preserving the rain forest’s biodiversity and the culture of its indigenous Guaraní people. Then spend a day amid the thundering cascades of Iguazú Falls, learning about the conservation challenges facing this popular site or trying out various camera angles to convey the majesty of this dramatic natural wonder. days 13–16 Esteros del Iberá Head southwest to the vast wetlands of the

Esteros del Iberá, a nature reserve that is home to myriad wildlife, and settle into our private estancia. Set out to discover the diverse ecology of the region, exploring its lakes and lagoons by kayak and boat and disembarking to traverse the nature trails that run atop floating islands of thick vegetation. Learn about the area wildlife, collecting data alongside researchers or photographing native species such as alligators, deer, foxes, and an array of birds. Meet with gauchos living in these remote wetlands and learn how they maintain vital connections to the surrounding environment. days 17–19 Buenos Aires Return to Buenos Aires to wrap up your On Assignment projects and share them with the group. Enjoy a traditional Argentinean asado dinner on your final night before flying home.

Dates & t u iti o n 2016 DATES: JUNE 26—JULY 14, JULY 17—AUGUST 4 TUITION: $6,990 Airfare is not included. We have arranged group flights from Miami to Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires to Bariloche, Bariloche to Iguazú, and return from Buenos Aires to Miami. Refer to page 70 for transportation details.

and wild. Native wildlife like the majestic Condor, Guanacos, Huemul deer, and fox give the region a unique identity. —Tommy Heinrich

”

NATIONAL Geographic Expert

MEET YOUR EXPERT Tommy Heinrich Photographer and climber Tommy Heinrich was born and raised in Buenos Aires. He has traveled the world, combining his passions for photography and climbing the highest and most remote mountains. He has completed several solo and first ascents of some of the world’s highest peaks, and in 1995 he became the first person from Argentina to reach the summit of Mount Everest. His photographs have been published in magazines throughout the United States, Argentina, and Europe. Tommy will join both departures in Patagonia.

ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay in small, family-run inns, estancias, and hostels throughout the expedition.

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Expedition 25

EXPEDITION Iguazú

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Argentina and Chile

Patagonia to Iguazú

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

A rgentina and Chile stretch along the tail

I T I N E R A RY–1 9 DAYS

PHOTOGRAPHY

wildlife & biodiversity

24 E x p e d i t i o n

Esteros de Ibera

ARGENTINA CHILE

Buenos Aires

Puerto Varas Bariloche

Atlantic Ocean 0

275

MILES

Patagonia’s beauty is “breathtaking, inspiring,

and wild. Native wildlife like the majestic Condor, Guanacos, Huemul deer, and fox give the region a unique identity. —Tommy Heinrich

”

NATIONAL Geographic Expert

ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay in small, family-run inns, estancias, and hostels throughout the expedition.

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

Expedition 25

EXPEDITION

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

peru

mysteries of the inca empire

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

PHOTOGRAPHY Create a series of photo-essays that captures the spirit of Peru. Set out with your team to photograph campesinos in traditional garb, old stone villages, bustling markets, and jagged peaks. Get a new angle on Machu Picchu, one of the most photographed sites in the world.

ARCHAEOLOGY & ANCIENT CULTURE

Examine Inca culture—past and present. Learn about the iconic boulder masonry of the Inca and the preservation of ancient ruins. Meet indigenous people and discuss how their age-old customs and beliefs are adapting to modern times. Reconstruct Machu Picchu during its heyday through writings or sketches.

Welcome to the land of the Inca—a

complex civilization that has fascinated explorers for centuries. In the heart of the ancient Inca Empire, discover the archaeological mysteries and indigenous culture of the Peruvian highlands. Venture into a network of incredibly sophisticated temples and fortresses, including magnificent Machu Picchu. Explore the ancient past and vibrant contemporary culture of Peru through an On Assignment project of your choice—Photography or Archaeology & Ancient Culture.

With its cobblestoned lanes and sophisticated system of working aqueducts, Ollantaytambo is the best existing example of Inca city planning. Follow old Inca trails to forgotten ruins and isolated stone villages where families live as they have for centuries. Hike through a beautiful mountain pass for breathtaking views of the valley. Go white-water rafting on the Urubamba River, and explore important archaeological sites such as the Ollantaytambo fortress. Spend an afternoon at Moray, the site of Incan agricultural terraces, and nearby Maras, home to the famed salt-evaporation ponds created by the Inca. In vibrant street markets, discover indigenous foods and colorful textiles.

I T I N E R A RY–2 0 DAYS days 1–2 Lima Our expedition kicks off in the vibrant city of Lima. Explore the beautiful coast, parks, and colonial buildings. Visit the world-famous archaeological museum, Museo Larco, home to a vast collection of pre-Colombian artifacts. Enjoy a meal of ceviche and other local specialties, and then dive into your On Assignment project. days 3–7 The Sacred Valley and Ollantaytambo Travel to the Sacred Valley of the Inca and settle in at Ollantaytambo, a lively village that has been occupied continuously for more than 500 years.

26 E x p e d i t i o n

Explore Inca fortresses and the incomparable Machu Picchu. Go white-water rafting through the Sacred Valley of the Inca. Learn the ancient practice of Peruvian weaving. Hike to remote Andean villages. Volunteer at a local orphanage or school.

Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

While in Peru, I “ became more grateful

Picchu was rediscovered in 1911 by explorer Hiram Bingham and was excavated by a team of archaeologists funded by National Geographic. Venture through the ancient temples and dwellings to unlock their mysteries. Take an early morning hike up a nearby peak and photograph the sunrise over the ruins. Then travel back to Ollantaytambo by train and enjoy a final evening of good food and stories with our village friends. DAYS 11–14 Urubamba Settle into the town of Urubamba, perched at the foot of snowcapped Ch’iqun Mountain in the Sacred Valley. Spend a day working on community service projects at a local orphanage and school. Paint a mural, teach English to students, or organize after-school activities for the schoolchildren. Then travel to a nearby village and experience rural Andean life while working alongside local farmers. Tend to their alpaca, help milk cows, and harvest produce. In the afternoons and evenings, spend time developing your On Assignment project, sample the regional cuisine, or play a game of futbol. DAYS 15–20 Cusco and Chinchero

days 8–10 machu picchu Enjoy a scenic drive to Aguas Calientes— our jumping-off point for exploring Machu Picchu—stopping for short hikes along the way. Abandoned by the Inca for centuries, Machu

End your expedition with a stay in the ancient imperial city of Cusco, known to the Inca as the “navel of the Earth.” Discover the city’s rich history as we visit Coricancha, the once-golden temple at the heart of the Inca Empire. Step into a colonial cathedral built with stones from the original Inca walls. Stroll through the city’s

winding streets and discover relics of an empire long gone but not forgotten. Then explore the colossal fortress of Sacsayhuaman, site of one of the bloodiest battles in the Spanish colonial conquest. From your base in Cusco, take a day trip to nearby Pisac, known for its archaeological ruins and colorful market. Spend a day in the village of Chinchero, located an hour from Cusco. Visit National Geographic grantee Nilda Callañaupa’s textile center, and try your hand at the age-old art of Andean weaving, a tradition that continues today thanks to Nilda’s efforts. Put the finishing touches on your On Assignment project, then share your work with the group during a final celebratory dinner before returning home.

Dates & t u iti o n 2016 DATE: JUNE 27—JULY 16 TUITION: $6,190 Airfare is not included. We have arranged group flights from Miami to Lima, Lima to Cusco, Cusco to Lima, and Lima to Miami. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay in small, family-run inns and hostels throughout the expedition. NOTE: We will be traveling at high elevations while in Cusco and Machu Picchu. Cusco is at an altitude of 11,200 feet, and Machu Picchu, 8,000 feet. Participants should be physically fit.

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and independent, gained perspective on my own life, and even realized what I want to study in college! —Sarah K. Peru, 2015

MEET YOUR EXPERT Holly Wissler Ethnomusicologist Holly Wissler specializes in the musical rituals of Peru’s Q’eros and Wachiperi indigenous groups. Based in Cusco, she works with these indigenous communities to preserve their culture and traditions. Holly has produced documentaries about the largest pilgrimage festival in the Peruvian Andes and about the Q’eros’ musical rituals. She is fluent in Spanish and Quechua—the main indigenous language spoken in the Andes—as well as Peruvian Sign Language. The Peru director for the Center for World Music, she also plays a number of traditional Andean instruments. Holly will join the group in Ollantaytambo.

Expedition 27

”

EXPEDITION

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

peru

mysteries of the inca empire

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

ARCHAEOLOGY & ANCIENT CULTURE

Welcome to the land of the Inca—a

26 E x p e d i t i o n

Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

While in Peru, I “ became more grateful

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and independent, gained perspective on my own life, and even realized what I want to study in college! —Sarah K. Peru, 2015

Expedition 27

”

EXPEDITION

Arctic Ocean

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

iceland

Trek across glaciers and lava fields, explore ice caves, and hike to thundering waterfalls and geysers. Cruise through a glacial lagoon and swim in natural hot springs. Discuss climate change and biodiversity with Icelandic scientists. Explore black-sand beaches and ride Icelandic horses.

land of fire and ice

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

PHOTOGRAPHY Capture images of gushing waterfalls, steaming fumaroles, and glaciers that stretch for miles, and develop a photoessay on Iceland’s fascinating geology. Tell the story of Icelandic culture through portraits of fishermen, scientists, and our friendly local cook. Hone your skills as you photograph Icelandic horses and puffins.

cLIMATE & GEOLOGY

Delve into the science of global climate change and thermodynamic energy. Initiate a GPS project to measure and map the recession of glacial tongues. Build a model glacier, or measure your group’s carbon footprint. Trek up a glacier with a professional guide to learn about glacial dynamics and morphology.

Film & Video

Document your journey as part of a digital video-production team. Film receding glaciers, erupting geysers, and hissing volcanic steam vents. Interview local experts on the effect of climate change in this region, or film a day in the life of an Icelandic teenager. Use mobile-editing technology to produce a short film.

28 E x p e d i t i o n

Iceland is a nation of dramatic extremes,

where geysers and steaming lava flows coexist with powerful waterfalls and vast calving glaciers. Located at the edge of the Arctic Circle, much of the island remains under ice, yet it is also one of the most volcanically active countries on the planet. Take advantage of long days and bright nights to explore the unforgettable natural wonders of this otherworldly landscape. Choose your On Assignment project— Photography, Climate & Geology, or Film & Video—and set out to discover one of the most dynamic physical environments on Earth.

I T I N E R A RY–1 5 DAYS days 1–4 REYKJAVÍK AND THE GOLDEN CIRCLE The expedition begins with a swim in Iceland’s famous geothermal pool, the Blue Lagoon, followed by an orientation in Reykjavík, Europe’s northernmost capital. Get essential background on the geology of this subarctic island nation, and learn the basics of climate change. Hike to the top of a nearby volcano and learn about Viking heritage at some of Reykjavík’s cutting-edge historical museums. Head out Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

to the Golden Circle and discover Gullfoss, a thundering waterfall that appears to vanish into the earth. Then continue to Geysir—the earliest geyser known to Europeans—where boiling water can rocket up to 210 feet in the air. Follow a guide through an ultramodern geothermal plant that provides much of Reykjavík’s energy. Iceland is at the forefront of the sustainable power movement, with 70 percent of its energy renewable and much of that derived from its prodigious geothermal sources. Explore ancient lava flows to learn how volcanism continues to shape Iceland’s dynamic landscape. Hike along the shores of Thingvallavatn, the country’s largest lake, and learn about the geological forces that created the islands and canyons around this body of water. Summer days are very long this far north, and much can be seen and done in a single day.

Jökulsárgljúfur National Park

Akureyri

ICELAND

Lake Mývatn

Vatnajökull Glacier

Reykjavík

Thingvallavatn Lake 100

Höfn

Atlantic Ocean

MILES

Walking on glaciers and “ floating through lagoons was

days 5–10 HÖFN AND THE VATNAJŐKULL GLACIER Next, journey east to Höfn, a remote gateway to the mighty Vatnajökull Glacier, the world’s largest ice cap outside of the Arctic and Antarctica. Cruise through a glacial lagoon between fantastically shaped icebergs. Participate in dynamic field-based seminars with experts on glaciology and climate change. Camp on a vast glacial moraine in the heart of Skaftafell National Park. Don crampons and ice axes to trek over the massive ice cap with certified local guides. Ride Icelandic horses; photograph unique rock formations along black-sand beaches; or visit the remote original landing place of the Vikings, a peninsula of rugged cliffs dotted with puffins. Investigate changes in the composition of fish stocks and seabird populations caused by warming waters. Explore Iceland’s southern coast and remote glacial valleys with your On Assignment team, and report your findings back to the group.

DAYS 11–15 LAKE MÝVATN AND THE NORTHERN COAST Iceland straddles the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates diverge. This unique position makes it one of the most volcanically active countries in the world. Head north across the uninhabited interior to the wild volcanic area around Lake Mývatn. Explore bubbling mud pots, hissing steam vents,

and the craters of dormant volcanoes. Hike on congealed lava flows from a series of massive eruptions that occurred in the late 1970s. Visit magnificent Dettifoss, Europe’s most powerful waterfall, where gray glacial meltwater from Iceland’s interior blasts through a spectacular basalt canyon. Bathe in the blue mineral waters of a natural thermal pool surrounded by black lava beds, and visit Akureyri, a thriving modern city on the Arctic Ocean. Hike to roaring glacial waterfalls, wander through a 3,500-year-old ice cave, interview local researchers, and enjoy your final days together as you put the finishing touches on your On Assignment projects. Then, return to Reykjavík to present your work before flying home.

Dates & t u iti o n 2016 DATES: JUNE 26—JULY 10, JULY 11—25, JULY 13—27 TUITION: $7,390 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a round-trip group flight between New York and Reykjavík. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay in small hostels and cabins, and spend several nights camping in tents. NOTE: This expedition includes several active excursions such as hiking and glacier trekking. Students should be physically fit and enthusiastic about outdoor exploration.

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amazing. I was also collecting data for my On Assignment project, which gave me focus, and helped me remember and value my trip. —Alan L.

”

Iceland, 2015

MEET YOUR EXPERT ford cochran A geologist, writer, and educator, Ford descended into ice caves and an active volcano on his first visit to Iceland while on assignment for National Geographic Television. Ford was principal contributing writer for the Society’s Historical Atlas of the United States and has written for National Geographic magazine. He helped launch nationalgeographic.com in 1996 and served as an editorial director and daily blogger for the website. Ford will join the July 11 departure in Reykjavík, and the July 13 departure in Höfn.

Expedition 29

EXPEDITION

Arctic Ocean

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

iceland

land of fire and ice

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

cLIMATE & GEOLOGY

Film & Video

28 E x p e d i t i o n

Iceland is a nation of dramatic extremes,

Jökulsárgljúfur National Park

Akureyri

ICELAND

Lake Mývatn

Vatnajökull Glacier

Reykjavík

Thingvallavatn Lake 100

Höfn

Atlantic Ocean

MILES

Walking on glaciers and “ floating through lagoons was

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amazing. I was also collecting data for my On Assignment project, which gave me focus, and helped me remember and value my trip. —Alan L.

”

Iceland, 2015

Expedition 29

EXPEDITION

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

switzerland AND FRANCE

alpine adventure

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

PHOTOGRAPHY Capture the thrill of adventure in the Swiss and French Alps with the skyscraping peaks of the Jungfrau, the Matterhorn, and Mont Blanc as your backdrop. Work on panning as your friends swing by on zip lines, and learn what makes a great landscape shot more than just a pretty view. Investigate depth of field as you frame Alpine flora and fauna, and practice adventure photography techniques that catch the spirit of mountain sports in motion.

Out of lush green valleys, the Alps

burst into the sky in jagged sculptures of rock and ice. The highest mountains in Western Europe, these glittering peaks are the birthplace of modern trekking. Their highest summit, Mont Blanc, was first conquered in 1786 by two natives of nearby Chamonix who were equipped with little more than ropes and iron-tipped walking sticks. These days, there are myriad ways to explore the Alps: by zip line or mountain bike, rock climbing or canyoneering. Using photography and filmmaking to document your adventure, set off on an Alpine journey from the foot of the Jungfrau to the crooked peak of the Matterhorn.

FILM & video

Delve into the exhilarating art of creating adventure film. Grab your camera equipment or strap on a GoPro and record footage as you climb, hike, mountain bike, and trek across glaciers. Interview fellow students or local mountaineers about their experiences in the mountains. Film the snowy peaks from a soaring cable car or a historic cogwheel train. Working with your peers, use mobile editing technology to produce short films.

30 E x p e d i t i o n

I T I N E R A RY–1 5 DAYS days 1–5 grindelwald, SWITZERLAND Fly into Zürich and take a scenic ride to Grindelwald, perched above two lakes at the foot of the soaring Bernese Alps. With the famous trio of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains jutting skyward above the town, Grindelwald is an ideal jumping-off point for our Alpine adventures. Take the historic cogwheel train to Schynige Platte and head off on a variety of hikes, photographing and Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

Try your hand at canyoneering in dramatic Alpine gorges. Soar up the slopes in Europe’s highest cable car. Go glacier-trekking, hiking, and zip-lining. Learn adventure photography and filmmaking skills as you explore.

filming the amphitheater of ice-glazed peaks that surrounds you. Examine the unusual plant species that thrive above the tree line on a visit to the Alpine Garden with local botanists. Trek to Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps, and see ice sculptures at the magical Ice Palace along the way. Join experienced guides to try out canyoneering, an exhilarating experience that combines rappelling, climbing, and watersliding through deep gorges. Hone your action photography skills or capture the sense of adventure on film while hiking through narrow ravines.

FRANCE

Lake Zürich

Zürich

SWITZERLAND Interlaken

Lake Geneva

Grindelwald

Geneva Chamonix

Zermatt

MILES

part of “theMytripfavorite was reaching

days 6–9 ZERMATT Travel south across high mountain passes to the charming Alpine village of Zermatt, gateway to the mighty Matterhorn. Take the highest cable car in Europe to Klein Matterhorn, photographing or filming nearly 360-degree views of glaciers and peaks from midair. Spend a day mountain biking through pine forests with the magnificent mountains as your backdrop, or go zip-lining with professional outfitters. Trace the history of mountaineering at the Matterhorn Museum and discover tales of the daredevils and pioneers who have tackled the Alps’ highest summits. Learn the art of exposure and shutter speed with the gorgeous Alps as your backdrop. DAYS 10–15 CHAMONIX, FRANCE Just over the border in France lies Chamonix, a renowned mountain resort that hosted the first Winter Olympics in 1924. On the near horizon looms Mont Blanc, the so-called “roof of Europe,” measuring 15,782 feet. Settle into the village and take to the trails, trekking to Alpine lakes and meadows scattered with wildflowers and ringing with cowbells. Ride the funicular to the Col de Balme and hike up to the Croix-de-Fer pass for incredible views and a chance to slide on the snow. Enjoy a picnic lunch beneath the sharp pinnacles of the Aiguille du Midi mountain, first climbed in 1818. Strap on crampons and grab an ice axe for

a walk on the spectacular glacier known as the Mer de Glace, and then try ice climbing with the help of professional guides. Go ice skating at the village rink or spend a sunny afternoon with local teenagers at the Olympic swimming pool. As we explore, interview and photograph seasoned mountaineers drawn to the area by the challenges of its imposing peaks. Put the final touches on your On Assignment project, then enjoy a celebratory fondue dinner and share your final presentation with your group before returning home.

Dates & t u iti o n 2016 DATES: JULY 1—15, JULY 16—30 TUITION: $7,390 Airfare is not included. We have arranged group flights from New York to Zürich, and return from Geneva. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: We stay in small mountain hostels and huts throughout the program. NOTE: This expedition includes several full-day hikes in the Alps. To get the most out of the program, participants should be physically fit and enthusiastic about wilderness hiking.

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the ridgeline of the Matterhorn . You couldn’t help but appreciate the world from that breathtaking viewpoint. —Claire M.

”

Switzerland & France, 2015

MEET YOUR EXPERT robbie shoNe Adventurer and visual storyteller Robbie Shone has captured stunning images of some of the deepest, largest, and longest cave systems known. His work for National Geographic has taken him to remote areas of Vietnam, Papua New Guinea, and Uzbekistan, and his work has been published in National Geographic magazine. When not on assignment, Robbie can be found chasing adventures at home in the heart of the Alps, or photographing rock climbers on via ferrata, tobogganing competitions, and cultural events. Robbie will join the July 1 departure in Chamonix and the July 16 departure in Grindelwald.

Expedition 31

EXPEDITION

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

switzerland AND FRANCE

alpine adventure

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

Out of lush green valleys, the Alps

FILM & video

30 E x p e d i t i o n

FRANCE

Lake Zürich

Zürich

SWITZERLAND Interlaken

Lake Geneva

Grindelwald

Geneva Chamonix

Zermatt

MILES

part of “theMytripfavorite was reaching

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the ridgeline of the Matterhorn . You couldn’t help but appreciate the world from that breathtaking viewpoint. —Claire M.

”

Switzerland & France, 2015

Expedition 31

EXPEDITION 0

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Italy AND Greece

empires of the mediterranean

200

MILES

Photograph the Colosseum of Rome at sunset. Swim in the crystal clear waters off Greece’s Náfplio beach. Examine Michelangelo’s masterful Sistine Chapel. Hike up to a remote monastery on the island of Hydra.

Rome Isola di Capri

Pompeii Salerno

GREECE

ITALY

Delphi

Ionian Sea

Athens

Náfplio Ídra (Hydra)

I really liked working “ with our expert, Massimo.

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

PHOTOGRAPHY Document your adventure on photography assignments in the field. Evoke the classical past by shooting tumbled columns in the Roman Forum or the rugged landscape of Delphi. Take to the street to capture the flavors of contemporary life and the relics of an ancient world.

archaeology & ancient culture Step back in time to investigate the rich civilizations of the ancient Greeks and Romans. Study legends of gods and goddesses, and explore the ruins of temples built in their honor. Sketch the Parthenon or the Colosseum as they might have appeared thousands of years ago, and delve into the fascinating history of Pompeii.

creative writing

Approach the ancient world from a writer’s perspective, and develop your storytelling skills through a series of writing workshops in the field. Craft a biographical portrait of a local character, pen a narrative about exploring Capri, or write a story on the excavation of Pompeii.

32 E x p e d i t i o n

More than 2,000 years ago, the ancient

Greeks laid the foundations for Western civilization: democracy, philosophy, history, mathematics, science, medicine, art, and architecture. Close on their heels, the Romans established the ancient world’s greatest empire, stretching far beyond the Mediterranean and building on the classical traditions of the Greeks. Against a backdrop of magnificent temples and rich mythology, explore stunning islands by boat and on foot, visit archaeological sites, learn the rhythms of modern life, and experience the living legacy of the Greek and Roman Empires.

I T I N E R A RY–17 DAYS days 1–5 rome, italy Begin in magical, timeless Rome. Set out with your On Assignment team to discover the many wonders of this great city. Walk through the Roman Forum, where Julius Caesar was assassinated by conspirators. Imagine crowds cheering on the gladiators in the grand Colosseum and the chariot races in the Circus Maximus. Take in some of the world’s greatest classical sculpture at the Vatican museums and the Villa Borghese.

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Examine Michelangelo’s masterpiece: the frescoed ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Explore the streets and alleyways of this vibrant city with your team, finding hidden parks and ruins. Peer into the gaping Bocca della Verità, a sculpted mouth reputed to bite off the hand of anyone who doesn’t tell the truth. Interact with street performers and local shopkeepers, sample delicious gelato near the Spanish Steps, and take in the contemporary music scene in one of Rome’s many historic piazzas.

days 6–8 pompeii, capri, and salerno Head south to Pompeii and Herculaneum, cities that were blanketed by thick layers of scorching ash and volcanic mud when Mount Vesuvius erupted in A.D. 79. Step into the past in palaces still adorned with original frescoes, and see the haunting figures of townspeople frozen in time. From our base in the small city of Salerno, travel by hydrofoil to Capri. Explore the island’s Roman palaces and extraordinary scenery, and take a refreshing swim from the rocky shoreline.

DAYS 9–10 delphi, greece Return to Rome, fly to Athens, Greece, and continue to Delphi, perched on the shoulder of Mount Parnassus. Settle into this tiny, picturesque village, just a short walk from the Temple of Apollo. Wander through the wellpreserved ruins of theatres, treasuries, altars, and stadiums while taking in amazing views of the mountains and the turquoise sea. Through photography or writing, tell the stories of the stone statues that immortalize the history and mythos of ancient athletes.

DAYS 11–12 athens Return to Athens and spend two days exploring the Acropolis and Parthenon, the ancient Agora, and the National Archaeological Museum. Visit iconic works of art at the National Gallery and learn the stories of their excavation. Experience

the modern city’s bustling street life, markets, and cuisine. Capture the intersection of ancient and modern life with your pen and camera.

DAYS 13–17 nÁfplio Náfplio, our base for the next five days, is set on the eastern coast of the Peloponnese in the shadow of a cliff-top castle. The town’s pedestrian streets wind down the hillside to a tiny beach. During our time here, get to know the locals, join in a pickup game of soccer, attend a street fair, or stroll down to the beach for a swim in the crystal clear waters of the Gulf of Argos. On day trips, discover the legendary home of Agamemnon at Mycenae; view one of the world’s best preserved Greek theaters at Epidaurus; and hike the slopes of Hydra, a starkly beautiful island where cars are forbidden. In Náfplio’s idyllic setting, we present our On Assignment projects to the group. Return to Athens for our flight home.

Dates & t u iti o n 2016 DATES: JUNE 28—JULY 14, JULY 19—AUGUST 4 TUITION: $7,390 Airfare is not included. We have arranged group flights from New York to Rome, Rome to Athens, and return from Athens. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: Throughout Italy and Greece we stay in small family-run hotels.

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I learned so much about photography, traveling, and myself during this trip. —Isabel A.

”

Italy & Greece, 2015

MEET YOUR EXPERT massimo bassano Massimo Bassano’s work has been published in National Geographic Traveler and on nationalgeographic.com. He has developed quite a following teaching National Geographic photography workshops and leading expeditions around the world. His September 2011 story in National Geographic Traveler, “Italy’s Forgotten Towns,” led him to travel thousands of miles through the southern Italian countryside. Most recently, Massimo traveled to Mozambique to photograph a story for the July/August 2015 issue of National Geographic Traveler. Massimo will join both departures in Italy.

Expedition 33

EXPEDITION 0

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Italy AND Greece

empires of the mediterranean

200

MILES

Rome Isola di Capri

Pompeii Salerno

GREECE

ITALY

Delphi

Ionian Sea

Athens

Náfplio Ídra (Hydra)

I really liked working “ with our expert, Massimo.

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

creative writing

32 E x p e d i t i o n

More than 2,000 years ago, the ancient

Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

the modern city’s bustling street life, markets, and cuisine. Capture the intersection of ancient and modern life with your pen and camera.

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

I learned so much about photography, traveling, and myself during this trip. —Isabel A.

”

Italy & Greece, 2015

Expedition 33

EXPEDITION

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

ireland

discovering the Emerald Isle

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

PHOTOGRAPHY Tell stories of the people and places you encounter on the Emerald Isle through photographic field assignments. Bring Irish landscapes to life as you train your camera lens on towering cliffs and crashing waves along the western coast. Take portraits of sheep farmers on Inishmore and street musicians on High Street in Galway. Master depth of field and framing as you document a day in the life of a Dubliner, or explore the intersection of the past and the present in a photo essay about a fishing family in Howth.

creative writing

Tap into Ireland’s storytelling legacy during field-based writing workshops. Review a restaurant serving twists on traditional Irish dishes or let your imagination fly in a story about fictional residents living behind one of Dublin’s famous painted doors. Visiting the ruins of Clonmacnoise, an early Christian monastic site, envision the lives of the monks who lived there and draft a piece of historical fiction. Capture telling details in a travel narrative about your time in Galway, or set a poem in the Aran Islands’ rocky landscape.

34 E x p e d i t i o n

Ireland’s rolling green hills and cliff-lined

coasts have long inspired storytellers. From the cobblestoned streets of Dublin to the lunar-like landscapes of the Aran Islands, delve into Ireland’s storied past, where Celtic myths meet a tumultuous history of invasion and revolution. Explore the Irish penchant for storytelling and the lively musical traditions of Galway and the western coast. Document the mystical beauty of the Emerald Isle with your pen or camera lens through your On Assignment project—either Creative Writing or Photography.

I T I N E R A RY–14 DAYS days 1–6 dublin On the streets of Dublin, revolutionaries once rose up to end 500 years of British rule, and impassioned writers penned works that would become classics. The city that once saw so much strife is now a spirited hub of Irish culture, increasingly infused with an international vibe. Grab your notebook or your camera and head out to capture the pulse of Dublin. Photograph buskers strumming on Grafton Street and stroll in the footsteps of Oscar Wilde, Bram Stoker, and W. B. Yeats, all of whom lived on beautiful Merrion Square. Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

Photograph Ireland’s renowned musicians in Dublin and Galway. Hike the Wicklow Mountains and visit fishing villages on the Irish Sea. Go on photo and writing assignments on the magical Aran Islands. Visit the stomping grounds of literary greats like James Joyce, W. B. Yeats, and Oscar Wilde.

Take in the sights and sounds of the city as you bike along neighborhood lanes and historic canals. Visit Dublin City Gallery The Hugh Lane or the Dublin Writers Museum and take in a show at the Abbey Theatre, founded by Yeats and Lady Gregory in 1904. Kick up your heels at a traditional Irish step-dancing class. Take portraits of locals with Dublin Castle as your backdrop or interview shopkeepers along O’Connell Street. Walk the cobbled lanes of Temple Bar, relax on the green at Trinity College, and explore the revived Docklands neighborhood along the River Liffey. For a change of pace, take a day trip to the misty, emerald green hills of County Wicklow, or catch a train to the beaches and charming fishing villages that speckle the coast outside Dublin.

IRELAND Galway

Dublin

Aran Islands

Celtic Sea 0

MILES

Seeing the world “ through the lens of a

days 7–10 galway Travel west from Dublin, taking in the boglands and rolling green hills, and stopping to photograph glassy lakes and fluffy sheep along the way. Artsy, seaside Galway—sometimes called Ireland’s most Irish city—is our base on the dramatic west coast. From here, explore the Gaeltacht, where Ireland’s traditional ways of life hold strong and Irish (Gaelic) is still the language of the land. Together with your peers, transform your exploration of this city into poetry and prose, or hone your photography skills as you capture the beautiful and complex spirit of Galway and its people. Listen to live Irish music, replete with the traditional sounds of fiddles and spoons, draft a series of profiles on local shopkeepers, or photograph everyday life on the streets of Galway and the quays along the River Corrib. Take in the films, art exhibits, live music, and theater of the Galway International Arts Festival. Venture into the nearby countryside to explore village life. Visit family-run dairies and sheep farms, chat with locals over a traditional Irish breakfast, and wander past thatched-roof homes lining cobbled streets. DAYS 11–14 The Aran Islands

limestone. Walk atop craggy cliffs overlooking the North Atlantic and visit the ruins of ancient fortresses, castles, and churches to capture a sense of place in your writing or photography. Talk to local shopkeepers, farmers, fishermen, and innkeepers about their daily lives and let the mystical atmosphere of the islands fuel your imagination as we work to put the finishing touches on our projects. Return to Dublin for a student-organized public show of the photography, poetry, and prose created during the expedition. Celebrate your accomplishments with your group before flying home the following day.

Dates & t u iti o n 2016 DATE: JULY 11—24 TUITION: $5,590 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a round-trip group flight between New York and Dublin. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: In Dublin, we stay in dormitorystyle accommodations north of the River Liffey, a short walk from the bustle of the city’s center. During our time in the west, we stay in small, family-run hostels and university housing.

Hop a ferry for a three-day photo and writing assignment on the magical Aran Islands, where writers like J. M. Synge found inspiration among Celtic ruins and barren expanses of apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

camera or through ink on a page made me focus on the places I visited in a new way, and changed the way I travel.

”

—Julian S.

Ireland, 2015

MEET YOUR EXPERT andrew evans Writer and globetrotter Andrew Evans arguably has one of the coolest jobs out there: he’s an explorer wandering the globe in pursuit of authentic travel experiences, while using the Internet, digital mapping, and social media to make his experiences interactive. He has reported from glaciers, jungles, mountain summits, and a camel’s back; from all seven continents; and in more than 40 languages. A contributing editor for National Geographic Traveler, and host for the National Geographic Channel, he is the author of four books and the winner of numerous journalism awards. Andrew will join the group in Galway and the Aran Islands.

Expedition 35

EXPEDITION

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

ireland

discovering the Emerald Isle

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

creative writing

34 E x p e d i t i o n

Ireland’s rolling green hills and cliff-lined

IRELAND Galway

Dublin

Aran Islands

Celtic Sea 0

MILES

Seeing the world “ through the lens of a

camera or through ink on a page made me focus on the places I visited in a new way, and changed the way I travel.

”

—Julian S.

Ireland, 2015

Expedition 35

EXPEDITION

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

tanzania

PHOTOGRAPHY Document your exploration of Tanzania in photographs. Capture images of marketbound trucks heaped with bananas, Maasai children nestled up against their mothers’ backs, or a lioness tending her cubs. Teach photography skills to Tanzanian teens.

WILDLIFE & Biodiversity

Investigate local and national efforts to protect Tanzania’s incredible wildlife. Meet rangers in training at a wildlife management school. Track lions or elephants and learn to identify rare bird species. Talk with park officials about antipoaching laws and the balance between resource management and the economic needs of local communities.

36 E x p e d i t i o n

Tanzania is renowned for its incredible

wildlife, yet its diverse cultures and welcoming people are equally fascinating. Though the Maasai are perhaps the most widely recognized tribal group, Tanzania is home to more than 120 ethnicities. Immerse yourself in village life, and discover how tribal communities have interacted with their environment for centuries. From vibrant villages to open savanna plains, examine the challenges of preserving Tanzania’s prized wildlife and cultural traditions through an On Assignment project of your choice— Photography or Wildlife & Biodiversity.

I T I N E R A RY–2 0 DAYS days 1–9 Maji ya Chai VILLAGE, NORTHERN TANZANIA Settle into a small agricultural village nestled between Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru to get acquainted with Tanzania and our group. Spend the first couple of days working together with the villagers on a community service project, such as developing a waterdelivery system or helping with repairs to the local school. Learn firsthand about ujamaa, the Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

uniquely African concept of interdependent community developed by Tanzania’s first president, Julius Nyerere. Break into your On Assignment teams to plan projects and interact with community groups, artisans, and village youth. Visit young children in an orphanage, play sports with Tanzanian kids, or tutor English at the local school. Assist community leaders and educators with their programs promoting education, healthy nutrition, and HIV/AIDS awareness. Learn about music and dance from local youth, practice batik, and participate in lively discussions about environmental and social issues. Throughout the week, report on your experiences through photographs, writing, or video, and develop a narrative about your time in the village.

100

MILES

Go on safari and encounter elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and hippos. Experience life in a rural village in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro. Lend a hand on a National Geographic project to help build a boma fence. Hike on sacred lands with Maasai warriors.

wildlife Conservation and tribal life

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

Serengeti National Park Kilimanjaro Arusha Maji ya Chai Oldonyo Tarangire Sambu National Park Wilderness Area

Ngorongoro Crater Lake Manyara

TANZANIA

loved staying “withI really the Maasai people

days 10–17 WILDLIFE SAFARI AND MAASAI TRIBAL LANDS Our safari begins with a special invitation to spend two days on the Maasai Steppe at Noloholo, an environmental research station run by National Geographic Big Cats Initiative grantees Laly Lichtenfeld and Charles Trout. Discuss conservation efforts and land use issues with field biologists, and participate in the National Geographic–sponsored Build a Boma project, helping to construct a “living wall” of trees to keep predatory animals away from a Maasai community’s livestock. Dressed in brightly colored robes and adorned with intricate beaded jewelry, the Maasai welcome our group into their community. Meet schoolchildren who split their time between tending cattle and attending school. Witness drumming and jumping contests. Learn how these nomadic herders are adapting to the modern world. Move to the Oldonyo Sambu Wilderness Area outside of Tarangire National Park. Here, set up camp and spend the next two days on hikes with traditional Maasai warriors through their ancestral hunting grounds. Head to a site among the baobab trees deep in magnificent Tarangire National Park. On daily game drives, get up close to lions, zebras, cheetahs, elephants, Cape buffalo, baboons, and jackals in their natural habitat. With our professional guides, discuss natural selection, animal behavior, and the wildlife-management challenges facing the people of Tanzania.

Continue to Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best wildlifeviewing spots in the world. This volcanic caldera contains almost 30,000 animals at any given time. Spot lions, zebras, giraffes, wildebeests, and even black rhinoceroses from the safety of our safari jeep. Continue on to flamingo-fringed Lake Manyara National Park for more wildlife viewing.

and learning about their culture. They opened their doors to us, and shared their long, interesting history and traditions. -Alexis D.

”

Tanzania, 2015

DAYS 18–20 Arusha Spend your last few days at a communityrun eco-lodge in northern Tanzania. Learn a traditional dance, meet local artists, and visit a coffee farm. Share your On Assignment projects and enjoy a farewell celebration before flying home.

Dates & t u iti o n 2016 DATES: JUNE 28—JULY 17, JULY 17—AUGUST 5 TUITION: $8,190 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a round-trip group flight between New York and Arusha. Please refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: While in the village, we stay in dormitory-style housing with bunk beds. Boys and girls share a sleeping area and bathroom with other students of the same gender. We work in teams to help to prepare meals. In the Maasai tribal lands and on safari, we stay in tented camps.

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MEET YOUR EXPERT Laly Lichtenfeld National Geographic grantee and wildlife conservationist Laly Lichtenfeld is cofounder and executive director of the African People & Wildlife Fund. She has more than 20 years of experience in East Africa working with large carnivores, local communities, and community-based conservation programs. In partnership with National Geographic’s Big Cats Initiative, Laly launched the Build a Boma campaign, which has crowd-funded innovative solutions to protect African livestock and wildlife. Laly will join the June 28 trip during the safari.

Expedition 37

EXPEDITION

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

tanzania

WILDLIFE & Biodiversity

36 E x p e d i t i o n

Tanzania is renowned for its incredible

100

MILES

wildlife Conservation and tribal life

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

Serengeti National Park Kilimanjaro Arusha Maji ya Chai Oldonyo Tarangire Sambu National Park Wilderness Area

Ngorongoro Crater Lake Manyara

TANZANIA

loved staying “withI really the Maasai people

and learning about their culture. They opened their doors to us, and shared their long, interesting history and traditions. -Alexis D.

”

Tanzania, 2015

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

Expedition 37

EXPEDITION

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

NAMIBIA

WILDLIFE CONSERVATION and desert safari

Choose one of these On Assignment projects and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

The landscapes of Namibia are stunning,

Document your exploration of Namibia in a photography portfolio. Use time-lapse techniques to show the sun dipping behind the massive red dunes at Sossusvlei, zoom in on a sea of zebras visiting a watering hole, or take portraits of new friends while visiting a Bushman camp. Practice landscape shots on the desert’s dramatic scenery, and experiment with camera traps to capture images of elusive species interacting with their natural habitats.

stark, and populated by a wealth of desertadapted wildlife. The country is home to one of the best game parks in southern Africa—a popular destination for travelers—and preservation is a critical endeavor. Explore Namibia’s unique ecosystems, learning about local conservation efforts backed by National Geographic’s Big Cats Initiative, and incorporating what you learn into an On Assignment project in Photography or Wildlife & Biodiversity. Along the way, encounter spectacular wildlife on safari, spot whales on Walvis Bay, and climb the red dunes of the Namib Desert.

I T I N E R A RY–2 1 DAYS

PHOTOGRAPHY

wildlife & Biodiversity

Examine Namibia’s unique landscapes and the animal and plant species that have adapted to these fragile desert ecosystems. Join researchers at renowned conservation organizations, working with them to help save the country’s big cats, rhinos, and other threatened wildlife. Track leopards with a National Geographic grantee, discuss the plight of the cheetah with researchers at the Cheetah Conservation Fund, and investigate the future of endangered black rhinos.

38 E X P E D I T I O N

dayS 1–6 N/A’AN KU SÊ Get settled at the N/a’an Ku Sê Namib Carnivore Conservation Centre, where National Geographic researchers have developed an innovative approach to protecting predators while reducing attacks on local livestock. Learn about the use of GPS and Google Earth to track leopards and cheetahs, and head into the field with local researchers to participate in game counts, collartracking exercises, or to set up camera traps at watering holes. Snap close-up shots of the resident cheetahs and baboons and zoom out to Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

Etosha National Park

Etosha Pan

Track and monitor cheetahs, leopards, and rhinos with researchers. Photograph Sossusvlei’s otherworldly landscapes of red sand and skeletal trees. Lend a hand in an environmental education classroom for preschoolers. Sandboard down the dunes of the Namib Desert.

photograph large herds of zebras and springbok. Volunteer with an environmental education camp at a local preschool, and spend time with members of a San Bushman tribe to learn about daily life in their hunter-gatherer community.

days 7–11 sossusvlei, swakopmund, and the namib desert Head south to Sesriem Canyon and Sossusvlei—a salt and clay pan surrounded by towering red dunes. Camp overnight in the national park and wake early to watch the sun rise over the massive orange-red dunes. Pay a visit to the iconic Dead Vlei, a stark landscape dotted with ancient, skeletal camel thorn trees that have been dead for more than 700 years. Continue to the seaside city of Swakopmund, a lively hub for surfers and adventureseekers. Visit Cape Cross to observe a vast breeding colony of some 100,000 Cape fur seals, and go on a whalewatching cruise on Walvis Bay. Then head back into the desert and tear down dune slopes on a sandboarding excursion.

Otavi

Windhoek

Swakopmund

NAMIBIA

Atlantic Ocean 0

Cheetah Conservation Fund

Sossusvlei

100

MILES

getting hands“onByexperience with

DAYS 12–15 DAMARALAND Journey into Damaraland, where the desert harbors unusually succulent plants fed by Atlantic mists. Pay a visit to Twyfelfontein, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at one of the largest and finest collections of petroglyphs in Africa. View stone tools and other artifacts found here, and discover what they convey about the hunter-gatherers who once lived in this region. Travel to the nearby Himba and Herero villages with local guides and discover the traditional arts of two distinct indigenous cultures. Interview conservationists from the Save the Rhino Trust, learning about their community outreach efforts to protect critically endangered black rhinoceroses. DAYS 16–18 ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK Namibia’s dry season spans April through October, when herds of plains game flock to the waterholes of Etosha National Park, and their predators—lions, leopards, and cheetahs—follow close behind. The resulting concentrations of wildlife provide optimal scenery for photographers and a living laboratory for conservationists. Enjoy three days on safari here, looking for big cats, giraffes, oryx, rare black-faced impalas, and endemic birds like the bare-cheeked babbler. Stop at watering holes for close-up views of bathing elephants, zebras drinking at the

water’s edge, and hartebeests splashing in the shallows. DAYS 19–21 CHEETAH CONSERVATION FUND Learn about into the plight of the cheetah at the world-renowned Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF) near Otavi. Talk with scientists about predator-conservation outreach efforts and hear about their collaborations with local farmers. Join trackers on census walks, help care for rehabilitated cheetahs, visit the genetics lab, and observe a training session of livestock guard dogs—an integral part of the CCF’s conservation plan. We’ll cap off our expedition with presentations of our On Assignment projects and a celebration of our time together exploring Namibia.

Dates & t u iti o n 2016 DATE: JUNE 27—JULY 17 TUITION: $7,790 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a round-trip group flight between New York and Windhoek. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: At N/a’an Ku Sê and at the Cheetah Conservation Fund we will stay in dormitorystyle housing. In Swakopmund, we’ll stay in a hotel, and in Sossusvlei, Etosha, and Damaraland, we will camp in tents.

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conservation organizations, I realized how hard— and how rewarding— field work can be. I was truly inspired. —Haley C.

”

Namibia, 2015

MEET YOUR EXPERT stuart munro Wildlife biologist Stuart Munro is a lead researcher at the N/a’an Ku Sê Carnivore Conservation Research Programme, whose work is supported by National Geographic’s Big Cats Initiative. Stuart moved to Namibia in 2011 to join N/a’an Ku Sê’s research team, working to reduce conflicts between large cats and local farmers. The team’s work on human-wildlife conflict has been featured in publications such as National Geographic magazine and Financial Times London. Also an advocate for Namibia’s less-cuddly wildlife, Stuart conducts research to better understand the ecology of snakes. Stuart will join the group at N/a’an Ku Sê.

EXPEDITION 39

EXPEDITION

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

NAMIBIA

WILDLIFE CONSERVATION and desert safari

Choose one of these On Assignment projects and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

The landscapes of Namibia are stunning,

I T I N E R A RY–2 1 DAYS

PHOTOGRAPHY

wildlife & Biodiversity

38 E X P E D I T I O N

Etosha National Park

Etosha Pan

Otavi

Windhoek

Swakopmund

NAMIBIA

Atlantic Ocean 0

Cheetah Conservation Fund

Sossusvlei

100

MILES

getting hands“onByexperience with

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

conservation organizations, I realized how hard— and how rewarding— field work can be. I was truly inspired. —Haley C.

”

Namibia, 2015

EXPEDITION 39

EXPEDITION 0

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

BALI

Tropical ecology: Sea to Summit

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

PHOTOGRAPHY Create a photo essay depicting Bali’s spectacular biodiversity. Use an underwater camera to capture images of intricate corals and vibrant marine life—from swirling schools of jackfish to swimming green turtles. Take portraits of Balinese farmers among emerald green rice terraces and learn about their sophisticated water-management practices. Employ photographic storytelling to report on the work of local conservationists and researchers.

marine & tropical conservation

Study Bali’s unique ecosystems alongside expert biologists and conservationists. Examine diverse coral species on diving and snorkeling excursions and use cuttingedge technologies to monitor the health of the reefs and assist researchers with coral restoration. Visit Ubud’s Green School and get your hands dirty in the organic garden, or learn to build with sustainable materials like bamboo.

40 E X P E D I T I O N

The enchanting Indonesian island of Bali

lies within the western Pacific’s “coral triangle.” Home to more than 400 species of reef-building coral and large ocean dwellers like turtles, manta rays, and sharks, these waters hold the highest diversity of marine life in the world. On shore, the active volcano Mount Agung looms above terraced rice paddies and ancient temples. Explore this tropical ecosystem and how we can protect it as you develop an On Assignment project of your choice—Photography or Marine & Tropical Conservation.

I T I N E R A RY–17 DAYS

Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

Pemuteran

BALI

days 6–10 Pemuteran Trace Bali’s northern coast to the seaside village of Pemuteran, home to the Indonesian Biodiversity Research Center. Here we’ll

Amed Ubud

Canguu

Indian Ocean

Our group was “ supportive and encouraging, participate in local research projects aimed at understanding and preserving the surrounding tropical ecosystems. Learn how to assess reef health, and discuss the impact that our actions have on Bali’s marine habitats. Then work with local researchers on their coral restoration program. Use underwater photography to create a visual guide of the reef system, or study specialized clownfish populations that have evolved across the Indonesian archipelago. Onshore, we’ll visit a local turtle rescue center and photograph endangered sea turtles before helping to release them back into the wild. Then embark on a full-day excursion to nearby Menjangan Island to snorkel or dive amid the protected reefs and coral walls. DAYS 11–14 Ubud

days 1–5 Tulamben and the Village of Amed Upon arrival in Bali, drive to our guesthouse in the northeastern corner of the island—a remote, coastal area bordered by crystal clear waters. Get to know your fellow students as you explore this stunning tropical paradise, and immerse yourself in Balinese culture. Meet local fishermen, swim among the vibrant corals of Jemeluk Bay, and venture out on kayaking excursions. Delve deeper into the surrounding marine world on underwater excursions. Learn advanced snorkeling techniques from dive professionals, and then put these new skills to

Bali Sea

Snorkel or dive at an authentic shipwreck, and help biologists monitor coral reefs. Work on local conservation projects, and photograph terraced rice paddies and rain forest wildlife. See the ocean aglow with bioluminescence during a nighttime snorkeling excursion. Practice surfing off one of Bali’s stunning beaches.

use as you swim amid the wreckage of the World War II cargo ship U.S.A.T. Liberty. The ship now rests in Bali’s coastal waters, harboring intricate coral reefs and large schools of tropical fish. Identify marine life and employ cutting-edge photographic and scientific technologies to monitor and document the reef. After the sun goes down, observe sparkling bioluminescence during a magical nighttime snorkeling excursion. Back on land, volunteer with a communitybased program that keeps ocean waters clean through recycling and beach cleanup initiatives. Begin work on your On Assignment project, raising awareness about the need to protect these beautiful places.

MILES

Head inland to the cultural hub of Ubud. During our time here, we’ll stay in a traditional bamboo yurt camp on the campus of the world-famous Green School. Located on the banks of the Ayung River in an undeveloped area of natural jungle, the school offers immersive and handson experiences geared toward protecting Bali’s local communities and spectacular biodiversity. Work alongside other students on a variety of community service and conservation projects. Get your hands dirty in the organic gardens, helping to develop community composting facilities and cultivate native plants, or building structures using bamboo and other local and sustainable materials.

Take a break from your projects to explore the surrounding landscape on a traditional subak trek, and learn about the age-old canals, terraces, and temples that Balinese use for water management. Try your hand at mepantigan, a combination of Balinese martial arts and dance performed in a rice paddy; capture portraits of local community members while exploring vibrant markets and festivals; or venture into a nearby valley for a canyoneering excursion.

which helped me push my boundaries, conquer obstacles, and discover a sense of adventure I never knew I had! —Laurel J.

”

Bali, 2015

DAYS 15–17 Canguu Head south to the village of Canguu to seek out some of Bali’s best surfing spots and ride the waves with professional surf instructors. Wrap up the trip by presenting your On Assignment projects to your peers, highlighting the beauty of Bali’s marine and terrestrial habitats or some of the local efforts to help protect them.

Dates & t u iti o n 2016 DATES: JUNE 24—JULY 10, JUNE 30—JULY 16 TUITION: $6,890 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a round-trip group flight between Los Angeles and Denpasar. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: In Ubud, we stay on the campus of the Green School in sustainably built bamboo yurts. At all other locations, we stay in small, locally run guesthouses or hotels.

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

MEET YOUR EXPERT Tierney Thys National Geographic Emerging Explorer and grantee Tierney Thys is a marine biologist and filmmaker studying some of the ocean’s largest animals, including the giant ocean sunfish. She has led and participated in research expeditions worldwide, from Alaska to the Galápagos, Indonesia, and Africa. Tierney works with all ages to promote ocean conservation through numerous creative means: from teaching underwater fieldwork techniques to leading beach cleanups to filmmaking. Tierney will join both departures in Pemuteran.

EXPEDITION 41

EXPEDITION 0

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

BALI

Tropical ecology: Sea to Summit

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

marine & tropical conservation

40 E X P E D I T I O N

The enchanting Indonesian island of Bali

I T I N E R A RY–17 DAYS

Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

Pemuteran

BALI

days 6–10 Pemuteran Trace Bali’s northern coast to the seaside village of Pemuteran, home to the Indonesian Biodiversity Research Center. Here we’ll

Amed Ubud

Canguu

Indian Ocean

Bali Sea

MILES

which helped me push my boundaries, conquer obstacles, and discover a sense of adventure I never knew I had! —Laurel J.

”

Bali, 2015

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

EXPEDITION 41

EXPEDITION

Pacific Ocean

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

NEW ZEALAND

south island winter adventure

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

PHOTOGRAPHY Discover New Zealand’s natural beauty through your lens and document your adventures among the South Island’s summits, glaciers, and gorges. Capture athletes in motion, snapping shots of snowboarders catching air or climbers tackling walls of ice. Shoot scenery under a variety of light conditions—from skies lit by Southern Hemisphere constellations to beaches aglow at sunset—and experiment with techniques like time lapse and panning.

FILM & video

Strap on your camera or GoPro and record high-impact footage as you trek across glaciers, soar above mountain peaks in a helicopter, and tear down powdery slopes on a snowboard or skis. Film your friends as you explore, or use seasoned athletes as your subjects while utilizing mobile-editing technology to produce short action and adventure films.

42 E x p e d i t i o n

Home to glacier-carved mountains and

fringed by wild beaches and stunning fjords, New Zealand challenges thrill seekers to discover its natural wonders. Experience the South Island’s epic landscapes, exploring them as an adventurer would—from hiking and biking to snowboarding and glacier tramping. Along the way, hone your adventure photography or filmmaking skills, shooting spectacular scenery and telling the stories of the people who live and play in New Zealand’s great outdoors through your On Assignment project.

I T I N E R A RY–1 8 DAYS days 1–5 Christchurch and Oamaru Our expedition begins in the coastal city of Christchurch. Head out on your first assignment and document the city’s innovative street art installations, interview shopkeepers at an outdoor market, or snap portraits of local artists. Delve into Maori culture on a visit to a marae, or meeting ground, where you’ll learn a haka, a fierce traditional tribal dance. Then continue south to the colonial town of Oamaru, and try your hand at sheep shearing during an overnight stay in a farming community. See the giant

Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

Soar over New Zealand’s highest peaks in a helicopter, and sleep on a glacier in a self-made igloo. Ski or snowboard down the powdery slopes of the Southern Alps. Go black-water rafting in a cave lit by glowworms. Learn adventure photography or filmmaking and capture the action of your trip.

spherical Moeraki Boulders on a visit to Koekohe Beach, ride a high-wheeled penny-farthing bicycle, and watch blue penguins gather in the town harbor at sunset. days 6–8 Aoraki/Mount Cook Kick your adventure into high gear with a mountaineering expedition on the slopes of New Zealand’s highest peak—Aoraki, or Mount Cook. Soar above the snow-dusted Southern Alps in a helicopter, and touch down on top of the massive Tasman Glacier. Outfitted with crampons and ice picks, explore the surrounding glacial icefalls and otherworldly ice caves. We’ll learn tips for camping in the snow, and then build an igloo—our home for the night. Break out your camera for an after-dark photo or video shoot amid these spectacular landscapes, capturing scenes of a star-studded sky.

Hanmer Springs

Punakaiki

Tasman Sea

Greymouth Hokitika

Franz Josef Glacier Mount Cook

Christchurch

NEW ZEALAND

Wanaka Queenstown

Pacific Ocean

Oamaru 0

MILES

With its stunning coastlines, “beautiful forests, and glacially

days 9–12 Queenstown and Wanaka Travel south to Queenstown, nicknamed the “adventure capital of the world.” Hike to an observatory within the towering peaks of the Remarkables and shoot panoramas of Lake Wakatipu below, then zoom down the slopes on a thrilling luge ride. Back in town, visit a kiwi sanctuary and learn about efforts to preserve this threatened bird. Then spend two days hitting the slopes surrounding Wanaka, one of the best skiing and snowboarding destinations in the Southern Hemisphere. Hone your action photography and filmmaking skills, capturing local athletes doing jumps and tricks. days 13–15 Franz Josef Glacier, Hokitika Gorge, and Greymouth Head west to Westland Tai Poutini National Park, home to the Franz Josef and Fox glaciers, and hike across fields of sculpted blue ice. Explore New Zealand’s rugged western coastline on foot, seeking out elephant seals on the beaches below Knights Point and taking photos of powerful sea bursts surging up through Punakaiki’s intriguing “pancake rock” formations. Bike along an old coastal rail trail carved by gold rush miners just outside of Greymouth, and head inland to hike the Hokitika Gorge. Spend a day black-water rafting through caverns lit by thousands of tiny glowworms, traveling to the cave entrance via

zip line and finishing the adventure on a series of natural rock slides. days 16–18 Hanmer Springs Our adventure concludes in the alpine village of Hanmer Springs. Explore forests of giant redwoods on foot, mountain bike, or horseback, and soak in the local thermal pools. Wrap up your On Assignment projects and present them to the group before returning to Christchurch for your flight home.

Dates & t u iti o n 2016 DATES: JUNE 28—JULY 15, JULY 15—AUGUST 1* TUITION: $7,590 Airfare is not included. We have arranged round-trip group flights between Los Angeles and Christchurch. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: Most nights, we stay in familyrun inns and small hotels. In Oamaru, we spend a night with local Kiwi hosts. On Mount Cook, we spend a night in an igloo built on a glacier. NOTES: This expedition includes several active excursions, such as hiking, skiing, and biking. Students should be physically fit and enthusiastic about outdoor exploration. *This departure follows the itinerary shown, but in the reverse order.

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carved mountains and valleys, New Zealand is a country of visual diversity and unique beauty. I’m excited to adventure in these landscapes this summer while we work together to tell stories about our explorations. —Keith Ladzinski

”

National Geographic Expert

MEET YOUR EXPERT Keith Ladzinski After starting out as a skateboard photographer, Keith began photographing outdoor adventure stories. His assignments have sent him on mountain bike expeditions, traveling with a Shao Lin Grandmaster through China, and hanging off big walls during rock climbing first ascents. His work has been featured in National Geographic magazine, The New York Times, Outside, and ESPN magazine, among others. Also an accomplished filmmaker, Keith co-founded 3 Strings Productions and has produced more than 20 adventure films. He will join both groups in Greymouth and Hanmer Springs.

Expedition 43

EXPEDITION

Pacific Ocean

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

NEW ZEALAND

south island winter adventure

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

FILM & video

42 E x p e d i t i o n

Home to glacier-carved mountains and

Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

Hanmer Springs

Punakaiki

Tasman Sea

Greymouth Hokitika

Franz Josef Glacier Mount Cook

Christchurch

NEW ZEALAND

Wanaka Queenstown

Pacific Ocean

Oamaru 0

MILES

With its stunning coastlines, “beautiful forests, and glacially

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

”

National Geographic Expert

Expedition 43

EXPEDITION

PHOTOGRAPHY Capture images of the unique people, animals, and landscapes of Australia in a photo essay. Set out with your team to shoot portraits of the people you meet throughout the course of your travels. Zoom in for a close-up of the lazing koalas at Sydney’s Taronga Zoo. Capture the brilliant reds and oranges of sunset over Uluru, and images of ancient rock art and Australia’s endemic wildlife on your journey through the outback. Catalog marine life and vibrant corals of the Great Barrier Reef, then photograph the early morning light while exploring the Dubuji Boardwalk in Cape Tribulation.

WILDLIFE & Biodiversity

Explore the diverse ecosystems of the desert outback, rainforest, and reef. Learn about the invasive species that threaten the native flora and fauna of the desert. Guided by marine biologists, catalog the marine life you spot on the Great Barrier Reef, and investigate ongoing efforts to protect this natural treasure. Explore the canopy of the Daintree Rainforest on an educational zipline tour, and examine the canopy up close on the observation deck at a local research station.

44 E x p e d i t i o n

With roughly the population of

metropolitan New York City and the landmass of the continental United States, Australia is the most sparsely populated continent on the planet after Antarctica. Its isolation for millennia allowed unique ecosystems and cultures to thrive. Explore rain forests, deserts, and the world’s largest coral reef, observing and documenting fascinating wildlife along the way. Meet members of the Aboriginal community— the world’s oldest living culture—which settled here more than 50,000 years ago. Experience Australia through the lens of your On Assignment project: Photography or Wildlife & Biodiversity.

I T I N E R A RY–2 0 DAYS days 1–5 sydney The expedition begins with an orientation in the vibrant coastal city of Sydney. Break into teams to begin working on your On Assignment project. Browse a photo exhibition at the State Library of New South Wales, explore the lively Rocks district, and take in spectacular views of the iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Attend a game of rugby or Australian rules football, or go surfing Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

at Manly Beach. Meet your first koalas and kangaroos at the famous Taronga Zoo, or visit the Sydney Aquarium to get acquainted with the marine life you will encounter on the Great Barrier Reef. days 6–10 uluru and the outback Fly from Sydney to Alice Springs and begin your journey through the Outback towards the largest monolith on Earth, Uluru (also known as Ayers Rock). Steeped in mythology, this colossal piece of sandstone rises abruptly from the desert plain. Trek between the giant rounded domes of the adjacent Kata Tjuta on the lookout for bright green ring-necked parrots. Visit an Aboriginal community at Wallace Rockhole for a guided tour through

eef

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

Interact with Aboriginal people and learn about their unique culture and spirituality. Set out on a two-day snorkeling adventure along the Great Barrier Reef. Camp in the outback and sleep under the stars. Discover vibrant Sydney and see koalas and kangaroos at the worldfamous Taronga Zoo.

outback, rain forest, and reef

Cairns

C o ra l Sea

ar r i

australia

Daintree National Park

B eat Gr

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Alice Springs Uluru (Ayers Rock)

AUSTRALIA 0

500

Sydney

MILES

visiting such “Ia loved wide variety of

ancestral lands, and learn about the traditional craft of dot painting before trying your hand at the art form. Plunge into the cool and refreshing waters of the Ellery Big Hole, examine ancient rock art and medicinal plants, and listen to Dreamtime stories told by our Aboriginal guides. Through the lens of your camera, use the barren landscape to practice working with depth of field, and spotting dingoes, red kangaroos, and majestic wedgetailed eagles that inhabit this otherwise still scene. Set up camp in the bush, help collect firewood and prepare dinner, and sleep under the stars. Spot the Southern Cross and Scorpio, and learn a whole new set of Southern Hemisphere constellations.

through the lush vegetation to see cassowaries, crocodiles, tree kangaroos, and other endemic wildlife. Spend the night in a jungle lodge and encounter the native species of the surrounding rain forest, wetlands, and reef. Wind down on the coastal side of the park on the white-sand beaches of Cape Tribulation. Explore a mangrove habitat where the jungle meets the ocean and kayak along the reef. Trek out to the farthest point of the cape in search of whales and other marine life passing by. Return to Cairns for the final night and present your On Assignment project to the rest of the group. Celebrate your adventure with your fellow participants before flying home.

DAYS 11–20 queensland and the great barrier reef

Dates & t u iti o n

Fly to the northern Queensland city of Cairns, and transfer to Port Douglas, our hub for exploring the Great Barrier Reef. Set out on a private boat for a two-day snorkeling adventure with marine biologists. Anchor at the outer reef and snorkel along brilliant fields of coral. Spot sea turtles, giant parrotfish, harmless reef sharks, and maybe even a migrating humpback whale. Gain insights about the reef from the marine biologists on board, and learn about the threats to this unique ecosystem and the efforts being made to protect it. Back on land, head north into the 125 million-year-old Daintree Rainforest. Hike

2016 DATES: JUNE 25—JULY 14, JULY 15—AUGUST 3 TUITION: $8,590 Airfare is not included. We have arranged group flights from Los Angeles to Sydney, Sydney to Alice Springs, Ayers Rock to Cairns, and return to Los Angeles. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: In Sydney, Alice Springs, and Queensland, we stay in small hotels. In Daintree Rainforest, we stay in a small, family-run eco-resort, and in the outback we camp under the stars.

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environments—from the outback to Sydney to the reef to the rain forest— and had such unique experiences in each one. —Heather M.

”

Australia, 2015

MEET YOUR EXPERT ulla lohmann Photojournalist, filmmaker, and adventurer Ulla Lohmann has sailed around the world, explored volcanoes in some of the most remote places on the planet, and traversed the African continent using only biodiesel. She spends much of her time working with indigenous cultures in Australia and the South Pacific. Based in the German Alps, she is a regular contributor to the National Geographic Channel and National Geographic magazine (France and Germany), and recently published a book about Italy’s Dolomites with National Geographic Books. Ulla will join both groups at the Great Barrier Reef.

Expedition 45

EXPEDITION

WILDLIFE & Biodiversity

44 E x p e d i t i o n

With roughly the population of

eef

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

outback, rain forest, and reef

Cairns

C o ra l Sea

ar r i

australia

Daintree National Park

B eat Gr

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Alice Springs Uluru (Ayers Rock)

AUSTRALIA 0

500

Sydney

MILES

visiting such “Ia loved wide variety of

DAYS 11–20 queensland and the great barrier reef

Dates & t u iti o n

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

environments—from the outback to Sydney to the reef to the rain forest— and had such unique experiences in each one. —Heather M.

”

Australia, 2015

Expedition 45

EXPEDITION

CULTURAL GEOGRAPHY

Discover the connections between India’s culture and environment. Examine the dramatic history of Old Delhi, and learn how the walled city became one of the largest metropolises in the world. Compare the customs and rituals of Rajasthan with those of Ladakh. Interview elders about the spiritual significance of the Himalaya, or document the movements of India’s ethnic groups over the past century. Delve into the origins of a local festival and participate in the preparations.

46 E x p e d i t i o n

I T I N E R A RY–2 1 DAYS days 1–3 NEW DELHI Begin in New Delhi, where we’ll spend two days exploring the incredible sites of the city—many of them declared UNESCO World Heritage sites. Meander through the maze of streets in Old Delhi and the pavilions of the Red Fort. Visit the immense Jama Masjid mosque, Humayun’s Tomb, Lotus Temple, or the soaring Qutub Minar tower. Then set out in teams and dive into your On Assignment projects.

Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

In the lively trade town of Leh, where whitewashed houses are nestled in a lush valley ringed by jagged peaks, we’ll get acclimatized to the altitude (11,500 feet). Settle into a community school, and help young Ladakhis prepare for college entrance exams. Join in the daily routine, cooking meals, tending gardens, and helping the school maintain its solar energy system. Get to

New Delhi

Rising out of India’s northernmost region, the Himalaya are a vast stretch of craggy passes and snow-covered mountains culminating with Mount Everest. While it remains the least populated region of India, Ladakh has become the cultural center of Tibetan exiles, as thousands of ethnic Tibetans have resettled here. The influence of Tibetan Buddhism is visible in prayer flags, the red of monks’ robes, and the intricate architecture of shrines and temples.

Build a portfolio that tells a tale of India’s complex history and spiritual diversity. Shrines, palaces, markets, terraced rice paddies, elephants, kite-flying children, dazzling saris, and clamorous street life provide unparalleled opportunities for photographers.

people, India’s diverse population is made up of Hindus, Muslims, Jains, Christians, and Buddhists who live side by side in remarkable harmony. Such rich cultural and spiritual diversity is evident in the animated streets of New Delhi and the quiet temples of the Himalaya. Northern India is scattered with majestic vestiges of the past, from the Taj Mahal to the palaces of Jaipur. Immerse yourself in the intriguing cultures of India as you pursue an On Assignment project of your choice— Photography or Cultural Geography.

days 4–11 LADAKH AND THE HIMALAYA

PHOTOGRAPHY

Numbering more than one billion

Ride a camel through desert dunes at sunset. Go on a three-day trek in the majestic Himalaya. Experience a Buddhist ceremony alongside Tibetan monks. Tutor children in a Himalayan mountain school.

crossroads of cultures

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

india

Leh LADAKH

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Agra

Jaipur

Keoladeo Ghana National Park

INDIA

200

MILES

The home stays in “ Ladakh were really special. know the students, and tutor them in English. Then set out with professional guides on a three-day trek from Likir to Hemis Shukpachan. Stay overnight in family-run guesthouses, and walk from village to village. Discuss Buddhist traditions with monks, learn about renewable energy projects with local conservationists, and visit organizations that promote sustainable development. As we walk, take in hillsides dotted with temples and monasteries, and exquisite vistas of the Himalaya. DAYS 12–21 RAJASTHAN AND THE HIGH DESERT The Mughal influence is strong in Rajasthan, where walled fortresses dominate strategic hilltops and palaces anchor the larger towns with ornate Islamic architecture. The locals are warm and the dress is colorful—women are draped in yards of vibrant fabrics, and men don bright turbans. Elephants amble through town and monkeys scamper over the polished marble of Hindu and Jain temples. Encounter the Taj Mahal in Agra and the fortified Mughal ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri. Then, visit a nearby elephant sanctuary, learning about its mission to rescue and protect these gentle giants. Jump aboard a rickshaw and explore Keoladeo Ghana National Park alongside a naturalist. Explore Jaipur, from its massive pinkhued palace to its medieval observatory. Venture into the labyrinthine City Palace, and trace its line of maharajas to the current occupant. Built

as a citadel for the ruling elite, wind your way up the serpentine staircases of Jaipur’s Amber Fort, exploring its courtyards, arches, and ramparts as you catch a glimpse of Maota Lake below. Try your hand at cotton block printing with local artisans who have revitalized this disappearing art. Continue to the town of Samode, where we’ll stay amid 20 acres of trees and ruins at a 250-yearold Mughal-style royal retreat. Ride a camel on a short safari, then join locals for drumming and dancing around a roaring fire. In Neemrana, spend the night in the town’s fort palace. The journey concludes in New Delhi, where we’ll wrap up our On Assignment projects and share them with the group before flying home.

Dates & t u iti o n 2016 DATES: JUNE 25—JULY 15, JULY 18—AUGUST 7 TUITION: $6,790 Airfare is not included. We have arranged group flights from New York to New Delhi, New Delhi to Leh, Leh to New Delhi, and return to New York. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: In New Delhi and Rajasthan, we stay in small hotels. In Ladakh, we stay in dormitory-style rooms at a school with very basic amenities. NOTE: The three-day trek involves rigorous hiking at altitudes up to 14,000 feet. Participants must be physically fit. Those with known altitude sensitivity should not apply.

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It gave me an inside look at the local customs and culture, and a true sense of what everyday village life is like. —Meredith W.

”

India, 2015

MEET YOUR EXPERT ashima narain Photographer and filmmaker Ashima Narain is the former photo editor for National Geographic Traveler (India). She has covered a diverse range of topics that have sent her wading through mudflats in search of flamingos in Mumbai, hiding out in bear caves, climbing sail masts mid-sea, dining with maharajas, and documenting the conditions of sari weavers in the holy city of Varanasi. Ashima’s work has been published in National Geographic Traveler, Vanity Fair, Vogue, GQ, Marie Claire, Elle, and Teen People magazines. Ashima will join both departures in Rajasthan.

Expedition 47

EXPEDITION

CULTURAL GEOGRAPHY

46 E x p e d i t i o n

Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

New Delhi

days 4–11 LADAKH AND THE HIMALAYA

PHOTOGRAPHY

Numbering more than one billion

Ride a camel through desert dunes at sunset. Go on a three-day trek in the majestic Himalaya. Experience a Buddhist ceremony alongside Tibetan monks. Tutor children in a Himalayan mountain school.

crossroads of cultures

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

india

Leh LADAKH

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Agra

Jaipur

Keoladeo Ghana National Park

INDIA

200

MILES

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

It gave me an inside look at the local customs and culture, and a true sense of what everyday village life is like. —Meredith W.

”

India, 2015

Expedition 47

EXPEDITION

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

china

journey to the middle kingdom

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

PHOTOGRAPHY Assemble a portfolio that addresses a facet of life in China. Shoot portraits of local farmers or document Beijing’s ancient neighborhoods. From children playing in Tiananmen Square to dense bamboo forests housing rare pandas to Shanghai’s serene temple gardens, capture the many faces of China.

cultural geography

Delve deeper into the interconnection between land and people in the world’s most populous country. Examine the history and urban planning of two of the world’s largest cities, Beijing and Shanghai. Learn how farmers have adapted to their geography, and investigate China’s rapid economic transformation from the perspectives of local merchants, entrepreneurs, or environmentalists. Chart the traditions and origins of China’s ethnic minorities, or explore the relationship between giant pandas and local populations in rural Sichuan.

48 E x p e d i t i o n

Brimming with ancient monuments and

skyscrapers alike, China has catapulted into the 21st century as a major economic power. Yet a timeless way of life continues away from the burgeoning cities, in a countryside carved with rugged mountains and deep gorges, and speckled with traditional farming villages. Some of China’s most famous residents, the giant pandas, make their home in the wilderness of Sichuan. Meet pandas with expert Marc Brody, explore the oasis city of Dunhuang, and delve into the excitement of Shanghai and Beijing, seeing China from the unique angle of your On Assignment project.

I T I N E R A RY–2 1 DAYS days 1–6 Shanghai The center of Shanghai is a patchwork of futuristic skyscrapers, stately colonial neighborhoods, and traditional Chinese architecture. From the top of the 88-story Jin Mao Tower, see the massive scale of China’s economic boom with your own eyes. Learn about the city’s controversial history and discover some of its ambitious plans for the future at the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center. Practice your bargaining skills and see relics of China’s past at the antique market on Dongtai Lu. Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

Beijing

Work with giant pandas at a renowned breeding center. Take a Shandong cooking class in one of the ancient hutong neighborhoods of Beijing. Ride camels beneath the towering dunes of the Kumtag Desert. Hike a remote part of the Great Wall at sunrise.

days 7–12 tHE PANDAS OF RURAL SICHUAN A flight and a bus ride bring us to Dujiangyan, west of Chengdu. We’ll have a behind-thescenes visit at the internationally renowned Wolong Panda Center’s research facility, guided by panda expert Marc Brody. Spend a day feeding and caring for the bears and observing these gentle giants close-up in their enclosure. Our next stop is the Wolong Nature Reserve, part of the Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries. Settle into the village of Hetaoping, located in a region of lushly forested mountains where many of the few remaining wild giant pandas still roam. Our village is the site of a panda research and conservation center. Learn from experts here about the challenges of breeding, reintroduction of pandas to the wild, and forest conservation as you explore panda habitats on guided hikes. Get acquainted with village life, helping ethnic Tibetan farmers harvest crops; and learn the steps of a centuries-old Tibetan dance.

Dunhuang Wolong National Natural Reserve

CHINA

Yellow Sea Shanghai

Dujiangyan

Taiwan South China Sea 0

500

MILES

From assisting panda “keepers to hiking a

DAYS 13–16 Gansu Province Travel by plane to Dunhuang, an oasis city bordered by the Kumtag Desert. Once an important hub of China’s famed Silk Road, this ancient garrison town is still watched over by the crumbling ruins of the Han Dynastyera Great Wall. Visit the Singing Sands dunes, and explore the Mogao Caves—also known as the Caves of a Thousand Buddhas. Carved by monks on pilgrimage, these caverns are home to some of the most important Buddhist art and manuscripts in the world. Peruse the Dunhuang Night Market, go on a camel trek by the shores of nearby Crescent Lake, and learn about efforts to understand and prevent encroaching desertification. DAYS 17–21 Beijing and the Great Wall Beijing is a city of color and motion: bicycles blur past crimson-walled temples, crowds bustle down neon-flanked shopping streets, and new buildings and businesses seem to sprout up on a daily basis. But Beijing’s ancient roots are still visible among the modern high-rises and the flashy billboards. We’ll explore the city in all its guises, from the ornate courtyards of the Forbidden City to the avant-garde studios of the 798 art district. Partake in the popular pastime of flying kites in historic Tiananmen Square; and in the gardens of the Temple of Heaven, join in on checkers and rhythmic gymnastics. Bike through

a hutong, a neighborhood of Ming dynasty courtyard homes. Enjoy a chance to meet editors at National Geographic magazine’s China headquarters, and watch acrobats spin and climb through the air at an evening performance. Venture outside the city to a farming village next to a seldom-visited section of the Great Wall. We spend two nights at a simple guesthouse here and enjoy meals prepared by our hosts. See the Great Wall as few visitors do: experiment with nighttime photographic “light painting” on the ruins of an ancient guard tower or wake up early for a hike to watch the sun rise over the wall. Our journey concludes back in Beijing, where we’ll share our On Assignment projects with the group.

Dates & t u iti o n 2016 DATE: JUNE 25—JULY 15 TUITION: $6,990 Airfare is not included. We have arranged group flights from Los Angeles to Shanghai, Shanghai to Chengdu, Chengdu to Dunhuang, Dunhuang to Beijing, and return from Beijing. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: We stay in small hotels and guesthouses in Shanghai, Dunhuang, and Beijing. At the Great Wall, we stay in a villager’s farmhouse inn. In Hetaoping, we stay in dormitory-style housing at the panda research center.

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400-year-old section of the Great Wall, I had more life-changing experiences than I had ever imagined! -Jimmy L.

”

China, 2014

MEET YOUR EXPERT Marc Brody Conservationist and National Geographic grantee Marc Brody is working to conserve giant pandas and their habitat and is senior advisor for China’s Wolong Nature Reserve. Marc founded “Panda Mountain,” a nongovernmental organization (NGO) entrusted by the Wolong administration to manage a conservation education center and a sustainability initiative for indigenous villagers. Marc has also managed the U.S.-China Environmental Fund, an environmental NGO, in China for the last 20 years. When not working in Wolong, Marc is actively restoring an oak savanna and prairie on his land near Madison, Wisconsin. Marc will join the group in Sichuan Province.

Expedition 49

EXPEDITION

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

china

journey to the middle kingdom

Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

cultural geography

48 E x p e d i t i o n

Brimming with ancient monuments and

Beijing

Dunhuang Wolong National Natural Reserve

CHINA

Yellow Sea Shanghai

Dujiangyan

Taiwan South China Sea 0

500

MILES

From assisting panda “keepers to hiking a

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

400-year-old section of the Great Wall, I had more life-changing experiences than I had ever imagined! -Jimmy L.

”

China, 2014

Expedition 49

UNIVERSITY WORKSHOP ABOUT the campus

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Technology and Innovation Workshop on the Massachusetts Institute of Technology campus

PROGRAM THEMES Explore each of these three topics over the course of the program:

Engineering the Future Get a first-hand look at new technologies that are being used to address challenges facing the modern world. See a nuclear reactor in action, experiment with 3D printers to create objects of your own design, and visit a garden engineered on the roof of Fenway Park.

Computing & Big Data Explore how advances in computing are enabling scientists to collect and apply complex data sets in innovative ways. Hear from food scientists about “farm computers” and their role in addressing global hunger issues, and work as a team to build a minicomputer. Meet the creators of an online programming application that enables youths to create their own games.

High-Tech Storytelling Discover how National Geographic explorers are using emerging technologies to share the stories of our world. Learn about advances in fields ranging from underwater robotics to satellite imagery, and test out devices like an ROV—a high-tech tool that is strengthening our connection with the planet and allowing storytellers to delve deeper into the pressing issues of our time.

50 U n i v e r s i t y W o r k s h o p

For explorers at National Geographic,

technology and exploration go hand in hand—cutting-edge science and high-tech tools are invaluable to their expeditions, allowing for a deeper and richer understanding of the surrounding world. Join some of National Geographic’s leading explorers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to examine the many intersections of technology and exploration, and learn about how scientific innovations are being used to solve some of the world’s most complex challenges. Attend seminars on a range of topics— from 3D printing to urban farming—and participate in related experiments. Tie your experiences together in a capstone project that uses technology to help address an important issue in your own community.

I T I N E R A RY–9 DAYS Arrive on the MIT campus, join your group for an orientation and tour, and get acclimated to university life in Cambridge. During the program, we’ll explore three core themes: Computing and Big Data, Engineering the Future, and High-Tech Storytelling. Two National Geographic experts who specialize in using technology to advance science and exploration will join the group during Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is located in the heart of Cambridge, a vibrant university town that plays host to an array of youth-oriented restaurants, shops, and cultural events. Located just across the Charles River from Boston, the campus offers easy access to worldclass museums and some of the country’s most important historic sites. From our base at the MIT dorms, we’ll utilize space at the university student center to work on collaborative projects, and we’ll visit nearby research centers, including labs used by National Geographic explorers Caleb Harper and Skylar Tibbits.

Delve into engineering, advanced computing, and storytelling technology during seminars and field experiences. Meet with top scientists and learn about work done in their high-tech labs. Design an experiment or project that utilizes latest technologies. Discover the vibrant cities of Boston and Cambridge.

the workshop, delivering keynote presentations on their latest research projects and participating in activities related to their areas of expertise. Each day features a discussion-based seminar, followed by a hands-on workshop or field study to further examine and apply what we’ve learned. State-of-the-art research labs and applied technology centers in the local area serve as our classrooms as we explore scientific solutions to some of the most critical and compelling issues facing the modern world. See engineering in action on a tour of the Wright Brothers Wind Tunnel and learn about the key role it continues to play in developing new technology. Learn from researchers about new frontiers in nuclear engineering and the future of nuclear power. Meet with National Geographic explorer Skylar Tibbits at his lab, where he’ll provide an overview of how 3D printing is being used to improve our lives—from creating more comfortable human prosthetics to building flexible structures that adapt to changing environmental conditions. Head to Boston’s Fab Lab and work with local high school students trained in 3D printing to create objects of your own design. Visit the rooftop garden at Fenway Park to see how urban agriculture experts engineered a sustainable food system atop this iconic ballpark. Explore unique approaches to computing and learn how multidisciplinary strategies are being used to harness the power of large data sets in novel ways. Join National Geographic Emerging Explorer Caleb Harper on a behind-the-scenes

MEET YOUR EXPERTS tour of the university-sponsored CityFARM (pictured above), a computer-operated soil-free urban farm using big data to revolutionize the way food could be grown in cities. Then we’ll get a chance to contribute to Caleb’s OpenAG project by building a minicomputer that collects crop data. Work in small teams, with each group focusing on a different aspect of the computer— structure, electricity, water, chemistry, or light. Combine these components to create a machine that can be used by Caleb and his team to examine how we can feed our planet more efficiently. Examine the intersection of science and storytelling to see how advances in technology are providing deeper insight into some of the world’s most spectacular places. Discover how satellite imagery is being used to solve ancient archaeological mysteries, and learn about how Crittercams and camera traps can give us an intimate look at animal behavior. On a day trip to the University of Rhode Island, join Dr. Katy Croff Bell—a National Geographic explorer—on a tour of the Inner Space Center. See how she and her team use this oceanography command center to broadcast their underwater expeditions to the world in real time. We’ll take breaks from our seminars to explore the vibrant cities of Cambridge and Boston. Peruse the shelves at bookstores in Harvard Square, take a kayak out on the Charles River, or visit one of the area’s world-famous museums. Wander the cobbled streets winding through some of our country’s oldest neighborhoods,

and delve into Revolutionary War history during a walk along the Freedom Trail. Each evening, gather on campus for a group activity, such as a presentation by one of our National Geographic experts, a film screening, or a concert.

ca p st o ne p roj e c t With guidance from our instructors, develop a proposal for a project that uses cutting-edge technologies to help address an important scientific issue in your local community. Work as a team to engineer one of the tools that explorers use in the field, and then pitch your proposal to a panel of experts for a chance to receive funding to implement your research idea.

DAT E S & T U I T I O N 2016 DATE: JULY 15—23 TUITION: $5,190 Airfare is not included. The program begins and ends in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: We stay in a comfortable dormitory on campus. Rooms are single or double occupancy with shared bathrooms. We will host seminars and expert talks in conference rooms in the university’s student center. NOTE: This program uses the facilities of MIT and is organized and operated by National Geographic.

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Katy Croff Bell Marine explorer and National Geographic Emerging Explorer Katy Croff Bell uses technology to investigate the depths of the ocean, and has participated in or led more than 20 oceanographic and archaeological projects. She is vice president of the Ocean Exploration Trust and chief scientist of Bob Ballard’s flagship exploration vessel, Nautilus, working with a large team to implement state-of-the-art technology on expeditions to the Black Sea, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Atlantic Ocean.

University Workshop 51

UNIVERSITY WORKSHOP ABOUT the campus

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Technology and Innovation Workshop on the Massachusetts Institute of Technology campus

PROGRAM THEMES Explore each of these three topics over the course of the program:

50 U n i v e r s i t y W o r k s h o p

For explorers at National Geographic,

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University Workshop 51

UNIVERSITY WORKSHOP ABOUT the campus

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Exploration and Conservation Workshop

on the university of colorado boulder campus

PROGRAM THEMES Explore each of these three topics over the course of the program:

Adventure Photography Using the craft of adventure photography, explore the power of visual storytelling to communicate ideas and effect change in our increasingly connected world. Grab your camera gear and learn how to frame the perfect action shot as you hike, climb, and mountain bike.

Wildlife Conservation & the Protection of Wild Places Discover the diverse wildlife and ecosystems of the Rocky Mountains. Learn about the threats of fire, development, and changes in climate to native flora and fauna. Assist scientists in monitoring the park’s wildlife populations and investigate ongoing efforts to preserve this natural treasure.

Global Climate & Local Solutions Learn about the science behind global climate change and its impact locally. Examine an ice core recovered from a glacier, analyze the connection between invasive species and rising temperatures, and help to raise awareness about the health of Colorado’s river systems.

52 U n i v e r s i t y W o r k s h o p

For more than a century, National

Geographic has combined science, exploration, and storytelling to tackle our world’s biggest challenges. Meet some of National Geographic’s leading experts and delve into important global issues during a unique program at the University of Colorado Boulder. Take part in stimulating seminars and discuss topics that drive our explorers today, then get hands-on experience at the university’s facilities and in the field. Learn how to use photography to tell compelling stories, and develop a grant proposal or a media project to inspire action in your own community.

I T I N E R A RY–9 DAYS Join a diverse group of students, instructors, and National Geographic experts at the University of Colorado Boulder, and settle into our dormitory on the historic, tree-lined campus. Get to know your group during an orientation and a tour of the university’s beautiful sandstone buildings, framed by the jagged peaks of the Flatirons and the Rocky Mountains beyond. Throughout the program we will explore three core themes: Adventure Photography, Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

For more than 50 years, National Geographic has collaborated with researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder—one of the top research universities in the country. Here, state-of-the-art facilities and resources provide an enriching environment for learning, exploration, and storytelling. A lively college town, Boulder bustles with bookstores, cafés, and a wealth of recreational activities. Nearby, the pristine wilderness of Rocky Mountain National Park and the jagged peaks of the Flatirons offer opportunities to actively examine the core themes of the program.

Explore the science, technology, and storytelling tools used by National Geographic explorers. Delve into climate change, wildlife conservation, and adventure storytelling through seminars and hands-on activities. Develop a campaign or multimedia project to raise awareness about environmental and social issues. Enjoy Colorado’s great outdoors.

Wildlife Conservation & the Protection of Wild Places, and Global Climate & Local Solutions. Two experts will join the group to deliver keynote presentations about their innovative work, and to participate in activities related to their areas of expertise. Each day begins with a lively, discussion-based seminar followed by a hands-on workshop or field project to further examine and apply what we’ve learned. Ponderosa pine forests, mountain trails, alpine lakes, and cutting-edge research labs will serve as our classroom as we explore how to protect Colorado’s natural treasures for future generations through science, exploration, and visual storytelling. Named by National Geographic as one of the country’s best adventure towns, Boulder is an ideal location to learn adventure photography—a powerful tool that helps our explorers share transformative stories and communicate important issues. Discover the technical and creative aspects in the classroom, and venture out on hikes in the nearby foothills to build your visual storytelling skills. Photograph your friends in action during an outdoor rock climbing class, document an epic stand-up paddleboard excursion, or capture the thrill of riding the rapids on Boulder Creek. During seminars on wildlife conservation, learn about the effects of climate change, wildfire, and development on native species such as lodgepole pine, elk, and pika. Venture

MEET YOUR EXPERTS

to Rocky Mountain National Park to interview park rangers about wildlife management strategies, and take photographs that can be used to help scientists better understand the species you encounter. Trek to subalpine forests and stunning lakes, and work with biologists at the university’s Mountain Research Station to collect data on wildlife populations and vegetation. Later, collaborate as a team on a BioBlitz—counting, photographing, and identifying the species you discover while hiking in the Flatirons. Develop a campaign to highlight the importance of protecting the biodiversity of this extraordinary place. Delve into the science of climate change, and discuss sustainable solutions to protect our planet. At the Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research (INSTAAR), view an ice core that was drilled out of a glacier and learn how scientists use cutting-edge technology to analyze ice samples and reconstruct a detailed climate record. On excursions in the field, study the impact of shifting weather patterns on freshwater resources including the iconic Colorado River. Then visit Boulder’s historic farmers’ market to interview and photograph local farmers, learning how climate change has affected agriculture in the area. Each evening, gather on campus for a group activity such as a presentation by one of our National Geographic experts, a film screening, a concert, or a student and leader talent show.

ca p st o ne p roj e c t With the guidance of our instructors, develop a capstone project. Choose one of the two following options: Community Campaign: Develop a proposal for a project or campaign that helps to address an important environmental or social issue in your local community. Pitch your proposal to a panel of experts for a chance to receive funding from National Geographic to launch your project. Awareness-Raising Media Project: Create a final photographic portfolio that documents your journey on campus in a compelling way. Shed light on one of the issues you’ve studied during the program or capture the true essence of the Rockies.

DAT E S & T U I T I O N 2016 DATE: JUNE 27—JULY 5 TUITION: $4,590 Airfare is not included. The program begins and ends in Boulder, Colorado. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: We stay in a comfortable dormitory on campus. Rooms are double occupancy with shared bathrooms. We will use the university’s state-ofthe-art classrooms for seminars and expert talks.

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Joel Hartter National Geographic grantee and geographer Joel Hartter has spent more than a decade working in communities around national parks. From the American West to Uganda’s Albertine Rift, he is on the front lines of conservation, working with local people who are facing the challenges of poverty and climate change. A professor at the University of Colorado Boulder, Joel is excited to share his knowledge of Colorado’s wild places.

Corey Rich Adventure photographer and filmmaker Corey Rich has traveled the world capturing stories of athletes adventuring in some of the wildest places on the planet. He has shot subjects ranging from ultra-marathon racing in the Sahara Desert of Morocco to underwater cave exploration in the Yucatan. A contributing photographer to National Geographic Adventure, Corey is also a passionate teacher, and is the co-founder and lead instructor of the Summit Series Adventure Photography Workshops.

University Workshop 53

UNIVERSITY WORKSHOP ABOUT the campus

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Exploration and Conservation Workshop

on the university of colorado boulder campus

PROGRAM THEMES Explore each of these three topics over the course of the program:

52 U n i v e r s i t y W o r k s h o p

For more than a century, National

MEET YOUR EXPERTS

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

University Workshop 53

COMMUNITY SERVICE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

COSTA RICA

Costa Rica is known for its biodiversity and its pioneering conservation efforts. Steaming volcanoes poke out of thick, green jungle; and protected tropical rain forests, teeming with wildlife, reach all the way to the pristine coast. Immerse yourself in a mountain village and work alongside community members on a variety of service projects, documenting life in the village through photos, journals, and video. Then set off to explore Costa Rica’s most active volcano and the breathtaking western coast.

I T I N E R A RY–14 DAYS DAYS 1–3 NORTHWEST COAST Start your journey on the pristine Pacific coast, where we’ll spend our first days in a small beachside village. After a day of orientation, snorkel amid spectacular marine life, kayak across the bay, learn to surf, and enjoy an afternoon at one of Costa Rica’s white-sand beaches.

Experience everyday life in a traditional tico village. Restore a community building, plant trees, or teach English to schoolchildren. Go kayaking or horseback riding in the shadow of Arenal Volcano.

the elementary school, or paint a health center. Help build local housing, or pitch in on the restoration of a community building. Organize a village cleanup, plant trees, or develop a conservation project that local youth can continue. In the afternoon, take a break from your projects to explore this lush, mountainous area. Hike to a nearby swimming hole with your new Costa Rican friends, or arrange a game of pickup fútbol. Go for a walk in the tropical forests to look for monkeys and unusual flora. Join some of the local women in the kitchen to learn how to make tortillas and gallo pinto, or try your hand at milking a cow at the town dairy farm. Throughout your time in the village, record your service project work through photographs, journal entries, and video. With the guidance of your leaders, craft a story about your experience, the challenges facing the community, or the impact of your work. DAYS 11–14 ARENAL VOLCANO After wrapping up our community service projects, we’ll move on to Arenal, the most

DAYS 4–10 COMMUNITY SERVICE VILLAGE Travel to our village in the mountainous northwestern province of Guanacaste, and settle into everyday life. Our days start with a typical breakfast of rice, beans, eggs, and fresh fruit. Then split into teams and head out with members of the community to work on a variety of service projects. Clear forest trails, teach English to students at 54 c o m m u n i t y s e r v i c e

active volcano in Costa Rica, flanked by thick rain forest. Our home here is a small, sustainable, family-run ranch that has its own organic garden, a reforestation corridor, and hot springs. Learn about their sustainability initiatives, spend an afternoon exploring the rain forest on horseback, or go kayaking on Lake Arenal. Swim in the crystal clear pools below Catarata de la Fortuna, a spectacular waterfall located at the base of the dormant Chato Volcano. Descend from the mountains and return to the Pacific coast for a final day of reflection with your group.

Dates & t u iti o n 2016 DATES: JUNE 24—JULY 7, JULY 1—14, JULY 8—21, JULY 15—28 TUITION: $4,390 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a roundtrip group flight between Miami and Liberia. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: Accommodations in the village are simple. The group sleeps in sleeping bags on the floor of the community center. Boys and girls share a sleeping area and bathroom with other students of the same gender. We prepare our meals alongside volunteers from the community. At the beach, we stay in a family-run villa. At Arenal, we sleep in private bungalows and eat buffet-style meals in an open-air restaurant. SERVICE PROJECT DETAILS: On this program, students will spend an estimated 35–40 hours on community service projects. At the end of the program, students will receive a certificate stating the number of service hours completed. Projects described in this itinerary are examples and vary depending on the needs of the community.

Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

The Dominican Republic’s stunning

beaches and vibrant culture draw visitors from around the world, making it one of the most visited destinations in the Caribbean. Despite widespread development in the east, life in the country’s southwest region remains simple. Settle into a traditional rural village and work alongside community members on a variety of service projects while documenting your experiences through journals, photos, and video. Then snorkel off the coast and hike the shores of the Samaná Peninsula.

I T I N E R A RY–14 DAYS DAY 1 Santo Domingo Our program begins in the vibrant capital of Santo Domingo—a Spanish colonial city that marks the spot of the first permanent European settlement in the New World. Step back hundreds of years into history as we stroll the cobblestoned streets of the Zona Colonial, getting to know your fellow travelers along the way. DAYS 2–11 Community Service Village Travel to our village in the secluded southwestern region, where the absence of mass tourism has kept the beaches relatively untouched and especially stunning. Settle into rural life, immersing yourself in the local culture and working

alongside members of the community on a variety of improvement projects. Plant an organic garden, paint a mural, help repair a community building, or tutor school children in English. In the afternoons, learn more about Dominican culture from our host friends. Move to local rhythms while trying out the soulful bachata dance, or play a game of pickup baseball in the village. Help a local cook prepare mangú, a traditional side dish made from plantains. Work with a jeweler to make pieces out of larimar—a semiprecious blue stone found only in the southwestern part of the country. Together with our local friends, take a daylong break from your service projects to swim, snorkel, play volleyball, and gather around a campfire at a nearby beach. During your time in the village, record your experiences through an independent project of your choice: report on the local baseball culture, create a Dominican cookbook, or capture portraits of local children and display them in the school.

Immerse yourself in local culture while playing baseball or dancing bachata with our village hosts. Tutor children in English, plant a community garden, or rehabilitate buildings in a rural village. Encounter amazing wildlife as you kayak and snorkel off the Samaná Peninsula. DAYS 12–14 Samaná Peninsula Our program wraps up on the stunning shores of the Samaná Peninsula. Visit Los Haitises National Park and kayak through mangrove forests inhabited by pelicans and manatees. Venture into the park’s mystical caves—former pirate hideaways adorned with the pictographs and petroglyphs made by ancient indigenous Taíno people. Go swimming and snorkeling off long stretches of palm-fringed beach. Return to Santo Domingo for a final night and share stories of our time in the Dominican Republic before returning home.

Dates & t u iti o n 2016 DATES: JULY 2—15, JULY 16—29 TUITION: $4,390 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a roundtrip group flight between New York and Santo Domingo. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: Accommodations in the village are simple. The group sleeps in sleeping bags on the floor of the village school. Boys and girls share a sleeping area and bathroom with other students of the same gender. In Santo Domingo and Samaná, we stay in small, family-run inns and ecolodges. SERVICE PROJECT DETAILS: On this program, students will spend an estimated 35–40 hours on community service projects. At the end of the program, students will receive a certificate stating the number of service hours completed. The projects described in this itinerary are examples and may vary depending on the needs of the community.

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c o m m u n i t y s e r v i c e 55

COMMUNITY SERVICE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

COSTA RICA

Experience everyday life in a traditional tico village. Restore a community building, plant trees, or teach English to schoolchildren. Go kayaking or horseback riding in the shadow of Arenal Volcano.

Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

The Dominican Republic’s stunning

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c o m m u n i t y s e r v i c e 55

COMMUNITY SERVICE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

peru

In Peru’s Sacred Valley of the Inca,

ancient ruins and tiny villages are scattered among the lush folds of the Andes, and the Quechua people carry on the colorful traditions of their ancestors. We’ll make our home nestled in a mountain village here and work alongside members of the community on an array of service projects. Get in tune with the rhythms of life in the heart of the ancient Inca Empire; explore Cusco and Machu Picchu; and capture your experience through photos, journals, and video.

Immerse yourself in everyday life in a traditional Peruvian village. Rehabilitate a community center or build a greenhouse. Explore the mysterious mountaintop citadel of Machu Picchu.

a classroom, painting a mural, constructing a community center, and helping young students improve their English. Get further involved in village life by volunteering at the village clinic, learning to cook a typical Andean meal, or practicing traditional agriculture with local farmers. In the afternoons, play soccer with village friends, hike remnants of ancient Inca footpaths into the surrounding mountains, or relax and play music with your Peruvian peers. Chronicle your experience in the village through an independent project of your choice: create a Quechua phrasebook, try your hand at weaving, or photograph local children and display their portraits at the school.

Dates & t u iti o n TUITION: $5,190 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a roundtrip group flight between Miami and Cusco. Refer to page 70 for transportation details.

DAYS 1–3 Pisac

From Pisac, head deeper into the valley to our community service village. Settle into the rhythm of rural life by immersing yourself in the local culture and working alongside community members on a range of service projects. Possible projects include building

From your base in the village, take day trips to nearby towns, Inca ruins, and local markets. Spend a weekend in Cusco, the imperial capital of the Inca. Delve into Incan culture as we explore Sacsayhuaman, the site of one of the bloodiest battles of the Spanish conquest, and stunning colonial cathedrals built with stones from ancient Inca fortresses. At the end of your stay, join community members for a farewell celebration with local music and traditional dancing.

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Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

DAYS 4–12 community service village

A scenic train ride brings us to one of the most magnificent spots in the world: the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu. Abandoned by the Inca for centuries, the site was rediscovered in 1911 by explorer Hiram Bingham and excavated by a team from National Geographic. Venture through the ancient temples and dwellings to unlock their mysteries. Take an early morning hike up a nearby peak and watch the sun rise over the ruins. We’ll gather for a final evening of sharing the stories and skills we’ve picked up in Peru before our flight home.

HAWAII

On the Big Island of Hawaii, the

powerful forces behind Earth’s creation are on full display, with active volcanoes adding new layers to an expanding archipelago. These everchanging landscapes are fragile, and their ecosystems easily are disrupted by human impact. Help preserve the island’s volcanic and marine environments through ecoservice projects, and cap off the trip with snorkeling, hiking, and biking on Maui.

I T I N E R A RY–14 DAYS

2016 DATES: JUNE 25—JULY 9, JULY 16—30

I T I N E R A RY–1 5 DAYS The program begins in the Sacred Valley of the Inca with an introduction to the ancient city of Pisac. Explore the imposing Pisac ruins to familiarize yourself with the Inca, a people whose influence is still woven into the fabric of modern Peru, and visit Pisac’s renowned artisanal market for a taste of local life.

DAYS 13–15 machu picchu

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

ACCOMMODATIONS: Accommodations in the village are simple. The group sleeps in sleeping bags on the floor of the community center. Boys and girls share a sleeping area and bathroom with other students of the same gender. In Cusco and Machu Picchu, we stay in small, family-run inns and hostels. NOTE: We will be traveling at high elevations ranging from 8,000 to approximately 13,000 feet. Participants should be physically fit. SERVICE PROJECT DETAILS: On this program, students will spend an estimated 35–40 hours on community service projects. At the end of the program, students will receive a certificate stating the number of service hours completed. Projects described in this itinerary are examples and vary depending on the needs of the community.

DAY 1 Kona Coast, The Big Island Our program begins with a day of orientation and exploration along the Kona Coast. Set out to discover ancient lava flows, learn about regional coffee cultivation, or snorkel amid coral reefs. We’ll immerse ourselves in Hawaiian culture, and learn about environmental threats facing local ecosystems as we prepare for our service projects. DAYS 2–10 Community Service Sites Travel to Volcanoes National Park and settle into your dormitory located within the park borders. Work alongside conservationists and biologists on a variety of park preservation initiatives aimed at restoring the natural balance of its habitats. Get your hands dirty planting native vegetation and weeding out invasive species, and educate

Witness active lava flows and steam vents and work to preserve the geothermal landscapes of Volcanoes National Park. Monitor endangered sea turtle populations. Learn to surf in Maui’s turquoise waters and snorkel or SCUBA dive on nearby reefs. other visitors about environmental threats facing the island. In the afternoons and evenings, explore the island’s geothermal landscapes. Witness Kilauea’s lava flows, hike through cavernous lava tubes deep within the jungle, and stargaze from the summit of Mauna Loa—the Earth’s largest volcano. Head to Waimea and lend a hand in preserving marine habitats that have been impacted by growing population and tourism on the island. Conduct beach cleanups, collect scientific data to monitor the health of the Kohala watershed, or educate visitors on the conservation of native coral and fish species. Volunteer with a local organization that monitors green sea turtles—threatened due to pervasive poaching. In the afternoons, take a break from your projects to kayak alongside dolphins in Kealakekua Bay or catch a wave at a nearby surf break. As you contribute to these conservation initiatives, record your work in journal entries, photographs, or videos. Create a story that captures your experience, the challenges facing local conservation organizations, or the impact of your work.

DAYS 11–14 Maui Fly to Maui for our final adventures under the Hawaiian sun. Snorkel or SCUBA dive at the Molokini crater—a partially submerged volcanic cone teeming with coral and colorful fish. Catch the sunrise from the rim of Haleakala’s crater, and descend the mountain slopes on bike, stopping to lunch in the small town of Paia. Relax on Hookipa beach and reflect on the important work you’ve done to preserve these fragile ecosystems.

Dates & t u iti o n 2016 DATES: JULY 12—25, JULY 27—AUGUST 9 TUITION: $5,890 Airfare is not included. We have arranged group flights from Los Angeles to Kailua-Kona, Kailua-Kona to Maui, and Maui to Los Angeles. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: At our community service sites, the group sleeps in simple but comfortable dormitorystyle accommodations. Boys and girls share a sleeping area and bathroom with other students of the same gender. On Maui, we stay in small, family-run hotels or guesthouses. NOTE: While SCUBA diving is not the main focus of this trip, students who are certified will have the opportunity to participate in up to two dives, dependent on weather and conditions. The supplemental fee for diving is $150.

SERVICE PROJECT DETAILS: On this program, students will spend an estimated 35–40 hours on ecoservice projects. At the end of the program, students will receive a certificate stating the number of service hours completed. The projects described in this itinerary are examples and may vary depending on the needs of the community.

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

c o m m u n i t y s e r v i c e 57

COMMUNITY SERVICE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

peru

In Peru’s Sacred Valley of the Inca,

Immerse yourself in everyday life in a traditional Peruvian village. Rehabilitate a community center or build a greenhouse. Explore the mysterious mountaintop citadel of Machu Picchu.

Dates & t u iti o n TUITION: $5,190 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a roundtrip group flight between Miami and Cusco. Refer to page 70 for transportation details.

DAYS 1–3 Pisac

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Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

DAYS 4–12 community service village

HAWAII

On the Big Island of Hawaii, the

I T I N E R A RY–14 DAYS

2016 DATES: JUNE 25—JULY 9, JULY 16—30

DAYS 13–15 machu picchu

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

c o m m u n i t y s e r v i c e 57

COMMUNITY SERVICE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

fiji

The island nation of Fiji is known for

its lush green peaks, turquoise waters, and some of the most hospitable people on Earth. Though tourism is booming on the main island, the smaller, outer islands are barely touched by Western influences, and life remains simple. Settle into a village on the island of Taveuni and work alongside community members on improvement projects at the local elementary school, documenting your experience through photos, journals, and video. Explore Fiji’s natural beauty as you hike to remote waterfalls and snorkel on spectacular coral reefs.

I T I N E R A RY–1 5 DAYS DAYS 1–3 MATEI, Taveuni island Upon arrival in Fiji, head north to Taveuni, the third largest of Fiji’s more than 330 islands. Known as the “garden island,” Taveuni’s lush inland rain forests are home to exotic birds, iguanas, and frogs. Set out to explore this island gem, discovering hidden beaches and visiting the famous waterfalls in Bouma National Heritage Park. Straddle the former international date line, and strap on your fins to explore the fantastic coral reefs offshore. Learn about Fijian culture as we prepare to immerse ourselves in village life.

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Work alongside our village hosts to plant a community garden or build a playground at a school. Help prepare traditional Fijian meals and participate in a kava ceremony. Snorkel or SCUBA dive on some of Fiji’s spectacular coral reefs.

DAYS 4–13 Community Service Village We then make our way to our host village, where the chief and the villagers welcome us with traditional songs and a meke, or dance. We’ll get to work alongside members of the community on a variety of projects. Help build a playground at the village school, or tutor the students in English. Lend a hand planting a community garden or painting a mural at the local health clinic. In the afternoons and evenings, learn new phrases in Fijian as you get to know our hosts and meet artisans to find out how they are reviving traditional arts. Spend an afternoon learning the basics of rugby, the Fijian national sport, in a pick-up game with local youths. Try your hand at spearfishing, then prepare your catch the traditional Fijian way. Gather inside the community house for a kava ceremony with the village elders. Capture your experiences with photos, video, or writing, and share your story with your new friends.

DAYS 14–15 nadi, viti levu island Our adventure wraps up in the city of Nadi, on the main island of Viti Levu, where we’ll explore its unique Indo-Fijian culture. Explore a peaceful Hindu temple and taste the city’s fusion cuisine. Relax in mud baths and hot springs, browse artisan markets, and enjoy the last days of Fijian sun on a quiet beach before returning home.

Dates & t u iti o n 2016 DATES: JUNE 26—JULY 10, JULY 11—25 TUITION: $4,790 Airfare is not included. We have arranged group flights from Los Angeles to Nadi, Nadi to Taveuni, Taveuni to Nadi, and Nadi to Los Angeles. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: In the village, the group sleeps in sleeping bags in a simple village house. Electricity is limited. Boys and girls share a sleeping area and bathroom with other students of the same gender. We work in teams with local women to help to prepare meals. Elsewhere on Taveuni and while in Nadi, we will stay in small, rustic resorts. NOTE: While SCUBA diving is not the main focus of this trip, students who are certified will have the opportunity to participate in up to two dives, dependent on weather and conditions. The supplemental fee for diving is $150. SERVICE PROJECT DETAILS: On this program, students will spend an estimated 35–40 hours on community service projects. At the end of the program, students will receive a certificate stating the number of service hours completed. Projects described in this itinerary are examples and vary depending on the needs of the community.

Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Thailand

Spectacular landscapes dotted with

temples, friendly people, and colorful traditions: it’s easy to see what makes Thailand one of the most enticing places on the planet. Life in much of Thailand remains simple, and basic infrastructure is still being developed in many areas. Settle into our community and work alongside locals on education projects at several schools, documenting the experience through a variety of media. Explore the white-sand beaches of Koh Samet, and cap off the trip in the enchanting capital of Bangkok.

I T I N E R A RY–16 DAYS DAYS 1–10 COMMUNITY SERVICE siteS Our home in Thailand lies just outside the bustling northern city of Chiang Mai. Spend two days getting oriented and exploring the city’s legendary markets and temples. Then split into small groups and work with local residents on a variety of communityinitiated education projects. Tutor novice Buddhist monks at a temple school, which provides education for boys of diverse ethnic backgrounds, or teach primary school students living in rural communities on the outskirts of the city. Participate in afterschool projects on a campus, and host an English Camp to share aspects of your own culture with high school students. In the late afternoons, get into the rhythm of daily life and explore the surrounding

Tutor novice monks or local primary school students and learn about their traditions. Work with caretakers at an elephant conservation center. Swim in crystal clear waters off of white-sand beaches.

area. Discover the sport of Thai kickboxing, derived from Thai martial arts; hike to a mountaintop temple; or learn about Buddhist merit-making. Shop for dinner at an outdoor market, then take a traditional Thai cooking class so you can re-create your favorite dishes at home. Throughout the week, report on your experiences through photographs, writing, or video, and develop a narrative about your time in the community. DAYS 10–12 elephant conservation center and jungle trek Head into the countryside to visit an elephant rehabilitation center to learn about these creatures’ uncertain role in the evolving Thai economy and how this organization adopts and nurtures them. Follow the free-roaming elephants throughout the park while speaking with conservationists about modern threats to the species, then help bathe them in a nearby river before they indulge in their daily mud baths. Trek into the northern mountains, hiking through a lush valley and taking a dip at the foot of a remote waterfall.

DAYS 13–16 KOH SAMET AND Bangkok Travel south to the island of Koh Samet and spend two days swimming in crystal-clear waters, and relaxing on white-sand beaches. Our final stop is Bangkok, where we’ll delve into its vibrant bustle, visiting the Grand Palace and the city’s incredible temples. At Wat Pho, examine a famous reclining Buddha figure that stretches more than 140 feet. Glide along the city’s waterways in a river ferry, and meander through a lively night market. We will gather for a final evening and share stories of our adventures before returning home.

Dates & t u iti o n 2016 DATES: JUNE 29—JULY 14, JULY 13—28, JULY 20—AUGUST 4 TUITION: $5,290 Airfare is not included. We have arranged group flights from New York to Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai to Bangkok, and return from Bangkok. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: While working at our community service sites, the group sleeps in simple but comfortable lodging in double or triple rooms. We stay in hotels in Koh Samet and Bangkok. SERVICE PROJECT DETAILS: On this program, students will spend an estimated 35–40 hours on community service projects. At the end of the program, students will receive a certificate stating the number of service hours completed. The projects described in this itinerary are examples and may vary depending on the needs of the community.

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COMMUNITY SERVICE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

fiji

The island nation of Fiji is known for

58 c o m m u n i t y s e r v i c e

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TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Thailand

Spectacular landscapes dotted with

Tutor novice monks or local primary school students and learn about their traditions. Work with caretakers at an elephant conservation center. Swim in crystal clear waters off of white-sand beaches.

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

c o m m u n i t y s e r v i c e 59

COMMUNITY SERVICE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

nepal

From soaring Himalayan peaks to

lush rain forests, Nepal’s dramatic landscape is home to vibrant cultural groups with rich traditions. Recent earthquakes impacted many of the Nepalese people, especially those living in small agricultural communities. Work alongside community members on projects to help rebuild your host village, while learning about its colorful heritage. Trek in the Himalayan foothills, practice meditation with Buddhist monks, help conservationists care for elephants in Chitwan National Park, and share your experiences through photography, video, and writing.

Immerse yourself in peaceful village life at the foot of the soaring Himalaya. Help rebuild family homes, teach children English, harvest local produce, or work at a community center. Go on safari and visit an elephant breeding center. Settle into a guesthouse overlooking a fertile valley filled with coffee plants, mango and banana trees, and fields of rice and corn. We’ll spend our days working on a variety of service projects. Many buildings in our host village were destroyed by the devastating earthquakes that occurred in April 2015, and we will collaborate with villagers to rebuild homes, care for children at the community children’s home, hit the fields to help with the harvest, or teach English to village students. In the late afternoons, play games with local kids or practice yoga on the rooftop of our home. Join Tamang women to make momo dumplings or other Nepalese dishes. Share the story of your work in the community through photography, video, and writing projects.

DAYS 15–18 Wildlife Safari in Chitwan National Park Descend to Nepal’s southern plains, where rhinos, monkeys, elephants, and exotic birds live in misty jungles. Head out on safari and wade into a river to help bathe elephants. Go into the field with researchers from the National Trust for Nature Conservation, a national organization working on biodiversity conservation and community development, to learn how they monitor and protect tigers and rhinos in Nepal’s jungles. Visit a traditional Tharu village and take a dugout canoe to the Elephant Breeding Center to learn about elephant conservation and help tend to baby elephants.

Dates & t u iti o n

I T I N E R A RY–18 DAYS

2016 DATES: JUNE 22—JULY 9, JULY 6—23, JULY 20—AUGUST 6

DAYS 1–4 Kathmandu

TUITION: $5,390 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a roundtrip group flight between New York and Kathmandu. Refer to page 70 for transportation details.

Stay in the heart of Kathmandu’s old city, where temples overhang narrow streets. Visit a Hindu temple teeming with monkeys, join Tibetan Buddhist nuns and monks in a walking meditation around Asia’s largest stupa, and experience a Hindu ceremony on the banks of the Bagmati River. DAYS 5–11 Community Service Village Escape the bustle of Kathmandu and journey to Talamarang, an agricultural community north of the city, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Himalaya. Our hosts, ethnic Tamang people, welcome us to village life. 60 c o m m u n i t y s e r v i c e

DAYS 12–14 NAMO BUDDHA Monastery Retreat and Mini-Trek Trek through the Kathmandu Valley to the sacred pilgrimage site of Namo Buddha. Visit an exquisite secluded monastery, and practice yoga or meditation with Tibetan monks under a canopy of prayer flags. Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

ACCOMMODATIONS: In Kathmandu we stay in a hotel in the heart of the old city. In our host village, girls and boys will bunk separately in a basic guesthouse with shared bathrooms and a group kitchen. We stay in simple lodges during our monastery retreat and in a small hotel in Chitwan National Park. SERVICE PROJECT DETAILS: On this program, students will spend an estimated 35–40 hours on community service projects. At the end of the program, students will receive a certificate stating the number of service hours completed. Projects described in this itinerary are examples and vary depending on the needs of the community.

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

tanzania

Thanks to its fantastically rich wildlife,

the allure of the fascinating Maasai people, and many years of stability, Tanzania is one of Africa’s great success stories. Yet life in rural villages remains simple, and basic infrastructure is still being developed in many areas. In the hills of northern Tanzania, settle into a village and work on projects that help improve daily life for residents. Document life in the village and craft a story about your experience. Cap off the trip with a wildlife safari and a very special evening in a Maasai community.

Get into the rhythm of village life at the base of Mount Meru. Help build a water-delivery system in our host village, or teach English to local children. Spend a night with the Maasai. Encounter amazing wildlife on safari in three parks. outdoor market, or write in your journal with views of Kilimanjaro in the distance. Spend time with the local children, who are excited to share their lives, practice their English, and teach you their pastimes—from drumming and dancing to batik and beading. DAYS 9–13 wildlife safari and maasai village Head into the Maasai Steppe where, at the invitation of Maasai tribal leaders, we’ll stay a night in a traditional boma settlement—a group of mud huts ringed by thorns to keep away predators. We’ll get to know the customs of the iconic Maasai, witness drumming and jumping contests, and learn about their pastoral lifestyle.

rhinos, and many more species. Finally, stop for more game viewing at Lake Manyara, a Rift Valley lake whose vast colonies of flamingos often turn its edges pink. With our experienced safari guides, discuss strategies for addressing human-wildlife conflict and learn about animal behavior, symbiosis, and wildlife migration in each park we explore.

DAYS 14–15 Arusha Return from safari and spend your last two days at a community-based eco-lodge in a small village near Arusha. Learn from local farmers how coffee is grown and participate in a traditional dance workshop. We’ll have a farewell celebration before flying home.

I T I N E R A RY–1 5 DAYS

Dates & t u iti o n

DAYS 1–8 COMMUNITY SERVICE VILLAGE

2016 DATE: JULY 8—22

Our home in Tanzania is a small agricultural village in the lush hills below Mount Meru. We’ll split into small groups and spend our days working with the village residents on a variety of community-initiated projects. Improve a local water supply system, help with repairs at the school, or lend a hand at a nearby orphanage. Roll up your sleeves and pitch in with planting and harvesting at a local farm, or help farmers sell their produce at market. In the late afternoons, get into the rhythm of village life and explore the area. Play soccer with kids from the village, discover a waterfall in the surrounding mountain forest, shop for dinner at an

TUITION: $6,590 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a roundtrip group flight between New York and Arusha. Refer to page 70 for transportation details.

Then set out on a safari adventure in three incredible—and very different—wildlife parks. In the low woodlands of Tarangire National Park, watch elephant families interact, look for tree-climbing leopards and lions, and spot a myriad of bird species. Descend to the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater, a massive volcanic caldera that is home to zebras, cheetahs, hippos, rare

ACCOMMODATIONS: In the village, the group sleeps on bunk beds in a simple village house. Boys and girls share a sleeping area and bathroom with other students of the same gender. We work in teams to help prepare meals. In the Maasai tribal lands and on safari, we stay in tented camps. SERVICE PROJECT DETAILS: On this program, students will spend an estimated 35–40 hours on community service projects. At the end of the program, students will receive a certificate stating the number of service hours completed. Projects described in this itinerary are examples and vary depending on the needs of the community.

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

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COMMUNITY SERVICE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

nepal

From soaring Himalayan peaks to

Dates & t u iti o n

I T I N E R A RY–18 DAYS

2016 DATES: JUNE 22—JULY 9, JULY 6—23, JULY 20—AUGUST 6

DAYS 1–4 Kathmandu

TUITION: $5,390 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a roundtrip group flight between New York and Kathmandu. Refer to page 70 for transportation details.

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

tanzania

Thanks to its fantastically rich wildlife,

I T I N E R A RY–1 5 DAYS

Dates & t u iti o n

DAYS 1–8 COMMUNITY SERVICE VILLAGE

2016 DATE: JULY 8—22

TUITION: $6,590 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a roundtrip group flight between New York and Arusha. Refer to page 70 for transportation details.

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

c o m m u n i t y s e r v i c e 61

PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

yellowstone

With its soaring peaks, endless

grasslands teeming with wildlife, and gem-colored geothermal pools, Yellowstone National Park is an ideal setting to explore the field of photography. Venture into these vast landscapes alongside a National Geographic photographer to document bears and bison, bighorn sheep, wolves, elk, bald eagles, and more. Explore the techniques and craft of photography during daily hands-on classes, witness unusual geological phenomena, and capture the magic of Yellowstone through your camera’s lens.

Practice photographing high-speed movement as you capture images of fastmoving elk or deer in their natural habitat. Take an excursion to the Old West town of Livingston, Montana, and take portraits of cowboys and cowgirls at the famous Livingston Roundup Rodeo. Experience the thrill of the iconic Yellowstone River during a white-water rafting trip or ride horseback alongside a local cowboy.

Photograph native wildlife and stunning landscapes in America’s first national park. Alongside a National Geographic photographer, capture the lively and historic Livingston Roundup Rodeo. Exhibit your work at a local gallery in downtown Bozeman.

Dates & t u iti o n 2016 DATE: JULY 2—13 TUITION: $5,590 Airfare is not included. The program begins and ends in Bozeman, Montana. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: In Bozeman, we stay in dormitory-style accommodations on the Montana State University campus. In Yellowstone, our home is the historic Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel. Breakfast is provided at our residence, and other meals range from picnics to sit-down meals at restaurants. A classroom equipped with projectors will be set up at the lodge so we can share and critique our work. WORKSHOP DETAILS: Throughout the workshop, students will participate in daily photo shoots and edit-and-critique sessions. The program culminates on the final evening with a gallery opening featuring large-format prints of students’ work.

I T I N E R A RY–1 2 DAYS The workshop begins with a night in Bozeman, Montana. Then travel to Mammoth Hot Springs, our base in northern Yellowstone National Park. Delve into the art and technique of photography, working in small groups with our photo instructors and National Geographic photographer. Begin each day exploring Yellowstone’s rugged terrain and searching for wildlife while practicing new photographic techniques, from managing light and depth of field to working with flash and improving your composition. Then return to the classroom to review and edit your images and prepare for the next day’s assignment. Hone your eye for great landscape shots during visits to colorful hot springs, geyser fields, and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.

In the evenings, review your day’s work, gather for talks by your photography expert, and learn low-light photography techniques. Take advantage of the golden hour during a sunset paddle on Yellowstone Lake, or capture the brilliant night sky during a nighttime shoot. Throughout the workshop, we’ll prepare for a gallery show featuring large-format digital prints of the group’s original work. Spend your last two days in the quaint town of Bozeman, organizing, curating, and installing your exhibit. Celebrate your work on display in a local gallery and an opening party on the final night.

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MEET YOUR EXPERT erika larsen Erika uses photography to document cultures that maintain strong connections with nature. Her work has been published in numerous publications and shown in museums around the world. She has spent the past year photographing Yellowstone National Park for the May 2016 issue of National Geographic magazine. Erika will join the entire workshop.

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

EDINBURGH

From enchanting cobblestoned lanes

crowned by a fairytale hilltop castle to street musicians and sidewalk theater performances, the magic of Edinburgh begs to be captured on camera. During daily classes and photo shoots in the city’s neighborhoods and parks, learn new techniques from a National Geographic photographer and our talented instructors. Focus on a broad range of topics, from composition to light, and head out on photo assignments in the city and amid the stunning coastal landscapes of the Scottish countryside.

Document Edinburgh’s unique mix of medieval and modern architecture. Improve your skills with the guidance of a National Geographic photographer, and exhibit your work in a gallery. Go on photo shoots to the Highlands and Inner Hebrides.

In the evenings, we’ll upload photos, review the day’s work, and attend seminars given by our instructors and a National Geographic photographer. Then head out on nighttime photo shoots and experience Edinburgh’s creative energy, taking portraits of street musicians and Scottish dancers along the Old Town’s Royal Mile. Embark on a two-day photo assignment on the Isle of Mull in the Inner Hebrides, where we’ll photograph Scotland’s rugged and storied countryside. Walk craggy cliffs

2016 DATE: JULY 17—28 TUITION: $6,190 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a roundtrip group flight between New York and Edinburgh. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: We stay in dormitory-style accommodations near central Edinburgh and in a small, family-run hotel in the Inner Hebrides. Breakfast is provided at our residence, while other meals range from picnics to sit-down meals at restaurants. Classrooms are equipped with digital projectors so we can share and critique our work. WORKSHOP DETAILS: Throughout the workshop, students will participate in daily photo shoots and edit-and-critique sessions. The program culminates on the final evening with a gallery featuring largeformat prints of students’ work.

I T I N E R A RY–1 2 DAYS Delve into the art and technique of photography, working in small groups with our photo instructors and National Geographic photographer in vibrant Edinburgh. Practice newly acquired techniques on the historic streets and verdant knolls of the city. Wander the Old Town’s medieval cobblestone maze, using your camera to capture hidden surprises found down narrow alleyways. Climb to Edinburgh Castle and snap panoramic shots over the city, and photograph the bucolic, rolling hills of Holyrood Park during sunset’s golden hour. On day trips outside the city, take pictures of fishermen and pebbled beaches, or document traditional Scottish sporting events at the Highland Games.

Dates & t u iti o n

and low-lying beaches to capture unique angles of windswept coastlines. Hike Ben More—the island’s highest peak—for panoramic shots over sparkling lochs. Capture colorful villages, local craftspeople, and historic castles, and sail to Staffa Island to document its naturally hexagonal basalt columns and puffin colony. Throughout the workshop, organize and curate an exhibition of large-format prints of the group’s best work. During the formal gallery opening, celebrate the work you’ve accomplished during your time in Edinburgh.

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

MEET YOUR EXPERT Gianluca ColLa Gianluca Colla has traveled and photographed around the world, from the Arctic Circle to Africa’s deserts, covering topics that range from the secrets of the longest-living centenarians to a lost Da Vinci painting. His work has appeared in National Geographic magazine, Condé Nast Traveler, and The New York Times. Gianluca will join the entire workshop.

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PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

yellowstone

With its soaring peaks, endless

62 P H OTO G R A P H Y W O R K S H O P

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TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

EDINBURGH

From enchanting cobblestoned lanes

Dates & t u iti o n

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

P H OTO G R A P H Y W O R K S H O P 63

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TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

PRAGUE

At once ancient and modern,

Prague provides a unique and inspiring backdrop to explore the creative and technical aspects of photography. From Bohemian kings to Communist rule and revolution, this city has a story to tell. Learn how to seize that story through images during hands-on classes led by our instructors and a National Geographic photographer. Then hit the streets to experience the grandeur, grit, and enchantment of a city that has captured the hearts of artists, musicians, and writers for centuries.

Develop your artistic vision with the help of a National Geographic photographer. Go on photo shoots in the forests and medieval towns of Bohemia. Hone your photography skills through field-based classes and seminars.

barcelona

PARIS

trip highlights skateboarders in action and panoramic views of the city. In the evenings, review the day’s work or attend seminars led by our National Geographic photographer and instructors as they share their professional experiences and insights. Then head out to photograph the city at night. Document street life against the dazzling lights of Wenceslas Square, or train your lens on the illuminated arches of the Charles Bridge as they cast reflections on the river below.

Dates & t u iti o n 2016 DATE: July 3—14 TUITION: $5,790 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a roundtrip group flight between New York and Prague. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: We stay in dormitory-style accommodations near central Prague and in a small, family-run hotel in South Bohemia. Breakfast is provided at our residence, while other meals range from picnics to sit-down meals at restaurants. Classrooms are equipped with digital projectors so we can share and critique our work. WORKSHOP DETAILS: Throughout the workshop, students will participate in daily photo shoots and edit-and-critique sessions. The program culminates with a gallery opening on the final evening featuring large-format prints of the students’ work.

I T I N E R A RY–1 2 DAYS Prague is a visual feast where Gothic, baroque, art nouveau, and cubist architecture mingle with weird and witty modern sculpture, and a creative energy fills the streets. Our base in this captivating city is at the junction of the Old and New Towns, just steps from the National Museum. Spend time in our classroom each day, learning how to develop your eye and improve your technical skills. Then take to the streets in small groups, practicing what you’ve learned on photo shoots. Climb up to Prague Castle at the “golden hour” to capture the city’s iconic skyline, punctuated by a multitude of spires. Ride a boat down the winding Vltava River to catch the city from a different vantage point. At Letná Park, perched on a hilltop overlooking Prague, frame

Escape to the wooded hills and storied villages of South Bohemia on a three-day photo assignment. Stay in a 14th-century hunting estate and work on your landscape photography while hiking through the Šumava forest and exploring pristine rivers. Capture the faces of our village neighbors and step back in time on a shoot in the labyrinthine medieval city of Český Krumlov. Throughout the workshop we will prepare for a gallery opening that will feature largeprint photos of the group’s best work. Help organize and curate the exhibit, and share your images on our final night.

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MEET YOUR EXPERT ami vitale Photographer and filmmaker Ami Vitale’s work has taken her to more than 90 countries. She earned accolades for her recent coverage of Kenya’s northern white rhinos and the indigenous communities working to protect them. She lived in Prague for four years, covering politics and news from Eastern Europe for news publications. Ami will join the entire workshop.

trip highlights

Capture Paris’ iconic landmarks on photo shoots with a National Geographic photographer. Explore Chartres, Claude Monet’s gardens, and Versailles on photo assignments. Curate and exhibit your work in a Parisian gallery.

Capture Barcelona’s lively street life and fanciful architecture. Set out on photo assignments in the ancient towns of Figueres, Cadaqués, and Giron. Organize a gallery opening featuring large-format prints of your photographs.

Part of what makes Paris so photogenic is the mingling of old and new, from the glass pyramid that juts out of the courtyard of the stately Louvre Museum, to today’s students sipping coffee at brasseries once frequented by Hemingway. Delve into the technical and creative aspects of photography during in-depth classes with a National Geographic photographer and a team of instructors. Learn how to capture light, mood, and motion on photo shoots in a city that has inspired artists for centuries.

Barcelona is a city with a pulse, where ancient Roman walls meet the wild curves of modernist architecture, and Spanish culture blends with a strong local Catalan identity. Delve into photography in this city full of cutting-edge design, practicing new techniques on photo shoots at street festivals and markets, along the bustling port and in centuries-old neighborhoods. Learn how to evoke the soul of the city through photography.

Dates & t u iti o n

12 DAYS | 2016 DATES: July 17—28

12 DAYS | 2016 DATES: July 3—14

TUITION: $6,290 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a round-trip group flight between New York and Paris. Refer to page 70 for transportation details.

TUITION: $5,890 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a round-trip group flight between New York and Barcelona. Refer to page 70 for transportation details.

For a complete program description and itinerary, visit our website.

MEET YOUR EXPERT: DAVE YODER

MEET YOUR EXPERT: TINO SORIANO

Dave is a contributing photographer to National Geographic magazine. His assignments include a search for a lost Leonardo da Vinci painting and an inside look at the Vatican and Pope Francis. Dave will join the entire workshop.

A Barcelona native and award-winning photographer, Tino has photographed seven National Geographic Traveler guidebooks, and his work has appeared in National Geographic magazine, Smithsonian magazine and The New York Times. Tino will join the entire workshop.

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

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PRAGUE

At once ancient and modern,

barcelona

PARIS

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trip highlights

Dates & t u iti o n

12 DAYS | 2016 DATES: July 17—28

12 DAYS | 2016 DATES: July 3—14

TUITION: $6,290 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a round-trip group flight between New York and Paris. Refer to page 70 for transportation details.

TUITION: $5,890 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a round-trip group flight between New York and Barcelona. Refer to page 70 for transportation details.

For a complete program description and itinerary, visit our website.

MEET YOUR EXPERT: DAVE YODER

MEET YOUR EXPERT: TINO SORIANO

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

P H OTO G R A P H Y W O R K S H O P 65

MIDDLE SCHOOL EXPEDITIONS

Announcing New Summer Trips for Middle School Students!

From Australia to Alaska, Italy to Belize, young explorers will experience amazing places, meet new friends, and come home with a better understanding of the positive impact they can make on the world.

ITALY

FRANCE AND SPAIN

FOCUS ON: Photography Italian Food & Culture Archaeology & Ancient History

FOCUS ON: Photography HISTORY & CULTURE arT & ARCHITECTURE

the steps of the Eiffel Tower, visit Giverny to see the › Hike between the candy-colored towns of the Cinque Terre. › Climb famous gardens that inspired Monet, and discover medieval › Gaze at some of Michelangelo’s greatest masterpieces. history on the Île de la Cité. Tuscany’s iconic cypress trees framed by fields › Photograph › Go on a spelunking excursion in the foothills of the Pyrenees. of sunflowers. › Enjoy a gelato before climbing the Leaning Tower of Pisa. › Explore Antoni Gaudí’s Sagrada Família basilica in Barcelona. Italy can feel like a portal to the past—its walled medieval villages, Renaissance cities, and age-old fishing towns seemingly frozen in a different era. Transport yourself to these timeless places on a journey through Florence, Tuscany, and the coastal towns of the Cinque Terre. See artistic masterpieces, sample the flavors of world-renowned Italian cuisine, and hike through picturesque rural and coastal landscapes alongside your trip leaders and a National Geographic expert. Immerse yourself in local history and culture while photographing your adventures in bella Italia. DATES & TUITION

DATES & TUITION

12 DAYS | 2016 DATES: JUNE 25–JULY 6, JULY 7-18 TUITION: $5,890 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a round-trip group flight between New York City and Rome. Refer to page 70 for transportation details.

For a complete program description and itinerary, visit our website.

66 M I D D L E S C H O O L E X P E D I T I O N S

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Separated by the peaks of the Pyrenees, France and Spain differ in many ways, from language and cuisine to music and architecture. Immerse yourself in the best of both countries, exploring two of Europe’s most incredible cities—and the surrounding countryside— and experiencing everyday life in these beautiful places. Encounter famous masterpieces while roaming the Louvre and climbing the Notre Dame Cathedral towers. Hit the lively streets of Barcelona to see quirky architecture; watch flamenco dancers perform; and sample inventive tapas. As you discover what makes each culture special, craft a story about your experiences through photography.

14 DAYS | 2016 DATES: JULY 2-15, JULY 16-29 TUITION: $6,490 Airfare is not included. We have arranged group flights from New York to Paris, Paris to Barcelona, and return to New York. Refer to page 70 for transportation details.

For a complete program description and itinerary, visit our website.

MEET YOUR EXPERT: Gianluca Colla

MEET YOUR EXPERT: Tino Soriano

Italian photographer Gianluca Colla has traveled around the world, from the Arctic Circle to Africa’s deserts. His work has appeared in National Geographic magazine, Condé Nast Traveler, and The New York Times. Gianluca will join both groups in Cinque Terre and Florence.

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

MIDDLE SCHOOL EXPEDITIONS 67

MIDDLE SCHOOL EXPEDITIONS

Announcing New Summer Trips for Middle School Students!

ITALY

FRANCE AND SPAIN

FOCUS ON: Photography Italian Food & Culture Archaeology & Ancient History

FOCUS ON: Photography HISTORY & CULTURE arT & ARCHITECTURE

DATES & TUITION

For a complete program description and itinerary, visit our website.

66 M I D D L E S C H O O L E X P E D I T I O N S

Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

For a complete program description and itinerary, visit our website.

MEET YOUR EXPERT: Gianluca Colla

MEET YOUR EXPERT: Tino Soriano

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

MIDDLE SCHOOL EXPEDITIONS 67

MIDDLE SCHOOL EXPEDITIONS

COSTA RICA

BELIZE

AUSTRALIA

ALASKA

FOCUS ON: Photography WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMUNITY SERVICE

FOCUS ON: MARINE CONSERVATION Mayan Archaeology & Culture COMMUNITY SERVICE

FOCUS ON: Photography MARINE CONSERVATION Aboriginal History & Culture

FOCUS ON: Photography WILDLIFE & BIODIVERSITY Alaskan History & Culture

In Belize, thick jungles hide forgotten temples, and curious spider monkeys make their way through the treetops. A network of rivers and caves wind below ground, and a dazzling marine world lies just beyond beaches. Discover these fascinating landscapes from our base at a wildlife sanctuary, and get to know local Belizeans while working on service projects in a rural community. Then travel by boat to tiny Tobacco Caye, and step just beyond your beachfront cabana into an underwater world of brightly colored coral, sea turtles, and tropical fish. Explore the diverse cultures and ecosystems of Belize while learning about marine conservation and Maya culture.

Australia is a country unlike any other—a geographically isolated island-continent where ancient cultures and unique wildlife have been thriving for thousands of years. Discover Australia—from its koalas to Sydney’s beautiful harbor. Get to know Aboriginal people through dance, art, and cuisine. Set out on a four-day sailing expedition among the pristine islands bordering the Great Barrier Reef. With dynamic trip leaders and a National Geographic expert, explore these fascinating places through three guiding themes: photography, marine conservation, and history & culture.

› Soar through the rain forest canopy on a zip-line course. leatherback turtle researchers in the field and learn › Join about their efforts to conserve endangered species. › Plant a community garden or teach English to school children in a rural village.

Costa Rica has protected nearly a quarter of its land from development, creating a refuge for countless species and ensuring that its rain forests and pristine beaches will thrive for generations to come. From our base on the stunning shores of Playa Grande, discover Costa Rica’s innovative conservation efforts and incredible biodiversity alongside knowledgeable trip leaders and a National Geographic expert. Spot exotic marine and bird life on snorkeling and canoeing excursions, head inland to photograph primary rain forest, and travel to a rural village to help local community members with service projects.

temple ruins in ancient Maya cities, and float through › Climb caves and gorges on a tubing excursion. › Snorkel along the second largest barrier reef in the world. › Observe jaguars and pumas at the Belize Zoo. › Take part in service projects in a local village.

› Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef. a boomerang alongside Aboriginal artisans and then › Make learn how to properly throw it. up close to kangaroos, koalas, and Tasmanian devils at › Get the Taronga Zoo.

DATES & TUITION

through Denali’s taiga and tundra, tracking moose, › Hike wolves, and caribous. along the Nenana River and visit the glacier that is the › Kayak source of its water flow. › Play traditional Alaskan games with members of the native communities at Anchorage’s Alaska Native Heritage Center.

Alaska is truly America’s final frontier—a place where untouched wilderness stretches for unimaginable distances and nature’s beauty is displayed on an epic scale. Discover the wild landscape while trekking, kayaking, and mountain biking your way through Denali. Spot fascinating wildlife—from brown bears to herds of caribou—and take in spectacular views of Denali, the tallest peak in North America. During this special centennial anniversary of the National Park Service, explore Denali National Park’s past and present through the lens of photography, wildlife conservation, and Alaskan culture.

DATES & TUITION

15 DAYS | 2016 DATES: JUNE 26–JULY 10, JULY 9–23

DATES & TUITION

12 DAYS | 2016 DATES: JULY 5–16, JULY 16–27

10 DAYS | 2016 DATES: JUNE 25–JULY 4, JULY 16–25

10 DAYS | 2016 DATES: JULY 5–14

TUITION: $5,690 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a round-trip group flight between Miami and Belize City. Refer to page 70 for transportation details.

TUITION: $6,990 Airfare is not included. We have arranged group flights from Los Angeles to Sydney, Sydney to Brisbane, Brisbane to Hamilton Island, Hamilton Island to Sydney, and return from Sydney to Los Angeles. Refer to page 70 for transportation details.

For a complete program description and itinerary, visit our website.

TUITION: $4,890 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a round-trip group flight between Miami and Liberia, Costa Rica. Refer to page 70 for transportation details.

For a complete program description and itinerary, visit our website.

MEET YOUR EXPERT: CAtherine WorkmaN National Geographic grantee and primatologist Catherine Workman has dedicated her career to the protection of wildlife, and has worked around the world—from Costa Rica to Vietnam. She will join both groups in Playa Grande.

68 M I D D L E S C H O O L E X P E D I T I O N S

Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

MEET YOUR EXPERT: Greg Marshall

MEET YOUR EXPERT: Jason Edwards

Greg Marshall is a biologist, filmmaker, and inventor of the Crittercam—a device that can be attached to an animal to study its behavior. He has used the device to observe blue whales, black turtles, giant oceanic manta rays, and more. Greg will join both groups on Tobacco Caye.

Award-winning photographer Jason Edwards has been at the forefront of natural history photography for two decades. A passion for animals and the environment defines his extensive career. Jason will join both groups in Brisbane and North Stradbroke Island.

TUITION: $5,390 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a round-trip group flight between Seattle and Anchorage. Refer to page 70 for transportation details.

MEET YOUR EXPERT: ronan donovan National Geographic photographer Ronan Donovan captures images of animals in the wild to raise awareness about critical species. He recently spent a year on assignment for National Geographic magazine photographing wolves of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, and his work has been featured in the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History. Ronan will join the group in Denali.

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

MIDDLE SCHOOL EXPEDITIONS 69

MIDDLE SCHOOL EXPEDITIONS

COSTA RICA

BELIZE

AUSTRALIA

ALASKA

FOCUS ON: Photography WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMUNITY SERVICE

FOCUS ON: MARINE CONSERVATION Mayan Archaeology & Culture COMMUNITY SERVICE

FOCUS ON: Photography MARINE CONSERVATION Aboriginal History & Culture

FOCUS ON: Photography WILDLIFE & BIODIVERSITY Alaskan History & Culture

DATES & TUITION

15 DAYS | 2016 DATES: JUNE 26–JULY 10, JULY 9–23

DATES & TUITION

12 DAYS | 2016 DATES: JULY 5–16, JULY 16–27

10 DAYS | 2016 DATES: JUNE 25–JULY 4, JULY 16–25

10 DAYS | 2016 DATES: JULY 5–14

TUITION: $5,690 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a round-trip group flight between Miami and Belize City. Refer to page 70 for transportation details.

For a complete program description and itinerary, visit our website.

TUITION: $4,890 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a round-trip group flight between Miami and Liberia, Costa Rica. Refer to page 70 for transportation details.

For a complete program description and itinerary, visit our website.

68 M I D D L E S C H O O L E X P E D I T I O N S

Call toll-free 1-877-877-8759

MEET YOUR EXPERT: Greg Marshall

MEET YOUR EXPERT: Jason Edwards

TUITION: $5,390 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a round-trip group flight between Seattle and Anchorage. Refer to page 70 for transportation details.

apply online at ngstudentexpeditions.com

MIDDLE SCHOOL EXPEDITIONS 69

HOW TO APPLY