Summer Trips for High School and Middle School Students
SUMMER 2017
Dear Student Traveler, When National Geographic photographer and mountaineer Tommy Heinrich was a teenager growing up in Argentina, he regularly went hiking in Patagonia, scaling the slopes of his homeland as he dreamed of traveling the globe. Tommy has since tackled some of the planet’s most epic summits—from El Capitan to Everest. This summer, he’ll return to Patagonia to introduce students to the mountains that sparked his own passion for exploration.
HIGH SCHOOL EXPEDITIONS NORTH AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN
Canadian Arctic
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Alaska 16 Belize 18
Traveling on a student expedition is the ultimate opportunity to follow in the footsteps of our explorers—a chance to dig in deep and discover incredible places alongside National Geographic experts and dynamic trip leaders. Starting in 2017, we’ll journey to the tiny Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, hiking between timeless mountain villages and getting immersed in an ancient way of life. Closer to home, we’re setting out on a one-of-a-kind safari, tracking polar bears and swimming with beluga whales in the Canadian Arctic.
Cuba 20
Aspiring photographers can improve their skills on two new workshops in futuristic Tokyo or the majestic landscapes of Yosemite National Park. In Madagascar, we’ll work to protect the island’s rain forests and unique wildlife during an eco-service program based at a research center founded by a renowned National Geographic grantee. On our university workshop at MIT, students delve into the world of engineering, data science, and cutting-edge technology. And we’ve added two new trips for middle school students: an exploration of Iceland’s volcanic landscapes and an adventure in the wilds of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.
Iceland 28
In the pages that follow, you’ll find plenty of ways to see the world through the eyes of a Nat Geo explorer—from tracking lions in Tanzania to uncovering the mysteries of Machu Picchu. We hope to see you in the field!
Australia 40
SOUTH AMERICA
Ecuador and the Galápagos
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Argentina and Chile
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Peru 26 EUROPE
Switzerland and France
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Italy and Greece
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Ireland 34 AFRICA
Tanzania 36 Namibia 38 AUSTRALIA AND THE PACIFIC
New Zealand
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ASIA
Bali 44 Sincerely,
Bhutan 46 India 48
Lynn Cutter Executive Vice President National Geographic Travel
WHEN YOU TRAVEL WITH US, YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE. Your support is vital to National Geographic's mission to explore and protect our planet.
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China 50
COMMUNITY SERVICE
MIDDLE SCHOOL
Hawaii 52 Costa Rica
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Madagascar 54 Tanzania 55 Thailand 56 Nepal 57 Fiji 58
Iceland 66 Belize 67 Costa Rica
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Italy 68 Yellowstone and Grand Teton
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Alaska 69
PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOPS Tokyo 59 Yellowstone 60 Yosemite and San Francisco
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Barcelona 62 Prague 63
UNIVERSITY WORKSHOPS
RESOURCES About Our Trips
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National Geographic Experts
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Trip Leaders
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Technology and Innovation
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How to Apply
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Exploration and Conservation
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Scholarship Program
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Terms and Conditions
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Trip Calendar
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Massachusetts Institute of Technology University of Colorado Boulder
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EXPLORE THE WORLD
WITH NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC.
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8 REASONS TO TRAVEL WITH US 1. TRAVEL LIKE AN EXPLORER
There’s a certain spirit that has driven National Geographic adventurers to all corners of the Earth. You feel it when you travel with us. You’ll be out in the field with true explorers, fueled by curiosity and a desire to understand our planet. As you venture to distant places and get acquainted with unfamiliar cultures, you’ll learn how to communicate, observe, and problem-solve in new ways—while having the time of your life. You’ll get closer than you ever imagined to incredible wildlife, and start to feel at home among local people and their traditions. Much more than a tourist, you become a thoughtful explorer who is passionate about our world.
2.
EXPLORE YOUR PASSION
Throughout your trip, you’ll delve deeper into your surroundings by exploring through the lens of one or more topics—photography, conservation, marine biology, community service, creative writing, filmmaking, archaeology, and more. As you explore, you’ll create a tangible project that you can take back home, such as a photography portfolio, a short film, or a study on local wildlife.
3. SPEND TIME WITH OUR EXPERTS
You’ve read their stories, seen their photographs, followed their adventures. But there’s nothing quite like exploring alongside them and learning about their experiences and perspectives firsthand. Our experts, who join our expeditions and workshops, are photographers, writers, scientists, and explorers with fascinating careers that are helping to make the world a better place.
4. BUILD LASTING RELATIONSHIPS
Strong friendships form fast when you’re on the road, and one of the highlights of your trip is sure to be your traveling companions. You’ll embark on adventures with students from across the country—and the world—who are also passionate about exploring; and you’ll find mentors and role models in your trip leaders, who are emerging scientists, journalists, and explorers.
5. STAY IN AUTHENTIC ACCOMMODATIONS
From bungalows deep in the jungle to a family-run guesthouse in a traditional village, our accommodations themselves are part of the adventure. The places we stay are comfortable, safe, and well located, and give you a true feel for the local culture and environment.
6. HONE YOUR STORYTELLING SKILLS
rafting stories is our trade at National Geographic, and traveling with our experts and trip C leaders, you’ll learn how to turn your experience into a story—whether it’s through photographs, writing, film, or all three.
7. WE’VE BEEN EXPLORING THE WORLD FOR 129 YEARS
raveling with National Geographic, a name that’s trusted and respected all over the world, opens T doors wherever you go, whether you’re teaching English to monks in Nepal or getting face-toface with a lemur in Madagascar.
8. THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE
Whether you’re a seventh grader or a senior, an aspiring marine biologist or a budding filmmaker, there’s a trip for you. Keep reading to find out about all our trips and focus areas.
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FOLLOW YOUR
PASSION! Experience what it’s like to be on assignment for National Geographic. No matter which trip you choose, you’ll explore with a purpose, experiencing your surroundings through the lens of one or more themes. Hands-on projects—such as crafting a photography portfolio, creating a short film, teaching elementary school students about conservation, or researching threats to wildlife with scientists— will deepen your understanding of the cultures and environments you visit and give you a tangible accomplishment to share with your friends and family back home.
PHOTOGRAPHY Set out on photo shoots to improve your photography skills and capture the spirit of the places you encounter. Develop a photo-story about a topic that sparks your interest.
ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY Get a firsthand look at new technologies that are being used to address challenges facing the modern world. Explore recent advances in engineering, robotics, and computing.
As you flip through this catalog, find the destination and focus area that most captures your imagination. See page 74 for a complete list of trips and their associated themes.
CLIMATE & GEOLOGY Examine Earth processes, witness dramatic geological forces at work, and discuss the science of global climate change with local scientists.
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MARINE & TROPICAL BIOLOGY
CREATIVE WRITING
Delve into underwater ecosystems and discover how the health of our oceans, seas, and shorelines impacts all life on Earth.
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 CONSERVATION Explore local wildlife and their habitats, and learn about biologists’ efforts to protect these natural resources.
FILM & VIDEO Work in production teams to document your journey, the people you meet, and the adventures you experience. Create a short video that tells the story of your trip.
ANTHROPOLOGY & LOCAL CULTURES
COMMUNITY SERVICE 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. Make a useful contribution by tutoring students in English, cleaning up a park, supporting a local conservation effort, or heping to develop community infrastructure.
Uncover the links between the ancient and modern worlds, encountering traces of past civilizations and experiencing vibrant customs and traditions that live on in present-day cultures.
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CELEBRATING 10 YEARS:
OUR INSPIRING STUDENTS SHARE THEIR STORIES
Over the past decade, we’ve sent students to the deserts of Namibia, the reefs of Belize, and beyond to explore the great diversity of our planet. For many, traveling with Nat Geo has sparked a passion and instilled new confidence and a sense of purpose, shaping their life’s journey. We tracked down four of our alumni to find out what they’re up to now. We weren’t surprised to find that they had become inspiring young adults, driven by a desire to understand our world and make a positive impact.
Kate Miller (pictured above right), Spain 2008, is a professional photographer whose work has been featured by Athleta—and a National Geographic Student Expeditions trip leader! “My leaders were every role: friend, teacher, travel agent, temporary parent. They wanted us to go home with great stories and better photos.” An indelible moment from her trip was struggling to get the perfect shot of a flamenco dancer in motion—and finally succeeding. She now focuses on yoga and fitness photography, and leads student trips every summer, sometimes with Tino Soriano, the same Nat Geo photographer she traveled with on her trip years ago! “The experience is surreal to work alongside someone who has been such an inspiration to me as a photographer and a person. I still think of him as a mentor.” 8
Brayan Serratos, Peru Community Service 2014, caught the travel bug and has visited 19 countries since his Nat Geo trip. At home, Brayan could often be found volunteering with local organizations, and his dream was to travel abroad while giving back to a community in need. In a village in Peru, he and his fellow students helped build a kitchen out of mud and bricks. “It was more than a community service program. It was an international experience that had a lifelong impact on me. I returned home a confident, smarter, braver, more concerned, and all-around better person. I realized that traveling is a way to discover, learn, and get inspired, so I decided to keep traveling around the world.” He has summited Costa Rica’s highest peak, spent a semester at sea, worked as a civil engineer in Spain, and is currently studying abroad in China to learn Chinese.
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OVER THE PAST
years…
Nina Mesfin, India 2013, is studying artifact trafficking and cultural preservation at Yale. She vividly remembers climbing to a summit in the Himalaya and raising prayer flags—a moment she never could have imagined while growing up as a city kid in Chicago. “Through my expedition, I learned the importance of cultural sensitivity, how to engage and ask questions while being mindful of the fact that my life experiences are not universally shared. This is something that has been invaluable to me as I have pursued my own research. The hope is that my work can inform policy combatting the destruction of cultural heritage sites and monuments.”
⊲ S tudents from 50 U.S. states and 59 countries have traveled with National Geographic experts and trip leaders. ational Geographic has awarded over a million ⊲ N dollars in scholarship funds, providing opportunities for students from a wide variety of backgrounds to learn, explore, and grow. n more than 140 trips, our students have connected ⊲ O with National Geographic projects in the field, restoring coral reefs in Bali, conserving fragile prairie habitats in Montana, protecting big cats in Tanzania and Namibia, and more.
Ty Loft, Brazil 2013, is back in Brazil again—this time studying biology and international affairs in Rio. He chose Nat Geo because “I wanted an opportunity to learn about conservation from experts, explore an incredible country, and travel with a vibrant community of likeminded students and leaders.” Ty remembers spotting a six-foot giant anteater; lunching on piranha; and discovering a new love for birding, inspired by his trip leader. These days, he eats exotic fruit for breakfast, goes running on the Copacabana, and heads into Brazil’s wild places to explore as often as possible. “I hope to use my major, Science Technology and International Affairs, to work as a sort of translator between the worlds of science and policy, helping scientists, governments, and business to advance sustainability.” 9
MEET OUR EXPERTS 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 most of our programs. 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 the Galápagos, Indonesia, and Africa. Tierney works with people of all ages to promote ocean conservation through numerous creative means: from filmmaking to exploring how nature imagery impacts the brain to serving as a digital explorer in National Geographic’s virtual-reality game, Animal Jam. Tierney will join the Bali expedition. p. 44 10
ANDREW EVANS Writer and globetrotter Andrew Evans has arguably one of the coolest jobs out there: he’s an explorer wandering the globe in pursuit of authentic travel experiences while using the Internet to make these experiences interactive online. Andrew has reported live from glaciers, jungles, mountain summits, and a camel’s back, from all seven continents, and in more than 40 languages. A contributor to National Geographic Traveler and television host for both the National Geographic Channel and CBS, Andrew is the author of five books and the winner of numerous journalism awards. Andrew will join the Bhutan expedition. p. 46 KATY CROFF BELL Marine scientist 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 the Chief Scientist of the underwater 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. Nautilus expeditions are shared online so that anyone in the world can share in the incredible discoveries the team makes. Katy will join the Technology and Innovation workshop at MIT. p. 64
ERIKA LARSEN For more than a decade, Erika Larsen has used photography to learn intimately about and document cultures that maintain strong connections with nature. She has followed Sami reindeer herders in the Scandinavian Arctic, explored the significance of the horse in Native American culture, and photographed the people of Yellowstone National Park for National Geographic magazine. Erika received a Fulbright fellowship to study the North Sami language and recently published her first book of photographs, Sámi, Walking With Reindeer. Erika will join the Yosemite and San Francisco photo workshop. p. 61 DAVID GUTTENFELDER David Guttenfelder is a National Geographic Photography Fellow focusing on global geopolitics, conservation, and culture. He spent 20 years as a photojournalist for the Associated Press, during which he was based in Nairobi, Abidjan, New Delhi, Jerusalem, and Tokyo, covering news in more than 75 countries. David is an eight-time World Press Photo Award winner and a seven-time finalist for the Pulitzer Prize. He engages with more than 950,000 Instagram followers daily, and was named Instagram Photographer of the Year by TIME magazine. David will join the Tokyo photo workshop. p. 59
SANDESH KADUR Award-winning photographer, author, filmmaker, and National Geographic Emerging Explorer Sandesh Kadur uses images, both still and video, to expose the need for conservation and encourage protection of the world’s biodiversity. With subjects ranging from king cobras to clouded leopards, his documentary films have appeared on the National Geographic Channel, the BBC, and more. His photographic book of India’s Western Ghats was part of a successful campaign to name the area a UNESCO World Heritage site. Sandesh will join the India expedition. p. 48 GREG GOLDSMITH 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 farthest 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 Costa Rica middle school expedition. p. 68
Andrew Evans was such an extraordinary person—laid-back, “fun-loving, personable, open, understanding, and extremely
dedicated. I will forever hold onto some of the things he shared with me about writing and life. He inspired me to work my hardest to achieve my own personal dreams and goals. Katee F., IRELAND, 2016
APPLY ONLINE AT NGSTUDENTEXPEDITIONS.COM
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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.
CHRIS A. JOHNS
SARAH KENNEDY
ALEX MILAN TRACY
University of Florida, Ph.D. candidate University of Florida, B.A.
University of Pittsburgh, Ph.D. candidate University of Florida, M.A. University of Wyoming, B.A.
University of the Arts London, M.A. University of Kent, B.A.
Chris Johns is a National Geographic Young Explorer grantee raising awareness about some of the planet’s most rare and endangered plant and insect species. Chris’s doctoral work focuses on the evolutionary history and conservation status of a group of rare, endangered micromoths found in the rain forests of the Hawaiian Islands. In addition to science, he uses wildlife photography, documentary videography, and graphic design as tools to raise awareness about the world’s imperiled tropical ecosystems and those people working to save them. Chris has implemented biodiversity conservation measures in Maui, taught ecology to local children in the Philippines, and tested the potential of emerging technologies to engage local people in forest research in Yunnan, China.
During her undergraduate studies, Sarah (pictured above) focused on high-altitude archaeology, working at prehistoric mountain camps in the Wind River mountains of western Wyoming. After college, she spent two years working as an archaeological supervisor for research projects near Cusco and in the high Andes, and then completed her master’s research on the northern coast of Peru investigating indigenous and Spanish contact during the 15th and 16th centuries. Sarah’s doctoral work examines colonial diet and the production and consumption of food among African, Spanish, and indigenous peoples. She is fluent in Spanish and has a basic knowledge of Quechua.
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CALL TOLL-FREE 1-877-877-8759
Alex is a photojournalist based in Portland, Oregon, working throughout the Pacific Northwest and further afield. For the past five years, he has worked as a freelance photographer and videographer, and has been published in The Guardian, The Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, TIME, Newsweek, and The Washington Post. Passionate about environmental issues, Alex’s photography has been used by conservation organizations advocating for clean energy production in the Pacific Northwest. Alex recently received an Institute for Journalism and Natural Resources fellowship to explore conservation issues related to the greater sage grouse in Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Nevada, and Idaho.
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My leaders were the most inspiring, brilliant, intelligent people I have ever met. I could feel their passion for what we were learning, and their dedication to giving us a life-changing experience. They created a real sense of community in our group and within just a few days we were making lifelong friendships. Desmond M., Technology and Innovation Workshop at MIT, 2016
MICHELLE CORNEJO
BRETT GARNER
LIZZIE ROSENBERGER
Savannah College of Art and Design, M.F.A. Loyola University of New Orleans, B.A.
Scripps Institute of Oceanography, UC San Diego, M.A.S. UCLA, B.S.
Fordham University, M.S.T. Colorado College, B.A.
While at Savannah College of Art and Design, Michelle was awarded a National Geographic editorial internship, where she worked and studied under magazine editors and photographers in the field. Her master’s thesis exhibition featured travel photography documenting the culture and lifestyle of the Vietnamese. As a freelance photographer, Michelle has traveled in Malaysia, Cambodia, Mexico, Panama, Ecuador, and Alaska. She has exhibited her travel and fine art photography at galleries throughout the U.S. and abroad. She currently works as an instructor of photography at Pensacola State College.
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A conservation biologist, photographer, and educator, Brett (pictured above) has worked and traveled extensively throughout 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 a 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 and Wilderness First Responder.
Lizzie has studied the marine biology of Belize, researched microbats in the rainforests of Australia, and traveled to the stratosphere as a NASA Airborne Astronomy Ambassador. During graduate school, she focused on informal and conservation education while taking classes at the Bronx Zoo. Since graduating, Lizzie has taught first through eighth grade science classes in New York City. As a teacher, she has developed spring break programs focused on climate change and biodiversity in New Zealand, the National Park system of Belize, and music in Botswana. She has served as her school’s community engagement coordinator, and has coached basketball and lacrosse.
APPLY ONLINE AT NGSTUDENTEXPEDITIONS.COM
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EXPEDITION
CANADIAN ARCTIC
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Venture out across the tundra
and encounter caribou, red foxes, and majestic polar bears.
POLAR BEAR CAPITAL OF THE WORLD
⊲ Snorkel or kayak in waterways teeming with singing beluga whales.
⊲ Visit with native elders and learn about their unique traditions.
⊲ Set out on a nighttime photo
shoot to capture a sky streaked with the Milky Way.
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 the many facets of the tundra. Learn to photograph wildlife using polar bears and other Arctic-adapted creatures as your subjects. Experiment with color as you frame your friends in fields of magenta fireweed; and practice night shots far from light pollution, capturing vivid constellations across the night sky and—if we’re lucky—the swirling flares of the aurora borealis.
WILDLIFE CONSERVATION Examine the tundra’s complex ecosystems and learn about the diverse life that thrives in these harsh landscapes. Discuss the latest research being conducted on resident and migratory species such as polar bears, caribou, and beluga whales; and collect marine organisms for a study examining the health of area waterways. See firsthand how findings are being used to protect area wildlife from the effects of rising temperatures.
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he Arctic tundra is one of our planet’s most surprising wildlife habitats: an endless snowscape in the winter that bursts with color and life when summer arrives, and draws migrating species such as caribou, beluga whales, and— most famously—polar bears. Set out by foot and all-terrain vehicle seeking out intriguing wildlife that have adapted to these extreme conditions. Kayak with snowy-white belugas that seem to smile and sing, and track mighty polar bears with local naturalists. Through your On Assignment project, document your discoveries in a photo-essay, or report on the latest efforts to protect this sensitive environment from the impacts of climate change.
ITINERARY–11 DAYS
DAYS 2–7 CHURCHILL NORTHERN STUDIES CENTRE Our home for the next six nights is the Churchill Northern Studies Centre, a research facility at the edge of the tundra that has hosted National Geographic– funded scientists and conservationists. Learn about the behavior of polar bears and other wildlife from the resident researchers, and get a firsthand look at how rising temperatures have affected the surrounding ecosystems here. Then venture out onto the tundra on foot and in our all-terrain vehicle to observe polar bears at close range. Each summer, these massive bears and their cubs roam the wilds surrounding Churchill, waiting for the Hudson Bay to freeze over so they can hunt seals and other marine life on the pack ice. Find yourself within a few feet of these majestic creatures, and photograph their bright-white
DAY 1 CHURCHILL Our Arctic adventure begins in the remote town of Churchill, nicknamed the “polar bear capital of the world.” Take a walk in this former fur-trading outpost—home to fewer than 1,000 people—and learn about everyday life on the icy edge of the Hudson Bay. Lunch on specialties like elk burgers and pickerel fish, and chat up locals who live among the resident bears. Photograph the wilderness that surrounds the town during a hike along the rugged shores of the Hudson Bay. CALL TOLL-FREE 1-877-877-8759
Hudson Bay Churchill
Churchill Northern Studies Centre
CANADA Winnipeg 0
300
MILES
Summer in Churchill is “ unforgettable—the Hudson
coats against the magenta fireweed that blankets the tundra each summer. Encounter and photograph other intriguing wildlife of the far north, including caribou, red foxes, and a host of migratory birds. Kayak or snorkel in waterways that teem with friendly beluga whales, which migrate here in the thousands during the summer months to feed and give birth to their young. These mammals are known as the “canaries of the sea” for the singing noises they make. Watch them play at the water’s surface, and listen to their clicks and whistles as we learn how scientists are working to decipher their communications. With the help of our host biologists, investigate the ecological health of an estuary that serves as a temporary habitat for calving belugas. Meet with native elders to hear stories about their relationship with their unique environment, and learn about local traditions that have been passed down through the generations. Then trace the history of the region’s earliest European fur traders as we hike between the Prince of Wales Fort and the harbor at Sloop Cove. Along the way, look for 18th-century graffiti left by these early trappers. DAYS 8–11 CHURCHILL Return to Churchill for the final days of our expedition. Meet with a researcher from Polar Bears International, and hear about
the center’s educational outreach initiatives and their studies on bear behavior, biology, and population distribution. Visit the Eskimo Museum for a look at life on the tundra through the ages, and check out the exhibits on narwhals, sometimes called the “unicorns of the sea.” Set out on a nighttime photo shoot for a chance at capturing the neon swirls of the aurora borealis, or northern lights—active more than 300 nights a year in this part of the world. Present your On Assignment project and celebrate our time together in Canada’s wild north before catching your flight home.
DATES & TUITION 2017 DATES: JULY 1–11, JULY 30–AUG. 9 TUITION: $6,490 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a roundtrip group flight between Winnipeg and Churchill. Students may also join one of our trip leaders on a flight from Minneapolis to Winnipeg, and return. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: In Churchill, we stay in a family-run hotel in the center of town. During our time at the research station, we stay in dormitorystyle accommodations. NOTE: This expedition includes several active excursions in an Arctic environment. To get the most out of the program, students should be physically fit and enthusiastic about outdoor activities such as hiking and kayaking.
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Bay lowlands are a sight to behold; polar bears share habitat with grizzlies, and you can swim among a pod of beluga whales in crystal clear water. —Matthias Breiter
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NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPERT
MEET YOUR EXPERT MATTHIAS BREITER Author, wildlife photographer, and cinematographer Matthias Breiter has spent most of the past 30 years researching the daily lives and habits of black, brown, grizzly, and polar bears. He has authored 14 books, and his articles and photography have appeared in National Geographic magazine, BBC Wildlife, and Outdoor Photographer. His documentary film work has appeared on the National Geographic Channel, Discovery Channel, and the BBC. Matthias’s most recent documentary, Polar Bear Summer, has won international awards and was nominated for an Emmy. Matthias will join both groups at the Churchill Northern Studies Centre.
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EXPEDITION
ALASKA
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Kayak into dramatic fjords—home to whales and sea lions.
WILDLIFE, FJORDS, AND GLACIERS
⊲ Delve into Alaska’s vibrant cultural heritage, meeting members of its native peoples.
⊲ Hike across Denali’s taiga and
tundra, tracking moose, wolves, and caribou.
⊲ Hike to the foot of the largest glacier in the United States.
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 different light on the glaciers, fjords, and immense snowfields of the Kenai Peninsula. Zoom in on a herd of caribou sky-lined on a high tundra 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 CONSERVATION Observe bears, caribou, 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 and Preserve, or interview park rangers and locals about the effects of climate change in the far north. Capture the grand landscapes and spectacular wildlife of Denali and Kenai Fjords National Parks as you hone your filmmaking skills.
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Itowering n Alaska’s undeveloped wilderness, 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: Photography, Wildlife Conservation, or Film & Video.
being taken to preserve their endangered languages. DAYS 4–7 DENALI NATIONAL PARK Travel north to Denali National Park and Preserve, 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
ITINERARY–12 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 Alaska history, geography, and wilderness skills, and then 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 native Alaskan games, get lost in timeless legends during an afternoon of storytelling, or visit with cultural ambassadors at their authentic dwellings. Examine the threats facing Alaska’s native cultures and the steps CALL TOLL-FREE 1-877-877-8759
ALASKA Denali (Mt. McKinley)
Denali National Park and Preserve Kenai Peninsula Kenai Fjords National Park
Talkeetna Anchorage Seward
Gulf of Alaska 0
200
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and set out to explore one of America’s most pristine natural settings. Venture deep into the wilderness to observe and photograph herds of caribou, a moose 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, hike along 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 cold-water 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 eye out for sea lions, otters, puffins, and orcas. Spend the 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.
DATES & TUITION 2017 DATES: JUNE 26–JULY 7, JUNE 30–JULY 11 TUITION: $5,690 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a roundtrip group flight between Seattle and Anchorage. Alternatively, students may meet the group in Anchorage. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMODATIONS: In Anchorage, Denali, and Seward, we stay in family-run hostels. During our kayaking excursion, we spend one night in a kayakers-only 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, participants should be physically fit and enthusiastic about hiking.
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Doing real fieldwork that “ helps to further science gave me an incredible sense of accomplishment. —Kira B. ALASKA, 2016
”
MEET YOUR EXPERT BOONE SMITH Conservationist and wildlife tracker Boone Smith has traveled the world—from Alaska to Afghanistan— helping scientists study big cats. After decades of experience working as a biologist, he has developed some of the best and safest techniques for attaching radio collars to large mammals so we can learn more about their lives and reduce human-predator conflict. Boone is a host on National Geographic WILD, starring in the popular Secret Life of Predators series and Man vs. Lion, and has assisted National Geographic magazine photographers in the field. Currently, Boone is working in Alaska’s backcountry, searching for lynx dens and studying the population and health of kittens. Boone will join both groups in Denali.
E X P E D I T I O N 17
EXPEDITION
BELIZE
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Snorkel or scuba dive on the
world’s second-largest barrier reef.
OCEANS AND UNDERWATER EXPLORATION
⊲ Work with marine biologists to
collect data underwater and on land.
⊲ Learn the art of underwater photography.
⊲ Explore the world-famous Blue Hole.
Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.
PHOTOGRAPHY Capture the brilliant marine and tropical habitats of Belize’s intricate barrier reef on camera. Photograph the early morning light as you kayak through brilliant coral formations, or try your hand at underwater photography while you snorkel among 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 BIOLOGY 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.
B lanketed 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 Biology.
ITINERARY–12 DAYS DAY 1 TROPICAL EDUCATION CENTER
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 faceto-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. Begin work on your On Assignment projects, designed to raise awareness about the critical need to protect and conserve this tropical habitat. On land, hone photography techniques as you take portraits of local conservationists or capture a time-lapse of the sun setting on the beach.
Our expedition begins with an orientation at the Tropical Education Center, a research station outside 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. DAYS 2–7 CALABASH CAYE Take a boat from the marina across clear blue waters to Turneffe Atoll, where we’ll get
18 E X P E D I T I O N
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Ambergris Caye Shark Ray Alley Caye Caulker (Cay Corker) Belize City
BELIZE
Turneffe Islands
Lighthouse Reef Calabash Caye
Caribbean Sea 0
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Learn to use underwater photography as a storytelling tool to portray the integral role of our oceans and seas in maintaining the health of the planet. 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 on shore. Enjoy discussions with marine biologists, get to know your fellow travelers, and share coconuts straight off the tree. 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 habitats, 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.
I learned so much about “ the importance of protecting the ocean on this trip, and met amazing people. I have friendships I expect will last a lifetime! —Sadani S. BELIZE, 2016
”
DATES & TUITION 2017 DATES: JULY 1–12, JULY 7–18, JULY 13–24 TUITION: $5,790 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a roundtrip 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, familyrun 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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MEET YOUR EXPERT DAVID GRUBER National Geographic Emerging Explorer and grantee David Gruber is a marine biologist and ocean explorer who searches the undersea world for bioluminescent and biofluorescent marine animals. On land, he designs submersibles and cameras to better capture and understand the secret “language” of shining colors and patterns that many marine creatures use to communicate, interact, and avoid enemies. David is excited to join our students in Belize, where he first developed his interest in glowing marine creatures. David will join the July 1 departure on Calabash Caye.
E X P E D I T I O N 19
EXPEDITION
CUBA
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Explore the cities of Havana and Trinidad alongside local Cubans.
CULTURAL EXPLORATION
⊲ 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.
Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.
PHOTOGRAPHY Photographic opportunities are around every corner as we explore this colorful island through the eyes of its people. Shoot portraits of local artists at work in their studios, capture the movement of traditional dances, frame vendors in market stalls brimming with colorful handicrafts, and photograph coffee farmers cultivating their crop.
CREATIVE WRITING Engage with Cuban writers to learn about the country’s rich storytelling traditions. During writing workshops in the field, craft a narrative inspired by the people you meet on the lively streets of Havana and in Afro-Cuban Santería temples, or the young photographers and writers who explore the island with you.
ANTHROPOLOGY & LOCAL CULTURES 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
C
uba 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 or Creative Writing.
ITINERARY–11 DAYS DAYS 1–5 HAVANA
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. Try your hand at printmaking and learn about Cuban arts movements at the Taller Experimental de Gráfica art gallery. Visit with Cuban photographers at the Fototeca de Cuba archive, mingle with young writers as we explore sites frequented by Ernest Hemingway, and conjure up ideas and inspiration for your On Assignment project.
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 photography, art, writing, and culture. Together, we’ll interpret the folk art adorning the famous Callejón de Hamel artist colony, talk with artisans in their studios, and photograph littleCALL TOLL-FREE 1-877-877-8759
0
50 100
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Atlantic Ocean Topes de Collantes Protected Area
Havana
CUBA
Santa Clara Cienfuegos Trinidad
Bahía de Cochinos (Bay of Pigs)
Caribbean Sea
DAYS 6–8 THE SOUTHERN COAST AND THE SIERRA DEL ESCAMBRAY Travel to the southern side of the island, where, hosted by local Cuban families, we’ll stay in small bed and breakfasts in the Spanish colonial city of Trinidad. Meet a local historian, and walk along Trinidad’s s cobblestoned 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 musicians at Cantores de Cienfuegos 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 and discuss the park’s conservation efforts and the protection of native species in Cuba. DAYS 9–11 REMEDIOS AND SANTA CLARA
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.
We had the chance to play “music with the Havana Youth
Guitar Orchestra, and it was such a treat. Meeting other young musicians who shared my passion was special. —Jackson C. CUBA, 2016
”
DATES & TUITION 2017 DATES: JULY 1–11, JULY 12–22 TUITION: $6,790 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 on the northern coast, we stay in small guesthouses or hotels. On the southern coast, we stay in small bed and breakfasts hosted by Cuban families. NOTE: This trip is permitted through the peopleto-people 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. While we do our best to adhere to the itinerary, traveling in Cuba requires flexibility, and changes to accommodations and activities may occur.
MEET YOUR EXPERT TIM WEED Author, outdoorsman, and independent explorer Tim Weed is a founding director of National Geographic Student Expeditions. In the 1990s, he was among the first to bring American students to Cuba since the Revolution, and he 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 Trinidad and the July 12 departure in Havana.
Spend the final days of your trip in a small town near the northern keys. Explore the APPLY ONLINE AT NGSTUDENTEXPEDITIONS.COM
E X P E D I T I O N 21
EXPEDITION
ECUADOR AND THE GALÁPAGOS
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Snorkel with playful sea lions and penguins in the Galápagos.
⊲ Hike through a cloud forest and learn about local conservation efforts.
BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT
⊲ Ride horseback in the sweeping
páramo landscape of the Andes.
⊲ Trek to a glacier in Cotopaxi National Park.
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 Ecuador’s diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, or spectacular wildlife. Capture the swirl of colors at an Andean market. Shoot portraits of caballeros at a working hacienda. Practice your wildlife photography skills on the amazingly approachable animals of the Galápagos Islands. At the end of the program, present your images to your leaders and peers.
WILDLIFE CONSERVATION Study Ecuador’s conservation policies with local experts in the field. Set out in teams to interview community members about local conservation efforts. Learn about evolution, biodiversity, and animal behavior firsthand by observing tortoises and marine iguanas. Document your findings and share them with the group.
22 E X P E D I T I O N
M ist-shrouded cloud forests, rolling 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 Conservation.
ITINERARY–18 DAYS DAYS 1–2 QUITO Located at 9,000 feet in a high-Andean 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, 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 rain forest herbs and natural medicines.
DAYS 3–6 MINDO AND THE CLOUD FOREST Travel northwest to the lower-altitude slopes of the Andes and settle into the welcoming town of Mindo. Break into your On Assignment teams, and set out on daily adventures in the region’s impressive array of protected areas. Catch the tarabita, an open-air tram, to ride over a deep ravine into the undisturbed cloud forest of the Bosque Protector Mindo-Nambillo 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 ziplines, and float down the river on a tubing adventure. Get to know young Ecuadorians by playing soccer together, or interview local researchers about their efforts to conserve this unique habitat.
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Mindo
Quito
Cotopaxi National Park
Pa c i f i c Ocean 0
ECUADOR
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Galápagos Islands 0
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DAYS 7–9 COTOPAXI VOLCANO AND THE HIGH PÁRAMO From Quito, head south to our next base, a working hacienda high in the central Andes. Ride horseback over the páramo, 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, work on 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 or through a nearby ecological reserve. 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
I gained a sense of “ independence and adventure, 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. On the final night of our adventure, we’ll share our On Assignment projects. Then, return to Quito for our flight home.
DATES & TUITION 2017 DATES: JUNE 26–JULY 13, JULY 3–20 TUITION: $7,290 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 páramo, and family-run inns and small hotels in Quito and the Galápagos. NOTE: We will be traveling at high elevations while in Quito and the páramo. Quito is at an elevation of 9,350 feet, our hacienda in the páramo is at 11,800 feet, and the hike to Cotopaxi reaches 16,000 feet. Participants should be physically fit.
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and an appreciation of new cultures and the way other people live. —Madeline K.
”
ECUADOR AND THE GALÁPAGOS, 2016
MEET YOUR EXPERT PELAYO SALINAS DE LEÓN Ecologist and National Geographic grantee Pelayo Salinas de León is a senior marine scientist for the Charles Darwin Foundation focusing on the conservation of sharks and manta rays, and fisheries management. Pelayo has contributed to research and conservation projects across the globe—including Spain, New Zealand, Indonesia, Cuba, and Colombia. As part of National Geographic’s Pristine Seas Initiative, he surveyed the marine species of the Galápagos Islands, which helped inform the government’s recent decision to create a new marine sanctuary around Darwin Island and Wolf Island. Pelayo will join both groups in the Galápagos Islands.
E X P E D I T I O N 23
EXPEDITION
ARGENTINA AND CHILE
BUENOS AIRES, PATAGONIA, AND IGUAZÚ FALLS
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ 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.
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 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 Guarani people.
WILDLIFE CONSERVATION Explore how conservation groups are working to protect the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Argentina and Chile. Meet with conservationists at the headquarters of Tompkins Conservation, an innovative project to protect wild landscapes and native creatures in Argentina and Chile. 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
A rgentina and Chile stretch along the tail 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 by 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 Conservation.
ITINERARY–19 DAYS 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 Rio de la Plata ecological reserve and learn how urban
development has affected the country’s biodiversity. 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 huemul, a South Andean deer, and the Andean condor; then incorporate what you’ve learned into your On Assignment project. Shoot panoramas of the sparkling glacial lakes and towering Andean summits that stretch out before you. Board a ferry and cross into Chilean Patagonia, sailing through majestic fjords
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Iguazú Esteros de Ibera
ARGENTINA CHILE
Buenos Aires
Atlantic Ocean
Puerto Varas Bariloche
0
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My On Assignment project “ made my expedition experience 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—and the steaming Calbuco Volcano. If snow prevails, ski or snowshoe on the surrounding slopes; or, on mild days, kayak through the sparkling waters of Reloncalví Fjord to the small village of Cochamó. Explore the thick forests and glacial lakes of Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, and discover the vast diversity of its 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. Spend a day amid the thundering cascades of Iguazú Falls, learning about the conservation challenges facing the 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. Ride horseback with gauchos that live in these remote wetlands and learn how they maintain vital connections to their environment.
feel more meaningful, and I came away with a sense of accomplishment as well as direction for my future endeavors in travel and conservation. —Maren A.
”
ARGENTINA AND CHILE, 2016
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 afternoon before flying home.
DATES & TUITION 2017 DATE: JUNE 28–JULY 16 TUITION: $6,790 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. ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay in small, familyrun inns, estancias, and hostels throughout the expedition.
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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 the group in Patagonia.
E X P E D I T I O N 25
EXPEDITION
PERU
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Explore Inca fortresses and
watch the sunrise on incredible Machu Picchu.
FROM MACHU PICCHU TO THE AMAZON
⊲ Go white-water rafting through the Sacred Valley of the Inca.
⊲ Meet Andean weavers for a lesson in making traditional dyes and try your hand at the loom.
⊲ Practice wildlife photography on monkeys, caimans, and more in the Amazon rain forest.
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 many sides of Peru. Set out into the Sacred Valley with your team to photograph campesinos in traditional garb, old stone villages, bustling markets, and the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Practice wildlife shots in the Amazon, zooming in on scarlet macaws and conveying movement in frolicking monkeys.
ANTHROPOLOGY & LOCAL CULTURES Examine Inca and Amazonian cultures past and present. Learn about the iconic boulder masonry of the Inca and the preservation of ancient ruins, and reconstruct Machu Picchu during its heyday through writings or sketches. Meet indigenous people, and discuss how their age-old customs and beliefs are adapting to modern influences like technology, climate change, and land development.
26 E X P E D I T I O N
F rom Andean peaks steeped in Inca lore to the lush Amazon rain forest,
Peru is a country of diverse wonders. In the heart of the ancient Inca Empire, immerse yourself in the colorful culture of the Peruvian highlands, and venture into incredibly sophisticated temples and fortresses, including magnificent Machu Picchu. Then travel deep into the Peruvian Amazon and discover jungles brimming with extreme biodiversity. Explore the wildlife-rich landscapes, archaeological wonders, and vibrant contemporary cultures of Peru through an On Assignment project of your choice—Photography or Anthropology & Local Cultures.
ITINERARY–18 DAYS DAYS 1–3 LIMA The program begins in the vibrant city of Lima. Head to the beach to watch surfers tackle waves; see the incredible dancing aquatic displays of the Circuito Mágico del Agua, considered the world’s largest fountain complex; or descend into the catacombs of the San Francisco Monastery. Visit Museo Larco, the world-famous archaeological museum that houses a vast collection of pre-Columbian artifacts. Enjoy ceviche and other local specialties, and dive into your On Assignment projects.
DAYS 4–8 THE SACRED VALLEY AND OLLANTAYTAMBO Travel from Lima 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. With its cobblestoned lanes and sophisticated system of working aqueducts, Ollantaytambo is the best existing example of Inca city planning. Follow ancient Inca trails to secluded 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, and practice landscape photography using the surrounding Andean peaks as a backdrop. Set out on a thrilling white-water rafting excursion along the Urubamba River, and explore archaeological sites such as the imposing fortress that towers above Ollantaytambo. Discover the Incan agricultural terraces of Moray, and visit Maras, home to the famed salt-evaporation ponds created by the Inca. In vibrant street markets, discover indigenous foods and colorful textiles, and play soccer in the evenings with new village friends. DAYS 9–10 MACHU PICCHU Travel by train to magnificent Machu Picchu, riding the rails through spectacular mountain scenery to the once-hidden ancient citadel. Abandoned by the Inca for centuries, the site was rediscovered in 1911 by explorer Hiram Bingham and excavated with support from National Geographic. Capture a unique
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PERU
Manú National Park
Machu Picchu
Ollantaytambo
Lima Cusco
Pa c i f i c Ocean
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We hiked up to an Incan “archaeological site and
photographic angle on this iconic site, and then venture through the ancient temples and dwellings to unlock their mysteries. Take an early morning hike up a nearby peak to watch the sun rise over the ruins before traveling back to Ollantaytambo by scenic train. DAYS 11–13 CUSCO AND CHINCHERO Arrive in Cusco, once the capital of the ancient Inca Empire. Discover the city’s rich history and delve into Inca culture, visiting the oncegolden temple of Coricancha and the colonial cathedral, built with stones from the original Inca walls. Stroll the city’s winding streets and photograph the relics of an empire long gone but not forgotten. Then explore the colossal fortress of Sacsayhuamán, site of one of the bloodiest battles in the Spanish conquest. Spend a day in the village of Chinchero, and visit National Geographic grantee Nilda Callañaupa’s textile center. Try your hand at the ancient art of Andean weaving, a tradition that continues today thanks to Nilda’s efforts.
DAYS 14–18 THE AMAZON RAIN FOREST Leave the Sacred Valley behind and travel by private bus deep into the Peruvian Amazon, stopping along the way at magnificent pre-Inca ruins near the colonial outpost of Paucartambo. Board a boat at Atalaya and cruise even deeper into the rain forest, on the lookout for monkeys, giant anteaters, tapirs, ocelots, armadillos, peccaries, caimans, and the numerous bird species that inhabit Manú National Park. Meet and interview members of the Matsigenka Amazonian tribal nation, learning how they have adapted to live in harmony with their unique environment. Travel back to Cusco for a celebration on your final night, and present your On Assignment project to the group.
DATES & TUITION 2017 DATE: JUNE 27–JULY 14 TUITION: $6,490 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 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 elevation of 11,200 feet, and Machu Picchu is at 8,000 feet. Participants should be physically fit.
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participated in a special ceremony to make an offering to the mountain. We weren’t outsiders peering in, but instead were a part of the experience. —Jessica L. PERU, 2016
”
MEET YOUR EXPERT MATTHEW PISCITELLI Archaeologist and National Geographic grantee Matthew Piscitelli specializes in the role of religion in the development of early civilizations across the globe. He has led excavations in Peru, Bolivia, and Greece. His doctoral research was focused on the use of modern technology to reconstruct ancient rituals at some of the earliest religious sites along the North-central coast of Peru. Currently, Matt manages one of the National Geographic Society’s grants programs, working with researchers focused on anthropology, archaeology, astronomy, geography, geology, and paleontology. Matt will join the group in the Sacred Valley.
E X P E D I T I O N 27
EXPEDITION
ICELAND
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Trek across glaciers and lava fields, explore ice caves, and hike to thundering waterfalls and geysers.
LAND OF FIRE AND ICE
⊲ 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 colorful Icelandic horses.
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 photo-essay 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 shoot pictures of Icelandic horses and puffins.
CLIMATE & GEOLOGY Delve into the science behind 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
Iextremes, celand is a nation of dramatic 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.
ITINERARY–15 DAYS
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. Tour an ultramodern geothermal plant that provides much of Reykjavík’s energy with an expert guide. 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.
DAYS 1–4 REYKJAVÍK AND THE GOLDEN CIRCLE The expedition begins with a swim in Iceland’s most 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 to the Golden CALL TOLL-FREE 1-877-877-8759
Arctic Ocean Jökulsárgljúfur National Park
Akureyri
ICELAND
Lake Mývatn
Vatnajökull Glacier
Reykjavík
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Höfn
Atlantic Ocean
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people for “myAsOnI interviewed Assignment project,
DAYS 5–10 HÖFN AND THE VATNAJÖKULL GLACIER Next, journey east to Höfn, a remote gateway to the mighty Vatnajökull Glacier, the world’s largest ice cap outside 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 & TUITION 2017 DATES: JUNE 25–JULY 9, JUNE 27–JULY 11, JULY 14–28 TUITION: $7,390 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a roundtrip group flight between New York and Reykjavík. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay in small hostels and family-run guesthouses, 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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I realized how important these isues are and became inspired to make a difference in the world. —Cassidy R.
”
ICELAND, 2016
MEET YOUR EXPERT M JACKSON Geographer and environmental educator M Jackson can often be found exploring some of the world’s most remote Arctic environments. M’s research is focused on glacial environments and climate change, and she recently spent a year in Iceland studying how climate change is affecting communities near the fishing village of Höfn. In 2015, she published her first book, While Glaciers Slept: Being Human in a Time of Climate Change, which blends her own personal history with climate science. M’s research has taken her around the globe—from Alaska to Turkey—and she has spent over 10 years as a glacier guide and naturalist. M will join the July 14 departure in Hofn.
E X P E D I T I O N 29
EXPEDITION
SWITZERLAND AND FRANCE
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Try your hand at canyoneering in dramatic Alpine gorges.
⊲ Soar up the slopes in Europe’s highest cable car.
ALPINE ADVENTURE
⊲ Go glacier trekking, hiking, and zip-lining.
⊲ Learn adventure photography
and filmmaking skills as you explore the birthplace of modern mountaineering.
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 sky-scraping 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. Focus on depth-of-field as you frame Alpine flora and fauna, and practice adventure photography techniques that catch the spirit of mountain sport in motion.
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, zip-line, 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
O ut 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.
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. Travel past picturesque mountain villages to arrive at Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe. Trek on 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.
ITINERARY–15 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 jumpingoff point for our Alpine adventures. Ride the historic cogwheel train to Schynige Platte and head off on a variety of hikes, photographing and filming the amphitheater CALL TOLL-FREE 1-877-877-8759
FRANCE
Lake Zürich
Zürich
SWITZERLAND Interlaken
Lake Geneva
Geneva Chamonix
Grindelwald
Argentière Zermatt
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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. Then hike through pine forests and train your lens on brilliant lakes 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 AND ARGENTIÈRE, 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 nearby village of Argentière 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. Weather permitting, 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 & TUITION 2017 DATE: JULY 17–31 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 hiking.
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everyone on my trip! “WeI loved bonded together from the beginning and were close to the very last second. —Fiona C.
”
SWITZERLAND and FRANCE, 2016
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 projects for National Geographic have 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 group in Grindelwald.
E X P E D I T I O N 31
EXPEDITION
ITALY AND GREECE
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Photograph the Colosseum of Rome at sunset.
EMPIRES OF THE MEDITERRANEAN
⊲ 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.
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.
ANTHROPOLOGY & LOCAL CULTURES 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
M ore 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.
extraordinary scenery, and take a refreshing swim from the rocky shoreline. DAYS 6–8 ROME Return to magical, timeless Rome and 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. 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
ITINERARY–17 DAYS DAYS 1–5 POMPEII, CAPRI, AND SALERNO, ITALY Fly to Rome, and then 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. Set out with your On Assignment team, stepping 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 CALL TOLL-FREE 1-877-877-8759
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200
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Rome Isola di Capri
Pompeii Salerno
GREECE
ITALY Ionian Sea
Delphi
Athens
Náfplio Ídra (Hydra)
and interacting “withInterviewing local people was one of
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 9–10 DELPHI, GREECE 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 well-preserved 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 & TUITION 2017 DATES: JUNE 27—JULY 13, JULY 18–AUG. 3 TUITION: $7,190 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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the highlights of the trip. We were exploring places in small groups, and not as tourists. I became a much better writer as I drew inspiration from the places we went. —Shanze S.
”
ITALY and GREECE, 2016
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 throughout the southern Italian countryside. His acclaimed photography book, The Color of Silence, details the 12 weeks he spent in an Italian monastery. Massimo will join the June 27 departure in Italy.
E X P E D I T I O N 33
EXPEDITION
IRELAND
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Photograph Ireland’s renowned
performers in Dublin and Galway.
DISCOVERING THE EMERALD ISLE
⊲ 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.
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 photography assignments in the field. 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 fieldbased 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
Icliff-lined reland’s rolling green landscapes and 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 Photography or Creative Writing.
ITINERARY–14 DAYS DAYS 1–4 DUBLIN
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 stepdancing class. Take portraits of locals with Dublin Castle as your backdrop, or interview shopkeepers along O’Connell Street. Walk the cobblestoned 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.
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.
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IRELAND Galway
Dublin
Aran Islands
Celtic Sea 0
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I felt accomplished when I “ realized I had written every day, DAYS 5–7 GALWAY Travel west from Dublin, passing through 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 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 cobblestoned streets. DAYS 8–11 THE ARAN ISLANDS Hop a ferry for a four-day photo and writing assignment on the magical Aran Islands, where writers such as J. M. Synge found
inspiration among Celtic ruins and barren expanses of 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.
filling up half a notebook with blossoming ideas and stories. It was an all-around incredible experience that will continue to influence me as I grow as a writer and a person. —Katee F. IRELAND, 2016
”
DAYS 12–14 DUBLIN Return to Dublin for a student-organized public show of the photography, poetry, and prose created during your expedition. Celebrate your accomplishments with your group before flying home the following day.
DATES & TUITION 2017 DATE: JULY 13–26 TUITION: $5,390 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a roundtrip group flight between New York and Dublin. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: In Dublin, we stay in dormitory-style accommodations north of the River Liffey, a short walk from the bustle of the city’s center. During our time on the western coast, we stay in small, family-run hostels and university housing.
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MEET YOUR EXPERT MELISSA FARLOW Melissa Farlow has worked on over 20 projects for National Geographic in South America, Quebec, Alaska, the Alps, and throughout the American West. Melissa worked extensively in Yellowstone, Yosemite, Redwoods, and Olympic for a story on issues facing America’s National Parks. From an early age, Melissa had a passion for horses and she recently co-produced Wild at Heart, a young adult book that focuses on mustangs and teens that are trying to save them to preserve America’s wild horse legacy. Melissa has photographed throughout Ireland on a book assignment for TIME, and looks forward to joining the group in Galway and the Aran Islands.
E X P E D I T I O N 35
EXPEDITION
TANZANIA
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Encounter elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and hippos on safari.
WILDLIFE CONSERVATION AND TRIBAL LIFE
⊲ Experience life in a rural village at the base of Mount Meru.
⊲ Lend a hand on a National
Geographic project to help build a boma fence.
⊲ Hike on sacred lands with Maasai warriors.
Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.
PHOTOGRAPHY Document your exploration of Tanzania in photographs. Capture images of market-bound 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 CONSERVATION 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
T anzania 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 Conservation.
ITINERARY–20 DAYS DAYS 1–8 MAJI YA CHAI VILLAGE, NORTHERN TANZANIA
and village youth. Visit young children in an orphanage, play sports with Tanzanian kids, or teach English at the local school. Learn about music and dance from local youth, practice batik with a master artist, and participate in lively discussions about environmental and social issues. Visit a coffee farm in a neighboring village and meet the local farmers who grow and roast Tanzanian coffee. Spend an afternoon exploring Mount Meru’s lower slopes, following one of the mountain streams to a towering waterfall. Throughout the week, report on your experiences through photographs, writing, or video, and develop a narrative about your time in the village. DAYS 9–17 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
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 days working together with the villagers on a community service project, such as developing a water storage system or helping with repairs to the local school. Learn firsthand about ujamaa, the 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, CALL TOLL-FREE 1-877-877-8759
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Serengeti National Park Kilimanjaro Arusha Maji ya Chai Oldonyo Tarangire Sambu National Park Wilderness Area
Ngorongoro Crater Lake Manyara
TANZANIA
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 semi-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 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 wildlifemanagement challenges facing the people of Tanzania. Spend a night camping at the base of the Rift Valley and spot a multitude of bird species and baboons on a morning hike to the top of a nearby plain.
Continue to Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best wildlife-viewing spots in the world. This volcanic caldera contains almost 25,000 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.
I loved camping inside of “Tarangire National Park. It was unbelievably breathtaking to hear lions roaring at night. —Zoe R. TANZANIA, 2016
”
DAYS 18–20 ARUSHA Spend your last few days at an eco-lodge nestled within a forest reserve near Arusha. Hike through this protected area while searching for colobus monkeys. Share your On Assignment projects and enjoy a farewell celebration before flying home.
DATES & TUITION 2017 DATE: JUNE 29–JULY 18 TUITION: $8,290 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a roundtrip group flight between New York and Arusha. 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 prepare meals. In the Maasai tribal lands and on safari, we stay in tented camps.
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MEET YOUR EXPERT CHARLES TROUT National Geographic grantee and community conservationist Charles Trout has spent most of his life in and around the protected areas of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, and Tanzania. He is the co-founder and director of programs for the African People & Wildlife Fund, which through its Northern Tanzania Big Cats Conservation Initiative works to save Tanzania’s most threatened lion population as well as important populations of cheetahs and leopards. In partnership with National Geographic’s Big Cats Initiative, Charles launched the Build a Boma campaign, which has crowd-funded innovative solutions to protect African livestock and wildlife. Charles will join the group on safari.
E X P E D I T I O N 37
EXPEDITION
NAMIBIA
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Track and monitor cheetahs,
leopards, and elephants with researchers.
WILDLIFE CONSERVATION AND DESERT SAFARI
⊲ Photograph Sossusvlei’s
otherworldly landscapes of red sand and skeletal trees.
⊲ Sandboard down the dunes of the Namib Desert.
⊲ Observe rhinos, zebras, giraffes,
and elephants in Etosha National Park.
Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.
PHOTOGRAPHY 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.
WILDLIFE CONSERVATION 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
T
he landscapes of Namibia are stunning, stark, and home to a wealth of desert-adapted wildlife that scientists and conservationists are working hard to protect. Work with National Geographic grantees in the field on two important conservation projects that are part of the Society’s Big Cats Initiative, and learn about rhino and elephant protection efforts. Along the way, encounter desert elephants, hyenas, giraffes, and oryx on safari; go whale-watching on Walvis Bay; and climb the dunes of the Namib Desert.
ITINERARY–21 DAYS DAYS 1–6 N/A’AN KU SÊ Get settled at the N/a’an Ku Sê Carnivore Conservation Centre, where National Geographic–supported 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 on 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 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 huntergatherer 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 photograph the sun rising 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 adventure seekers. Explore the dunes with desert ecologists and learn about the species that have adapted to survive the harsh conditions. Visit Cape Cross to observe a vast breeding colony of some 100,000 Cape fur seals, and go on a whale-watching cruise on Walvis Bay. Then head back into
CALL TOLL-FREE 1-877-877-8759
Etosha National Park
Etosha Pan
Otavi
Cheetah Conservation Fund
Damaraland N/a’an Ku Sê Carnivore Conservation Centre Swakopmund
Atlantic Ocean 0
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NAMIBIA Sossusvlei
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My National Geographic “ trip was such an educational
the desert and tear down dune slopes on a sandboarding excursion. DAYS 12–15 DAMARALAND Journey into Damaraland, where the desert harbors unusually succulent plants fed by Atlantic mists. Pay a visit to Brandenberg Mountain, a giant granite monolith and Namibia’s highest mountain peak. With local guides, hike to the ‘White Lady’ rock etching, believed to date back at least 2,000 years. Venture out into the barren landscape in search of endangered desert elephants, and learn about the efforts and outreach being done by the Save the Rhino Trust to protect critically endangered black rhinoceroses. Travel to the nearby Himba and Herero villages with local guides and discover the traditional arts of these two distinct indigenous cultures. 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. Meet with park rangers and learn about their efforts to encourage conservation through tourism. DAYS 19–21 CHEETAH CONSERVATION FUND Learn about 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 for 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 & TUITION 2017 DATE: JUNE 28–JULY 18 TUITION: $7,590 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a roundtrip 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 stay in dormitorystyle housing. In Swakopmund, we stay in a hotel; and in Sossusvlei, Etosha, and Damaraland, we camp in tents.
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and thought-provoking experience. It defied all expectations and even made some of my childhood dreams come true!
”
—Samantha L.
NAMIBIA, 2016
MEET YOUR EXPERT FLORIAN WEISE National Geographic Big Cats Initiative grantee Florian Weise has spent over 11 years on the African continent conserving endangered species. His work helping to reduce conflicts between Southern Africa’s large cats, like cheetahs and leopards, and local farmers has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Africa Geographic, and the Financial Times London. Florian has combined his passion for the outdoors with research in the Serengeti, the Okavango Delta, the Namib Desert, and at the N/a’an Ku Sê Carnivore Conservation Centre, where he will join our group.
E X P E D I T I O N 39
EXPEDITION
AUSTRALIA
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Interact with Aboriginal people and learn about their unique culture and spirituality.
OUTBACK, RAIN FOREST, AND REEF
⊲ Set out on a two-day snorkeling adventure on 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.
Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.
PHOTOGRAPHY Document unique cultures, 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. Try underwater photography amid the marine life and vibrant corals of the Great Barrier Reef, then catch the early morning light while exploring the Dubuji Boardwalk in Cape Tribulation.
WILDLIFE CONSERVATION Explore the diverse ecosystems of the desert outback, rain forest, 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 examine the impact of coral bleaching on this natural treasure. Explore the treetops of the Daintree Rainforest on an educational zipline tour, and examine the canopy up close on the observation deck at a local research station.
40 E X P E D I T I O N
W
ith 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 Conservation.
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 monolith on the lookout for bright green ring-necked parrots. Visit an Aboriginal community at Wallace Rockhole for a guided tour through 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
ITINERARY–20 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 at Manly Beach. Meet your first koalas and kangaroos at the famous Taronga Zoo, or visit the Sydney Aquarium to CALL TOLL-FREE 1-877-877-8759
B eat Gr
Daintree National Park
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I loved the diversity of “ the trip—from the city, to
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—photographing dingoes, red kangaroos, and majestic wedge-tailed eagles that may venture into 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. DAYS 11–20 QUEENSLAND AND THE GREAT BARRIER REEF 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 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.
DATES & TUITION 2017 DATES: JUNE 30–JULY 19, JULY 19–AUGUST 7 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 the Daintree Rainforest, we stay in a small, family-run eco-resort, and in the outback we camp under the stars.
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the outback, to the beach, to the rain forest. Everyone on the trip was as enthusiastic and excited to be there as I was, and I learned so much. —Camille V. AUSTRALIA, 2016
”
MEET YOUR EXPERT JASON EDWARDS Australian natural history photographer Jason Edwards’s passion for animals and the environment has defined his extensive career. After getting his start at the Royal Melbourne Zoo, Jason has produced images for everything from environmental campaigns to Hollywood blockbusters, including National Geographic magazine, BBC Wildlife, Sports Illustrated, and The New Yorker. Jason is also the host of the National Geographic Channel’s Pure Photography, and an author of science education books. Jason will join the July 19 departure at Cape Tribulation.
E X P E D I T I O N 41
EXPEDITION
NEW ZEALAND
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Soar over New Zealand’s highest
peaks and discover ice caves while snowshoeing atop a glacier.
SOUTH ISLAND WINTER ADVENTURE
⊲ 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 throughout your trip.
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 rugby players lining up for a scrum. 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 highimpact footage as you trek across glaciers, get an aerial view of the Southern Alps on a flightseeing trip, and tear down powdery slopes on a snowboard or skis. Document the ethereal light of thousands of glowworms as you black-water raft through caves. Film your friends throughout your explorations, and use mobile-editing technology to produce short action and adventure films.
42 E X P E D I T I O N
S
plit by glacier-carved mountains and fringed by wild beaches and stunning fjords, New Zealand’s South Island beckons thrill-seekers to find adventure amid its natural wonders. Experience the island’s epic landscapes, exploring them as an adventurer would—from hiking and biking to snowboarding and rafting. 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.
ITINERARY–18 DAYS DAYS 1–3 CHRISTCHURCH Our expedition begins in the coastal city of Christchurch. Head out on your first assignment to document the city’s innovative street art installations, interview shopkeepers at an outdoor market, or snap portraits of local artists. Visit an animal sanctuary and get up close to native species from around New Zealand, including the peculiar kiwi bird.
DAYS 4–8 HANMER SPRINGS, GREYMOUTH, HAAST, AND WESTLAND TAI POUTINI NATIONAL PARK Travel north to the alpine village of Hanmer Springs. With camera in hand, explore forests of giant redwoods on foot, mountain bike, or horseback; and soak in thermal pools. Then head to the spectacular west coast to explore the rugged shores around Greymouth. 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. Continue south to Westland Tai Poutini National Park, home to the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, and take in the views on a sunrise hike around Lake Matheson. Practice light painting and night photography on Haast Beach, at the heart of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage area.
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Pacific Ocean Hanmer Springs
Greymouth
Tasman Sea
Franz Josef Glacier Westland Tai Poutini National Park
Christchurch Mount Cook
NEW ZEALAND
Pacific Ocean
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DAYS 9–11 WANAKA 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. One of the iconic symbols of the area is the Wanaka Tree, a lone tree that grows tenaciously out of the waters of Lake Wanaka. Rise early to photograph the tree at sunrise, set against a backdrop of snowy peaks. Then hike up Mount Iron for spectacular views of two lakes and the mountains that surround them. DAYS 12–14 MOUNT COOK Kick the adventure into high gear with a mountaineering expedition on the slopes of New Zealand’s highest peak—Aoraki, or Mount Cook. Soar above the snowcovered Southern Alps in a small plane, and touch down on top of the massive Tasman Glacier. Outfitted with snowshoes and ice picks, we’ll join expert guides to explore this wintry wilderness of glacial icefalls and otherworldly ice caves. Later, dive into a glacial pond for a chilly bath. Break out your camera to frame an amazing sunrise over these spectacular landscapes, or go on an after-dark photo or video shoot to capture scenes of a star-studded sky for your On Assignment projects.
DAYS 15–18 OAMARU AND CHRISTCHURCH Head east to the colonial town of Oamaru, and try your hand at sheep shearing during an overnight stay in a farming community. See the giant spherical Moeraki Boulders on a visit to Koekohe Beach, and ride a highwheeled penny-farthing bicycle. Then spend the night in a marae, or meeting ground, and delve into Maori culture with tribal elders as you help prepare a traditional hangi meal. Our adventure concludes in Christchurch, where we’ll wrap up our On Assignment projects and present them to the group before your flight home.
DATES & TUITION 2017 DATES: JUNE 26–JULY 13, JULY 12–29 TUITION: $7,690 Airfare is not included. We have arranged round-trip group flights between Los Angeles and Christchurch. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: We stay in family-run inns, small hotels, and family-style cabins throughout the expedition. NOTE: This expedition includes several active excursions, including hiking, skiing, and biking. Students should be physically fit and enthusiastic about outdoor exploration in a variety of climates.
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I gained so much from this “trip—developing my photo
skills, a new appreciation for nature, and so many new friends. —Matthew L.
”
NEW ZEALAND, 2016
MEET YOUR EXPERT ULLA LOHMANN Photojournalist, film-maker, 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. She will join the June 26 departure on Mount Cook and the July 12 departure in Oamaru.
E X P E D I T I O N 43
EXPEDITION
BALI
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Snorkel or dive at a World War II shipwreck, and help biologists monitor coral reefs.
TROPICAL ECOLOGY: SEA TO SUMMIT
⊲ Work on local conservation
projects, and photograph rain forest wildlife.
⊲ See the ocean aglow with
bioluminescence during a nighttime snorkeling excursion.
⊲ Practice surfing off one of Bali’s stunning beaches.
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 BIOLOGY Study Bali’s unique ecosystems alongside expert biologists and conservationists. Examine diverse coral species on diving and snorkeling excursions and use cutting-edge 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.
44 E X P E D I T I O N
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he 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. Delve into this tropical ecosystem and explore ways to protect it as you develop an On Assignment project of your choice— Photography or Marine & Tropical Biology.
ITINERARY–17 DAYS 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 we explore this stunning tropical paradise, and immerse yourself in Balinese culture. Meet local fishermen, swim among the vibrant corals of Jemeluk Bay, and photograph ornate Hindu temples. Delve deeper into the surrounding marine world on underwater excursions. Learn advanced snorkeling techniques from dive professionals, and then put these new skills to
use as you swim amid the wreckage of a World War II cargo ship just off shore, discovering intricate coral reefs and tropical fish. Identify marine species 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. 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 participate in local research projects aimed at preserving the surrounding tropical ecosystems. Learn how to assess reef health, and discuss the impact that our actions have on Bali’s marine habitats.
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Bali Sea Pemuteran
BALI
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Indian Ocean
never met anyone “likeI haveTierney. She is so
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. On shore, we’ll visit a local turtle rescue center and photograph endangered sea turtles before helping release them back into the wild. Then embark on a full-day excursion to nearby Menjangan Island to snorkel or dive amid the reefs and coral walls. DAYS 11–14 UBUD 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 in the tropical forest on the banks of the Ayung River, the school offers immersive and hands-on experiences geared toward protecting Bali’s local communities and spectacular biodiversity. Work with 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 the 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. DAYS 15–17 MEDEWI Head south to the village of Medewi 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 & TUITION 2017 DATES: JUNE 24–JULY 10, JUNE 30–JULY 16 TUITION: $6,790 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a roundtrip 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. 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 $200.
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passionate about her work, and she offered tons of advice and inspiration . I learned so much from her. —Sierra B. BALI, 2016
”
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 people of all ages to promote ocean conservation through numerous creative means: from exploring how nature imagery impacts the brain to filmmaking to serving as a digital explorer in National Geographic’s virtual-reality game, Animal Jam. She looks forward to sharing the wonders of the “coral triangle” with students. Tierney will join both departures in Pemuteran.
E X P E D I T I O N 45
EXPEDITION
BHUTAN
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Climb to Bhutan’s crowning jewel:
the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
JOURNEY TO THE LAST HIMALAYAN KINGDOM
⊲ Weave traditional textiles with
local artisans, and participate in a masked folk dance.
⊲ Aim your bow in an archery
competition with local marksmen, and then cheer on the pros at the National Archery grounds.
⊲ Go river rafting and camp under the stars in the Punakha Valley.
Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.
PHOTOGRAPHY Tell the stories of the people and places you encounter in Bhutan through photography. Practice landscape shots on spectacular scenery—from the soaring Himalaya to rippling rice paddies. Take portraits of people in traditional Bhutanese dress, and capture the spirit of a masked folk dance.
CREATIVE WRITING Hone your storytelling skills, finding creative inspiration in Bhutan’s vivid culture and mountain scenery. Pen an essay illustrating the atmosphere of an archery competition, write poetry from a perch along a high mountain pass, or craft a narrative about the lives of modern-day royals.
ANTHROPOLOGY & LOCAL CULTURES Discover firsthand how Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness (GNH) initiative has become a model for measuring progress. Delve into the practices of Buddhist monks, or gain perspective from locals on how increased contact with the global community is impacting traditional life.
S
et out on a magical journey through Bhutan, the secluded “Kingdom in the Clouds.” Nestled within lush Himalayan valleys, this tiny Buddhist nation has slowly opened its doors to visitors, and we’re invited to experience its timeless way of life and centuries-old traditions. Hike between mountain villages, meet nuns and red-robed monks in temples and fortress monasteries, and get acquainted with farmers, artists, local leaders, and Bhutanese youth. Explore Bhutan’s spectacular landscapes and unique customs through an On Assignment project in Photography, Creative Writing, or Anthropology & Local Cultures.
ITINERARY–14 DAYS DAYS 1–3 PARO Nestled in a valley amid the sky-scraping peaks of the Himalaya, Paro is the starting point for our expedition through Bhutan. Browse local crafts at artisan markets, visit the seventh-century Kyichu Lhakhang temple, and hike through emerald rice paddies that blanket the valley floor. Then set off into the country’s spiritual heartland.
Step inside the imposing walls of the hilltop Jakar Dzong—a fortress monastery and seat of government for Bhutan’s royal dynasty. In palace courtyards, learn the art of traditional masked cham dancing, and beat a Bhutanese drum during a chanting ceremony at a nunnery. Delve into the sacred significance of the Himalaya on a visit to a seventh-century royal Tibetan monastery, where monks will guide you through an elaborate cake-making ceremony to cleanse bad omens. Spend an afternoon at a farm learning to plow with oxen before sitting down to a meal that uses the crop you’ve harvested. DAYS 6–7 TRONGSA AND PHOBJIKHA Follow the east-west trade route from Bumthang to the town of Trongsa, and explore the nation’s largest dzong. As you navigate its labyrinth of passages, learn about Bhutan’s historic and modern political structure, and discuss contemporary Bhutanese life. The next day, travel to Phobjikha, a pristine glacial valley at the base
DAYS 4–5 BUMTHANG Fly to Bumthang, home to Buddhist sites that date back more than a thousand years. 46 E X P E D I T I O N
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BHUTAN Punakha Paro
Thimphu
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In our highly globalized “ world, few places stand out
of the Black Mountains. Hike between rural villages with a local guide, and learn about the diverse flora and fauna of this region, home to threatened species like the blacknecked crane and Asiatic black bear. Meet with researchers studying the resident snow leopard population, and hear about Bhutan’s approach to wildlife conservation. Trek to a remote village and spend an afternoon teaching young Bhutanese students. DAYS 8–9 PUNAKHA Spend two days discovering Punakha, the old royal capital of Bhutan. Explore the rice paddies surrounding the stunning Punakha Dzong, and interview villagers to get a local perspective on the country’s Gross National Happiness index. Try your hand at traditional Bhutanese archery, and raft down the river valley before camping on the riverside. DAYS 10–11 THIMPHU Cross over the Dochula mountain pass, where we’ll hoist prayer flags during a traditional ceremony. Continue to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital city. Browse the bustling weekend market, and cheer on professional archers on the National Archery grounds. At the Bhutan Textile Museum and Academy, practice weaving alongside local artists, and meet artisans who create traditional jewelry or handmade paper. Then head out of the city on a biking excursion, stopping for a picnic with incredible views of the
surrounding mountain peaks. Enjoy a special opportunity to dine with government officials and discuss the evolution of the Gross National Happiness project. DAYS 12–14 PARO Our expedition culminates at the kingdom’s iconic landmark: the Taktsang Lhakhang, or Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Make the steep climb to this pilgrimage site, perched on a cliff face nearly 3,000 feet above the Paro Valley floor. Or opt to hike to a nearby viewpoint to photograph this stunning structure. Return to Paro for a farewell dinner and present your On Assignment project before flying home.
DATES & TUITION 2017 DATES: JUNE 28–JULY 11, JULY 12-25 TUITION: $6,890 Airfare is not included. We have arranged group flights from Los Angeles to Paro, Paro to Bumthang, and return to Los Angeles. ACCOMMODATIONS: Throughout the expedition we stay in simple guesthouses and hotels. In Punakha, we spend two nights camping in tents. NOTE: We will be traveling at high elevations ranging from approximately 7,000 to 10,000 feet. The expedition includes several full-day hikes and biking at high elevations. To get the most out of the program, students should be physically fit and enthusiastic about outdoor exploration.
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as uniquely as Bhutan. No other country offers such a rich visual backdrop, and a daily life in which ancient and modern cultures are one. —Andrew Evans
”
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPERT
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 five books and the winner of numerous journalism awards. Andrew will join both groups in Thimphu and Paro.
E X P E D I T I O N 47
EXPEDITION
INDIA
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Help care for rescued elephants at a wildlife sanctuary.
CROSSROADS OF CULTURES
⊲ Go on a three-day trek in the majestic Himalaya.
⊲ Experience a Buddhist ceremony alongside Tibetan monks.
⊲ Learn traditional Ladakhi songs from students at a Himalayan school.
Choose one of these On Assignment projects, and break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.
PHOTOGRAPHY Build a portfolio that tells a tale of India’s complex history and spiritual diversity. Shrines, palaces, markets, terraced rice paddies, elephants, kiteflying children, dazzling saris, and clamorous street life provide unparalleled opportunities for photographers.
ANTHROPOLOGY & LOCAL CULTURES 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.
N
umbering more than one billion 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 Anthropology & Local Cultures.
ITINERARY–21 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, the Lotus Temple, or the soaring Qutub Minar tower. Then set out in teams and dive into your On Assignment projects.
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. In the lively trade town of Leh, where whitewashed houses are nestled in a lush valley ringed by jagged peaks, we’ll acclimatize 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 know the students while discussing current affairs and sharing cultural traditions. 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.
DAYS 4–11 LADAKH AND THE HIMALAYA Rising out of India’s northernmost region, the Himalaya are a vast stretch of craggy passes 48 E X P E D I T I O N
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H I M
Leh LADAKH
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New Delhi
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Agra
Jaipur
Keoladeo Ghana National Park
INDIA
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When we were in the “ Himalaya, we explored unique
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 see 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 pink-hued palace to its medieval observatory. Venture into the labyrinthine City Palace, and trace its line of maharajas to the current occupant. Wind your way up the serpentine staircases of Jaipur’s Amber Fort, built as a citadel for the ruling elite, and explore 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-year-old Mughal-style royal retreat. Photograph shopkeepers at the local market, and join locals for a traditional Indian dance class. In Neemrana, take in views of the town’s fort palace on a zip-lining excursion, and celebrate your final night in colorful Rajasthan. 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 & TUITION 2017 DATE: JUNE 26–JULY 16 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 basic amenities. NOTE: The three-day trek involves rigorous hiking at elevations of up to 14,000 feet. Participants must be physically fit. Those with known altitude sensitivity should not apply.
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regional traditions and experienced a more modest way of life. It made me think deeply about my own culture, and I gained a new perspective on the world. —Evan P. INDIA, 2016
”
MEET YOUR EXPERT SANDESH KADUR Award-winning photographer, author, filmmaker, and National Geographic Emerging Explorer Sandesh Kadur uses images, both still and video, to expose the need for conservation and encourage protection of the world’s biodiversity. With subjects ranging from king cobras to clouded leopards, his documentary films have appeared on the National Geographic Channel, the BBC, and more. His photographic book of India’s Western Ghats was part of a successful campaign to name the area a UNESCO World Heritage site. Sandesh will join the group in Ladakh.
E X P E D I T I O N 49
EXPEDITION
CHINA
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Work with giant pandas at a renowned breeding center.
GIANT PANDAS TO THE GREAT WALL
⊲ 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.
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 on Tiananmen Square to dense bamboo forests where rare pandas roam to Shanghai’s modern cityscape, capture the many faces of China.
ANTHROPOLOGY & LOCAL CULTURES 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. .
50 E X P E D I T I O N
B rimming 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. Meet some of China’s most famous residents—the giant pandas—in the wilderness of Sichuan; explore the singing sand dunes along the Silk Road in Dunhuang; and delve into the excitement of Shanghai and Beijing, seeing China from the unique angle of your On Assignment project.
ITINERARY–21 DAYS DAYS 1–6 SHANGHAI Start off in Shanghai, 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. At the Dougtai Road antiques market, test your bargaining skills at stalls crowded with everything from Mao figurines and model cars to ornate woodcarvings.
DAYS 7–11 THE PANDAS OF SICHUAN A flight and a bus ride bring us to Dujiangyan, west of Chengdu. We’ll have a behind-the-scenes visit at the internationally renowned Dujiangyan Panda Center’s research facility, guided by local conservationists. Spend a day feeding and caring for the bears and observing these gentle giants up close in their enclosure. Our next stop is the Tangjiahe National Nature Reserve, part of the Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries. Settle into rural life at a guesthouse in a region of lushly forested mountains. Many of the few remaining wild giant pandas still roam here along with thousands of other species, including China’s iconic golden snub-nosed monkey. Hear from experts about the challenges of breeding and reintroduction of pandas to the wild, and learn about forest conservation as you explore panda habitats on guided hikes. Get acquainted with village life, helping ethnic Tibetan farmers harvest crops
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Beijing
Dunhuang
Dujiangyan
Yellow Sea
CHINA
Shanghai Tangjiahe National Nature Reserve
Taiwan South China Sea 0
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My leaders were “ extremely understanding and
along the Yinping Ancient Road; and try out the steps of a centuries-old Tibetan dance. DAYS 12–15 GANSU PROVINCE Travel by overnight train to Lanzhou and then 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 Dynasty–era 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 16–21 BEIJING & 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 & TUITION 2017 DATE: JUNE 27–JULY 17 TUITION: $6,990 Airfare is not included. We have arranged group flights from Los Angeles to Shanghai, Shanghai to Chengdu, Lanzhou 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, Dujiangyan, Tangjiahe, Dunhuang, and Beijing. At the Great Wall, we stay in a villager’s farmhouse inn.
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knowledgeable, as well as kind and adventurous. They taught me so much about the culture of China. —Emily N. CHINA, 2016
”
MEET YOUR EXPERT MATTHIEU PALEY Following a three-month adventure through Mongolia, French photographer Matthieu Paley’s first job was an expedition for National Geographic Adventure magazine in Bhutan, which took him to the highest unclimbed mountain in the world. While living in Hong Kong for nine years, Matthieu shot stories throughout China, including a story about disco in Chengdu. Most recently, Matthieu traveled the globe shooting a story on the evolution of diet for National Geographic magazine. Matthieu’s work has been published in numerous other magazines, including Geo, Newsweek, TIME, Outside, and Le Monde. Matthieu will join the group in Chengdu.
E X P E D I T I O N 51
COMMUNITY SERVICE
HAWAII
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Witness active lava flows and
steam vents and work to preserve the geothermal landscapes of Volcanoes National Park.
ISLAND HABITAT RESTORATION
⊲ Feed and care for turtles and
sharks alongside local researchers.
⊲ Learn to surf in Maui’s aquamarine waters and snorkel on nearby reefs.
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 are easily disrupted by human impact. Help preserve the island’s volcanic and marine environments through eco-service projects, and cap off the trip with snorkeling, hiking, and camping on Maui.
ITINERARY–14 DAYS 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 2–9 COMMUNITY SERVICE SITES Travel to Volcanoes National Park and settle into our dormitory, located within the park borders. Work alongside conservationists 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 other visitors about environmental threats facing the island. In 52 C O M M U N I T Y S E R V I C E
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— considered the Earth’s largest volcano. Head to Waimea and partner with Ulu Mau Puanui on sustainability efforts that also help to preserve ancient Hawaiian agricultural practices. Conduct beach cleanups, collect scientific data to monitor the health of the Kohala watershed, help plant native ‘uala (sweet potato) and ko (sugarcane), or educate visitors on the conservation of native coral and fish species. Lend a hand at an organic coffee plantation and learn how to harvest and roast Kona coffee. 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 10–14 MAUI Fly to Maui for our final adventures under the Hawaiian sun. Meet with researchers at the Maui Ocean Center, and help them take care of turtle and shark species native to Hawaiian waters. Embark on a full-day snorkel adventure at the Molokini crater—a partially submerged volcanic cone teeming with coral and colorful fish—or over the lava caves on the remote island of Lana’i. Catch the sunset from the rim of Haleakala’s crater, then descend the mountain, stopping for dinner 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 & TUITION 2017 DATES: JUNE 25–JULY 8, JUNE 30–JULY 13, JULY 21–AUG. 3 TUITION: $5,790 Airfare is not included. We have arranged group flights from Los Angeles to Kailua-Kona, KailuaKona 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 dormitory-style accommodations. Boys and girls share a sleeping area and bathroom with other students of the same gender. On Maui, we stay in tented bungalows at a small oceanside campground.
SERVICE PROJECT DETAILS: On this program, students will spend an estimated 35–40 hours on eco-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
COSTA RICA
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Experience everyday life in a
traditional Costa Rican village.
TROPICAL ECOSYSTEM CONSERVATION
⊲ Clear forest trails, work on a
reforestation project, or plant an organic garden with the help of local schoolchildren.
⊲ Go kayaking or horseback riding in the shadow of Arenal Volcano.
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 local village and work alongside community members on a variety of eco-service projects, documenting your experience through photos, journals, and video. Then set off to explore Costa Rica’s most active volcano and the breathtaking western coast.
ITINERARY–14 DAYS DAYS 1–2 NORTHWEST COAST Start your journey on the pristine Pacific coast, where we’ll spend our first two days in a small beachside community. After a day of orientation, swim amid spectacular marine life, learn to surf, and enjoy an afternoon at the beach.
with students at the elementary school, or implement a new recycling program in town. 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 after your visit. From your base in the village, spend time volunteering at local conservation organizations. Work with wildlife conservationists at a capuchin monkey reserve, or lend a hand at a research center that protects the endangered leatherback turtle. In the afternoon, take a break from your projects to explore this lush tropical 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 looking for monkeys and unusual flora. Join some of the local women in the kitchen to learn how to make tortillas and gallo pinto. Throughout your time in the village, record your service project work through photographs, journal entries, and videos. With the guidance of your leaders, craft a story about the conservation challenges facing the community or the impact of your work.
DAYS 3–10 COMMUNITY SERVICE VILLAGE Travel to our community service village in the northwestern province of Guanacaste, and settle into daily 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 conservation-based service projects. Clear forest trails, plant an organic garden APPLY ONLINE AT NGSTUDENTEXPEDITIONS.COM
DAYS 11–14 ARENAL VOLCANO After wrapping up our community service projects, we’ll move on to Arenal, the most active volcano in Costa Rica, flanked by thick rain forest. Our home here is a small, sustainable ranch that has its own organic garden, a reforestation corridor, and natural pools. Learn about the ranch’s sustainability initiatives, spend an afternoon exploring the rain forest on horseback, or go kayaking on Lake Arenal. Descend from the mountains and return to the coast for a final day of reflection with your group before returning home.
DATES & TUITION 2017 DATES: JUNE 24–JULY 7, JULY 1–14, JULY 15–28 TUITION: $4,390 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a roundtrip group flight between Miami and Liberia, Costa Rica. 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 the eco-lodge in Arenal, we sleep in bunk beds 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.
C O M M U N I T Y S E R V I C E 53
COMMUNITY SERVICE
MADAGASCAR
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Trek or kayak through the rain
forest with scientists, monitoring lemurs and other species.
BIODIVERSITY PROTECTION
⊲ Plant trees and teach
environmental education to local students.
⊲ Swim in turquoise natural pools
in the sandstone canyons of Isalo National Park.
Home to leaping lemurs and pinkie-
sized chameleons, this island nation situated off Africa's southeast coast is recognized by scientists as one of the most biologically diverse places on Earth. Settle into a research center near Ranomafana founded by a National Geographic grantee, and work to preserve the unique surrounding ecosystems through a variety of conservation service projects, capturing your experience through photography, film, and writing. Then cross the island to the dramatic landscapes of Isalo National Park, and cap off the trip swimming in its sparkling natural pools.
ITINERARY–18 DAYS DAYS 1–2 ANTANANARIVO Begin in the capital city of Antananarivo, or “Tana” as the locals call it, with an afternoon of orientation and exploration. Learn about the rich cultural and ecological history of the island as we start to prepare for our community service projects. DAYS 3–12 COMMUNITY SERVICE SITE Head southeast towards Ranomafana National Park, home to at least a dozen lemur species and part of a UNESCO World Heritage site that covers six rain forest areas across eastern Madagascar. Settle into our home in the jungle, the Centre ValBio, a world-renowned research 54 C O M M U N I T Y S E R V I C E
center founded by National Geographic grantee Patricia Wright, one of the world’s leading experts on lemurs. Here, we’ll work alongside local conservation clubs and schools on a variety of eco-service projects. Get your hands dirty planting trees for a reforestation project, and learn about the uses of medicinal plants. Spend time with community members working on local solutions to promote wildlife conservation. Paddle in a kayak looking for rare bird species, or trek through the rain forest with scientists from the Centre ValBio, learning to assess habitat conditions and analyze primate behavior. Work with your peers to document your service work through photos, writing or video. Craft a story about conservation challenges facing Madagascar’s rain forest, or profile one of the island’s unique species. In the afternoon, take a break from your service projects and hike to a waterfall within Ranomafana National Park, or interview artisans about Malagasy culture at a market in Ranomafana village.
DAYS 13–18 ISALO NATIONAL PARK Travel to Anja Community Reserve in search of ring-tailed lemurs, and then continue to Isalo National Park, known for its wild sandstone formations and dramatic canyons. In the company of a knowledgeable guide, hike through Isalo’s incredible landscapes and find out why parts of the park are sacred to the local Bara people. Cool off in its turquoise natural swimming pools and watch the sunset light up the striking desert landscape. As our expedition winds down, we’ll share our photos and stories and reflect on Madagascar’s incredible natural diversity—and the efforts we’ve contributed to that are helping preserve this unique and fragile island. Travel back to Ranomafana for a final night before continuing to Tana to catch our flight home.
DATES & TUITION 2017 DATES: JUNE 29–JULY 16, JULY 17–AUG. 3 TUITION: $6,790 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a round-trip group flight between New York and Antananarivo. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: While working at our community service site, the group sleeps in dormitory-style accommodations. We stay in a comfortable lodge while visiting Isalo 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.
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COMMUNITY SERVICE
TANZANIA
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Get into the rhythm of village life at the base of Mount Meru.
CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
⊲ Build a new water-supply system to help with sustainable crop growth and teach local children how they can help protect their environment.
⊲ Encounter amazing wildlife on safari in three parks.
Tanzania is home to fantastically rich
wildlife and fascinating cultures like the Maasai. Yet rural life remains simple, and basic infrastructure is still being developed. Settle into a village and work on conservation projects that promote sustainable development, helping to preserve the local environment while improving daily life for residents. Cap off the trip on safari, exploring creative ways to protect the wildlife you encounter.
ITINERARY–15 DAYS DAYS 1–8 COMMUNITY SERVICE VILLAGE 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. Construct a new water-storage tank to aid in irrigation and sustainable crop growth during the dry season. Volunteer at the village primary school or a nearby orphanage, teaching children the importance of protecting the planet. Roll up your sleeves to plant and harvest at a family farm, and interview your hosts about how they’re adapting to a changing climate. Spend a day in Arusha National Park and hear from a ranger about challenges that arise when wildlife encroaches on village life. Propose creative conservation solutions for protecting wildlife from poachers, or strategies for
reducing conflict between domesticated and wild animals. In the late afternoons, get into the rhythm of village life. Play soccer with local kids, shop for dinner at an outdoor market, or write in your journal with views of Kilimanjaro in the distance. Meet with students training for careers in wildlife management, and discuss conservation in the developing world. 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 Maasai, witness drumming and jumping contests, and learn about their pastoral lifestyle. Join our Maasai hosts for a hike in the Oldonyo Sambu Wilderness Area, where we’ll see impalas, gazelles, and giraffes and learn to identify wildlife scat and tracks. Then set out on safari in three incredible— and very different—wildlife parks. In the low woodlands of Tarangire National Park, watch elephant families interact, look for tree-
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climbing leopards and lions, and spot a myriad of bird species. Ride across the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater, home to zebras, cheetahs, hippos, and rare rhinos. Finally, descend the Rift Valley escarpment to Lake Manyara, where vast colonies of flamingos often turn the lakeshore pink. In each park, talk with our safari guides about successes and challenges in addressing human-wildlife conflict, and learn how animal behavior and migrations are being affected by climate change. DAYS 14–15 ARUSHA We’ll spend our last two days at an eco-lodge near Arusha. Visit an organic coffee farm and see the sustainable production process— from harvest to market. We’ll have a farewell celebration before flying home.
DATES & TUITION 2017 DATE: JULY 16–30 TUITION: $6,690 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a roundtrip group flight between New York and Arusha. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: In our host village, girls and boys bunk separately in dormitory-style housing with shared bathrooms and a group kitchen. 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.
C O M M U N I T Y S E R V I C E 55
COMMUNITY SERVICE
THAILAND
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Teach English to local primary
school students in the province of Chiang Rai.
TEACHING AND MENTORSHIP
⊲ Trek through northern Thailand,
and meet members of remote mountain hill tribe communities.
⊲ Work with caretakers at an
elephant conservation center.
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. Settle into our community and work alongside teachers on education projects at local schools, documenting the experience through a variety of media. Spend several days trekking between hill tribe villages in the lush mountains surrounding Chiang Rai, and cap off the trip volunteering at an elephant conservation center.
ITINERARY–17 DAYS DAYS 1–9 COMMUNITY SERVICE SITES Our home in Thailand lies in the northern province of Chiang Rai, known for its rugged natural beauty and the unique cultures of its remote hill tribe communities. Spend two days getting oriented and exploring nearby temples and bustling markets brimming with colorful handicrafts. Then split into small groups and work with local residents on a variety of community-initiated education projects. Create English-language lesson plans and teach vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation skills to primary school students through activities and conversation. Participate in after-school projects, and learn about Thai holidays and traditions during a cultural exchange with local high school students. In the late afternoons, get into the rhythm of daily life and explore the surrounding area. 56 C O M M U N I T Y S E R V I C E
Discover the sport of Thai kickboxing, derived from Thai martial arts; visit the exquisite Wat Rong Khun temple in Chiang Rai city; 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 MOUNTAIN TREK Travel into the mountains to our eco-lodge, located near several hill tribe villages. Enjoy serene mornings in the mountains before setting out on hikes to nearby communities. Learn about each tribe’s unique language, customs, and spiritual beliefs. Discover the symbolism behind village weaving patterns; try your hand at braiding bamboo for building projects; or prepare a traditional meal over an open fire. Trek to a hidden waterfall for a refreshing swim. DAYS 13–14 COMMUNITY SERVICE SITES Return to Chiang Rai to wrap up lessons, and gather with our new Thai friends for a farewell dinner.
DAYS 15–17 ELEPHANT CONSERVATION CENTER AND CHIANG MAI Head into the countryside to visit an elephant rehabilitation center. Learn about these creatures’ uncertain role in the evolving Thai economy, and find out how this organization adopts and nurtures them. Follow free-roaming elephants through the jungle while speaking with their caretakers about modern threats to the species; then help bathe the animals in a nearby river before they indulge in their daily mud baths. Travel to Chiang Mai for our final evening before returning home.
DATES & TUITION 2017 DATES: JUNE 28–JULY 14, JULY 12–28, JULY 19–AUG. 4 TUITION: $5,590 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a roundtrip group flight between New York and Chiang Mai. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: At our community service sites and in Chiang Mai, the group sleeps in simple guesthouses. We stay in a rustic eco-lodge during our mountain trek. 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.
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COMMUNITY SERVICE
NEPAL
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Immerse yourself in peaceful
REBUILDING AND EARTHQUAKE RECOVERY
village life at the foot of the soaring Himalaya.
⊲ Help rebuild family homes, teach children English, or harvest local produce.
⊲ Meditate with young monks at a
monastery and sculpt traditional Nepalese pottery.
From soaring Himalayan peaks to lush
DAYS 12–15 BHAKTAPUR
rain forests, Nepal’s dramatic landscape is home to vibrant cultural groups with rich traditions. In 2015, earthquakes disrupted the lives of many Nepalese people, especially those living in small farming communities. Work alongside community members on agricultural, educational, and rebuilding projects in your host village while learning about Nepal’s colorful heritage. Hike in the Himalayan foothills, practice meditation with young Buddhist monks, and share your experiences through photography, video, and writing.
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. We will collaborate with villagers to rebuild homes, care for kids at the community children’s home, lead health workshops, or hit the fields to help with the harvest. In the late afternoons, play games with local youth 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.
ITINERARY–15 DAYS
DAYS 10–11 NAMO BUDDHA MONASTERY RETREAT
DATES & TUITION
Hike through the Kathmandu Valley to the sacred pilgrimage site of Namo Buddha, where we’ll spend two days at an exquisite secluded monastery. Reflect on your community service experience, play soccer with young Tibetan monks, and practice yoga or meditation under a canopy of prayer flags.
2017 DATES: JUNE 17–JULY 1, JULY 15–29
DAYS 1–3 KATHMANDU 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 4–9 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.
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Travel to the medieval city of Bhaktapur, where ancient architecture offers a glimpse into Nepalese life before the arrival of modern influences. Stroll ornate palaces and the centuries-old Durbar Square, and step into mystical temples that welcome pilgrims from around the world. Meet with master artisans to hear how their cultural heritage is being celebrated and preserved in the present day. Hike to Ghyampe Danda for a traditional pottery workshop, and learn the history behind thangkas—Tibetan cloth paintings depicting Buddhist deities and other religious symbols. Enjoy a royal farewell dinner at a Newari palace before returning home.
TUITION: $5,190 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a round-trip group flight between Los Angeles and Kathmandu. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. 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. At the monastery and in Bhaktapur, we stay in simple guesthouses. 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.
C O M M U N I T Y S E R V I C E 57
COMMUNITY SERVICE
FIJI
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Work alongside our village hosts to plant a community garden or build a playground at a school.
COMMUNITY RESTORATION
⊲ Help prepare traditional Fijian
meals and participate in a kava ceremony.
⊲ Snorkel or scuba dive on some of Fiji’s spectacular coral reefs.
The island nation of Fiji is known for its
lush green peaks, tropical 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 as they rebuild following a devastating 2016 cyclone. Document your experience in the community, and then explore Fiji’s natural beauty as you hike to remote waterfalls and snorkel on spectacular coral reefs.
ITINERARY–15 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.
58 C O M M U N I T Y S E R V I C E
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 with members of the community on a variety of projects. Help build a classroom 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, surf or zip-line through the forest, browse artisan markets, and enjoy the last days of Fijian sun on a quiet beach before returning home.
DATES & TUITION 2017 DATES: JUNE 30–JULY 14, JULY 14–28 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 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.
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PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
TOKYO
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Develop your artistic vision with
help from a National Geographic photographer.
⊲ Capture the essence of Tokyo, where remnants of traditional Japan fuse with futuristic influences.
⊲ Go on photo shoots in Nikkō and at the base of Mount Fuji.
Tokyo is hurtling into the future at
a rapid pace. This is a city where the cutting-edge is boldly displayed in eccentric fashion, pop-culture icons, and avant-garde architecture. Learn how to capture the city’s creativity—and the enduring symbols of centuries-old Japanese culture—during hands-on classes led by our instructors and a National Geographic photographer. Then hit the streets to photograph all the color and motion on camera, and travel outside the city for assignments at the base of mighty Mount Fuji and in the quaint mountain town of Nikkō.
ITINERARY–12 DAYS Delve into the art and technique of photography, working in small groups with our photo instructors and a National Geographic photographer in the effervescent city of Tokyo. Spend time in our classroom each day, then try out your skills in the city’s unique neighborhoods—from the bustling Ginza district to the funky fashion mecca of Harajuku. Document the action at Tsukiji, the world’s largest fish market, photographing fastpaced tuna auctions and food stalls filled with colorful fruits and vegetables. Zoom in on flower blooms and teahouses in the serene Shinjuku Gyoen garden, and then climb to the top of the city’s tallest structure to capture the skyline during the “golden hour.” On day trips outside the city, practice
landscape photography using the stunning Japanese countryside as your backdrop. Travel to Mount Fuji and take aerial shots of the iconic volcano from the Kachi Kachi Ropeway gondola. Then ride Takabisha—the steepest roller coaster in the world—during a visit to the Fuji-Q Highland amusement park. We’ll end the day with a soak in a traditional onsen, or hot spring.
DATES & TUITION 2017 DATE: JULY 21–AUG. 1 TUITION: $6,290 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a roundtrip group flight between Los Angeles and Tokyo. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: We stay in a centrally located hotel. We’ll have breakfast at our lodging, while lunches and dinners 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 students’ work.
In the mountain village of Nikkō, photograph some of Japan’s beautiful temples and shrines. Zoom in on the gold-leaf carvings of Toshogu shrine and frame Rinnoji temple, set amid a forest of cedar. Spend time exploring the woodlands surrounding the town, documenting hidden waterfalls and picturesque bridges. In the evenings, review the day’s work or attend seminars led by our National Geographic photographer. Then head out to photograph the city at night. Try out slow shutter speeds on the crowds passing under the futuristic neon lights at Shibuya crossing, and seek out signs of anime and manga adorning the surrounding buildings. 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 Japan.
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MEET YOUR EXPERT DAVID GUTTENFELDER David is a National Geographic Photography Fellow focusing on global geopolitics, conservation, and culture. He spent 20 years as a photojournalist for the Associated Press, during which he was based in Nairobi, Abidjan, New Delhi, Jerusalem, and Tokyo, covering news in more than 75 countries. David is an eight-time World Press Photo Award winner, a seven-time finalist for the Pulitzer Prize, and was named Instagram Photographer of the Year by TIME magazine. David will join the entire workshop.
P H OTO G R A P H Y W O R K S H O P 59
PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
YELLOWSTONE
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Photograph native wildlife and
stunning landscapes in America’s first national park.
⊲ Alongside a National Geographic photographer, capture the lively Livingston Roundup Rodeo.
⊲ Exhibit your work at a local gallery in downtown Bozeman.
With its erupting geysers, 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 this geological wonderland with a National Geographic photographer to document bears and bison, pronghorns, wolves, elk, bald eagles, and more. Explore the techniques and craft of photography during daily hands-on classes, take compelling landscape photos that capture the magic of this national park, and discover its unique geologic phenomena through your camera's lens.
Yellowstone. Take an excursion to the Old West town of Livingston, Montana, and take portraits of cowboys and cowgirls at the famous Livingston Roundup Rodeo. Find your adventurous spirit while white-water rafting down the Yellowstone River and hiking through fields of alpine wildflowers.
60 P H OTO G R A P H Y W O R K S H O P
2017 DATE: JULY 2–13 TUITION: $5,490 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, we stay in a mountain lodge. Breakfast is provided at our residence, and 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 opening featuring large-format prints of students’ work.
ITINERARY–12 DAYS The workshop begins with two nights in Bozeman, Montana, where we’ll prepare for our time in Yellowstone National Park. Then travel to Mammoth Hot Springs, our base while exploring the park. Delve into the art and technique of photography, working in small groups with our photo instructors and our National Geographic photographer. Head out on photo shoots each day trying out new techniques with the wildlife and landscapes you encounter. Practice managing light and depth of field, work with flash, and learn to improve 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 vibrant hot springs, geyser basins, and the Grand Canyon of the
DATES & TUITION
In the evenings, review your day’s work, gather for talks by your photography expert, and learn low-light photography techniques. Head out for a sunset photography shoot in Lamar Valley, and master star photography in Yellowstone’s vast night sky. Throughout the workshop, we’ll prepare for a gallery show of large-format digital prints of the group’s original work. Spend your last two days in the quaint mountain town of Bozeman, organizing, curating, and installing your exhibit. Celebrate your work on display at a local gallery and an opening party on the final night.
MEET YOUR EXPERT KRISTA ROSSOW For over a decade, Krista has worked as a photographer and photo editor for National Geographic Traveler. Her assignments for the magazine have taken her around the world—from documenting a surfer’s paradise in Costa Rica to capturing images of traditional Zulu farms in South Africa. Krista is also a photography instructor, and has taught multiple workshops focused on capturing the spirit of the American West’s people, culture, and wild places. Krista will join the entire workshop.
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PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
YOSEMITE AND SAN FRANCISCO
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Capture the majesty of Yosemite in photos of its towering granite domes, soaring sequoias, and crashing waterfalls.
⊲ Improve your skills with the
guidance of a National Geographic photographer.
⊲ Exhibit your work in a San Francisco art gallery.
Y osemite National Park spellbinds at every angle, with wonders like
waterfall-laced cliffs, gemstone lakes, and soaring sequoia forests. This scenery has inspired countless photographers, including top National Geographic photojournalists and the master of landscape shots, Ansel Adams. Learn new techniques in the classroom and then follow in the footsteps of these experts, setting out on photo assignments from the rugged wilds of Yosemite’s backcountry to a Gold Rush ghost town.
ITINERARY–12 DAYS Our workshop begins in San Francisco, California, where we’ll spend two days photographing the city’s colorful, quirky streets. Practice taking portraits of sidewalk merchants in Chinatown; ride a cable car along steep streets lined with brightly hued homes; and frame iconic landmarks, like the Golden Gate Bridge and the infamous Alcatraz prison. Leave behind the bustle of the city and venture into the rugged wilds of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Stop for a photo shoot
in the Old West–era town of Mariposa, and then continue on to the Yosemite Valley, one of California’s most magnificent natural treasures. Spend time each day learning to develop your photographic eye and improve your technical skills. Then set out into the wilderness to document scenery made famous by Ansel Adams. The prolific photographer depicted the valley’s massive granite walls, cascading waterfalls, and mirror-like lakes in his landscape shots—images that were instrumental in the establishment of Yosemite National Park. Get your own angle on these iconic scenes, framing wonders like the towering Half Dome and enormous sequoia trees, and use your images to advocate for the conservation of these incredible places. Practice adventure photography as you document your friends hiking across alpine meadows or tackling a high ropes course. Capture your friends in action during an outdoor rock climbing class with professional guides. Visit the Bodie ghost town to take intriguing pictures of its deserted streets, houses, and saloons; and then have a float in Mono Lake’s salty waters. In the evenings, upload photos, review the day’s work, and enjoy seminars given by our instructors and a National Geographic photographer. Head out on nighttime photo shoots and experiment with light as the sun sets on the valley’s granite domes, or point your lens skyward to snap photos of stars twinkling in the night sky. Throughout the workshop we will prepare for a gallery opening that features print photos of the group’s best work. Return to San Francisco for the final three days of the
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program to help curate the exhibit in one of the city’s galleries. On our final night, celebrate your work at an opening party.
DATES & TUITION 2017 DATE: JULY 17–28 TUITION: $5,690 Airfare is not included. The program begins and ends in San Francisco, California. Refer to page 70 for transportaton details. ACCOMMODATIONS: We stay in dormitorystyle accommodations in San Francisco and in a mountain lodge in Yosemite. Breakfast is provided at our residence, while other meals range from picnics to sit-down meals. 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 students’ work.
MEET YOUR EXPERT ERIKA LARSEN Erika uses photography to document cultures that maintain strong connections with nature. She has followed Sami reindeer herders in the Scandinavian Arctic, explored the significance of the horse in Native American culture, and photographed the people of Yellowstone National Park for National Geographic magazine. Erika will join the entire workshop.
P H OTO G R A P H Y W O R K S H O P 61
PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
BARCELONA
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Capture Barcelona's lively street life and fanciful architecture.
⊲ Set out on photo assignments in the ancient towns of Figueres, Cadaqués, and Girona.
⊲ Organize a gallery opening
featuring large-format prints of your photographs.
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 the technical and creative aspects of photography in this city full of cuttingedge design, practicing new techniques on photo shoots at street festivals and markets, along the bustling port, and in centuries-old neighborhoods. Immerse yourself in Barcelona’s creativity, passion, and style, and curate an exhibition that evokes the soul of the city through photography.
ITINERARY–12 DAYS From our home overlooking the Parc de la Ciutadella, explore the art and technique of photography, working in small groups with our photo instructors and our National Geographic photographer. Learn new skills—from managing light and depth of field to fine-tuning composition—in the classroom. Then grab your camera and hit the streets, photographing the kaleidoscope of foods at La Boquería covered market, street performers on La Rambla, and Antoni Gaudí’s eccentric architecture at the Sagrada Família church and Parc Güell. Shoot movement while watching the sardana, Catalonia’s traditional dance, and at a rooftop techno-jazz concert. Wander through the Olympic Park sports complex and practice your Spanish at the cafés along Passeig de Gràcia. Much of the city shuts 62 P H OTO G R A P H Y W O R K S H O P
down for a mid-afternoon siesta—a perfect pause to edit your photographs or attend a seminar by our instructors.
DATES & TUITION 2017 DATE: JULY 2–13 TUITION: $5,790 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a roundtrip group flight between New York and Barcelona. Refer to page 70 for transportation details. ACCOMMODATIONS: We stay in comfortable rooms in a new university dorm overlooking the Parc de la Ciutadella. We’ll have breakfast at the dorm, while lunches and dinners range from picnics to sit-down meals at restaurants and cafés. Classrooms are equipped with digital projectors so we can share and critique our work.
When night falls, Barcelona lights up. Shooting in low light, document the busy seaside boardwalk on the way to an avantgarde flamenco dance performance; or enjoy dinner in the hip, multicultural Raval neighborhood. Head out of the city to photograph the Spanish countryside. Camera in hand, wander the cobblestoned streets of Girona as you discover ancient Roman walls, Arab baths, and the old Jewish quarter. Visit the town of Figueres, home to the fascinating and bizarre Dalí TheatreMuseum. Take a cable car up into the dripcastle rock formations of the Montserrat mountain range, venture into a centuries-old Benedictine monastery, and practice the art of panoramic landscape photography. Throughout the workshop, prepare for a final gallery opening of large-format prints of the group’s best work. Help organize, curate, and install the exhibit, and celebrate your growth as a photographer on our final night.
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 students’ work.
MEET YOUR EXPERT TINO SORIANO A Barcelona native and awardwinning photographer, Tino has photographed eight National Geographic guidebooks, and his work has appeared in National Geographic magazine, Smithsonian magazine, and The New York Times. Tino has worked on three television documentaries for National Geographic and played a leading role in Andalusia: The Awakening of the Senses. Tino will join the entire workshop.
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PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
PRAGUE
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Develop your artistic vision with
the help of a National Geographic photographer.
⊲ Hone your photography skills
as you capture Prague’s iconic landmarks.
⊲ Go on photo shoots in the forests and medieval towns of Bohemia.
A t 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.
Prague, frame 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, who will 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.
2017 DATE: JULY 16–27 TUITION: $5,590 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 dormitorystyle accommodations near central Prague and in a small, family-run hotel in South Bohemia. Breakfast is provided at our residences, 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.
ITINERARY–12 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 just outside the bustle of the city center, a short walk to the medieval architecture of Old Town and the iconic museums of New Town. 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
DATES & TUITION
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. Most recently, Ami documented Chinese efforts to release pandas into the wild for the August 2016 issue of National Geographic magazine. She lived in Prague for four years, covering politics and news from Eastern Europe for news publications. Ami will join the entire workshop.
P H OTO G R A P H Y W O R K S H O P 63
UNIVERSITY WORKSHOP
TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION WORKSHOP
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Delve into engineering,
computing, and robotics through seminars, field experiences, and a capstone project.
ON THE MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY CAMPUS
⊲ Meet with top scientists and learn about work done in their hightech labs.
⊲ Discover the vibrant cities of Boston and Cambridge.
Meet with National Geographic
explorers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) campus to examine the many intersections of technology and innovation. 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.
ITINERARY–9 DAYS Arrive on the MIT campus and join your group for an orientation and tour. During the program, we’ll explore three core themes: Engineering the Future, Data Science, and Innovations in Robotics. See engineering in action at the Wright Brothers Wind Tunnel, and learn about new frontiers in nuclear power. Learn about 3D printing with National Geographic explorer Skylar Tibbits; then head to Boston’s Fab Lab to print 3D objects of your own design. Visit the rooftop garden at Fenway Park to see how urban agriculturalists engineered a sustainable food system atop this iconic ballpark. Explore unique approaches to computing and learn about applications for large data sets. Join National Geographic Emerging Explorer Caleb Harper on a behindthe-scenes tour of MIT’s CityFARM, a computer-operated urban farm using big data to revolutionize the way food is grown 64 U N I V E R S I T Y W O R K S H O P
in cities. Contribute to Caleb’s OpenAG project by building a minicomputer that collects crop data. Examine advances in robotics technology, and participate in a hands-on workshop in robotics or hologram engineering at the MIT Museum. Travel to the University of Rhode Island’s Bay Campus to join National Geographic explorer Dr. Katy Croff Bell in the Inner Space Center. See how her team uses this oceanography command center to broadcast their underwater expeditions, and try navigating a remotely operated underwater vehicle through an obstacle course. Then visit the aquarium to assist a marine biologist with an intertidal survey. We’ll take breaks from our seminars to explore Cambridge and Boston. Wander the vibrant streets of Harvard Square, kayak on the Charles River, or visit one of the area’s world-famous museums.
PROGRAM THEMES Explore each of these three topics over the course of the program: Engineering the Future Data Science Innovations in Robotics
DATES & TUITION 2017 DATE: JULY 17–25 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.
MEET YOUR EXPERTS CALEB HARPER National Geographic Emerging Explorer Caleb Harper believes the future of agriculture lies in urban farms, and uses the technologies of computing, architecture, and engineering to develop new food systems. Caleb looks forward to introducing students to the MIT CityFARM, where he grows fresh, affordable food year-round.
KATY CROFF BELL
CAPSTONE PROJECT With guidance from our instructors, develop a proposal for a project that uses cuttingedge technologies to address an important issue in your community. Pitch your proposal to a panel of experts for a chance to receive funding for your research idea.
National Geographic Emerging Explorer Katy Croff Bell uses technology to investigate the depths of the ocean. She is chief scientist of the 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.
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UNIVERSITY WORKSHOP
EXPLORATION AND CONSERVATION WORKSHOP
ON THE UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO BOULDER CAMPUS
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Experiment with science and
storytelling tools used by National Geographic explorers.
⊲ Explore climate change, wildlife conservation, and adventure storytelling through seminars, hands-on activities, and a capstone project.
⊲ Enjoy Colorado’s great outdoors.
Join National Geographic experts at
the University of Colorado Boulder and delve into important global issues of our time. Take part in stimulating seminars, and then get hands-on experience at the university’s facilities and in the field. Use photography to tell compelling stories, and develop a grant proposal or a media project to inspire action in your own community.
ITINERARY–9 DAYS Meet students, instructors, and National Geographic experts at the University of Colorado Boulder. During the program we’ll explore three core themes: Adventure Photography, Wildlife Conservation & Our National Parks, and Global Climate & Local Solutions. Discover the technical and creative aspects of adventure photography in the classroom, and venture out on hikes in the nearby foothills to build your visual storytelling skills. Capture your friends in action during an outdoor rock climbing class, document a 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. Visit the Rocky Mountain Arsenal and learn about efforts to establish a viable wildlife refuge by restoring the surrounding ecosystem. Venture into Rocky Mountain National Park to interview park rangers about wildlife management strategies, and take
photographs that can be used to help raise awareness about the species you encounter. Work with biologists at the university’s Mountain Research Station to collect data on wildlife populations and vegetation. Later, participate in a National Geographic Society BioBlitz—counting and identifying the species you discover while hiking in the Flatirons. Delve into the science of climate change, and discuss sustainable solutions to protect our planet. At the Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research (INSTAAR), learn how scientists analyze glacial ice samples to reconstruct a detailed climate record. On field excursions, study the impact of shifting weather patterns on freshwater resources, and visit an organic farm to learn how climate change has affected area agriculture.
PROGRAM THEMES Explore each of these three topics over the course of the program: Adventure Photography Wildlife Conservation & Our National Parks Global Climate & Local Solutions
CAPSTONE PROJECT With the guidance of our instructors, develop a capstone project. Choose to create a photography portfolio documenting an issue you’ve examined during the program; or draw up a proposal for a project that addresses an important issue in your local community and pitch your idea for a chance to receive a grant to launch your project.
APPLY ONLINE AT NGSTUDENTEXPEDITIONS.COM
DATES & TUITION 2017 DATE: JUNE 27–JULY 5 TUITION: $4,490 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 utilize the university’s state-of-the-art classrooms for seminars and expert talks.
MEET YOUR EXPERTS JOEL HARTTER National Geographic grantee and CU-Boulder professor Joel Hartter has spent more than a decade working in communities around national parks. From the American West to Uganda, he is on the front lines of conservation, working with local people who are facing the challenges of poverty and climate change.
SARAH POLGER Photographer and editor Sarah Polger spends her days crafting inspiring digital stories for National Geographic’s Travel and Adventure websites, managing National Geographic’s photography contests, and running the @NatGeoTravel Instagram account. Her work has taken her around the globe—from Sri Lanka to Botswana.
U N I V E R S I T Y W O R K S H O P 65
MIDDLE SCHOOL EXPEDITION
ICELAND
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Ride an Icelandic horse along a beach and trek atop a glacier.
⊲ Hear riveting sagas of Icelandic
heroes, and visit the icy lair of a mythical giant.
⊲ Photograph colorful puffins,
gushing geysers, and towering volcanoes.
W itness the extreme powers of the Earth in Iceland, discovering geological
wonders—from massive glaciers to bubbling geysers. Trek to rushing waterfalls, hop between two tectonic plates at the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, and swim in the turquoise waters of the famous Blue Lagoon. Delve into Icelandic folklore while sailing in a Viking replica ship and hiking amid stone monuments built for mythical heroes. With dynamic trip leaders and a National Geographic expert, explore this fascinating island through three guiding themes: Photography, Icelandic History & Folklore, and Climate Science.
ITINERARY–12 DAYS Our trip begins in Reykjavík, Iceland’s capital. Learn photography techniques, and capture pictures of the colorful houses that line the streets. Take a dip in the geothermal pools of the famous Blue Lagoon, and then visit a modern geothermal plant that provides much of Reykjavík’s energy. Hear legends of Iceland’s “huldufólk”—elves, gnomes, and trolls believed to live in secret spots across Iceland—and set out in search of their rumored hiding places. Discover the Golden Circle on a day trip outside the city. Create a time-lapse film of the thundering Gullfoss waterfall, walk between two of Earth’s tectonic plates at Thingvellir National Park, and witness boiling water shooting 200 feet in the air at the Geysir geothermal field. 66 M I D D L E S C H O O L E X P E D I T I O N
TRIP THEMES With the guidance of your expedition leaders and National Geographic expert, explore each of the following themes as they relate to your experiences in Iceland: Photography Icelandic History & Folklore Climate Science Hike to one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, and visit a traditional dairy farm to try ice cream made from Icelandic yogurt. Then continue to the stunning Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Climb atop columns of volcanic rock, ride an Icelandic horse along the beach, and talk to local fisherman in the village of Grundarfjörôur about how climate change is affecting their trade. Visit Stykkishólmur’s Volcano Museum, founded by volcanologist and National Geographic grantee Dr. Haraldur Sigurôsson. Join a local storyteller for a hike among cairns—or stacked stone formations—and hear about the mythical heroes that these towers represent. Sail along the coast in a replica of a Viking ship, and watch for puffins nesting on the surrounding sea cliffs. Cap off your trip in Snaefellsjökull National Park, where we’ll trek across a glacier. Local legend has it that the ice sheet—which caps the crater of the Snaefellsjökull volcano—is protected by the giant Bárður of Icelandic saga. Listen to the story of Bárður as you hike, and witness the impacts of climate change while examining evidence of the glacier’s recession.
DATES & TUITION 2017 DATE: JUNE 29–JULY 10 TUITION: $6,390 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a roundtrip group flight between New York and Reykjavík. Refer to page 70 for transportation details.
For a complete program description and itinerary, visit our website.
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 group on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
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MIDDLE SCHOOL EXPEDITION
BELIZE
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
⊲ Climb ancient Maya temples, and float through caves on a tubing adventure.
⊲ Snorkel the world’s second largest barrier reef.
⊲ Observe jaguars at the Belize Zoo. ⊲ Work on service projects in a rural village.
In Belize, thick jungles hide ancient temples, rivers and caves wind below
ground, and a dazzling marine world lies just off shore. From our base at a wildlife sanctuary, hike amid forests where monkeys roam, explore important Maya ruins, and work with local Belizeans on service projects in a rural community. Then travel by boat to Tobacco Caye, and swim 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.
ITINERARY–10 DAYS Arrive in Belize City and travel to the Monkey Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. From our base here, set out to the ancient city of Xunantunich to explore the world of the Maya. Climb the El Castillo temple, one of Belize’s tallest manmade structures; and then meet artisans and enjoy a traditional lunch in the nearby town of San Ignacio. Venture into a network of caves with a local guide, tubing along underground rivers that wind through rock passages and caverns where Maya spiritual rituals took place. Then encounter native wildlife on a behind-the-scenes nighttime visit to the Belize Zoo, a rehabilitation sanctuary for orphaned and rescued animals. Observe jaguars, tapirs, and boa constrictors while they’re awake and active, and hear from
TRIP THEMES With the guidance of your expedition leaders and National Geographic expert, explore each of the following themes as they relate to your experiences in Belize: zookeepers about the threats facing Belizean wildlife—and efforts to reintroduce animals back into the wild. Spend time in a village, working alongside community members on service projects. Run an after-school program for young children, learn traditional farming techniques and plant and harvest native crops, or paint classrooms at the local school. Take a break from your projects to participate in drum circles or learn to cook up Belizean specialties. Travel to the coast and set sail for Tobacco Caye, a tiny tropical island just off Belize’s vast barrier reef. Stay in cabanas surrounded by palm trees and white sand, and gear up for your first snorkel with professional guides. Learn about this delicate ecosystem as you look for manatees, sea turtles, and octopuses, and talk about the factors impacting the health of the reef. Take a full-day excursion to South Water Caye Marine Reserve, and discover mangrove forests, sea grass beds, and patch reefs while snorkeling amid schools of rainbow-colored fish. Return to Monkey Bay for a final night with your friends, sharing what you’ve learned about the history, culture, and ecosystems of Belize.
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Mayan Archaeology & Culture Marine & Tropical Conservation Community Service
DATES & TUITION 2017 DATES: JULY 15–24, JULY 26–AUG. 4 TUITION: $5,590 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.
MEET YOUR EXPERT GREG MARSHALL Discover the marine life of Belize with biologist and filmmaker Greg Marshall. Greg invented the Crittercam—a device that can be attached to an animal to study its behavior. Greg’s Crittercam has enabled him to document life in the oceans and on land from the perspective of more than 80 species, including blue whales, black turtles, emperor penguins, and most recently, giant oceanic manta rays. Greg will join both groups on Tobacco Caye.
M I D D L E S C H O O L E X P E D I T I O N 67
MIDDLE SCHOOL EXPEDITIONS
COSTA RICA
ITALY
⊲ Learn to surf on one of Costa Rica’s stunning beaches. ⊲ Join leatherback turtle researchers in the field. ⊲ Help teach English to schoolchildren in a rural village.
⊲ Hike between the candy-colored towns of the Cinque Terre. ⊲ Gaze at some of Michelangelo’s greatest masterpieces. ⊲ Photograph the leaning Tower of Pisa and Tuscany’s iconic
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 northwest coast, discover Costa Rica’s innovative conservation efforts and incredible biodiversity alongside your knowledgeable trip leaders and a National Geographic expert. Spot exotic marine and birdlife on snorkeling and canoeing excursions, head inland to photograph capuchin monkeys in their natural habitat, and travel to a rural village to work on service projects with local community members.
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 gelato and other Italian specialties, and hike among sunflower fields and dramatic coasts with your trip leaders and a National Geographic expert. Immerse yourself in local culture while photographing your adventures in bella Italia.
TRIP THEMES
TRIP THEMES
Explore each of these three topics over the course of the trip:
Explore each of these three topics over the course of the trip:
Photography Wildlife Conservation Community Service
Photography Italian Food & Culture Renaissance History
DATES & TUITION
DATES & TUITION
12 DAYS | 2017 DATE: JUNE 29—JULY 10
12 DAYS | 2017 DATE: JUNE 24—JULY 5
TUITION: $4,790 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.
TUITION: $5,790 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a round-trip group flight between New York City and Florence. Refer to page 70 for transportation details.
For a complete program description and itinerary, visit our website.
For a complete program description and itinerary, visit our website.
landscapes.
MEET YOUR EXPERT: GREG GOLDSMITH
MEET YOUR EXPERT: GIANLUCA COLLA
National Geographic grantee and ecologist Greg Goldsmith works in the canopies of tropical forests around the world—from Costa Rica to Singapore. Greg then uses media and technology to share his science and promote conservation. He will join the group in Playa Grande.
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 the group in Cinque Terre and Florence.
68 M I D D L E S C H O O L E X P E D I T I O N
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YELLOWSTONE AND GRAND TETON
ALASKA
⊲ Horseback ride and camp out under the stars. ⊲ Photograph Yellowstone’s bison, bald eagles, gushing
⊲ Hike through Denali, tracking moose, wolves, and caribou. ⊲ Raft along the rushing Nenana River and meet sled dogs at
⊲ Meet cowboys at the Jackson Hole Rodeo.
⊲ Play traditional games at the Alaska Native Heritage Center.
Wyoming is home to two of America’s most spectacular national parks: Yellowstone and Grand Teton. Delve into both wildernesses with naturalists and a National Geographic expert, and learn about the frontiersmen and native peoples who have passed through these lands. Photograph Old Faithful’s clockwork burst, track herds of bison, and visit a grizzly bear rescue center in Yellowstone. Then head to Jackson Hole to explore the mighty Tetons and meet with scientists at the nearby National Elk Refuge.
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 these wild landscapes while trekking, rafting, and fly-fishing. Photograph fascinating wildlife— from brown bears to herds of caribou—and take in spectacular views of Denali, the tallest peak in North America. Explore Denali National Park through the lens of photography, wildlife conservation, and Alaskan culture.
TRIP THEMES
TRIP THEMES
Explore each of these three topics over the course of the trip:
Explore each of these three topics over the course of the trip:
Photography Wildlife Conservation Culture & History of the American West
Photography Wildlife Conservation Alaskan Cultural Heritage
DATES & TUITION
DATES & TUITION
11 DAYS | 2017 DATE: JULY 15−25
10 DAYS | 2017 DATE: JULY 5–14
TUITION: $5,590 Airfare is not included. The program begins in Bozeman, Montana, and ends in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Refer to page 70 for transportation details.
TUITION: $5,390 Airfare is not included. We have arranged a round-trip group flight between Seattle and Anchorage. Alternatively, students may meet the group in Anchorage. Refer to page 70 for transportation details.
geysers, and hot springs.
For a complete program description and itinerary, visit our website.
an active kennel.
For a complete program description and itinerary, visit our website.
MEET YOUR EXPERT: JAY DICKMAN
MEET YOUR EXPERT: BIRGIT BUHLEIER
Jay Dickman has worked in photojournalism for more than 40 years, covering diverse topics such as the war in El Salvador, national political conventions, and six Super Bowls. A longtime resident of the American West, Jay is excited to share the region’s nature and culture in Yellowstone National Park.
Filmmaker and scientist Birgit Buhleier helped develop National Geographic’s Crittercam, a video camera system that provides insight into the daily lives of animals. She has deployed over 100 Crittercams, including on species native to Alaska. Birgit will join the group in Denali.
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M I D D L E S C H O O L E X P E D I T I O N 69
HOW TO APPLY
VISIT OUR WEBSITE AND APPLY NOW! STEP 1: APPLICATION FORM & PAYMENT Click on the Apply Now link on our home page and fill out the online Application Form. As part of the application process, you will create an online account and choose a password. When you have completed the Application Form, you will be prompted to make a payment of $700 (made up of a $200 Application Fee and a $500 Tuition Deposit) via credit card (MasterCard or Visa); or you may mail a check made payable to Putney Student Travel.
STEP 2: AGREEMENT FORM Upon completion of the Application Form and $700 payment, you will receive access to your personal digital locker. Your digital locker will provide the resources you will need to complete the application process and prepare for your trip. Through your digital locker, you will be prompted to submit a signed Agreement Form. Upon receipt of this form, we will temporarily hold a space for you in the program.
STEP 3: APPLICATION STATEMENT & TEACHER REFERENCES Through your digital locker, you will submit your Applicant Statement explaining why you would like to join a National Geographic Student Expedition as well as two Teacher Reference Forms. Fill out the forms with your teachers’ names and email addresses, and they will be sent a link asking them to complete and submit your reference online. Upon receipt of all materials (Application Form, $700 payment, Applicant Statement, two completed Teacher Reference Forms, and signed Agreement Form), we will process your application and make a prompt decision. You will receive an email from our Admissions Committee shortly thereafter. If you wish to apply through the mail rather than online, call us at 1-877-877-8759 and we will be happy to mail you an application.
NGSTUDENTEXPEDITIONS.COM
70 M I D D L E S C H O O L E X P E D I T I O N S
ELIGIBILITY Students ages 13 and older who are completing 7th and 8th grades are eligible to participate in our middle school expeditions. Students who are completing 9th through 12th grades are eligible to participate in our high school programs. GROUP SIZE AND COMPOSITION Group sizes generally range between 14 and 28 participants. Our community service programs are limited to 18 participants; the size of photography workshops is generally 25–30 students; and our university workshops each accommodate up to 75 students. The student-to-trip-leader ratio is usually between six and eight to one and never more than nine to one. In addition to trip leaders, a National Geographic expert joins a portion of each expedition, generally for a period of four to eight days. On our photography workshops, the National Geographic expert joins the entire program. On our university workshops, two National Geographic experts join a portion of the program. TRANSPORTATION DETAILS International and domestic airfare and any in-country internal flights are not included in the cost of tuition. We have arranged for an escorted round-trip group flight for each of our international (and Alaska and Hawaii) programs, and will provide applicants with information about these flights. Group flights for each program begin and end at a meeting point at a major U.S. airport. For our U.S. programs (except Alaska and Hawaii), students arriving and departing by plane are met by a trip leader at the arrival/departure airport. On all programs, parents are responsible for making arrangements for students to get to and from the U.S. departure/ return meeting points. PHOTOGRAPHY AND FILMMAKING High school students who choose the Photography On Assignment project on an expedition must bring their own digital camera, and
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MORE ON OUR WEBSITE Visit ngstudentexpeditions.com for more information about our trips for high school and middle school students. You’ll also find videos, photos, and blogs from last summer’s trips. Sign up for our email newsletter: ngstudentexpeditions.com/email Read blog posts from past trips: ngstudentexpeditions.com/blog Find us on Facebook: ngstudentexpeditions there is a supplemental fee of $150 to cover additional supplies and on-site computing facilities for this On Assignment project. High school students who choose the Film & Video On Assignment project must bring their own camera, and there is a $250 supplemental fee to cover additional equipment and facilities necessary for on-site editing for this On Assignment project. Students on photography workshops must bring their own digital SLR camera, external hard drive, and laptop computer. More information about what equipment to bring on each program will be provided in the pre-trip materials. EXPECTATIONS We expect student participants to maintain high standards of personal behavior. Because they are encouraged, within the context of our programs, to take leadership roles and to make some of their own discoveries, students whose parents require them to be under constant surveillance; who are likely to act irresponsibly; who use drugs, alcohol, or tobacco; or who may behave in an otherwise disruptive manner should not apply. Students who violate our few rules are subject to dismissal at our sole discretion. Parents are responsible for making arrangements for, bearing the cost of, and providing supervision for dismissed students’ immediate travel home, even in situations that require extended international travel. No refund of the tuition is given. Students dismissed from our programs will not receive credit for community service hours completed prior to their dismissal. APPLICATION PROCESS Applications are carefully reviewed by our Admissions Committee, and students are selected on the basis of their maturity, enthusiasm, motivation, and willingness to live and participate constructively in a supportive team environment. We will temporarily reserve a space for an applicant in a particular program upon receipt of the Application Form, a $700 payment, and the Agreement Form. For applications received after March 15, final payment is due within five business days after the initial payment is made. An applicant’s file is not complete and cannot be considered for admission until we have received all application materials. See details about How to Apply on page 70. Please refer to the Terms and Conditions on page 73 for information on payment terms.
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MORE WAYS TO TRAVEL WITH NAT GEO Beyond our student trips, National Geographic offers a truly panoramic range of travel experiences for explorers of all ages. Take your family on an expert-led safari, travel to remote places by train or small ship, settle into one of our Unique Lodges of the World, or let us craft a custom trip for you and your traveling companions. Learn more at natgeoexpeditions.com.
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MIDDLE SCHOOL EXPEDITIONS 71
“
Because of the scholarship, I was able to travel to a foreign country, practice my Spanish, improve my photography, and experience an entirely unique culture. I am humbled and grateful for the best summer of my life—this once-in-a-lifetime journey I had with National Geographic.
”
Nicolas C., — Ecuador and the Galápagos, 2016
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 25 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
72
CALL TOLL-FREE 1-877-877-8759
“
This experience taught me that hard work is rewarded, and if you are a good, heartfelt, appreciative person amazing wonders will come your way. Receiving the scholarship allowed me to go to incredible places, to do what I love, and to learn from the best. It encouraged me to continue to work hard and follow my dreams.
”
— AJ R., Switzerland and France, 2016
TERMS AND CONDITIONS STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITY National Geographic Partners, LLC, d/b/a National Geographic Student Expeditions, (“NGSE”) will provide educational enrichment for National Geographic Student Expeditions trips (“Program”) as outlined in its catalog and on its website (ngstudentexpeditions.com) and has licensed Putney Student Travel, Inc., its employees, shareholders, affiliates, officers, directors, successors, and assigns, (collectively, PST), a Vermont corporation based in Putney, Vermont, to organize and administer the Program. PST, in turn, has selected independent transportation carriers, hotels, ground operators, and other suppliers of the services connected with these trips (“Other Providers”), and those Other Providers are solely responsible and liable for providing their respective services. Neither NGSE nor PST owns, operates, supervises, and/or manages any person or entity which is to or does
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
BINDING ARBITRATION: Arbitration Agreement policy and process is available at ngstudentexpeditions.com/terms. ASSUMPTION OF RISK: By registering the Student for a Program, you acknowledge that you are aware that adventure travel such as the Program the Student is undertaking involves potentially dangerous activities, some in remote areas of the world, with a risk of illness, injury, or death which may be caused by forces of nature, illness, or by willful or criminal conduct of third parties or by terrorism. You further acknowledge that weather conditions may be severe, adverse and/or unpleasant, and that medical services or facilities may not be readily available or accessible or consistent with standards in the United States during some or all of the time during which the Student is participating on the Trip and that when available may not be of the quality which exists in the United States. You accept the entire risk attendant thereto and voluntarily accept the same as risks of the Student’s participation in the Program. In addition, you agree to be bound by the Terms and Conditions hereto, including policies on refunds. BASIS OF RATES: All amounts are quoted in U.S. dollars. The tuitions are based on current tariffs and are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances. While NGSE and PST do everything possible to maintain the listed tuitions, if it is necessary to levy a surcharge, NGSE and PST reserve the right to do so. ELIGIBILITY: Students ages 13 and older who are completing 7th and 8th grades are eligible to participate in middle school trips. Students completing 9th through 12th grades are eligible to participate in high school trips. TUITION INCLUDES: All meals, lodging, activities, excursions, ground transportation, taxes, gratuities, and pre-trip materials are included. For students participating in Photography and Film & Video On Assignment projects, there is a supplement to cover the cost of equipment and other materials required for these assignments. See ngstudentexpeditions.com/resources/ admission-details for these supplemental fees. TUITION DOES NOT INCLUDE: Tuition specifically excludes the $200 Application Fee, airfare and related fees, costs of obtaining passports or visas, baggage charges, trip cancellation insurance or any other travel insurance, personal expenses such as laundry, and any other items not specifically noted as included. APPLICATION FEE AND DEPOSIT: A $700 payment (made up of a $200 Application Fee and a $500 Tuition Deposit) is required with all applications. The Tuition Deposit is credited to the tuition for accepted students. Payment may be made by check or credit card. FINAL PAYMENT: Final payment of the full tuition, and group flight airline tickets (if applicable), is due on March 15, 2017. For applications submitted after March 15, final payment is due within five (5) business days after the initial $700 payment is made. Final payment may be made by check, wire transfer, or credit card. Checks must be in U.S. dollars and must be
provide goods or services for the Program, including, for example, lodging facilities of any kind, airline, vessel, or other transportation companies, local guides, guide services, or local ground operators (even if they use the PST or NGSE name), providers or organizers of optional excursions, food service or entertainment providers, etc. All such persons and entities are independent contractors. As a result, neither NGSE nor PST is liable for any negligent or willful act or failure to act of any such person or entity, or of any other third party. In addition and without limitation, neither NGSE nor PST is responsible for any injury, loss, death, inconvenience, delay, or any damage to personal property, whether resulting from, but not limited to, acts of God or force majeure, acts of war or civil unrest, insurrection or revolt, acts of government, incidents, attacks, or bites from domestic or wild animals or insects, strikes or other labor activities, athletic or sporting events or endeavors including the normal risk associated with
same, epidemics or the threat thereof, adequacy or availability of health services and/or evacuation services if necessary, criminal, terrorist or threatened terrorist activities of any kind, overbooking or downgrading of accommodations, mechanical or other failure of airplanes or other means of transportation, or for any failure of any transportation mechanism to arrive or depart in a timely manner, or loss, damage or delay in delivery of luggage and/or personal effects. NGSE and PST reserve the right to accept, decline to accept, or remove your child/ward (the “Student”) from the Program or to, without penalty, make a change in the published itinerary as they deem necessary or desirable. Neither NGSE nor PST shall be liable for any air carrier’s cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a nonrefundable ticket to or from the Student’s Program departure city. Baggage and personal effects are at all times the sole responsibility of the Student.
drawn on a U.S. bank. Please make checks payable to “Putney Student Travel” and write the Student’s name clearly on the check. For payment by wire transfer, please consult the NGSE office for wiring information. For final payment made by credit card, a 2.75% fee is added to your payment. If an application is not accepted or if space is not available on the trip listed as first choice, the full $700 payment amount will be refunded, or if payment of the full tuition, and (if applicable) payment of group flight airline tickets, has been made, the amount of the full payment will be refunded. WAIT-LIST: Wait-listed applications must include the $700 payment, which will be fully refunded if space does not become available or if the application is withdrawn prior to acceptance. A wait-listed application must be completed to be considered for acceptance. WITHDRAWAL: If the Student withdraws from a Program for any reason, either before or after his or her application is accepted, the following terms will govern any refunds. For a withdrawal on or before March 15, all payments, and (if applicable) group flight airline tickets payments, will be refunded, less the Application Fee. For a withdrawal after March 15, no refunds of the $700 payment, tuition, or (if applicable) group flight airline tickets will be made. CANCELLATION: NGSE and PST reserve the right to cancel applications that are not completed in a timely manner; however, NGSE and PST will communicate with applicants to facilitate the admissions process prior to cancelling applications. NGSE and PST further reserve the right to revoke an acceptance when payment is past due. No refund of the payments made to date is provided in this circumstance. If NGSE or PST cancel an application on or before March 15, all payments will be refunded, less the Application Fee. If NGSE or PST cancel an application or revoke an acceptance after March 15, the $700 payment and, if applicable, any nonrefundable airline tickets, will be forfeited. If NGSE or PST cancel an application or revoke an acceptance, written notification will be sent to the address provided on the application form. Leaving a Program in progress, for any reason, will not result in a refund, and no refunds will be made for any unused portion of a Program. NGSE and PST reserve the right to cancel any Program because of inadequate enrollment that makes the Program economically unfeasible to operate or because of good faith concerns with respect to the safety, health, or welfare of the students. If NGSE or PST cancels a trip prior to departure, PST will provide a full refund of monies paid, except in the event the cancellation is due to a significant event that makes it infeasible to operate the trip as planned, in which case PST will provide a refund and/or trip credit equivalent to monies paid. If NGSE and PST cancel the trip in progress, PST will provide a prorated refund based on the number of days not completed on the trip. NGSE and PST will not be responsible for any refund for any expenses related to nonrefundable airline tickets.
TRIP CANCELLATION INSURANCE: Trip cancellation insurance is available at an additional cost and is strongly recommended. NGSE will send students information about a trip cancellation insurance option with pre-trip materials. ITINERARY CHANGES: NGSE and PST have carefully planned each of the Programs in this catalog; however, there may be instances where the Program descriptions and staff presented in this catalog may change. Every reasonable effort will be made to operate Programs as planned, but alterations may still occur after the final itinerary is sent. To get the most out of their experience, students need to be flexible in responding to unforeseen situations and in taking advantage of unexpected opportunities. PASSPORTS AND VISAS: Valid passports are required for travel to the international destinations; check with NGSE for the latest requirements and assistance. For destinations that require a visa for U.S. citizens, NGSE will provide detailed information on how to obtain a visa. Non-U.S. citizens must check on their own visa requirements or contact NGSE for help determining those requirements. HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: The Student must be in good physical condition and mental health. Any condition requiring special attention, diet, or treatment must be reported to NGSE and PST before May 20, 2017. MEDICAL COVERAGE: You certify that the Student has medical insurance which will cover personal accidents, medical expenses, medical evacuation, air ambulance, loss of effects, repatriation costs, and all other expenses which might arise as a result of loss, damage, injury, delay, or inconvenience occurring to the Student, or that in the absence of this medical insurance coverage, you agree to pay all costs of rescue and/ or medical services as may be incurred on the Student’s behalf. PHOTOGRAPHY AND VIDEO: You and the Student grant to PST the right to take photographs or videos during the operation of any trip, or part thereof, and to use the resulting photography, videos, or recordings for promotional or commercial use in perpetuity. You and the Student agree to allow the Student’s likeness to be used by NGSE, NGSE-authorized third parties, and PST without compensation to you or the Student. If you or the Student prefers that the Student’s likeness not be used, you or the Student must notify PST in writing prior to departure of the trip. Copyright in all photographs, video, and text (including correspondence) created by the Student during the operation of any trip, or part thereof, (“Expedition Materials”) shall belong to the Student upon creation. You and the Student grant to PST, NGSE, and NGSE-authorized third parties a non-exclusive, worldwide, irrevocable license to use the Expedition Materials, in any media now existing or subsequently developed for the following limited purposes: editorial use, promotion of the editorial use, promotion of NGSE, promotion of the work of PST, or promotion of the mission of National Geographic Society.
Copyright © 2016 National Geographic w Recycled paper APPLYPartners ONLINE AT NGSTUDENTEXPEDITIONS.COM NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC STUDENT EXPEDITIONS and the Yellow Border Design are trademarks of the National Geographic Society, used under license.
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2017 TRIP CALENDAR HIGH SCHOOL DESTINATION
PAGE
DAYS
CANADIAN ARCTIC
14
11
ALASKA
16
BELIZE
DATES
TUITION
PROJECTS
July 1–11, July 30–Aug. 9
$6,490
Photography Wildlife Conservation
12
June 26–July 7, June 30–July 11
$5,690
Photography Wildlife Conservation Film & Video
18
12
July 1–12, July 7–18, July 13–24
$5,790
Photography Marine & Tropical Biology
CUBA
20
11
July 1–11, July 12–22
$6,790
Photography Creative Writing Anthropology & Local Cultures
ECUADOR AND THE GALÁPAGOS
22
18
June 26–July 13, July 3–20
$7,290
Photography Wildlife Conservation
ARGENTINA AND CHILE
24
19
June 28–July 16
$6,790
Photography Wildlife Conservation
PERU
26
18
June 27–July 14
$6,490
Photography Anthropology & Local Cultures
ICELAND
28
15
June 25–July 9, June 27–July 11, July 14–28
$7,390
Photography Climate & Geology Film & Video
SWITZERLAND AND FRANCE
30
15
July 17–31
$7,390
Photography Film & Video
ITALY AND GREECE
32
17
June 27–July 13, July 18–Aug. 3
$7,190
Photography Anthropology & Local Cultures Creative Writing
IRELAND
34
14
July 13–26
$5,390
Photography Creative Writing
TANZANIA
36
20
June 29–July 18
$8,290
Photography Wildlife Conservation
NAMIBIA
38
21
June 28–July 18
$7,590
Photography Wildlife Conservation
AUSTRALIA
40
20
June 30–July 19, July 19–Aug. 7
$8,590
Photography Wildlife Conservation
NEW ZEALAND
42
18
June 26–July 13, July 12–29
$7,690
Photography Film & Video
BALI
44
17
June 24–July 10, June 30–July 16
$6,790
Photography Marine & Tropical Biology
BHUTAN
46
14
June 28–July 11, July 12–25
$6,890
Photography Creative Writing Anthropology & Local Cultures
INDIA
48
21
June 26–July 16
$6,790
Photography Anthropology & Local Cultures
CHINA
50
21
June 27–July 17
$6,990
Photography Anthropology & Local Cultures
EXPEDITIONS
74
HIGH SCHOOL (CONTINUED) DESTINATION
PAGE
DAYS
DATES
TUITION
PROJECTS
HAWAII
52
14
June 25–July 8, June 30–July 13, July 21–Aug. 3
$5,790
Island Habitat Restoration
COSTA RICA
53
14
June 24–July 7, July 1–14, July 15–28
$4,390
Tropical Ecosystem Conservation
MADAGASCAR
54
18
June 29–July 16, July 17–Aug. 3
$6,790
Biodiversity Protection
COMMUNITY SERVICE
TANZANIA
55
15
July 16–30
$6,690
Conservation & Sustainable Development
THAILAND
56
17
June 28–July 14, July 12–28, July 19–Aug. 4
$5,590
Teaching & Mentorship
NEPAL
57
15
June 17–July 1, July 15–29
$5,190
Rebuilding & Earthquake Recovery
FIJI
58
15
June 30–July 14, July 14–28
$4,790
Community Restoration
TOKYO
59
12
July 21–Aug. 1
$6,290
Photography
YELLOWSTONE
60
12
July 2–13
$5,490
Photography
YOSEMITE AND SAN FRANCISCO
61
12
July 17–28
$5,690
Photography
BARCELONA
62
12
July 2–13
$5,790
Photography
PRAGUE
63
12
July 16–27
$5,590
Photography
MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
64
9
July 17–25
$5,190
Engineering the Future Data Science Innovations in Robotics
UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO BOULDER
65
9
June 27–July 5
$4,490
Adventure Photography Wildlife Conservation & Our National Parks Global Climate & Local Solutions
PAGE
DAYS
TUITION
FOCUS
ICELAND
66
12
June 29–July 10
$6,390
Photography Icelandic History & Folklore Climate Science
BELIZE
67
10
July 15–24, July 26–Aug. 4
$5,590
Mayan Archaeology & Culture Marine & Tropical Conservation Community Service
COSTA RICA
68
12
June 29–July 10
$4,790
Photography Wildlife Conservation Community Service
ITALY
68
12
June 24–July 5
$5,790
Photography Italian Food & Culture Renaissance History
PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOPS
UNIVERSITY WORKSHOPS
MIDDLE SCHOOL DESTINATION
DATES
MIDDLE SCHOOL EXPEDITIONS
YELLOWSTONE AND GRAND TETON
69
11
July 15–25
$5,590
Photography Wildlife Conservation Culture & History of the American West
ALASKA
69
10
July 5–14
$5,390
Photography Wildlife Conservation Alaskan Cultural Heritage
THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING PHOTOGRAPHERS WHOSE WORK IS FEATURED IN THIS CATALOG: Jamie Alfieri, Claire Bangser, James Bernal, Justin Bowen, Steve Byrne, Lauren Cain, Leonardo Carrizo, Nicolas Chae, Lina Collado, Chela Crinnion, Luke Dollar, Johanna Ehrensvard, David Estrada, Gemina Garland-Lewis, Hannah Gilkenson, Lisa Hornak, Eric Kruszewski, Lindsay MacKensie, Patrick McLaughlin, Brett Monroe Garner, Larson Harley, Josh Howard, Sarah Joseph, Joey Knelman, Rachel Langosch, Jacky You Li, William Liu, Alberto Lopez, Becca Marcus, Dania Maxwell, Diego Merino, Chris Montero, Adela Montez, Kene Nwosu, Federico Pardo, Rich Pauloo, Ricky Qi, Alora Reyes, Valerie Sauers, Jill Schneider Schwager, Jenna Schoenefeld, Erika Skogg, 75 Jesse Stansfield, Winston Struye, Ariane Szu-Tu, Jes Therkelsen, Tierney Thys, Whitney Tressel, Tasha Van Zandt, Ross Weinberg, Janpim Wolf, Cameron Zegers
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