TRAVEL WITH PURPOSE
AUTHENTIC, CREDIBLE AND REAL VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCES
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VOLUNTOUR
can m ence differ
CONTENTS A Perfect Partnership 80 Projects, 34 Countries... One World Your Support Network and Where to Stay Responsible Travel & Frequently Asked Questions
04 06 08 10
ASIA Community Project, Thailand
12 14
Andaman Discovery on Koh Phra Thong, Thailand Volunteer with Children in Phuket Elephant Conservation, Chiang Mai Meaningful Thailand Experience Hill Tribe Helping Hands Adventure, Thailand Work with Endangered Orangutans, Borneo Experience Borneo and Orangutans At One with Borneo Vietnam Rescue Center Explore Cambodia and Laos Children’s Painting Project, Cambodia Volunteer with Buddhist Monks, Laos Delhi to Goa plus Youth Skills Training Volunteer with Elephants, Sri Lanka Discover Nepal Panda Conservation Adventure, China
15 16 18 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32
AFRICA Teaching & Community Development, Cape Town
34 36
Great White Shark Volunteering Kingdom of the White Lion Experience Orphan Day Care and Aids Education Wildlife Conservation Program, South Africa Zambia Community Work & Safari Anti Poaching Volunteer & Kruger Safari Work with Elephants in Namibia Camp Kenya Kenya Teaching & Safari Adventure Camp Tanzania Teaching Children in Zanzibar The Marine Conservation Expedition, Seychelles Mozambique Orphan Pre-school
37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49
South America Peru Amazon Wildlife Adventure
50 52
Volunteer with Street Kids, Cuzco Community Development in Peru Sun, Surf and Volunteer in Peru Conservation in the Galapagos Coastal Farming in Ecuador Bolivia Discovery Teach English in Buenos Aires Organic Farming in Patagonia Children of Favelas, Rio de Janeiro Afro-Brazilian Community Work & Tour Brazil Community Reforestation
53 54 55 56 58 59 60 61 62 64 65
CENTRAL AMERICA Costa Rica Sea Turtle Conservation
66 68
Teach Children and Surf, Costa Rica Rural Community Development, Costa Rica Arts & Cultural on Lake Atitlan Teach Life Skills in Antigua Marine Conservation Expedition, Mexico Jaguar and Puma Research Project, Mexico Learning Spanish & Volunteer, Nicaragua Nicaragua Mobile Library Adventure Panama Safe Drinking Water Adventure Learn Spanish & Volunteer Project El Salvador Conservation Projects in Belize
70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81
AUSTRALIA, NZ & PACIFIC 82 83 Conservation In Australia Volunteer in the Magic Forest, New Zealand Maori Cultural Volunteer Program, Rotorua Work with Turtles in Vanuatu
84 85 86
EUROPE Turtle Conservation in Greece
88 89
VOLUNTOUR
YOaUke a
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“
Planeterra is a labor of love and a dream that came together in 2003 based on our belief that people and planet should be as important as profit in the travel business. Working together with travelers like you allows us all to give back to the local communities that provide us with unforgettable memories through the precious gift of sharing their culture.
A PERFECT PARTNERSHIP VOLUNTOUR
�
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Bruce Poon Tip, Founder, Planeterra
A PERFECT Partnership
We have a simple pricing policy ensuring a large proportion of your volunteering cost go direct to the projects to support long term sustainability.
What is Planeterra? Planeterra evolved out of a history of travelers’ desire to give back on their trips. Everywhere travelers went they saw a need and knew they could help out. Since 2003, Planeterra has developed over 25 projects spanning Asia, Africa and the Americas. Now, with STA Travel as a partner, they are on their way to 80 projects! Planeterra works with local partners to develop projects and direct donations to fund needs such as tools, materials and other items that keep projects going. They also develop volunteer programs so that people can visit a project, live on-site or with a local family, and contribute to the well-being of the community. Planeterra focuses on initiatives for sustainability – positive impacts for the long term. They believe supporting education, health, conservation, and small business will enable people in the developing world to have a hand in improving their futures. Planeterra and STA Travel will connect you with community and conservation projects and give you the chance to make a difference!
A PERFECT PARTNERSHIP
your money where does it go?
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80 projects, one world GREENLAND EUROPE RUSSIA
ALASKA CANADA
North Atlantic Ocean
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
CHIN INDIA
CENTRAL AMERICA
80 VOLUNTOUR COUNTRIES...ONE ONEWORLD WORLD 50 PROJECTS, PROJECTS, 34 7 COUNTRIES...
AFRICA
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South Pacific Ocean
Planeterra Project Other Projects
SOUTH AMERICA South Atlantic Ocean
Indian Ocean
volunteer
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
OUR TOURS Volunteering is all about making greater commitment towards the project you are visiting. Through volunteering you are making a positive difference to the lives of others on a much more intimate level, by donating your time, energy and experience. All of our projects have the central goal of helping local people achieve a sustainable way of life in an environmentally sensitive manner as well as assisting conservation and community programs worldwide. No specific skills are WORK IN normally required, just a desire to CONSERVATION lend a hand, and learn more about what life is like in communities around the world.
WORK WITH
ANIMALS COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
WORK WITH
North Pacific Ocean
WORK IN
CHILDREN
WORK WITH CONSERVATION
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
WORK IN CONSERVATION WORK IN
CONSERVATION
Protect some of the world’s most fragile environments. By preserving these ecosystem, you’ll the WITH WORK WITH contribute toWORK ANIMALS COMMUNITIES project’s long term sustainability, and help reeducate the community.
WORK WITH ANIMALSWORK WITH WORK WITH
ANIMALS
Contribute to the protectionCOMMUNITIES of endangered species. In their desperate fight for survival, an WORK WITH you’ll develop WORK WITH understanding of their conditions and COMMUNITIES CHILDREN work to protect them.
WORK WITH CHILDREN
voluntOUr WORK WITH
WORK IN
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ANIMALS
CONSERVATION
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
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WORK WITH
CHILDREN
NEW ZEALAND
CHILDREN
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COMMUNITIES
CHILDREN
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COMMUNITIES
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Voluntours are a way to learn about the people and place you WORK WITH are visiting on a much deeper COMMUNITIES level than a normal adventure tour. It is a way to give back to WORK IN WORK WITH the community you are visiting, to ANIMALS CONSERVATION lend a helping hand to someone in need, to work towards a cause you believe in, or WORK simply WITH to find a way to make a positive COMMUNITIES impact through your travels. Our Voluntours provide opportunities for travelers to engage in community projects that are working in health, education, conservation, and small business opportunities around the world.
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WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
ANIMALS
AUSTRALIA
Participate in a range of global projects and make a real difference. Every project has been chosen with the ultimate aim of helping local people and their environment achieve a sustainable way of life.
WORK WITH
Inspire the newest generation to break COMMUNITIES CHILDREN the cycle of poverty. Your work will provide them with basic skills and create an environment in which to reach their full potential. WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
CHILDREN WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH COMMUNITIES Spend time with a broad cross-section of the local community. Your work will improve quality of life and ensure WORK WITH community sustainability in some of the CHILDREN world’s remotest areas.
EXTEND YOUR STAY WORK WITH
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES FROM AS LITTLECHILDREN AS $7 Before or after your project experience, why not extend your stay? Perhaps an escorted tour, kick-back and relax on a beach, or head into the hustle and bustle on a city break? WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
80 PROJECTS, 34 COUNTRIES... ONE WORLD
Arctic Ocean
COMMUNITIES
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34 countries...
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your support network
YOUR SUPPORT NETWORK
While the nature of our projects range in focus and destination, no matter where you volunteer you’ll be provided with guidance and support from an in-country project coordinator. Most are from the local area or have lived in the communities in which they work for some time, often as volunteers themselves. They will help you get settled and will act as a support system to ensure you get the most out of your volunteer experience.
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Upon arrival in each start city, you will be welcomed by either a local guide or the project coordinator who will transfer you to the site of your volunteer project. Once you are settled at the project accommodation, you’ll be given a briefing of what to expect in the days and weeks ahead, as well as valuable resources to help you better understand the communities and environments in which you will be working.
Why pay to volunteer? Handing over your hard-earned cash in return for life changing volunteer work might not make much sense to you, so let us make things a little clearer… Keeping you safe in some pretty challenging environments doesn’t come cheap. You need to be supported wherever you are in the world. Each of the volunteer projects also needs materials, equipment, personnel and training. On some projects your food may also be included in the cost as well. Some projects can take years to carefully set up, especially those in very remote and poor communities. A significant donation to the project is included in the price which provides vital income to the local community. You can be sure that the time and money you invest volunteering is well spent and will make a sustainable difference.
STAysimple Clean, comfortable, secure and perfectly adequate, these are no-frills budget options. All the hostels and some of the basic hotels sit in this category.
STAysmart Perfect for those who demand a little comfort when they travel; rooms have private bathrooms, a/c and a host of amenities.
STAystylish These hotels are a little bit special... funky, unique properties, handpicked by us for their special character and touches.
where to stay? Your accommodation on a volunteer project can vary from staying with a local family to sharing a house with fellow volunteers. Standards can vary depending on the country and the area you’re visiting. uest houses, G Hotels & Lodges
Many of the projects have volunteer houses, which may provide some of the comforts of home. Rooms may be twin or multi-share, with shared bathrooms, common living and dining areas, and most have kitchen facilities that you have access to. They are located close to the project, often with project coordinators staying on-site or nearby.
n-site O accommodation
Home stay
On-site accommodation can vary from project to project, from fixed platform tents in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal to simple cabins on an organic farm in Argentina. Most rooms accommodate two to four volunteers, while some may have larger multi-share rooms of six or more. Staying on-site allows for even more interaction with your fellow travelers and an easy commute to the project each morning!
In more remote areas, home stays will give you a chance to truly experience what life is like in the community with whom you are volunteering. You will be provided with a room within the home that you may share with other volunteers. While the accommodation and toilet facilities may be basic, homestays are one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Camping Some of the projects require elements of camping. This is usually because the project is in a remote location or simply because a night under the stars is a must! The campsites are well equipped and secure. Depending on the project, there may only be shared toilet facilities and showers available.
Where to stay?
VOLUNTEER HOUSE
A variety of styles of hotels/guest houses are used as start and end accommodation for our volunteer programs, and more widely used on our voluntours. In some areas we stay in simple local guest houses in stunning locations rooms are small and simple and there may only be shared toilet facilities and showers.
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Responsible Traveling Traveling responsibly isn’t just about the experiences you choose to participate in while on your trip. There are a wide range of small, simple actions that you can take to minimize your impact on the world around you … Before you leave
How do your actions help?
• Research where you’re going … perhaps learn a few local words?
Of course, community or wildlife conservation volunteering contributes to responsible travel, but it’s not just about that…
• Offset the carbon emissions of your flight • Take a reuseable shopping bag – for that perfect souvenir without a plastic bag
Responsible Traveling
• Unplug any unused electrical appliances before you go - don’t leave them on standby
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While you travel • Buy local produce – drink their beer, buy their food – it supports the community & makes your experience more authentic • Don’t buy souvenirs made from endangered or protected species: shells, feathers, animal skins • Carry a water bottle with you and refill it as you go • Observe and respect local cultures, customs & traditions • Turn off lights and a/c to save resources as you leave your room • Shower rather than bathe after a long day’s sightseeing; you’ll use less water
• U se local transportation: Public buses, trains, bikes, canoes, ferries, even hiking all reduce fuel consumption and promote interaction with locals • S tay in local accommodation: You’ll stay in small, locally-owned hotels, homes or volunteer accommodation – all of which pumps money into the local economy • U se local tour guides: Local people have an opportunity to work and share their expertise • E at local food: Eating at local restaurants and buying food at markets not only cuts down food miles; it also injects money into the local community
Frequently asked questions for participants As a volunteer you’ll have a unique opportunity to make a difference in the lives of people or wildlife around the world. You’ll contribute to fighting poverty, protecting the environment and improving the lives you touch. And with these unique experiences you will develop new skills, foster a greater confidence and have a fresh outlook on situations to draw on in the future.
Do I need any special skills to participate? No – your desire and enthusiasm to participate are enough. Please let us know if you do have any relevant qualifications – the team you will be working with will be more than grateful for any expert assistance you can give. However, we will ask you to complete a series of forms before you travel, to assess your suitability to work with children in particular.
Do I need to speak the local language? No – although it is an advantage in some locations. In most cases English will be your main language. Each project page will tell you if more in-depth experience is required.
Can my partner and I share a room while on a project? In some locations double rooms are available – your STA Travel Expert will be able to help you.
What is an NGO? NGO stands for Non-Governmental Organization. They are usually set up with the aim of assisting social and/or environmental development in the areas in which they operate.
How fit do I need to be? A good level of physical fitness is required across most of the projects as the work you’ll be doing day-to-day can vary and you’ll need to be able to keep up to speed. At most projects you’ll be required to work as part of a team.
I have a special dietary requirement, can I still participate? Please let us know before you book so that we can make sure your requirements can be accommodated.
What should I bring? Each project is different. Your STA Travel Expert will be able to provide you with a list of what you need to bring.
Will I be able to touch or hold the animals I work with? Some of our projects, such as the orangutan projects in Borneo, advocate absolutely no touching of the animals. They strongly believe that is contrary to efforts to rehabilitate them back to the wild; as well as carrying significant risks for injury or disease to both animals and humans. This doesn’t mean you won’t get close to the animals, it’s just better for you and them not to handle them directly.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What will I get out of volunteering?
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ASIA
Diversity at every turn
Asia is full of experiences - go for the people and the diversity of cultures and religions. Go for the ecology - mountains, jungle and exotic wildlife. Go for the food - curry, noodles and rice. Whatever your searching for, Asia won’t disappoint.
IDEAS TO EXTEND YOUR STAY 1
Trek with Thailand’s Northern Hill Tribes
Travel north and venture through the tropical jungles, on foot or on elephant, explore the walled inner-city of Chiang Mai, and visit the Golden Triangle - where Thailand, Burma and Laos meet.
2
Hang out with Orangutans in Borneo
Slip into a secluded paradise that the majority of people have yet to discover and get up close and personal with these little tykes.
3
Watch sunrise at Angkor Wat, Cambodia
From the wonders of Angor Wat to the emotional Killing Fields, visiting Cambodia is a life-changing experience. This friendly place will leave you with a smile and a longing to return.
4
Walk on the Great Wall of China
One of those all important “must-do” activities to experience before you die. You’ll get your adrenalin pumping as you trek along the Wall, enjoying breathtaking views and steep climbs.
5
Watch the sunrise at the Taj Mahal, India
Quite possibly the most captivating place you’ll ever go to – stand back in sheer awe at the size and beauty of this stunning mausoleum – just don’t go on a Friday when it’s closed.
MONGOLIA
JAPAN KOREA
AVERAGE HIGH TEMPERATURES
ASIA
CITY
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Bangkok Chiang Mai Kota Kinabalu Ho Chi Minh City Hanoi Phnom Penh Delhi Goa Kathmandu Beijing Chengdu
PAKISTAN NEPAL
J F M A M J J A S O N D 88 82 84 88 64 88 68 77 59 34 46
90 88 84 90 66 90 72 79 63 37 50
91 93 86 91 72 91 82 81 70 52 59
93 91 90 90 90 97 91 90 88 88 88 88 88 86 86 91 91 88 88 88 79 86 90 90 88 95 91 90 90 90 95 100100100 90 84 84 81 79 79 77 79 79 79 79 66 77 84 86 84 70 77 81 82 82
88 88 86 88 88 88 91 79 77 77 75
88 88 86 86 81 86 90 81 73 64 68
88 84 86 86 75 86 81 81 68 48 59
86 81 86 86 70 86 70 79 61 36 50
East China Sea
CHINA
INDIA
MYANMAR
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THAILAND
Andaman Sea MALAYSIA INDONESIA
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voluntEER
Community PROJECT
Koh PHra Thong, Thailand
How you can help
During 2010/11 STA Travel and Planeterra will be building a community tourism training center on Koh Phra Thong. This will be accessible to communities across southern Thailand, providing a way for them to increase income, preserve the environment and develop sustainable tourism in the area.
Where will the money go?
This year our goal is to raise $120,000 to support community tourism training in tsunami-affected Thailand. Any donation made to our project will be doubled by us (up to $30,000 annually).
• Build a community center and skills training institute • Create jobs that preserve the local culture and the environment • Conserve the local environment including local wildlife (such as sea turtles) and fragile ecosystems through community monitoring and conservation programs • Empower local people and communities to reach their goals and achieve a financially stable future • Provide local opportunities for the future through education, skills training and environmental conservation
Why is this project needed?
Ways to donate
VOLUNTEER
Our Goal
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You can visit and help out at our volunteer project by choosing to participate in one of these projects • Sea Turtle Conservation on Koh Phra Thong – pg 15 • Volunteer with children in Phuket and explore Thailand – pgs 16-17
In the aftermath of the Asian Tsunami, Koh Phra Thong was one of the worst affected areas, with many people losing their families, homes and livelihoods. As tourism becomes a huge force in the area, there is a real danger that if the local communities are unprepared, in terms of job skills, conservation skills and cultural resilience, they will not be able to cope or prosper from this new source of income. In response, STA Travel and Planeterra will support the development of a sustainable community tourism program in the entire region. By teaching these people and STA Travel volunteers’ essential conservation skills, we can all help to save and preserve the local environment and ensure a sustainable future for everyone.
• By participating in a volunteer project - a sizable donation of your trip cost is paid directly to the project you are volunteering at • Through the “Dollar A Day”, you can choose to donate $1 for every day of your trip • In-store, STA Travel Experts can accept donations • Through the STA Travel website • Through the Planeterra website, please see www.planeterra.org for further information
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
Koh PHra Thong Discovery
voluntEER
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
15 days FROM $1,729 EXTRA WEEKS FROM $590
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
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COMMUNITIES
Koh PHra Thong, Thailand
COMMUNITIES
CHILDREN
Spend two weeks or more on the island of Koh Phra Thong, in search of four speciesWORK of sea turtle and help out with WITH WORK WITH WORK WITH ANIMALS otherCOMMUNITIES CHILDREN conservation projects.
WORK WITH
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CHILDREN
ABOUT THIS PROJECT For the last 12 years, a team of dedicated scientists have been cooperating with local villagers to protect the sea turtles, WORK WITH WORK WITH mangrove forests, andCOMMUNITIES coral reefs of Prathong (Golden Buddha) CHILDREN Island. The team focuses on protecting Leatherback, Green, Olive-Ridley, and Hawksbill Turtles, which normally lay and hatch their eggs from January to March.
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How you make a difference A F G H A
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The number of turtle nests found in the last few years has been steadily increasing, and now more than ever, volunteers are needed to help protect these gentle creatures. By staying with a local family you will be supporting community development and provide a much needed source of income P A K Ifor S ATvillagers. N
A day in the life of a Volunteer As part of an ongoing conservation research program, your day will include monitoring beaches, conducting behavioral observation on turtle feeding grounds and assisting with nest hatching. Environmental education will be conducted in the local school of the village and meetings will be set up with villagers to discuss conservation. I N
Fast FactS and what’s included Project start days: Daily between 10 Dec - 10 Apr Accommodation: 1 night guesthouse, Home Stay 13 nights Getting there: Transfers from Phuket to the project are included Duration: Minimum stay 15 days, maximum unlimited In-country Support: Volunteer project coordinator and staff Meals Included: All meals except on day 1 Trip code: N E GATATTCJ PA L B H U AT N
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EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Thailand Sailing Adventure 7 days from $1,299 Island hop to some of the best snorkeling and diving locations in the world. Enjoy a week aboard a sailing catamaran, while swimming amongst turtles, manta rays, and fish as far as the eye can see. Claim the sea as your own in this amazing sailing adventure. Trip Code: GAATSA
Koh Prathong Volunteer Project Kuraburi T H A I L A N D S R ILA N K A
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Phuket
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M A L A Y S I A
Volunteer with children in Phuket 13 days FROM $1,249 INCLUDING HILL TRIBE TREK
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phuket WORK WITH
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COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
bangkok, thailand
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CONSERVATION
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Spend time assisting at a school for disadvantaged children and local community projects in southern Thailand before heading to Chiang Mai to for a Hill Tribes trek.
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BEST BITS WORK WITH
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FAST FACTS & WHAT’S INCLUDED Accommodation: Simple hotel (4 nights), tree house (2 nights), multi-share home stay (5 nights), sleeper train (1 night) Duration: Minimum stay 13 days, maximum stay 4 weeks Transport: Air-conditioned private van, long tail boat, local bus, train, elephant, walking, river raft Group Size: Maximum 15, Average 10 In-Country Support: Volunteer project coordinator, Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guide and trekking guides Meals Included: 8 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners Budget: Allow $80-110 for meals not included Trip code: GAATSKJ
WITH at a school for disadvantaged children and • VWORK olunteer CHILDRENprojects community • Visit STA Travel’s Community Tourism Project • Home stay and cultural activities at a community that has been rebuilt after the 2004 Asia Tsunami • Chill out in Khao Sok • Trek to see Hill tribes and stay in a local village
ITINERARY Day 1 Phuket Arrive at the airport for a 3pm pick-up. Transfer to the project. Day 2 School for Disadvantaged Children Spend the day helping with art, computer, writing, and cooking classes. Day 3 STA Travel’s Community Tourism Project on Koh Phra Thong Hop aboard a long-tail boat for a ride to STA Travel’s Community Tourism Project on Phra Thong Island. Days 4-5 Local Community Home Stay Relax, play football, make soap with a women’s co-operative or fish with the villagers followed by a beach barbecue. Days 6-7 Khao Sok Transfer to Khao Sok - optional activities include cooking classes, river tubing, kayaking, a night safari and an elephant trek. Day 8 Phuket - Chiang Mai Transfer to Phuket Airport and fly to Chiang Mai. Days 9-11 Hill tribe Trek Trek through rugged forest to experience the diversity of this region with each village having different languages, belief systems, dress styles and traditions. Day 12 Chiang Mai Overnight train to Bangkok. Day 13 Bangkok Trip ends on arrival at Bangkok train station.
ABOUT THIS PROJECT DEPARTURES Hilltribe Trek Golden Triangle
VOLUNTOUR VOLUNTOUR
Chiang Mai
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Bangkok
Koh Prathong
Volunteer Project Phuket
2010 and 2011 Departs Sundays Prices are per person based on a twin share. School is closed between 30 September and 1st November and 28th December and 5th January
Many of the children at this school are some of the poorest in Southern Thailand. Their lives were dramatically altered as a result of the tsunami in 2004. Many lost their parents and family members. You will be assisting the teachers at this school. All the children attend classes aimed at developing their social skills such as arts and crafts, life skills, dancing, reading, and meditation.
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EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Stay Smart Sugar Palm Resort Kata Beach You’ll be pampered with excellent amenities from the moment you step into your chic room that over looks the swimming pool. Kata Beach is a pristine stretch of sand along Phuket’s most spectacular shoreline! Trip code: STAHKTSPK
VOLUNTEER AT A LEARNING CENTRE FOR YOUNG BURMESE PEOPLE 28 DAYS From $1,689 per person The children of Burmese migrants in Thailand are faced with unique challenges. They do not have legal citizenship in Thailand; most are unable to access the Thai education system. The support from volunteer teachers, like you, is crucial to break the cycle of poverty through sharing the gift of education. Trip code: GATATSTJ
VOLUNTOUR VOLUNTOUR
from $25 per night
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Elephant Conservation voluntEER
14 days FROM $1,109 Chiang Mai, THAILAND
K IN
VATION
WORK WITH
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Enjoy two weeks working with elephants at a rescue center north of Chiang Mai, and lend a hand at local WORK WITH WORK WITH conservation projectsCHILDREN in the region. COMMUNITIES
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WORK WITH
CHILDREN
WORK WITH
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ABOUT THIS PROJECT
A day in the life of a Volunteer
The park acts as a sanctuary for over thirty neglected and abused elephants from across Thailand. Instead of working for humans, the elephants are now cared for by a team of full-time staff and park volunteers. Set in a valley surrounded by forested mountains, the area offers a peaceful home for its residents. The park is 38 miles from the hustle and bustle of the city.
A day at the park runs from 7am to 5pm. You’ll be asked to spend six days per week helping out with the elephants and assisting with various park duties, with a day off to enjoy activities in and around the park. Meals are included but you’ll be asked to help in preparation and clean up. In the evening you’re free to do your own thing and at night you’ll return to your accommodation - comfy on-site volunteer huts.
How you make a difference
VOLUNTEER
Tasks include assisting keepers in bathing the elephants and general duties around the park and its surroundings. Caring for the elephants and the park is a big task and the project appreciates the help of dedicated volunteers to help maintain the high standard of care the elephants are afforded. Those with suitable skills can also help out at the office with administrative work and you’ll have a chance to pitch-in on the local reforestation program. Volunteers will learn about elephant communication, elephant families and how they make important decisions such as choosing friends. You will also learn about elephant diseases and how they are treated.
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WORK IN
CONSERVATION
OmaUke a Y can
CHILDREN
Volunteer Project
THAILAND
Bangkok
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Chiang Mai Hill tribes Trek From $217 per person Trek through the hills surrounding Chiang Mai and meet local people who have made their homes on these slopes - a visit to these traditional communities is like traveling back to a simpler time. Learn about jungle food and the local way of life, and ride an elephant through the forest. Tour Code: STACNXHUT
Pre and Post-volunteering accommodation Imm Eco Chiang Mai from $17 per night Backpacking will never be the same! With this stylish hostel forget budget basics; think polished wood and sumptuous silks. Set in lush and lovely gardens, each shared ‘house’ comes with super-clean showers and there’s wonderful WiFi in every room. Tour Code: STACNXECO
VOLUNTEER
Chiang Mai
WORK WITH
WORK WITH
Project Start Day: Mondays year round Accommodation: On-site volunteer huts (13 nights) Getting there: Transfers to/from the park office in Chiang Mai to the park are included Duration: Maximum 14 days In-country Support: Volunteer project coordinator and staff Meals Included: All meals included at project Budget: Allow $30 – 35 per person per week for drinks and snacks not included Prices: Prices above are based upon 2010 and 2011 departures Trip code: GATATECJ
WORK WITH
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Fast FactS and what’s included
voluntEER
WORK WITH
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nce e r e ff di
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Meaningful Thailand Experience 21 days FROM $1,038
voluntOUr
BANGKOK WORK WITH
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COMMUNITIES
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BANGKOK, THAILAND
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES WORK IN CHILDREN
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CONSERVATION
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
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Travel through Thailand and learn about its unique culture as you get to be part of a Thai community. Give back by volunteering in a home for hill tribe children.
WORK WITH
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BEST BITS WORK WITH
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WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
FAST FACTS & WHAT’S INCLUDED Accommodation: Multi-share dorm room in a tourist class hotel or hostel. Multi-share dorm at the project Duration: 21 days / 20 nights Transport: Air-conditioned mini-bus; non-air-conditioned truck in remote areas In country Support: An English-speaking coordinator Meals: Daily breakfast, full board at volunteer site Notes: During the school holidays in March, April, May, September, October and November and during any exam periods you will be teaching English informally to the children rather than in a school environment
WORK WITH • Assist with teaching English to Thai children • CHILDREN Learn to speak Thai • Join in with village activities • Visit an elephant village • Learn how to meditate from local monks • Explore the local countryside • Chill out on some of the world’s best beaches
ITINERARY Day 1 Bangkok Arrive in Bangkok at any time, and transfer to your accommodation. Day 2 Bangkok Explore Bangkok - visit temples, a flower market and Little India or Chinatown. Spend time learning a little Thai. (B) Day 3 Angthong Depart for Angthong to begin your volunteer experience. (B, D) Days 4-13 Volunteer project Ten days teaching and joining in with village activities. Choose to participate in village activities such as growing vegetables for the temple, visit the historic ruins of Ayutthaya, an elephant village, perfect your skill in meditation, or learn some Thai cooking. (10B, 10L, 10D) Day 14 Bangkok After the last morning class say goodbye and travel back to Bangkok. (B, L) Day 15 Koh Samet Travel to Koh Samet for some relaxing beach time. (B) Days 16-19 Koh Samet Spend your time enjoying this tropical island. (B) Day 20 Bangkok Return to Bangkok. (B) Day 21 Depart Bangkok at any time. (B)
About this Project DEPARTURES 2010 and 2011 Departs on the second and fourth Saturday of each month
VOLUNTOUR VOLUNTOUR
LAOS
T H A I L A N D
Angthong
Volunteer Project
Bangkok
CAMBODIA
Ko Samet V I E T N A M
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Price based on twin share. Single supplement for a private room (excluding the volunteer project) $396 Tour Code: STABKKMEA
Wat Talchedchor Temple houses a school for poor children, mostly from Northern Thailand Hill Tribes. The Temple provides housing, food and a proper education. Your role is to teach and encourage the children to communicate in English, and enhance their skills through practical lessons and fun-learning activities.
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> River Kwai & Ancient Kingdoms (2n) TOUR from $299 Thailand’s not only about hair braids and massages on the beach, you know! Take part in this eye-opening three day journey and discover the bravery, romance and tragedy that haunts the lush and tranquil landscapes of this Asian beauty. Tour Code: STABKKRKW
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28 days FROM $1,145 BANGKOK
voluntOUr
BANGKOK, THAILAND WORK IN
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
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ANIMALS
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Learn about Thai culture and get in some sightseeing before jumping into a trueWORK adventure by spending time in a WITH CHILDREN remote village in the north of Thailand.
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• Visit Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai • Shop atWITH a night bazaarWORK WITH WORK •COMMUNITIES Sample authentic ThaiCHILDREN cuisine • Take part in a 3-day trek to Akha and Lahu Hill Tribe villages • Give back by volunteering at a community project in a hill tribe village in Northern Thailand
ITINERARY WORK WITH Arrive in Bangkok at any time, and be transferred Day 1 Bangkok COMMUNITIES to your accommodation and start project orientation. UZBEKISTAN K A aZ walking A K H S Ttour. A N Then Day 2 Bangkok Head out into Bangkok for TURKMENISTAN travel by overnight train to Chiang Mai. Day 3 Chiang Mai Walking around the old city ofKChiang Mai is the YRGYZSTAN best way to enjoy this culture rich city. Day 4 Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai Take a public air-conditioned bus to TAJIKISTAN Chiang Rai. The afternoon is free to explore this small town. (B) Days 5-25 - Community services with local non-Government organizations (NGO’s) Time to put your skills to work for the F G Hcan A Ndo I S anything TAN hill tribe people.A You from teaching, editing English texts and reports for the foundation to writing articles, IT, website development, helping with the virtual hill tribe museum program, and joining various work projects. During your stay you will also visit Chiang Rai town, the night bazaar, the White Temple, beautiful waterfalls, and take part in a three-day trek to Akha and Lahu P A (20B, K I S T20L, A N 20D) Hill Tribe villages. Day 26 Chiang Rai Return to Bangkok by public overnight bus. (B) Day 27 Bangkok Arrive in Bangkok early in the morning - the rest of the day is at leisure. (B) N E Day 28 Depart Bangkok. (B)
FAST FACTS AND WHAT’S INCLUDED Accommodation: Single-sex, dormitory-style rooms in volunteer houses Duration: 28 days / 27 nights Transport: Air-conditioned transport or pick-up truck for transfers during trekking and to the village In-Country support: An English-speaking coordinator with local English-speaking assistance available where needed Meals: Included on full board basis; however you will need to do your own cooking, together with your tea P A L BHUTAN
About this Project You’ll help the Hill Tribe people of Mae Yao to combat their everyday struggles with unemployment, poverty and drug addiction. The project provides skills training, education and the support to thrive without sacrificing their cultural identity.
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Chill in Koh Samui – Al’s Hut From $23 Spoil yourself at a stay at one of these super cool bungalows, located on Chaweng Beach, minutes from the bars and clubs. Tour Code: STAUSMALS
BANGLADESH
DEPARTURES 2010 and 2011 Departs on the first and third Saturday of each month Price based on twin share. Single supplement for a private room (excluding the volunteer project) $75 Tour Code: STABKKHIL
Chiang Rai
LAOS
Chiang Mai T H A I L A N D
Stay Stylish – Peace Resort Bungalows From $55 Located on beautiful Bo-Phut Beach, these Thai-style bungalows are set in beautiful gardens some with sea-views. Tour Code: STAUSMPEA
Bangkok
VOLUNTOUR VOLUNTOUR
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Hill Tribe Helping Hands Adventure
V I E T N AM
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PROJECT: voluntEER
Work with endangered Orangutans
15 days FROM $1,903 29 days FROM $2,797 Kuching, BORNEO
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
Work alongside an experienced orangutan conservation team in the heart of Borneo. WORK HelpWITH the local WORK WITH COMMUNITIES CHILDREN community and conservation teams enrich the lives of these wondrous animals.
ABOUT THIS PROJECT The project’s aim is to increase the orangutan WORK population WORK WITH WITH COMMUNITIES CHILDREN in the wild through breeding programs, education and conservation efforts.
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
Fast FactS and what’s included
How you make a difference
Project Start Day: 05 Sep10; 19 Sep10; 05 Apr11; 19 Apr11; 05 May11; 19 May11; 05 Jun11; 19 Jun11; 05 Jul11; 19 Jul11; 05 Aug11; 19 Aug11; 05 Sep11; 19 Sep11 Accommodation: One room in a 3 bedroom jungle chalet Getting there: Transfers to/from Kuching Airport to the project Duration: Minimum stay 14 nights, maximum stay 28 nights In-country Support: Volunteer project coordinator Meals Included: A welcome dinner is included, daily breakfast on hotel/hostel night stays and a meal allowance will be given during the rest of the stay Language Requirements: A good level of English Trip Code: STAKCHORA
Witness the problems the conservation team face on a daily basis and help to overcome these challenges by providing much-needed help to the group. These enrichment activities help orangutans move a step closer to living independently in the wild. Take time to work alongside local communities to highlight the importance of orangutans in Borneo’s natural heritage.
N O R T H I S L A N D
VOLUNTEER
S O U T H C H I N A S E A
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A day in the life of a Volunteer You’ll work at Matang Wildlife Centre in Kubah National Park, help prepare food for the animals, and clean and construct enclosures. At certain times volunteers may go into the jungle with rehabilitation officers and help them monitor released orangutans. Volunteers have free time on weekends.
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Stay Simple Borneo Backpackers from $7 This friendly and hospitable hostel has lots of character. Tour Code: STABKIBOR
Stay Smart Berringis Beach Resort from $42 Matang Wildlife Centre Kubah National Park Volunteer Project
Beringgis Beach Resort is a haven of fun and comfort - blended in an environment so inviting at a price affordable by anyone. Tour Code: STABKIBBR Kuching
Stay Stylish Shangri La Rasa RIA RESORT from $88 For a really special experience splash out on this 5-star resort set beside Pantal Dalit Beach. Tour Code: STABKIRAS
14 days FROM $1,777 Kuching
voluntOUr
Kuching, BORNEO WORK IN
CONSERVATION
Find yourself on this two week orangutan-themed voluntour and WORK WITH WORK WITH WORK WITH natural explore some of Borneo’s ANIMALS COMMUNITIES CHILDREN wonders and indigenous communities.
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• Experience the natural wonders of Bako, Kubah and Batang Ai National Parks WORK WITH WORK WITH • Help to conserve orangutan and other endangered animals COMMUNITIES CHILDREN • Visit Semenggoh Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre • Chill out and relax at Damai beach • Live with the rainforest tribes in Batang Ai
ITINERARY
WORK WITH
Day 1 Arrive in KuchingCOMMUNITIES Transfer to your accommodation. Days 2 – 3 Volunteering project Work at Matang Wildlife Centre in Kubah National Park You’ll get a unique ‘backstage’ pass to the Ape Centre. You’ll get an induction before you start. Day 4 Bako National Park Enjoy a short boat ride through the impressive mangrove swamps until you reach Sarawak’s oldest national park. Days 5 – 6 Bako National Park Bako is one of the best places to see wildlife in natural surroundings. Day 7 Sarawak Cultural Village Visit a cultural village - a ‘living museum’ to the Dayaks (indigenous tribes) of Borneo. Day 8 Semenggoh Rehabilitation Centre Visit the Semenggoh Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre at feeding time. Then travel to Batang Ai National Park. Days 9 - 12 Batang Ai Rainforest Trek into the rainforest in search of orangutan and other wildlife. Day 13 Kuching Transfer back to Kuching. Day 14 Kuching Depart at any time.
About this Project The project’s aim is to increase the orangutan population in the wild through breeding programs, education and conservation efforts funded through eco-tourism activities.
FAST FACTS AND WHAT’S INCLUDED Accommodation: Basic and clean shared rooms - 4 to 6 per room. Shared bathroom. Hostel, park lodges, long house lodges Getting there: Transfers to/from Kuching airport are included Duration: 14 days / 13 nights In- country support: Volunteer Project Coordinator Meals: 13 breakfasts, 12 lunches, 13 dinners Budget: Allow $10-15 per day for snacks and drinks not included Please note: There will be no touching of orangutans while on the tour as this runs contrary to efforts to rehabilitate them back to the wild; as well as carrying significant risks for injury or disease to both
S O U T H C H I N A S E A
Sarawak Cultural Village Bako National Park
DEPARTURES 2010 and 2011 Departs on the 3rd of each month Prices are based on multi-share dorms Tour code: STAKCHVOL
Matang Wildlife Centre Kubah National Park Volunteer Project
Batang Ai Rainforest
Semenggoh Rehabilitation Centre
Kuching
VOLUNTOUR VOLUNTOUR
ON
Experience Borneo and Orangutans
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AT ONE with Borneo 12 days FROM $1,627
voluntOUr
Sandakan WORK WITH
ANIMALS
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
Sandakan, Borneo
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
Help restore Borneo to its original beauty and enrich the lives of the local community as well as protecting pygmy WORK WITH WORK WITH WORK WITH ANIMALS COMMUNITIES CHILDREN elephants. You’ll work alongside the locals and live in a simple stilt house.
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
BEST BITS • Observe endangered orangutan elephants WORK WITH and pygmy WORK WITH and COMMUNITIES help restore their habitat CHILDREN • Engage with the local community • Work with children at the local schools • Get up close to the wildlife with a visit to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
ITINERARY
FAST FACTS & WHAT’S INCLUDED Accommodation: Multi-share basic village bed & breakfast; Multi-share dorm In-Country Support: English-speaking facilitator Meals Included: 12 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 12 dinners Budget: Allow $10-15 per day for drinks and snacks not included
DEPARTURES
VOLUNTOUR VOLUNTOUR
Sandakan
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Sepilok Orang-Utan Rehabilitation
Sukau Volunteer Project
2010 and 2011 Departures Departs 7th of each month Prices are based on multi-share dorms Trip code: STASDKONE Note: On this tour you will not get up close and personal with orangutans – although there is a chance that you may get a rare opportunity to see and appreciate them in the wild.
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
Day 1 Arrive Sandakan Transfer to your accommodation for a welcome dinner and introduction to program. Days 2 – 10 Volunteer work The project focuses on community work and wildlife observation to collect important data. The community and education programs involve interaction with the village community and schools. Other activities include tree planting and maintenance to connect fragmented forest and encourage healthy orangutan and pygmy elephant populations. Days 11 Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre View morning feeding session. After lunch, visit the Rainforest Discovery Centre before heading back to Sepilok. DAY 12: Sandakan Transfer to Sandakan Airport.
About this Project As a volunteer you’ll help improve the habitat and living conditions of the wonderful Sukau wildlife. You’ll plant trees, maintain animals’ natural habitat and connect fragmented forestland to encourage healthy orangutan and pygmy elephant populations. Working with the community and local schools you’ll observe wildlife and collect data regarding the animals’ population density – an instant measure of the difference that you and volunteers like you are making.
VIETNAM RESCUE CENTer
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
PROJECT:
voluntEER
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
15 days FROM $1,059 EXTRA WEEKS FROM $380
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
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CHILDREN
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CHILDREN
Spend two weeks at a rescue station for Vietnamese wildlife, providing clean,WORK safeWITH and natural environments WORK WITH COMMUNITIES CHILDREN for endangered species.
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
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An Nhon Tay, Vietnam
ABOUT THIS PROJECT Founded in 2003, the Cu Chi Rescue Station is dedicated to protecting Vietnam’s bio-diversity by combating the illegal WORK WITH WORK WITH wildlife trade, and promoting the conservation of endangered COMMUNITIES CHILDREN species. It acts as a reserve for wildlife confiscated from illegal traders and hunters, releases rehabilitated animals back to the wild and educates visitors about wildlife conservation. UZBEKISTA N
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KAZAKHSTAN
How you make a difference WORK WITH Working alongside the project’s staff, you will be involved in the RCOMMUNITIES G Y Z S T Apangolins, N day-to-day care ofK Yprimates, otters, Chinese Water Dragons, bengal water monitor lizards and turtles. Tasks include helping T A to J I Kprepare I S T A N their meals, changing foliage in enclosures, and general maintenance.
A day in the life of a Volunteer
GHANISTAN
A day at the Center begins at 9am and wraps up by 4:30pm each day’s tasks are determined by a schedule and the needs of each animal.
ISTAN
N E P A L BHUTAN
BANGLADESH
Fast Facts and what’s included Project start days: Daily year round Accommodation: Hotel (1 night), Guest house (13 nights) Getting there: Transfer from Ho Chi Minh City to An Nhon Tay included Duration: Minimum & maximum stay 15 days Meals Included: All meals Budget: Allow $140-170 per person per week for meals not included In country support: Volunteer project coordinator and staff Prices: Prices based upon 2010 departures. 2011: 15 days from $1,099 per person VIETNAM Trip code: GATAVWAJ
Hanoi
LAOS
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Savour Vietnam’s scenic, historical, cultural and culinary delights as you travel the length of the country on this fun-filled two week trip. There is so much to discover - from the chaos of Ho Chi Minh City to the charms of Hoi An, the atmospheric imperial capital of Hue, vibrant Hanoi and the natural beauty of Halong Bay. Tour Code: GAAVBV
CAMBODIA
Volunteer Project Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
VOLUNTEER
Best of Vietnam From $1,119
26 SRI LANKA
EXPLORE Cambodia and Laos voluntOUr
15 days FROM $1,549
BANGKOK WORK WITH
ANIMALS
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
BANGKOK
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
Explore the incredible, historical, architectural, sacred and scenic highlights of Cambodia and Laos, WORK WITH WORK WITH the local environment by COMMUNITIES helping CHILDREN building water wells in the border area, planting trees and getting involved with child literacy in Laos. WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES BEST BITS
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
• Temples of Angkor • Building water wells and community work at the Steung Treng Volunteer Project • S earching for the Irrawaddy River Dolphins along the Mekong • Organizing a book party for children near Luang Prabang WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
ITINERARY
FAST FACTS & WHAT’S INCLUDED Accommodation: Hotels / guest houses (12 nights), basic family home-stay (1 night), sleeper train (1 night) Transport: Private bus, local bus, plane, boat, sleeper train In-Country Support: Volunteer project coordinators, Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout and local guides Meals Included: 8 breakfasts Budget: Allow $300-400 per person for meals not included
Day 1 Bangkok Arrive at any time. Days 2-3 Siem Reap Guided tour of Angkor Wat temple complex. (2B) Days 4-7 Kratie/Steung Treng Steung Treng volunteer project. (B) Day 8 Don Khong Mekong island stay. Days 9-11 Luang Prabang Volunteer book party project work. Flight from Pakse to Luang Prabang on Day 9. (3B) Day 12 Vang Vieng Day 13 Vientiane A chance to explore the highlights of this town. Cross the border into Thailand, overnight train to Bangkok. (B) Day 14 Bangkok Optional Wat Po & Grand Palace visit. Day 15 Bangkok Depart at any time. (B)
About this Project In Cambodia, 85% of people live in rural areas and 70% do not have sustainable access to clean water. You can help to provide clean water by building wells. While in Laos, you will work with an organization promoting literacy and providing books to children in remote communities. See page 28 for more details.
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EXTEND YOUR STAY >>
27
Luang Prabang Volunteer Project Vang LAOS Vieng Vientiane
Roam Vietnam from $799 DEPARTURES
T H A I L A N D
Angkor Wat
Bangkok
Siem Reap
Dhon Khong Kratie
Volunteer Project
CAMBODIA
V I E T N A M
Departs on Sundays Prices based on twin share 2011 Departs on Sundays Price from $1,709 per person based on twin share Trip code: GAATPC
Providing a variety of color and beauty, Vietnam will tantalize all of your senses. From chaotic Saigon to charming Hoi An, the imperial capital of Hue, vibrant Hanoi and the stunning natural beauty of Halong Bay, this trip has something for everyone. Trip Code: GAAVRV
Add a beach break from $305 per person Seven nights in Koh Phangan at the Phanganburi Resort & Health Spa from $305 (flights additional) Trip Code: STAKHPPRH
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
voluntEER
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ANIMALS COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
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CHILDREN
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CHILDREN
Help out at an art program for children who work and live on the beaches of Sihanoukville. Projects include painting WORK WITH CHILDREN and weaving as well as organizing sports activities with the kids.
COMMUNITIES
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Sihanoukville, Cambodia
WORK WITH
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29 days FROM $1,039 EXTRA WEEKS FROM $230 COMMUNITIES
H
TIES
Children’s Painting Project
PROJECT:
ABOUT THIS PROJECT TheWORK objective of this project is to provide local children with the WITH opportunity CHILDRENto develop their imagination and artistic expression through painting, while encouraging this same enthusiasm for regular schooling. The children’s art is sold on-site and locally, providing them with an added income.
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TURKMENISTAN
KYRGYZSTAN
TAJIKISTAN
AFGHANISTAN
How you make a difference Encourage young people to participate in painting and other activities, act as a coach, teacher, facilitator, and educator, and serve as a liaison with visitors who are interested in learning more about the program and the paintings on display. PAKISTAN
A day in the life of a Volunteer A weekly task schedule is set for every Tuesday of each week. E P A L You’re asked to work at least five half-days per week, Nbut many spend more time at the project. Jobs will include setting up the painting activities for between 40-70 children and the gallery of art for sale, serve lunch, and help clean up after the day. Evenings are free to relax and socialize.
Fast FactS and what’s included Project Start Day: Mondays year round Accommodation: On-site volunteer apartment (27 nights) 1 night in Phnom Penh hotel Getting there: Transfer from Phnom Penh included Duration: Minimum stay 29 days, maximum stay unlimited In-country Support: Volunteer project coordinator and staff Meals Included: All meals are included Budget: Allow $280-350 per person per 4 weeks for meals and BHUTAN drinks not included Prices: Price based on 2010 departures, 2011 prices $1,139; BANGLADESH weeks $230 additional Trip code: GATAKCCJ
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Cambodia & Laos Mekong Adventure From $1,549 PER PERSON
T H A I L A N D
Explore the incredible historical, architectural, sacred and scenic highlights of Cambodia and Laos. This is a world of busy markets and stunning textiles, tranquil temples and awesome Khmer ruins. Trip Code: GAATCM
CAMBODIA
Phnom Penh Sihanoukville
SRI LANKA
VIETNAM
Volunteer Project
VOLUNTEER
ITIES
28
PROJECT:
VOLUNTEER WITH BUDDHIST MONKS
14 days FROM $1,195
voluntEER
Luang Prabang, LAOS
WORK IN
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
CONSERVATION
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
Enhance the education of novice Buddhist monks in Luang Prabang as well as other members of the local community while learning about the local culture.
ABOUT THIS PROJECT WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH Volunteers on the project have the rare opportunity to work CHILDREN closely with novice monks in a temple school in Luang Prabang, where hundreds of young rural boys are ordained as novices in order to further their education and to break the cycle of poverty. Volunteers assist local community members in obtaining and practicing valuable English skills while learning about Lao culture, history, food, religion, and language.
How you make a difference As Luang Prabang and surrounding communities gain economic benefits from tourists and adventure travelers through the region, they are realizing more and more the importance of English skills and the demand for quality teachers is growing. By providing local people with English language training you will help them take steps to improve their livelihoods and futures.
Fast Facts and what’s included Project start day: Friday Accommodation: Guest house (13 nights) Getting there: Fly to Luang Prabang Airport Duration: Minimum stay 14 days, maximum stay unlimited In-country Support: Volunteer project coordinator and staff Meals Included: All meals are included Budget: Allow $15 per person per day for drinks and snacks not included Language Requirements: Good spoken & written English required Prices: 6 weeks from $1,995, 8 weeks from $2,395, 10 weeks from $2,795, 12 weeks from $3,195 Trip Code: STALPBMON
Hanoi
A day in the life of a Volunteer On an average day you will be teaching the children at the temple for about four-and-a-half hours, although you can always do more hours if you wish. Your weekends and evenings are free to explore this beautiful area and relax. On some weekends, you have the option to help with restoration and improvement work in and around the temple.
EXTEND YOUR STAY >>
VOLUNTEER
Roam Laos 14 days from $999 PER PERSON
29
Chiang Rai
Luang Prabang Volunteer Project
The minute you step foot into Laos you have the feeling that you’ve stepped back in time. From the tranquil monasteries of Luang Prabang to the limestone karst peaks of Vang Vieng and watching fishing boats trawl along the Mekong, Laos is a country that is sure to delight. Single room - single supplement $199 Tour code: GAAVRL
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21 days FROM $1,549 Delhi
voluntOUr
Goa, INDIA WORK IN
CONSERVATION
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
Spend a week volunteering with youth programs in Delhi, then snake your way through the country discovering WORK WITH lakes, palaces, forts and incredible CHILDREN cuisine to find yourself in Goa.
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BEST BITS • Volunteer with youth skills-training projects in Delhi • Explore the Taj Mahal WORK WITH WORK WITH CHILDREN •COMMUNITIES Sunrise at Savitri temple in Pushkar • Island-Palace on Lake Pichola • Beaches of Goa
ITINERARY Day 1 Delhi Arrive in Delhi. WORK WITH Days 2-7 Delhi Volunteer with youth programs in Delhi. COMMUNITIES Day 8 Agra Take the morning train to Agra. Options to visit Taj Mahal, Red Fort and the Baby Taj. Days 9-10 Jaipur Take an orientation walk around Jaipur. There’s an option to visit Hawa Mahal and the Amber Palace. Day 11-12 Pushkar Take a private bus to Pushkar. Take an orientation walk and watch the sunrise at Savitri Temple. Day 13 Chandelao Village Optional activities in this rural Rajasthan village include a Jeep safari, camel and horse riding, village walk, women’s craft center project. Days 14-16 Udaipur Take a public bus to Udaipur, where you’ll have an orientation walk. Optional visits here include the Lake Palace, Jag Mandir and City Palace or a day trip to Eklingji Temple or Jain Temples in Ranakpur. Days 17-18 Overnight train to Mumbai After a free morning in Udaipur take the afternoon train to Mumbai. On arrival enjoy an orientation walk to the Gateway of India. Days 19-20 Goa Fly to Goa where you can have an optional city tour. Day 21 Depart Goa Free to depart anytime.
FAST FACTS AND WHAT’S INCLUDED Accommodation: Simple hotels / guest houses (19 nights), sleeper train (1 night) Transport: Train, metro, local bus, charter bus, jeep, rickshaw, plane Group Size: Maximum 15; Average 10 In-Country Support: Volunteer project coordinator, Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout Meals Included: No meals are included Budget: Allow $310 - 320 per person for meals
About this Project You’ll have the opportunity to participate in a range of projects working with young people, including computer and photography workshops, theatre and arts programs, and food distribution for children living in and around the Delhi train station.
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> 15 days Tour and Volunteer in Rajastan From $1,149 per person Participate in a five-day community volunteer project at the Bal Prakash Centre, focusing on the eradication of child labor through a meaningful blend of education and vocation. Price based on 2010 departures, 2011 from $1,269. Tour code: GAAHPJ
Pushkar
DEPARTURES 2011 Departs on Sundays Price based on twin share Tour Code: GAAHVSJ Please note: The school closes between 30 Sep and 01 Nov and 28 Dec and 05 Jan each year.
Udaipur
Delhi Volunteer Project Agra
Jaipur
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Mumbai (Bombay) Goa
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Delhi to Goa plus Youth Skills Training
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PROJECT:
Volunteer with Elephants
14 days FROM $1,475 28 days FROM $1,995 42 days FROM $2,560
voluntEER
Wasgamuwa National Park, Sri Lanka
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
Learn about Asian elephants, work in rural communities and monitor wild elephant populations in the National WORK WITH WORK WITH ParkCOMMUNITIES while exploring thisCHILDREN amazing island.
ABOUT THIS PROJECT Volunteers are helping scientists to establish the first TransClimatic Zone National Park in the country. This project is WORK WITH WORK WITH currently in its first phase, which involves conducting surveys COMMUNITIES CHILDREN and ecological studies of the endangered Sri Lankan elephants and assisting in human-elephant conflict resolution. All of these efforts help to develop sustainable wildlife conservation strategies to protect the elephant over the long-term.
How you make a WORK difference WITH
COMMUNITIES Reduced to fewer than 3,500 in the wild, the Sri Lankan Elephant has suffered from habitat loss, habitat fragmentation, habitat degradation and poaching for ivory. Dedicated conservation efforts and volunteers like you, backed by political will and financial support, are needed to halt these threats and ensure the long-term conservation of this species.
A day in the life of a Volunteer Fast Facts and what’s included Project start days: Mondays twice a month Accommodation: Multi-share in a basic volunteer house Getting there: Make your way to Ranweli Holiday Village in Waikkal, north of Colombo Duration: Minimum stay 14 days; maximum stay unlimited In-country Support: Volunteer project coordinator and staff Meals Included: All meals are included Budget: Allow $100 per month Language Requirements: Good spoken and written English Prices: Price based on 2010 departures Trip code: STACMBELE
You will have an early start and a quick meeting with field staff before departing on foot or bicycle to begin research activities such as conducting surveys, interviewing local villagers and direct elephant observations. Your afternoons are spent resting and inputting the vital data you have collected. You can spend your free time and evenings socializing with the other volunteers and exploring this beautiful island!
EXTEND YOUR STAY >>
VOLUNTEER
Sri Lanka Experience, 8 days from $1,349 per person
31
Dambulla Waikkal Colombo
Wasgamuwa National Park Volunteer Project
S R I L A N K A
Scramble over rock fortresses and be amazed at centuries-old rock paintings in this experience of a lifetime. Be moved by the elephant orphanage and awe-struck on a game drive through Uda Walawe National Park, where you may see leopards, elephants and crocodiles before returning to the urban jungle of Colombo. Trip Code: GAASSP
DISCOVER Nepal 12 days FROM $1,099 Kathmandu
voluntOUr
Kathmandu, NEPAL WORK IN
CONSERVATION
Volunteer at a community project in the heart of the Kathmandu Valley WORK IN and you will local WORK WITHlife in WORK WITHexperience ANIMALS CONSERVATION COMMUNITIES a way that will be hard to forget. UZBEKISTA
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N I S T A• N Kathmandu walking tour • Volunteer on community projects and a reforestation program WORK WITH WORK WITH COMMUNITIES CHILDREN • A day trek in the Annapurnas • Elephant Safari KYRGYZSTAN • Trek in Chitwan National Park
ITINERARY Day 1 Kathmandu Arrive in Kathmandu at any time. WORK WITH Days 2-5 Kathmandu Valley Project Introduction and immersion COMMUNITIES T A J I K I S TAN into life in the valley. (4B, 4L, 4D) Days 6-7 Chitwan National Park Say goodbye to the project and trek for two hours to catch a bus through the beautiful Terai landscape to Royal Chitwan park, for an elephant safari. Day 8 Pokhara Private bus to Pokhara. Day 9 Annapurna Foothills Trek A day of trekking in the foothills of the Annapurnas. Day 10 Pokhara Return to Pokhara. Day 11 Kathmandu Private bus to Kathmandu. Day 12 Depart Kathmandu Departure day.
AFGHANISTAN About this Project
As a volunteer, you will assist Stuchting Veldwerk, a local organization that helps to improve all aspects of local life in this area. You will be fully involved in reforestation, planting and education, as well as building a community center.
FAST FACTS AND WHAT’S INCLUDED Accommodation: Hotels (8 nights), tea-house lodges (3 nights) Transport: Bus, walking In-Country Support: Project coordinator, Chief Experience Officer (CEO) Meals Included: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners Budget: Allow $335-440 per person for meals not included
PAKISTAN KATHMANDU VALLEY PROJECT From $1,869 for 56 DAys Help the communities of remote mountain areas. Depending on time of the year volunteers will be involved in different aspects of rural community development including working in the schools directly with the children, painting and planting around the facilities. Extra weeks $230. Prices based on 2010; 2011 departures from $2,069 per person. Trip Code: GATANRCJ
Kathmandu Temples and Palaces 3 days From $346 per person Visit two of the most ancient and significant Buddhist temples known to the religion. You’ll also see the amazing Nepalese architecture of the cities’ durbar squares and palaces. Trip Code: STAKTMKTP
DEPARTURES 2010 Departs Mondays Prices above are based upon 2010 prices sharing a twin room. 2011 Departs Mondays Prices are $1,209 per person based on sharing a twin room. Trip Code: GAANPJ
Annapurna
Pokhara
INDIA
CHINA
Kathmandu Volunteer Project Chitwan N.P.
VOLUNTOUR VOLUNTOUR
EXTEND YOUR STAY >>
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BANGL 32
Panda Conservation Adventure 14 days FROM $1,899
voluntOUr
Shanghai WORK WITH
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CHILDREN
This is an unforgettable journey through the heartland of China. Home COMMUNITIES CHILDREN to the last remaining pandas, you have WORK WITH WORK WITH WORK WITH opportunity to volunteer ANIMALS an amazing COMMUNITIES CHILDREN at the largest panda reserve in the COMMUNITIES world, with a chance to observe these shy solitary creatures up close and personal. WORK WITH
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Beijing, CHINA
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BEST BITS • Orientation walk of Shanghai • Shaolin Kung Fu display and lesson • Volunteer stay at Bifengxia Panda Reserve • Terracotta Warrior tour • Getting up close and personal with China’s rare pandas • Trip to the Great Wall of China, Forbidden City • Tiananmen Square guided tour
VOLUNTOUR
ITINERARY
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Day 1 Shanghai Arrive at any time. Day 2 Shanghai Take an orientation walk through this amazing and exotic city before boarding an overnight train to Luoyang (Shaolin). There is so much to see and do, from admiring the foreign influences of the buildings of the French Concession, to perusing the enormous collection in the Shanghai Museum, to possibly visiting the Yuyuan gardens. Days 3-4 Shaolin & Luoyang Visit to the world famous Shaolin Temple - the home of Kung Fu, and participate in a Kung Fu class. Overnight train to Xi’an. Day 5 Xi’an Take a train through the rugged landscape and arrive in Xi’an, where you can absorb the culture and history of this ancient Tang Dynasty capital city. Visit one of China’s greatest archaeological treasures – the Terracotta Warriors. Day 6 Chengdu Optional visit to Sichuan Opera. Days 7-11 Bifengxia Panda Centre Early in the morning, travel north into Sichuan’s mountains to begin your volunteer work.
Days 12-13 Beijing Tour the thriving capital of Beijing, including an in-depth look through the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. Admire the view of the rolling countryside while climbing the Great Wall of China! Day 14 Beijing Depart at any time.
About this Project There are thought to be less than one thousand pandas left in the wild, with around 80% in Sichuan province. The Bifenxia Panda Reserve currently has about seventy. The center aims to provide the ideal breeding environment for the pandas, so they can be released into the wild. Volunteers will assist in preparing meals and gathering bamboo, cleaning the enclosures, and assisting researchers. Sichuan offers an amazing opportunity to volunteer at the largest panda reserve in the world, with a chance to observe these shy solitary creatures up close and know that your volunteer work is helping preserve these animals for the future.
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FAST FACTS AND WHAT’s included Accommodation: Hotels/guest houses (12 nights), Sleeper trains (2 nights) Transport: Sleeper trains, planes, private and public buses, bicycle, walking In-Country Support: Volunteer project coordinator, Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, local guides Meals Included: No meals are included Budget: Allow $190-250 per person for meals not included
China Express From $959 per person Four cities displaying four key aspects of mighty China: Beijing, Xi’an, Yangshou and Hong Kong. If you want to see four diverse yet defining pieces of the Middle Kingdom, this is your perfect trip.
Learn Mandarin Chinese at CYUPS University in Beijing From $832 per person Don’t miss this great opportunity to learn Mandarin at CYUPS University Beijing - one of the most prestigious universities in Beijing. They can tailor a language program to fit your individual needs and schedule, in evening classes or one to one teaching. Packages include accommodation at the university and courses that last a month, two months, three months, half-year or a whole academic year. Not only is it a useful language to learn, it’s also an excellent addition to any CV. Trip Code: STABJSMAN
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DEPARTURES Beijing C
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Xi'an Chengdu Volunteer Project
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Shaolin Luoyang Shanghai
2010 Departs on Saturdays Price from $1,899 per person based on a twin share room, 2011 Departs on Saturdays Price from $2,089 per person based on a twin share room, Trip code: GAACPJ
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EXTEND YOUR STAY >>
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AFRICA
Make a real difference
Wide-open blue skies, smiling faces, spectacular sceneryAfrica boasts it all! And you can experience it as you marvel at Zanzibar’s beauty or mingle with the Masai Warriors in Tanzania. Experience the vast variety of wildlife in South Africa’s Kruger National Park, and if you’re lucky enough tick each of the ‘Big 5’ off your list.
TOP FIVE EXPERIENCES 1
Get wet at Victoria Falls
Hear the distant rumbling of the Falls and taste the spray from the mighty Zambezi.
2
Search out the ‘Big 5’ IN THE Kruger
This vaste swathe of wild bushland covering 7,332 square miles is home to more than 10,000 elephants alone.
3
Live the easy life in Cape Town
Head up the cable car to the top of Table Mountain to watch a stunning sunset over the Western Cape.
4
Relax on the Beaches of Zanzibar
There’s very little commercialized about Zanzibar… just white sands, wandering locals and the lapping waves of the warm Indian Ocean.
5
Climb Mount Kilimanjaro
The sense of achievement as you gaze down on Africa from the top is simply overwhelming.
ALGERIA
LIBYA
SAUDI ARABIA
MALI
SUDAN NIGERIA
ETHOPIA
AVERAGE HIGH TEMPERATURES
AFRICA
CITY
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Arusha Cape Town Durban Johannesburg Kruger Livingstone Mombasa Nairobi Port Elizabeth Swakopmund Windhoek
J F M A M J J A S O N D 82 77 81 77 82 84 86 77 75 68 82
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77 72 77 68 79 86 86 75 72 64 77
72 66 73 64 77 81 82 73 70 68 72
70 63 72 59 73 77 81 72 68 68 68
68 61 72 61 73 77 79 70 64 64 68
72 63 72 64 75 81 81 72 64 59 72
75 64 72 70 79 90 81 75 64 61 79
79 68 73 72 79 93 82 77 68 63 81
81 72 75 73 81 90 84 73 70 63 84
81 73 79 75 82 86 86 73 73 66 86
GABON
Atlantic Ocean
KENYA D.R.O THE CONGO TANZANIA
Indian Ocean
ANGOLA ZAMBIA NAMIBIA
MOZAMBIQUE
ZIMBABWE
BOTSWANA
SOUTH AFRICA
MADAGASCAR
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PROJECT: voluntEER
Teaching and Community Development
14 days FROM $1,659 EXTRA WEEKS FROM $440 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
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ANIMALS
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COMMUNITIES
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CHILDREN
Lend a hand for two weeks or more at local pre-schools and primary schools on the coast outside of Cape Town.
ABOUT THIS PROJECT
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
Spend time with over 35 children between 2 and 6 years at a local day care and school which operates out of several shipping containers with very limited resources. You will also WORK WITH support teachers at a primary school that has over 1,300 CHILDREN students and up to 50 students per class.
WORK WITH
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Fast FactS and what’s included Project start day: Mondays year round except December Accommodation: Multi-share (up to 4 per room) at a volunteer house Getting there: Private transfers to/from Cape Town airport Duration: Minimum stay 2 weeks, maximum stay 8 weeks In-country Support: On-site volunteer project coordinator and staff Meals Included: All meals are included Budget: Allow $85-100 per week for meals and drinks not included Prices: Prices based on 2010 and 2011 departures Trip code: GATDACDJ
How you make a difference Volunteers will assist the teacher by providing extra support for students who are struggling. The children at the pre-school are given 2 meals a day, breakfast and lunch, and the meals, as well as wages for the teacher and cook, are financed through your volunteer project fees.
A day in the life of a Volunteer Mornings and afternoons will be spent assisting teachers at the schools, as well as helping out local community projects. Evenings and weekends are free to explore the beautiful Cape Town area.
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Project South Africa & Overlands Adventure
VOLUNTEER
28 days From $2,399 per person
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S O U T H A F R I C A Cape Town Noordhock Volunteer Project
Volunteer with community projects near Cape Town, then continue exploring southern Africa, climbing the world’s highest sand dunes, bush walking in the Kalahari, wilderness camping and canoeing in the Okavango Delta and visiting the mighty Victoria Falls! Trip Code: GADAPS
Stay in the Cape Winelands From $92 per person Stay at the Spier Hotel overlooking the Helderberg mountain range and located on a 1,000 hectare wine estate. Trip Code: STA GQYSPI
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
great white sharks volunteering
voluntEER
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
7 days FROM $710 PER PERSON EXTRA WEEKS FROM $628
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COMMUNITIES
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CHILDREN
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ABOUT THIS PROJECT
CHILDREN
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
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Work in a unique marine environment at the tip of Africa. The project locationWORK (Gansbaai) is the best place in WITH WORK WITH WORK WITH ANIMALS the world COMMUNITIES CHILDREN to see Great White Sharks! You will get the chance to work alongside a dedicated cage-dive crew researching the behavior of this awesome predator.
COMMUNITIES
CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
COMMUNITIES
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CHILDREN
You’ll be able to get close and personal with this toothy customer as you take part in and assist with shark cage dives and the project’s vital marine research. Gansbaai offers easy access to the ‘Marine Big Five’ – sharks, whales, dolphins, seals and penguins. From June – December youWORK can WITH also spot Southern Right Whales in COMMUNITIES the bay as well as seals, penguins and dolphins! Volunteers at this project also enjoy lectures from marine biologists as well as guest speakers from local, collaborating organizations and universities. Lectures include ocean conservation, basic seamanship, shark biology and behavior, data collection, and the work of the Dyer Island Conservation Trust.
How you make a difference Shark populations worldwide are increasingly threatened, and in scientific circles there is still a lot of research that’s needed to fully understand and interpret shark behavior. As a volunteer you will be helping to research, promote and preserve the local marine environment through the work you do.
A day in the life of a Volunteer As a volunteer the majority of your time at sea will be spent aboard a shark cage diving vessel as a crew member, helping out with cage diving operations and shark observation and research. Volunteers will have the opportunity to help out with collecting data on shark behavior and numbers; data is collected on every shark sighted. In addition to boat-based observation, you will have the opportunity for cage-diving yourself!
Fast FactS and what’s included Project start dates: Daily year round Accommodation: 7 days in the volunteer house Duration: Minimum stay 7 days, maximum stay 28 days Getting there: Transfers are included from Cape Town Meals Included: No meals are included Budget: Allow $100- 200 per person per week In county support: Local project coordinator Tour Code: STACPTGWS
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Travel the Garden Route 7 DAY PASS $198, 14 DAY PASS $331, 21 DAY PASS $438 The travel pass starts on the first day of your travel and is valid for 7, 14 or 21 consecutive days, you can choose to hop on and off whenever you like! Trip Code: STABAZBUS
Take a beach break $21 per night Stay at SaltyCrax Backpackers Cape Town, situated close to the beautiful white beaches of Blouberg and the famous Kite Beach. This is one of our favorite hostels, friendly staff and great facilities will mean you will feel at home pretty quickly. Trip Code: STACPTSAL
S O U T H A F R I C A
SPECIAL DISCOUNTS FOR STUDENTS/YOUTHS: 5% discount if you stay for 4 weeks
Cape Town Gansbaai Volunteer Project
VOLUNTEER
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PROJECT: voluntEER
KINGDOM OF THE WHITE LION EXPERIENCE
14 days FROM $1,125
Johannesburg, South AFRICA
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
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ANIMALS
Help care for endangered animals and maintain the animal sanctuary, set up WORK by WITH Kevin Richardson, famous WORK WITH COMMUNITIES CHILDREN for his intimate bond with his large carnivores, also known as the “Lion Whisperer” coast.
WORK WITH ABOUT THIS PROJECT COMMUNITIES
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CHILDREN
This project is devoted to caring and enriching the lives of the animals that call it home. The sanctuary is home to many animals, such as lion (including the rare white lion), both brown and spotted hyena, black leopard, jaguar, and a variety of antelope species including blue wildebeest, giraffe, impala, blesbok, and nyala! Through Kevin’s WORK WITH work in the media and COMMUNITIES television he aims to highlight the plight of large carnivores in Africa and the need for their protection and conservation of their natural environment.
How you make a difference
Fast FactS and what’s included Project Start days: Mondays year round except 20 Dec10 09 Jan11 Accommodation: Shared rustic bush cottage (13 nights) Getting there: Transfers included to/from Johannesburg OR Tambo Airport Duration: Minimum stay 14 days, maximum stay 28 days In-country Support: Local project coordinator Meals Included: None – shared kitchen facilities available Budget: Allow $20-30 per person per day for meals not included Language Requirements: Good written and spoken English required Prices: Price based on 2010 and 2011 departures Trip code: STAJNBKNG
You will spend your days working alongside local staff caring for the animals at the sanctuary and contributing to their well-being and enrichment. You will be learning in detail about these wonderful animals, sharing your knowledge with others and seeing first hand the need to conserve them and their natural environments.
A day in the life of a Volunteer You will be working alongside staff, in close proximity to the animals, to maintain the sanctuary and care for the carnivores that live there. Activities include helping with food preparation, enrichment activities, game counts, anti-poaching walks, enclosure cleaning, and general maintenance. You will also be involved in the preservation of this beautiful farm (bordering a World Heritage Site), which is rich in its own history. You even may also find yourself helping behind the scenes while filming is taking place!
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Pre and Post-Volunteering accommodation
VOLUNTEER
Manyatta Rock Camp From $157 per PERSON
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Kruger National Park Volunteer Project Johannesburg
This luxury ‘camp’ accommodation inside Kwa Madwala Private Game Reserve lies on the southern side of Kruger National Park. It’s a beautifully rustic wood & stone structure with fabulous views of the national park below. Trip code: STAQKPROK
Kruger, Delta, and Falls 14 days From $2,229 Admire the stunning views of Victoria Falls, enjoy game drives through some of Africa’s best parks searching for the “Big 5”, and take a journey into the stunning Okavango Delta by canoe. This is a true African adventure! Trip code: GADAKF
WORK IN
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CHILDREN
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ABOUT THIS PROJECT Assist care WORK WITHproviders at local pre-schools and day care centers CHILDREN who look after a vast number of children, many of whom have lost one or both parents to HIV/AIDS. Help with other needs in the community, including HIV/AIDS awareness programs, a farming program, the refurbishment of important community buildings, and an English reading club.
How you make a difference The young children at the day care centers benefit from creative activities, and with access to materials at your volunteer house you’ll be able to show these kids how to have some fun!
A day in the life of a Volunteer Mornings and afternoons will be spent helping out at the pre-schools and centers or at the HIV/AIDS support group. Weekends and evenings are your own free-time, this is a beautiful part of South Africa, head down to Durban for a beach break or take a safari into Hluhluwe National Park.
Fast FactS and what’s included Project Start days: Mondays year round except December Accommodation: Multi-share rooms at a volunteer house Getting there: Private transfers to/from Richard’s Bay airport to the project base in St. Lucia are included Duration: Minimum stay 2 weeks, maximum stay 8 weeks In-country Support: On-site volunteer project coordinator and staff Meals Included: All meals are included Budget: Allow $20-30 per person per day for meals and snacks not included Prices: Price based on 2010 and 2011 departures Trip code: GATDAODJ
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Dunes, Deltas & Falls 21 days from $1,799 per person This is the ultimate southwestern Africa expedition, encompassing the wildlife, culture and scenery of this fascinating region. Highlights include game drives, the world’s highest sand dunes, bush walking in the Kalahari, wilderness camping, canoeing in the Okavango Delta, and visiting the mighty Victoria Falls. Trip code: GADCF
AFRICAN WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY 28 days from $3,269 As a volunteer you will contribute by taking photos of the different species of flora and fauna, some of the 526 species of birds that exist in the Wetlands area, local conservation issues, and the unique ecosystems of the St Lucia area. Trip code: GATDAAWJ
Cape Town
Johannesburg
SWAZILAND
SOUTH AFRICA
St. Lucia Wetlands Richard’s Bay
VOLUNTEER
ITIES
Help out at a day care center that provides support to children who have lost one or both parents to HIV/ WORK WITH CHILDREN AIDS, and at community projects in St. Lucia, on South Africa’s east coast.
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Richard’s Bay, South AFRICA
COMMUNITIES
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14 days FROM $1,559 EXTRA WEEKS FROM $420 WORK WITH
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Orphan Day Care and AIDS Education COMMUNITIES
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PROJECT:
Wildlife Conservation Program
14 days FROM $1,555 5 WEEKS FROM $3,198
voluntEER
Johannesburg, South Africa
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
Enjoy first-class wildlife viewing while volunteering on a research projectWORK in WITH aid of conservation of WORK WITH WORK WITH ANIMALS COMMUNITIES CHILDREN some of Africa’s large game.
ABOUT THIS PROJECT
ITALY
GEORGIA ARMENIA AZERBAIJAN
BULGARIA ALBANIA
TURKMENISTAN TURKEY SYRIA CYPRUS LEBANON
SIA
ISRAEL L I B Y A
I R A Q
S A U D I E G Y P T
A R A B I A
This program in South Africa is a great opportunity for those wanting an African safari experience with a big WORK difference. WORK WITH WITH Working deep within theCOMMUNITIES African bush, small teams will assist CHILDREN research scientists with vital conservation projects while also undertaking basic field guide training, such as tracking and wildlife identification skills. This is a great chance to experience Africa’s famous animals while also learning about their unique habitat. WORK WITH
I R A N
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BAHRAIN QATAR UNITED ARAB EMIRATES OMAN
R CHAD
Fast FactS and what’s included YEMEN ERITREA
Project start days: Two weeks11Sep10; 19Mar11; 11Jun11; DJIBOUTI 10Sep11. Five weeks – 02Oct10; 06Nov10 08Jan11; 12Feb11; U D A N 02Jul11; 06Aug11; 01Oct11; 05Nov11 02Apr11; S07May11; OMALIA Accommodation: Tented or dormitory style Saccommodation Getting there: Transfers from Johannesburg O.R. Tambo are included for the 2 week duration; available at an additional charge for the 5-10 week durations Duration: Minimum 2 weeks, maximum 10 weeks In-country Support: Volunteer project coordinator and staff Meals Included: All meals are included Budget: Allow for $200 per week for personal items Language Requirements: Good level of spoken & written English Trip code: STAJNBWCV
Z A M B I A
VOLUNTEER
Volunteer Project
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BOTSWANA
Johannesburg SOUTH AFRICA
How you make a difference The information gathered by volunteers is used to give an accurate picture of the predators’ impact on prey populations, determine social structure, genetics, and spatial movement. This vital information helps maintain a healthy balance of these natural resources and ultimately conserve some of Africa’s natural heritage bioregions.
A day in the life of a Volunteer Days in the bush typically start early to make the most of the animals’ most active hours. We try to fit in an hour or so rest after lunch and then head for the bush again. We return to the base in the evening for dinner round the fire while reflecting on the day’s adventures.
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Best of Botswana 9 Days From $1,474 This 9-day action packed tour is essentially a mobile camping safari. Depart from Livingstone, Zambia and travel through northern Botswana to hot spots like the Makgadikgadi Pans (where you’re bound to spot a meerkat or two), the world-famous Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve, Savuti and Chobe River Front. Trip Code: STALVIBOB
Zambia Lion Project 14 days from $2,079 Participate in hands-on research with lions in their natural environment and lend a hand on local environmental awareness projects to help protect lions and other wildlife from Livingstone, Zambia. Trip Code: GATDZLLJ
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15 days FROM $1,199 Livingstone
voluntOUr
JOHANNESBURG WORK IN
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Make a difference by volunteering at medical clinics and care facilities, and embark WORK WITHon an overland adventure that CHILDREN takes in so much of what Africa has to offer.
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About this Project
WORK WITH WITH on this adventure, highlighted Make a difference whileWORK traveling COMMUNITIES by a five-day hands-onCHILDREN volunteer project. Round out this great African experience with some amazing game viewing by boat in Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls, and a trip into the Kruger MOROCCO National Park.
YUGOSLAVIA
ITALY
PORTUGAL
ALBANIA
S PA I N
GEORGIA
BULGARIA
MACEDONIA
ARMENIA
GREECE
TURKEY
CYPRUS
TUNISIA
SYRIA
LEBANON
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ISRAEL JORDAN A L G E R I A
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ITINERARY COMMUNITIES
L I B Y A
WESTERN SAHARA
Day 1 Livingstone Arrive at any time. Days 2-6 Community Volunteer Project Volunteer in local community with a guided tour of the Falls. (5B, 5L, 5D) A U R I TA N I A Day 7 Livingstone Explore Victoria Falls – perhaps Mgo white-water rafting, canoeing, take an elephant-back safari or bungy over the river. (B) SENEGAL Day 8 Kasane/Chobe National Park Optional sunset boat GAMBIA cruise or game drive. (B,L,D) GUINEA GUINEA Day 9 Nata Watch the elephants drink from the camp’s BISSAU watering hole. (B,L,D) SIERRA Days 10-11 Palapye/Polokwane Drive through Botswana I V O R Y LEONE COAST looking out for White Rhino. (2B, 2L, 2D) LIBERIA Days 12-13 Greater Kruger Area Afternoon conservation walk and full-day game drive. (2B, 2L, 2D) Day 14 Johannesburg Option to visit Soweto or the Apartheid Museum. (B,L) Day 15 Johannesburg Depart at any time. (B)
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BURKINO FASO
FAST FACTS AND WHAT’S INCLUDED BENIN
Accommodation: Permanent tents (1 night), guest houseS U D A N NIG ERIA TOGO (5 nights), camping (7 nights), simple hotel (1 night) Transport: Overland vehicle, walking, private van Group Size: Maximum 22, Average 18 In-Country Support: Volunteer project coordinator & Mt. Keny Eldoret Chief Experience Officer (CEO)/driver, cook, local guides Kampala Queen Elizabeth NP Lake Nakuru NP Jinja Meals Included: 14 breakfasts, 12 lunches, 11 dinnersLake Bunyoni K E N YA Nairobi Serengeti NP Budget: Allow $50-65 for meals not included. Ngorongoro Crater Moshi Arusha Price based on 2010 departures, 2011 prices from $1,319 Zanziba TANZANIA
GHANA
Dar Es Sa Iringa
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Livingstone Clinic & Medical Outreach Program 14 days from $1,769 per person Make a difference by volunteering at medical clinics and care facilities. Spend 14 days providing some much needed assistance to the medical clinics and care facilities in Livingstone, help out a home for the elderly, and visit patients in the home-based care program who can not access local clinics or hospitals. Let us know if you are medically qualified – although this is not a necessity for this project, as the team will be grateful for any assistance you can give. Trip Code: GATDZLMJ
DEPARTURES 2010 Departs on Sundays Price shown is per person based on a twin share room 2011 Departs on Sundays Price from $1,319 per person based on a twin share room Tour Code: GADZPJ
Z A M B I A Kasane/ Chobe River
MALAWI
Livingstone
Nata
Volunteer Project ZIMBABWE
BOTSWANA
Palapye Polokwane
Johannesburg
Kruger NP
SOUTH AFRICA Addo Elephant NP Tsitsikamma NP Outdshoorn Cape Town
VOLUNTOUR VOLUNTOUR
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Zambia Community Work & Safari
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Anti-Poaching volunteer & Kruger Safari voluntOUr
11 days FROM $1,287 plus local payment
VICTORIA FALLS WORK WITH
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Johannesburg
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Kick off this voluntour by learning about and giving a helping hand to the Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit WORK IN WORK WITH WORK WITH ANIMALS CONSERVATION who patrol the Zambezi National COMMUNITIES Park in Victoria Falls. Before leaving the ‘Falls’ there is time to enjoy the vast array of optional adrenaline activities in the area before going on safari in Chobe and Kruger WORKNational WITH COMMUNITIES Parks en route to Johannesburg.
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BEST BITS • Anti-poaching volunteering in Victoria Falls • Victoria Falls – Africa’s most spectacular site WORK WITH • The mighty Zambezi River COMMUNITIES • Wildlife encounters in Kruger National Park • Boat safari on the Chobe River
ITINERARY
FAST FACTS & WHAT’S INCLUDED Accommodation: Camping (5 nights), permanent tent (1 night), twin share room (3 nights), bush camping (1 night) Getting there: Fly to Victoria Falls Transport: Bus, overland truck, boat, safari vehicle In-Country Support: Volunteer project coordinator, antipoaching scouts, services of a tour leader and driver on tour Meals Included: 9 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners Budget: Allow $100-150 per person for meals not included Minimum age:18 years
DEPARTURES Victoria Falls Volunteer Project
VOLUNTOUR VOLUNTOUR
Chobe National Park
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Z I M B A B W E
B O T S W A N A Kruger National Park Volunteer Project
Johannesburg
2011 and 2011 Departs on Saturdays Prices are per person based on twin share ISIC holder discounts available Local payments of $320 per person Trip code: STAVFAAPK
Days 1 – 5 Victoria Falls Anti Poaching Unit activities You will be helping to sweep the park for snares, joining patrols, checking on animal populations and water sources by foot and by vehicle. You can also enjoy the Zambezi River by joining a sunset cruise and Victoria Falls by including a guided visit to the ‘Falls’ themselves! Transfer to Livingstone. Day 6 Depart Livingstone From Livingstone cross into Botswana to the town of Kasane near Chobe National Park, where you go on a fish and eagle game viewing cruise. Days 7 - 9 Move south, via Nata and Francistown to South Africa and the famous Kruger National Park. Days 9 - 10 Kruger National Park Host to some of Africa’s most spectacular scenery visiting the Kruger National Park will give you a chance to see all of the ‘Big 5’. Day 11 Mpumalanga -Johannesburg Finally, travel via the Mpumalanga province to Johannesburg where the tour ends.
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> RAFT, CRUISE AND ABSEIL VICTORIA FALLS from $273 This combo package includes some of the best activities available. The one-day white water rafting trip is acclaimed to be the best in the world! The sunset cruise along the river gives you the chance to view elephant, giraffe, buffalo, and buck and the Abseil is a half-day activity and includes gorge swing, abseil, rap jumping, and flying fox. Trip code: STALVIVIC
EXPLORE JOHANNESBURG from $21 Stay at the Ritz Backpackers Hostel, one of the best hostels in Africa, full of character, friendly staff and heaps of facilities. Trip code: STAJNBRIZ
WORK W
CHILD
WORK
CHILD
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
work with elephants in namibia
voluntEER
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
12 days FROM $1,280
CHILDREN
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
WORK WITH
Track Namibia’s desert elephants and work on a community building program in Africa. WORK WITH COMMUNITIES
CHILDREN
WORK WITH
WORK WITH
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
COMMUNITIES
Damaraland, NAMIBIA
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
ABOUT THIS PROJECT This project takes you to the northwestern regions of the Namib Desert, traditionally known as ‘Damaraland’. Here in this harsh WORK WITH WORK WITH tribal wilderness that runs parallel to the Skeleton Coast National COMMUNITIES CHILDREN Park, a small population of desert-adapted elephants have come into conflict with the local human population, and it is the aim of this project to manage the conflict and assist in its resolution.
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
Bight of Biafra
GULF
How you make a difference The majority of the volunteering will require you to help local farmers with community work, building protective walls around their water points and teaching them the skills they need to manage the conflict with the resident elephant populations.
A day in the life of a Volunteer You will spend your first week at a remote desert camp; you will be building walls around vitally important water sources for Damaraland homesteads. The next week is spent out on patrol with the project staff. So you will pack up some camping equipment and set off in 4x4’s looking for and tracking these elusive elephants. The work you do on this project is exciting, rewarding and vitally important.
EQUATORIAL GUINEA
OF
GUINEA
Cap Lopez Fast FactS and what’s included
Project start days: Mondays twice a month Lake Mai-Ndombe Accommodation: Campsite, bush camp Getting there: Head to Walvis Bay or Windhoek then take a bus to the project Duration: 2 weeks Ponta do Padrão In-country Support: Volunteer project coordinator and staff Meals Included: All meals are included Budget: $20 per person per day for snacks Ponta des Palmeirinhas Language Requirements: Good spoken & written English Prices: Prices based on 2010 departures Note: Accommodation immediately before and after the project is not included Trip code: STAWDHELE
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Taste of Namibia 6 days from $866 per person
Etosha National Park Volunteer Project
N A
M I B
Swakopmund
N A M I B I A
T S E R D E
This 6-day Taste of Namibia tour is designed to offer a quick “wildlife snapshot” of Namibia’s premier Big Game location, Etosha National Park. It also gives travelers the opportunity to visit one of the world’s highest dunes in the world’s oldest desert at Sesriem & Sossusvlei! This tour is perfect for those on a tight budget who want to see the best that this country has to offer! Trip Code: STAWDHNAM
Cape Fria
A T L A N T I C O C E A N
Windhoek
Okavango Basin Lake Ngami
VOLUNTEER
ON
PROJECT:
44
PROJECT: voluntEER
CAMP KENYA
1-3 MONTHS FROM $2,855 KENYA
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
Work on a wide range of initiatives designed to improve the living standard of rural Kenyan communities WORK WITH and protect fragile wildlife habitats CHILDREN for the benefit of local people.
ABOUT THIS PROJECT In rural Kenya, the majority of people are living below the WORK WITH WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES poverty line and access to proper sanitation, clean drinking CHILDREN
water, healthcare, and an education are often limited or nonexistent. Work on projects at primary schools and get involved in conservation and wildlife work on the outskirts of the famous Tsavo National Park. WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
How you make a difference Fast FactS and what’s included Accommodation: Mixture of traditional thatched bandas, safari-style tents & dome tents Duration: Minimum one month stay, maximum three month stay Getting there: Transfers to/from Mombasa airport are included Meals: All meals are included Budget: Please allow $80 per week In-country support: Fully staffed camp Trip Code: CAMPS
Mount Kenya
You will work on a number of sustainable development projects to improve living conditions for children and adults. Work may range from classroom refurbishment, building desks and constructing water tanks to teaching, playing sports and replantation projects.
A day in the life of a Volunteer Time will be spent contributing to vitally important conservation and community projects. Take part in game drives and wildlife monitoring at a stunning Elephant Sanctuary. Improve the learning environment for some of Kenya’s poorest children by constructing brand new classrooms and teaching. Conservation projects include primate habitat and marine programs, de-snaring and habitat protection in an 80,000-acre private wildlife sanctuary.
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> MASAI MARA CAMPING SAFARI 4 DAYS From $649 per person This brilliant safari will put you right in the wilds of Masai Mara. You will spend two nights camping and one night in Nairobi. Trip Code: GADKMM
VOLUNTEER
Jomo Kenyatta Airport Lake Victoria
45
Nairobi Camp Tsavo
Moi Interntaional Airport
H
TIES
TH
TIES
19 days FROM $2,499 Nairobi
voluntOUr
Nairobi, KENYA WORK IN
CONSERVATION
Make a difference by volunteering with children at one of seven local schools before embarking on a safari through the WORK WITH CHILDREN world famous parks of Kenya.
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
WO
COMM
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COM
W
COM
BEST BITS • Volunteer at local schools near Nairobi • Observe millions of flamingos and wildlife at Lake Nakuru WORK WITH •CHILDREN Travel the Masai Mara in search of the “Big 5” • Hike through one of Kenya’s last indigenous forests in Kakamega Forest • Spend two nights staying in a local community near Kendu Bay
ITINERARY Day 1 Nairobi Arrive in Nairobi at any time. Days 2-6 Volunteer Project in Limuru Spend five days volunteering at local schools in Limuru, just outside Nairobi. (5B, 5L, 5D) Day 7 Return to Nairobi (B) Day 8 Lake Naivasha Drive to the edge of the Rift Valley and camp beside Lake Naivasha. (B, L) Day 9 Journey to Nakuru Enjoy an afternoon safari in search of the black and white rhino, lion and the elusive leopard. Days 10-11 Kakamega Rainforest Drive west to Kakamega home to a variety of birds and monkeys. (B, 2L, 2D) Day 12 Kisumu After a morning walk, drive to Kisumu and enjoy the city’s local market. (B) Days 13-14 Kendu Bay Village Experience how many rural Africans live on a traditional home-stay. (B, 2L, 2D) Day 15 Kericho Explore Kenya’s world famous tea growing region. (B) Days 16-17 Masai Mara Spend time game viewing with excellent chances of seeing the “Big 5”. (B, 2L, 2D) Day 18 Nairobi Enjoy a game drive in the Masai Mara then continue back to Nairobi. (B, L) Day 19 Depart Nairobi. (B)
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Nairobi Crafts and Markets From $101 per person Engulf yourself in the brightly-colored woven and beaded crafts of the Kenyan people! You’ll have a rare chance to mix with the locals as you discuss their wares and maybe take a few treasures home. Trip Code: STANBONAI
CHILL OUT AT THE BEACH 7 nights from $935 per person Stay at the stylish Nyali Beach Resort, a classic colonial and popular hotel with ample facilities and a wonderful stretch of beach. Trip Code: STAMBANYA
FAST FACTS AND WHAT’S INCLUDED Accommodation: Simple hotels (6 nights), permanent tented camp (2 nights), shared cottages (8 nights), community home-stay (2 nights) Duration: 19 days / 18 nights Transport: Private van, 4x4 safari van, walking Group Size: Maximum 13; Average 8 In-Country Support: Volunteer project coordinator, Chief Experience Officer (CEO), driver, cook, local guides Meals Included: 14 Breakfasts, 12 Lunches, 11 Dinners Budget: Allow $120-145 per person for meals not included
DEPARTURES 2010 and 2011 Departs on Sundays, the project is closed in December. Prices are per person based on a twin share. Tour Code: GADKCDJ Lake
Victoria
Kakamega Forest Kisumu Kendu Bay
Nakuru Kericho
Lake Naivasha
Masai Mara NP Volunteer Project
Nairobi
VOLUNTOUR VOLUNTOUR
IES
Kenya Teaching & Safari Adventure
46
PROJECT: voluntEER
CAMP TANZANIA
1 MONTH FROM $2,895
TANZANIA
WORK IN
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
CONSERVATION
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
ork on the foothills of Kilimanjaro as W well as in coastal locations alongside rural Tanzanians, to develop school WORK WITH CHILDREN and community facilities and protect fragile wildlife habitats.
ABOUT THIS PROJECT WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
These community projects revolve around village life and learning how villagers sustain themselves with ocean-related WORK WITH activities such as fishing, seaweed farming and boat building. CHILDREN The main Camp Tanga is situated in a village on a marine park that protects prehistoric fish known as coelacanths. This project focuses on finding a balance between protecting and utilizing the environment. There are two primary schools within walking distance. The work will vary and will have a strong focus on coastal sustainability and management, but you should get the chance to teach basic lessons and assist in the classrooms, renovate school buildings, construct classroom furniture and play sports after school with the local children.
How you make a difference Fast FactS and what’s included Accommodation: Traditional thatched bandas, safari tents & dome tents Duration: Minimum stay one month, maximum stay three months Getting there: Transfers to/from Kilimanjaro airport are included Meals: All meals are included Budget: Please allow $80 per week In-country support: Fully staffed camp Trip Code: CAMPS
VOLUNTEER
A day in the life of a Volunteer Time will be spent contributing to important community and conservation projects. Take part in important marine awareness programs to help local people preserve their environment to protect their own future. Work to improve conditions in both primary and secondary schools in some of Tanzania’s poorest communities by constructing classrooms, teaching English and providing environmental education classes.
EXTEND YOUR STAY >>
Lake Victoria
Nairobi
Camp Mbokomu. Moshi Kilimanjaro Airport
Camp Kilda
Das Es Salaam Airport
47
You will work on a number of award-winning sustainable projects to improve living conditions for children and adults and to protect fragile wildlife habitats. Work ranges from classroom construction and refurbishment, improving and creating clean water sources to teaching, playing sports and reforestation projects.
KILIMANJARO TREK - MARANGU ROUTE 7 days from $1,449 This is the easiest route to the summit, affectionately know as the Coca-Cola Route. Our most popular trek, Marangu takes you at a gentle pace through forests, moorlands, across the saddle and then to Uhuru Peak. Trip Code: GATDTKMN
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
voluntEER
WORK WITH
ANIMALS CHILDREN
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
CHILDREN
WORK WITH
WORK WITH
ABOUT THIS PROJECT Assist teachers at local schools in the beachside community of Jambiani. At the pre-school, help the children develop their WORK WITH creativity through painting and coloring and playing educational CHILDREN games. Volunteers at primary and secondary schools will spend their time assisting local teachers by providing support for students that need extra help.
How you make a difference Many schools have large class sizes and limited resources you’ll help individual students gain confidence in their studies. English language training provides a great benefit to students and their parents, and TEFL qualified volunteers are appreciated!
A day in the life of a Volunteer In the mornings and afternoons you’ll assist in the classrooms or helping out on other community projects. Volunteers will have access to bicycles to travel to and from the schools.
Fast FactS and what’s included Project start days: Mondays year round except end July / beginning August Accommodation: Multi-share beach bungalows Getting there: Transfers included from Zanzibar Airport Duration: Minimum stay 2 weeks, maximum stay 8 weeks In-country Support: Volunteer project coordinator and staff Meals Included: All meals are included Budget: Allow $80 per person per week Prices: Prices based upon 2010 and 2011 departures Trip code: GATDTCPJ
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> I n d i a n O c e a n
C h a n ne l
Get to know Tanzania’s welcoming people, witness some of Africa’s most spectacular destinations, and make a lasting impact – the best of both worlds. Volunteer on a community project on the spice island of Zanzibar, and then roam from the Indian Ocean to the Serengeti. Trip code: GADTPJ
Z A N Z I B A R Stone Town
Volunteer Project
T A N Z A N I A
VOLUNTEER
Kendwa
Project Tanzania and Safari From $2,349 per person
z i b a r Z a n
ITIES
Volunteer at one of four local schools on the island of Zanzibar, helping to organize educational games, arts & WORK WITH CHILDREN crafts activities and sports games.
WORK WITH
TH
Stone Town, Zanzibar
COMMUNITIES
TIES
14 days FROM $1,459 EXTRA WEEKS FROM $380 WORK WITH
TH
Teach children in zanzibar COMMUNITIES
H
TIES
PROJECT:
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PROJECT: voluntEER
THE Marine Conservation Expedition
5 WEEKS FROM $3,495 10 WEEKS FROM $5,495
Mahé Island, THE Seychelles
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
Scuba dive and join marine research projects in one of the world’s most pristine environments. WORK WITH WORK WITH COMMUNITIES
CHILDREN
ABOUT THIS PROJECT The unique training opportunities on this expedition are second to none; depending on season you mayWORK learn about and WORK WITH WITH participate in coral reef research, invertebrate surveys, COMMUNITIES CHILDRENwhale shark migration observations, plankton sampling, in-water turtle surveys, and turtle nesting research! You will have the opportunity to vastly expand your knowledge of the tropical marine environment and gain research diving and marine survey skills in a stunning island location. WORK WITH
How you makeCOMMUNITIES a difference Volunteers are trained to such a high standard that the information they gather is used to show an accurate picture of the overall health of the Seychelles Coral Reefs used by the government for conservation management policies. The work you do will help to ensure that the reef is managed in a sustainable way.
Fast FactS and what’s included Project start days: 01 Oct10; 05 Nov10; 07 Jan11; 11 Feb11; 01 Apr11; 06 May11; 01 Jul11; 05 Aug11; 30 Sep11; 04 Nov11 Accommodation: Dormitory-style accommodation Getting there: Transfers are included from Mahe Duration: Minimum stay 5 weeks, maximum stay 10 weeks Meals included: All meals are included Budget: Allow $100-150 per week In-country Support: Volunteer project coordinator and staff Meals Included: Yes Language Requirements: Good level of written and spoken English Prices: Prices are based on 2010 and 2011 departures Please note: This Project is for divers who have PADI, CCI or equivalent certification only Trip code: STASEZMAR
Victoria
VOLUNTEER
Baie Ternay Volunteer Project
49
S E Y C H E L L E S Mahe
A day in the life of a Volunteer The majority of your research time will be spent diving out on the coral reef, collecting abundance, diversity, and health data on the coral and other invertebrates and fish. All the data you collect is reviewed and loaded onto the project database. At the end of your day, the whole team gathers for the evening debrief and to eat and socialize.
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
Mozambique Orphan Pre-School
voluntEER
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
14 days FROM $1,459 EXTRA WEEKS FROM $440
CHILDREN
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
WORK WITH
FRANCE
YUGOSLAVIA
ITALY
ALBANIA
S PA I N
ABOUT THIS PROJECT
CHILDREN
WORK WITH
WORK WITH
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
Spend two weeks or more helping out a pre-school learning center, teach English to young adults and even build a home WORK WITH CHILDREN for a family who was affected by the cyclone that devastated Mozambique. PORTUGAL
COMMUNITIES
Vilanculos, Mozambique
COMMUNITIES
GEORGIA
BULGARIA
MACEDONIA GREECE
Work alongside local teachers in preparing young children for WORK WITH WORK WITH COMMUNITIES CHILDREN primary school. Some activities may include singing and dancing M O R Oand C C O Xitsua, encouraging with the children in English, Portuguese creativity through painting and teaching basic English lessons.
TURKEY
SYRIA
CYPRUS
TUNISIA
AZERBAIJA
ARMENIA
LEBANON
I R A Q
ISRAEL JORDAN
How you make a difference
A L G E R I A
K L I B Y A
WESTERN Volunteers will assist the teacher by providing extra support for WORK WITH SAHARA the students, and carry out with English language classes using COMMUNITIES flash cards, games and objects.
S A U D I A R A B I A
E G Y P T
A day in the life of a Volunteer M A U R I TA N I A
Mornings and afternoons will be spent assisting teachers at the M A L I schools, as well as helping out local community projects. Lunch and dinner is prepared SENEGAL for you back at the project house, with evenings free to relax and socialize. GAMBIA
N I G E R CHAD
GUINEA BISSAU
Fast FactS and what’s included
GUINEA
BENIN GHANA
SIERRA
IVORY
LEONE
TOGO
COAST LIBERIA
YE
ERITREA
BURKINO FASO
DJIBOU
Project start days: Mondays year roundSexcept U D A N December NIGERIA Accommodation: Multi-share (up to 6 per room) in thatched bungalows near the beach Getting there: Private transfers to/from Vilanculos Airport Duration: Minimum stay 2 weeks, maximum stay 8 weeks In-country Support: On-site volunteer project coordinator Mt. Kenya and staff Eldoret Kampala Queen Elizabeth NP Meals Included: All meals are included Lake Nakuru NP Jinja K E N YA Lake Bunyoni Budget: Allow $85 - 100 per week Nairobi Serengeti NP Prices: Prices are based on 2010 and Ngorongoro Crater Moshi Arusha 2011 departures Trip code: GATDQPSJ Zanzibar TANZANIA
S
Dar Es Salaam Iringa
EXTEND YOUR STAY >>
Lake Malawi
chill out at the beach From $410 per person per night
Z A M B I A MALAWI
The Dugong Beach Lodge is romantic simplicity at its best! Get off the beaten track and enjoy your nights in this remote wildlife sanctuary where the lodgings are luxurious, the service of the utmost and the surroundings the stuff of dreams! Trip code: STAVNXDBL
MOZAMBIQUE ZIMBABWE Vilanculos Volunteer Project N A M I B I A Maputo
VOLUNTEER
S
PROJECT:
SOUTH AFRICA
50
SOUTH AMERICA
A continent of contrasts
Whether you are after relaxation on the tropical beaches, want to traverse the high altitude salt flats or experience the dense rainforest, then South America certainly delivers!
IDEAS TO EXTEND YOUR STAY 1
TREK THE INCA TRAIL, PERU
The Inca Trail is much more than a 25-mile stroll – it’s an astonishing four-day trek through ancient ruins and mindblowing scenery.
2
CRUISE THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
Famous for their spectacular wildlife, these islands were the inspiration behind Darwin’s Theory of Evolution.
3
DANCE ALL NIGHT IN BUENOS AIRES
Feel the passion, aggression and flare of Tango - get intimate and dance through the night with some supreme musical talent.
4
WITNESS THE MIGHTY Iguazu FALLS
Prepare for excitement overload as you straddle a whole three countries’ borders.
5
CROSS A SALT LAKE
The piercing blue skies and brilliant white salt combine to create an impressive spectacle at Salar de Uyuni.
North Atlantic Ocean
VENEZUELA
COLOMBIA
SOUTH AMERICA
ECUADOR
51
BRAZIL
PERU
AVERAGE HIGH TEMPERATURES CITY
J F M A M J J A S O N D
Lima 79 Cuzco 63 Puerto Maldonado 86 Galapagos Islands 81 Quito 64 Buenos Aires 84 Iguazu Falls 88 Salvador 86 Rio de Janeiro 90
79 63 86 82 64 81 88 86 91
79 64 88 86 64 79 86 86 90
75 64 86 86 64 72 77 86 86
72 66 86 81 64 64 73 84 82
68 64 86 77 66 59 68 82 81
66 64 86 75 66 57 70 81 81
64 64 91 75 66 61 72 81 81
66 66 91 73 68 64 75 82 81
68 68 90 75 66 70 81 82 82
72 66 90 77 66 75 82 84 86
75 64 86 77 64 81 86 86 88
South Pacific Ocean
BOLIVIA PARAGUAY
CHILE ARGENTINA
South Atlantic Ocean
ith
ng w Worki
S O G N
SOUTH AMERICA
hical t e e h t e choic
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PROJECT:
Peru Amazon Wildlife Adventure
14 days FROM $1,189 EXTRA WEEKS FROM $500
voluntEER
Puerto Maldonado, PERU
WORK IN
Help to feed and care for wild animals at a wildlife rehabilitation center in the WORK Peruvian Amazon with plenty WITH WORK WITH COMMUNITIES CHILDREN of time to experience the natural wonders of the rainforest.
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
CONSERVATION
ABOUT THIS PROJECT This project is devoted to promoting and welfare of WORK WITH the protection WORK WITH COMMUNITIES wild animals as well as the conservation of theirCHILDREN natural environment so that they can be released back into their natural habitats. The project is home to a variety of wild animals in need of rehabilitation including: Howler Monkeys, Peccaries, Macaws, and many more. This project also helps by promoting the conservation of the rainforest and the sustainable management of natural resources. WORK WITH
C A R I B B E A N
ANAMA
How you make a difference
S E A
Caracas Panama
COMMUNITIES
You will spend your days working alongside local staff who will TRINIDAD &teach you how to care for wild animals, with an emphasis on species TOBAGO threatened by the destruction of their habitat and illegal wildlife trade. Puerto La Cruz Mochima N.P.
VENEZUELA
Orinoco Delta
A day in the life of a Volunteer
Work alongside staff to feed and care for animals so they can be successfully released back to their natural habitats. Other Canaima Canaima N.P. activities may include the maintenance of an interpretive trail, Fast FactS and what’s includedAngel Falls G U Y A N A construction of animal enclosures and interaction with the local Santa Elena FRENCH Accommodation: Shared rustic cabin (13 nights) Santo Domingo community. InGUIANA your free time there are lots of activities to enjoy Getting there: Transfers to/from Puerto Maldonado airport Boa Vista such S U Ras I Ntrekking A M E along the nature trails and watching A T L Aparrots N T I Cfrom O C E A are included COLOMBIA the project’s small bird hide. Duration: Minimum stay 2 weeks, maximum stay 3 months In-country Support: Local project coordinator Meals Included: 13 breakfasts, 12 lunches, 13 dinners Budget: Allow $20-30 per person for meals not included Salinópolis Language Requirements: Basic Spanish is recommended Belém Prices: Prices above are based upon 2010 departures Santaém São Luis Trip code: GATSPAWJ Manaus Jericoacoara Ciudad Bolivar
Ubajar N.P.
B
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N
Forta
L
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> The Inca Trail From $749 per person per person
VOLUNTEER
P
53
E
R
U
Spend a week retracing the steps of the ancient Inca civilization, highlighted by the spectacular Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu. Trip Code: GASPIT
Lima Puerto Maldonado Volunteer Project
Salvado
Cuzco
Morro de São Brasília Porto Seguro
P A C I F I C O C E A N Pantanal
Campo Grande Conceição da Barra
Bonito
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
voluntEER
WORK WITH
ANIMALS CHILDREN
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
CHILDREN
WORK WITH
WORK WITH
Experience all that Cuzco has to offer while volunteering at a drop-in center for children that gives them the hope, WORK WITH CHILDREN confidence and skills needed to create a bright future for themselves.
WORK WITH
ABOUT THIS PROJECT WORK WITH Children living in extreme poverty in Cuzco are often forced toCHILDREN drop out of school to work or beg on the streets to help support their families. This is a voluntary drop-in for children where they can get help with homework, a hot meal and participate in a variety of workshops.
How you make a difference You will be contributing to a project that provides children from poor families with a place to get guidance and support. You can make a lasting difference in their lives by giving them love and the support needed to help build their self-esteem.
C A R I B B E A N
S E A
A day in the life of a Volunteer Assist with a variety of activities such as teaching English, helping with homework, organizing games and activities, helping out in the kitchen, or participating in various workshops.
Caracas Panama
VENEZUE
PANAMA
Fast FactS and what’s included Project Start Days: Mondays year round. NB This project is closed 23Dec – 04Jan and 28Jul – 30Jul for national holidays. Accommodation: Hotel (1 night), shared volunteer apartment COLOMBIA (19 nights) Getting there: Head to Cuzco to start this project Duration: Minimum stay 3 weeks In-country Support: Volunteer project coordinator and staff Meals Included: No meals included Budget: Allow $150-200 per week for meals not included Language Requirements: Basic Spanish is strongly recommended Prices: Based on 2010 and 2011 departures Trip code: GATSPCKJ
Canaima N
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Inca Experience: Peru & Bolivia Hop and Hop off Bus from $231 per person This hop-on/hop-off bus pass is an easy and flexible way for you to arrange your personalized itinerary to some extraordinary places, throw in some exciting activities and amazing support and you’ve got yourself a dream trip come true! * All ISIC holders get a discounted rate. Trip Code: STALIMINC
P
E
R
Lima
Cuzco
Amauta Language School From $296 per person per WEEK The ideal preparation to start your travels and help you get the most out of volunteering in South America. The Amauta Language School offer courses from 1 week to 1 year. Trip Code: STACUZAMA
U
P A C I F I C O C E A N
VOLUNTEER
TH
ITIES
Cuzco, PERU
COMMUNITIES
TIES
21 days FROM $849 EXTRA WEEKS FROM $140
WORK WITH
TH
Volunteer with Cuzco Kids COMMUNITIES
H
TIES
PROJECT:
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Community Development in Peru 11 days FROM $1,399
voluntOUr
LIMA WORK WITH
ANIMALS
WORK WITH
CUZCO, PERU
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
COMMUNITIES
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
Experience what life is really like in the Peruvian Andes while WORK WITH volunteering in a rural community WORK WITH COMMUNITIES CHILDREN home to Inca Trail porters and women weavers. Participate in their daily life and see the difference that only a few days can make before hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu! WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
BEST BITS
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
• Lima • Cuzco • Sacred Valley • Inca Trail WORK WITH • Machu Picchu COMMUNITIES • Family home-stay • Volunteer project
ITINERARY C A R I B B E A N
S E A
FAST FACTS & WHAT’S INCLUDED Accommodation: Simple hotels (5 nights), camping (3 nights), basic family home-stay (2 nights) Transport: Local flight, private bus, hiking Group Size: Maximum 14; Average 10 In-Country Support: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides Meals Included: 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners Budget: Allow $95-125 for meals and drinks not included Trip Code: GASPPJ
VOLUNTOUR VOLUNTOUR
DEPARTURES
55
2010 Departs on Monday Price $1,399 based on sharing a twin room
P Lima
E
R
U Ollantaytambo Cuzco
Machu Picchu
Community Lake Titicaca Volunteer Project
P A C I F I C O C E A N
2011 Departs on Monday Price $1,539 based on sharing a twin room Tour Code: SPPJ
Day 1 Lima Arrive in Lima at any time. Day 2 Fly to Cuzco Morning flight to Cuzco with free time to explore this friendly colonial town. Days 3-4 Community Volunteer Project Spend two days volunteering in a rural community where you will be welcomed into the hearts and homes of Inca Trail porters and women weavers. (1B, 2L, 2D) Day 5 Cuzco Return to Cuzco with free time to relax and explore the city. (B) Day 6 Ollantaytambo Travel with your local guide through the A T L A N T I C O C E A N Sacred Valley and visit the majestic Pisac archaeological site. Continue to the last living Inca town of Ollantaytambo. Days 7-10 Inca Trail Begin a once-in-a-lifetime journey on the ancient trail of the Incas. On the final day, climb the steps to the Sun Gate to watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu. Return to Cuzco by train in the afternoon. (3B, 3L, 3D) Day 11 Depart Cuzco.
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Stay in Cuzco From $13 per person Stay Simple - The Point Hostel From $13 per person The Point is a beautiful, clean and friendly hostel located in the center of Cuzco. Trip Code: STACUZPOI Stay Smart – Casa Andina Korichanca from $65 per person Just 3 blocks from the main square in Cuzco and full of character, this hotel was originally an 18th century manor house. Trip Code: STACUZCAS Stay Stylish – Casa Andina from $103 per person A beautifully renovated 18th century manor house, just 3 blocks from Cuzco’s Plaza de Armas, cozy fireplaces and 3 interior patios make this hotel a special place to stay. Trip Code: STACUSCAS
WORK IN
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Sun, Surf & Volunteer in Peru voluntEER
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14 days FROM $1,879 EXTRA WEEKS FROM $560
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If you’re a pro surfer or not, you can make a difference in the lives of young people on an educational surf WORK WITH CHILDREN project in a small fishing village in Northern Peru.
WORK WITH
Piura , PERU
COMMUNITIES
ABOUT THIS PROJECT WITH creates life-enriching WORK WITH ThisWORK project experiences in coastal COMMUNITIES CHILDREN surf programs that develop communities through educational young people into healthy and empowered adults.
How you make a difference You will be helping young people to develop healthy habits both in and outside of the classroom, to appreciate nature and to WORK WITH acquire life skills while building confidence and having fun. No COMMUNITIES surfing experience required!
A day in the life of a Volunteer Your contribution is based on your skills and experience; assisting with English and arts programs, environmental education, life-skills, swimming or surfing. Surfs up!
Fast FactS and what’s included
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Stay in Lima
C A R I B
Project start days: Tuesdays year round Accommodation: Shared rustic volunteer house (13 nights) Getting there: Transfer to/from Piura airport to project is included Duration: Minimum stay 2 weeks, no maximum stay In-country Support: Local project coordinator Meals Included: 13 breakfasts, 12 lunches, 13 dinners PANAMA Budget: Allow $20-30 per person for meals not included Language Requirements: Basic Spanish is recommended Prices: Prices above are based upon 2010 departures, 2011 price is $2,069 and extra weeks at $560 Trip code: GATSPESJ
COLO
The Point Hostel From $12 per person per night Housed in a beautiful little colonial bungalow, The Point sits in Lima’s bohemian district of Barranco. A top choice for party backpackers, this place has once of the livliest bars in Lima not to mention a stack of great facilities * All ISIC holders get a free “The Point” gadget. Trip Code: STALIMPOI San Agustin Colonial From $41 per person per night This little beauty is a charming hotel in the heart of Miraflores minutes from the coast, pre-Inca ruins and some of the cities best nightlife and restaurants. This place has more character than you can poke a stick at and won’t blow the budget! Trip Code: STALIMSAN Casa Andina Private Collection From $120 per person per night Believe the raving reviews - this place has everything! To enjoy true Peruvian hospitality at its very best, you’ve come to the right place. Set right in the middle of this magical metropolis, there’ll be no time wasted squeezing the excitement out of every moment! Trip Code: STALIMPCL
Quito
ECUADOR Lobitos Volunteer Project
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Conservation in the Galapagos voluntEER
17 days FROM $1,999 EXTRA WEEKS FROM $450 The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador Volunteer on San Cristobal Island helping to conserve one of the last remnants of native vegetation. WORK IN WORK WITH WORK WITH WORK WITH assist with COMMUNITIES reforestation, CHILDREN CONSERVATION You’llANIMALS agricultural work and station maintenance. WORK WITH
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ABOUT THIS PROJECT
A day in the life of a Volunteer
The aim of this Biological Research Station is to conserve native highland forests by eradicating invasive plant species and to replace them with native trees and vegetation. The project works collaboratively with local landowners to develop agricultural alternatives for the production of vegetables and fruits to sell to local universities, restaurants and hotels. San Cristobal is the oldest and one of the richest islands in the Galapagos. Here you can observe Galapagos Tortoises, iguanas, two species of sea lions, and much more.
You’ll be working up to 8 hours a day with regular breaks and a siesta time. Occasionally volunteers are expected to work half-days on Saturdays, but for the rest of the weekends and evenings, these are your own. During your free time you can explore this amazing island, there’s a lot to do on San Cristobal you can head to a waterfall, the beach, the freshwater lake, or check out the wildlife.
How you make a difference
VOLUNTEER
Every day new exotic and invasive species are being introduced to the island, through importation. By helping with reforestation and replacing exotic invasive plants with native species you will be restoring the Galapagos to its natural state.
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GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
San Cristobal Volunteer Project
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EXTEND YOUR STAY >> The Ecuador Experience From $999 per person per person Immerse yourself in Ecuadorian culture in the remote interior jungle and cultural heartland of the country. Highlights include a wild train ride through the Devil’s Nose, and visits to local community projects. Trip Code: GAREE
VOLUNTEER
Project Start Days: Daily year round Accommodation: Hotel in Quito (2 nights), Shared rustic cabin (14 nights) Getting there: Transfers to/from the project orientation meeting in Quito on Day 2 are included and return flights from Quito to San Cristobal Island are included Duration: Minimum stay 2 weeks, maximum stay 3 months. Volunteers are expected to work 8 hours a day, 22 days per month, therefore having 8 vacation days per month to be used upon approval of the project coordinator In-country Support: Local project coordinators in Quito and San Cristobal Meals Included: 14 breakfasts, 14 lunches, 14 dinners Budget: Allow $60-75 per person per week for meals not included Prices: Based on 2010 departures, 2011 departures from $2,179 with extra weeks from $450 Trip code: GATSEGEJ
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Fast FactS and what’s included
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PROJECT:
Coastal Farming in Ecuador
28 days FROM $999 EXTRA WEEKS FROM $230
voluntEER
MANTA, ECUADOR
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Enjoy all that the Rio Muchacho Farm and this coastal community have to offer by helping out on the WORK WITH CHILDREN organic farm and assisting at the primary school.
ABOUT THIS PROJECT This WORK project is a training WORK and education center for agricultural WITH WITH COMMUNITIES CHILDREN sustainability, and offers a wide variety of ecotourism activities for visitors. It promotes local sustainability through the environmental school and working directly with the community.
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Fast Fact and what’s included C A R I B
B E A N
How you make a difference
S E A
You’ll learn about creating a healthy and sustainable lifestyle Project start days: Mondays year round while contributing to development of this educational center Accommodation: Shared rustic cabin (27 nights) a model for self-sufficient living. You can also help at the local Getting there: Transfers to/from Manta airport to the environmental primary Mochima N.P. school. project in Bahia are included Caracas Duration: Minimum stay 2 weeks Panama Local project coordinator A day in the life of a Volunteer In-country Support: V E N E Z U E L A Delta P A N A M A breakfasts, 26 lunches, 27 dinners Activities include planting Orinoco and harvesting crops, maintaining Meals Included: 27 Ciudad Bolivar vegetable gardens, composting, weeding, nursery work, and Budget: Allow $20-30 per week for meals not included reforestation. Help out at the environmental primary school by Language Requirements: Basic Spanish is recommended organizing educational games, arts & crafts, and teaching Prices: Prices above are based upon 2010 departures, 2011 Angel Falls basic English. price is $1,109 and extra weeks at $230 Santa Elena Trip code: GATSEOFJ
EXTEND YOUR STAY >>
VOLUNTEER
Quito Manta
Bahia de Caraquez Volunteer Project
ECUADOR
59 Trujillo
Ecuador Highlands Voluntour 9 days from $839 p er person Departing from Quito, you’ll enjoy a guided tour to the Ecuadorian indigenous communities, colorful markets, waterfalls, and sacred Santaém lakes. You’ll also spend five days living and volunteering alongside Manaus an indigenous family in the Ecuadorian Highlands. You’ll get to participate in the daily activities of your host family, at the school, or on the communal farm. You may also get to help paint schools, assist reforestation projects or teach English. Activities depend on your interests and what’s happening in the community while you are there. Price based on 2010 departures; 2011 departures from $929 Trip Code: TSEEHB B R A
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13 days FROM $1,299 LA PAZ
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Experience the colonial history and cultures of Bolivia while volunteering in a local indigenous WORK WITH CHILDREN community.
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BEST BITS • La Paz, Sucre • Volunteering at Hacienda Candelaria WORK WITH WORK WITH •COMMUNITIES Potosi Silver Mines CHILDREN • 4WD excursion through the Uyuni Salt Flats
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Day 1 La Paz Arrive in La Paz. C A R I B B E A N S E A Days 2-3 Sucre Fly to the colonial town of Sucre – maybe visit the 60-million-year-old dinosaur tracks. WORK WITH TRINIDAD & COMMUNITIES TOBAGO Day 4 Hacienda Candelaria Travel to the village of Candelaria to Puerto La Cruz Caracas Mochima N.P. meet local weavers and share with them an afternoon weaving Panama demonstration and bake bread in traditional clay ovens. (L, D) VENEZUELA Orinoco Delta PANAMA Ciudad Bolivar Day 5 Volunteer at Hacienda Candelaria A day’s volunteering work alongside members of this indigenous community. (B,L,D) Canaima Canaima N.P. Angel Falls Day 6 Hacienda Candelaria/Sucre Visit to traditional, colorful G U YA N A Santa Elena Tarabuco Market en route to Sucre. (B) Santo Domingo Day 7 Potosi A UNESCO World Heritage Site – you can choose to Boa Vista SURI COLOMBIA descend into an operational silver mine! FAST FACTS AND WHAT’S INCLUDED Days 8-10 Uyuni / Salt Lakes Excursion Spend an unforgettable three Accommodation: Hotels (7 nights), Basic shared accommodation days exploring the remote salt flats by 4WD vehicle. (2B, 3L, 2D) (4Otavalo nights),Cayambe Bus/train (1 night) Quito Quijos River Machalilla Day 11 Night Bus/Train to La Paz Return to Uyuni and take Transport: Local flight, private van, public bus, train, 4WD truck Cotopaxi Quilatoa Tena Baños Amazon Jungle Riobamba a bus/train trip that brings you back to La Paz by mid-day the GroupESize: Maximum C U A D O R 16; Average 10 Urbina following day. Cuenca Guayaquil In-Country Support: Volunteer project coordinator, Chief Galapagos Manaus Mountain Refuge Alausí Day 12 La Paz Take the afternoon to explore the world’s highest TumbesExperience Officer (CEO), local guides Ingapirca capital city. Meals Included: 4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners Day 13 Depart La Paz. Budget: Allow $145-190 for meals not included
About this Project
B
Activities are based on the community’s needs when you visit and may include working on the land, building fences, or digging trenches and developing water systems.
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Inca Experience: Peru & Bolivia Hop and Hop off Bus Network (La Paz to CUZCO) From $231 per person per pass The ancient world of the Inca’s is one that has fascinated people for centuries. This hop-on/hop-off pass is an easy way to arrange a personalized itinerary to some extraordinary places! Trip code: STALIMINC
The Death Road: Downhill Biking (La Paz to Coroico) FROM $125 per person per TRIP If there’s one thing better than cycling in a foreign country, it’s cycling downhill in a foreign country. Choose your bike and a helmet that fits and you’re ready to ride, dropping 4,000m in five or six sometimes hair-raising hours through some sensational scenery. Trip Code: STALPBBIK
DEPARTURES 2010 and 2011 Departs on Sundays Price $1,299 based on sharing a twin room Tour Code: GASBCDJ P A C I F I C O C E A N
B O L I V IA Lake Titicaca
La Paz Sucre Volunteer Project Potosi Uyuni Salt Lakes
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Bolivia Discovery
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Teach English In Buenos Aires
28 days FROM $1,439 EXTRA WEEKS FROM $450
Buenos Aires, ARGENTINA
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Volunteer with children and young people in Buenos Aires. Share your skills WORK andWITHenthusiasm by assisting CHILDREN in teaching English to students of all ages and backgrounds.
ABOUT THIS PROJECT
S E A
Volunteers will be matched with WORK WITH WORK WITHpartner organizations across COMMUNITIES CHILDREN Buenos Aires that are in need of support. Where you are placed is based both on needs of the community and your specific interests and abilities – whether it be working with children and young people or teaching English.
How you make a difference
A T L A N T I C
O C E
WORK WITH This project is extremely rewarding as you assist staff in COMMUNITIES local day care centers, community centers or nurseries. A N You can also teach English in under-served communities, helping to increase educational and employment prospects for your students.
A day in the life of a Volunteer Fast Fact and what’s included Project start days: Mondays year round except between 22 Dec – 22 Jan Accommodation: Family home-stay (27 nights) Getting there: This project starts in Buenos Aires Duration: Minimum stay 4 weeks, maximum stay 12 months In-country Support: Volunteer project coordinator and staff Meals Included: None included but self-catering facilities available in the house Budget: Allow $100–150 per week Language Requirements: Basic Spanish is recommended Prices: Based on 2010 departures. 2011 departures from $1,589 per person B R A Z I L Trip code: GATSAESJ
Organize recreational activities, continuing education and summer activities for children or work with young people teaching English vocabulary and assisting with pronunciation. Activities may include teaching English in a classroom, in one-on-one lessons, finding creative ways to get children to remember vocabulary, or reviewing an organization’s English materials for accuracy.
PA R A G U AY
EXTEND YOUR STAY >>
VOLUNTEER
Learn Spanish in Buenos Aires 14 days from $828 per person
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Immerse yourself in Argentina! Soak up some Spanish in Latin America’s sexiest city - and return home with some Argentinean charm. When you’re not working on your vocab and verbs, explore ravishing Recoleta, the enchanting neighbourhood where the language school is situated. An exquisite example of Porteno architecture, your sun-soaked school is a maze of beautiful balconies, marble stairs and marvellous mosaics, with plenty of space for post-class coffee breaks and Internet for you to check your emails. Trip code: STABUEECE
Volunteer Project Buenos Aires
ARGENTINA
A T L A N T I C
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Organic Farming in Patagonia WORK IN
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PROJECT:
voluntEER
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14 days FROM $1,179 EXTRA WEEKS FROM $340
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Get your hands dirty on an organic farm in spectacular Patagonia.
WORK WITH
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COMMUNITIES
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Bariloche, PATAGONIA
COMMUNITIES
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CHILDREN
Galapagos
ABOUT THIS PROJECT TheWORK farmWITH utilizes a bio-intensive WORK WITH farming method, promoting COMMUNITIES CHILDREN sustainable farming and living. Gain experience working in the organic vegetable and medicinal plant gardens, and by caring for cows, sheep, chickens, and horses.
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COMMUNITIES
P A C I F I C
How you make a difference You will learn all you need to know about creating a healthy and sustainable lifestyle while contributing to development of this family-owned farm, which is a model in the community for selfsufficient living.
A day in the life of a Volunteer Work in the organic vegetable and medicinal herb gardens and help care for farm animals - you may even learn how to milk a cow and shear a sheep! Assist with drying fruits, seed saving, and learn how to make your own jam, yogurt and bread.
O C E A N
PA R A G U AY
Fast FactS and what’s included Project start days: Daily between February and May Accommodation: Shared rustic log cabin (13 nights) Getting there: Transfer to/from the Bariloche airport Duration: Minimum stay 2 weeks, maximum stay 3 months In-country Support: Local project coordinator Meals Included: None, but enjoy fresh vegetables from the garden Budget: Allow $100-150 per person per week Prices: Based on 2010 departures. 2011 departures from $1,309 per person Trip code: GATSAOFJ
Buenos A
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EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Buenos Aires City Break from $14 Extend your stay pre or post in Buenos Aires – Staysimple at The Milhouse from $14 per person (dormitory) (STABUEMIH) Staysmart at The Bohemian Boutique Hotel from $43 per person (STABUEBOH) Staystylish at The Moreno Hotel from $137 per person (STABUEMOR)
Youth & Organic Farming in Argentina 14 days from $2,519 Volunteer alongside a group of Argentinian youth who are taught essential life skills in a loving and idyllic subsistence farm environment. Well-known chefs from Buenos Aires visit the farm to teach the kids menu planning, food preparation and cooking skills. Help out on the organic farm and in the restaurant, with time to relax. Trip code: GATSAYOJ
El Bolson (Patagonia) Volunteer Project
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Children of the Favelas voluntEER
20 days FROM $999 EXTRA WEEKS FROM $270 Rio de Janeiro, BRAZIL
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I f you’re looking for a life-changing experience, then this tour is for you. Spend three weeks volunteering with WORK WITH CHILDREN underprivileged children in the favelas of Rio de Janeiro and experience what life in the favelas is all about. WORK WITH
CHILDREN
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MMUNITIES
ABOUT THIS PROJECT
A day in the life of a Volunteer
Experience Rio firsthand while volunteering at a community-run day care center, located in one of Brazil’s largest favelas, where more than fifty children are provided with a loving atmosphere to learn and grow, complete with games and educational activities, nutritious meals, and health care.
Responsibilities include helping out with day care activities, cooking for and feeding children, playing games, assisting with art classes, teaching music, and capoeira. You can also help with teaching the children English or assisting with computer classes. Your weekends are free to enjoy all that Rio de Janeiro has to offer. Rio is a vibrant city, with stunning beaches, amazing architecture and lively night life, there is so much to explore!
How you make a difference
VOLUNTEER
With an estimated population of one million residents, life in the favelas is not easy. With no roads, no sewers, limited access to water and electricity and a social order that is imposed by drug lords, children have little hope of pulling themselves of out the cycle of poverty. With your help we can help make a difference in the lives of these children. By working alongside staff and other international volunteers to help with the running of day care and education activities and by giving your time, love and attention to the children who live in the favelas, you can help to break this cycle of poverty so they can look forward to a brighter future. This is a truly rewarding experience that gives volunteers a real chance to give something back.
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TRINIDAD & TOBAGO
Puerto La Cruz Mochima N.P.
cas
UELA Ciudad Bolivar
Orinoco Delta
Canaima Angel Falls G U YA N A Santa Elena Santo Domingo
aima N.P.
FRENCH GUIANA
Fast Fact what’s included S U R I Nand AME
Accommodation: Hotel (1 night), Multi-share A T L A Nbasic T I C volunteer O C E A N dorm (18 nights) Getting there: Private transfer to project on Day 2 is included In-Country Support: Volunteer project coordinator Meals Included: 19 breakfasts, 19 lunches Budget: Allow $250-300 for meals not included Language Requirements: Basic Portuguese is recommended Prices: Based on 2010 departures, 2011 prices from $1,089 and additional weeks from $270 Trip code: GATSZCFJ
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EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Brazil & Argentina Discovery 11 days from $1,399 Experience the treasures of Argentina and Southern Brazil in this jam-packed trip. Explore two of South America’s most vibrant cities, take in the immense Iguazu Falls, and wander the streets and beaches of Paraty. Trip Code: GASZAD
Brazil Learn to Surf 4 days from $189 Surfing is not just a sport, but a way of life; hang-ten and catch a wave on this four day program, designed to teach you the basics of surfing and its unique counter-culture. Trip Code: GATSZLSB
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Río de Janeiro
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Boa Vista
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Afro-Brazilian Community Work & Tour voluntOUr
12 days FROM $1,299
Rio de Janeiro WORK WITH
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Rio de Janeiro, brazil
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CHILDREN
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WORK WITH
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From vibrant Rio to the beaches and colonial charm of Paraty, see some of Brazil’s most exceptional WORK WITH destinations CHILDREN while volunteering in an Afro-Brazilian community.
WORK WITH
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BEST BITS • Rio de Janeiro WORK WITH WORK WITH • Ilha Grande COMMUNITIES CHILDREN • Paraty • Quilombo Afro-Brazilian Community • Volunteer Project
ITINERARY
FRENCH GUIANA
URINAME
A T L A N T I C
O C E A N
FAST FACTS & WHAT’S INCLUDED Accommodation: Simple hotels (6 nights), multi-share basic volunteer houses (5 nights) Duration: 12 days / 11 nights Transport: Public bus, ferry Group Size: Maximum 16; Average 10 In-Country Support: Chief Experience Officer (CEO), local guides Meals Included: 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners Budget: Allow $190-250 for meals not included
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Paraty Volunteer Project
Río de Janeiro
Ilha Grande
2010 and 2011 Departs on Tuesdays Price $1,299 based on sharing a twin room Tour Code: GASZABJ
A T L A N T I C
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Day WORK 1 RioWITH Arrive Rio de Janeiro. COMMUNITIES Days 2-3 Ilha Grande Pay a visit to the lovely resort of Ilha Grande where you can chill out on the beach. Days 4-5 Paraty Head down the coast to Paraty to indulge in optional boat tours and cachaça distillery tours. Days 6-10 Volunteer Project Volunteer as part of an Afro-Brazilian community for a real cultural experience. On your last day enjoy a Jongo presentation – an Afro-Brazilian style of music that only exists in about 14 communities across Brazil! (4B, 5L, 5D) Day 11 Rio de Janeiro Explore some of Rio’s famous sites like Corcovado or Sugarloaf. (B) Day 12 Depart Rio de Janeiro.
About this Project You will participate in a variety of community activities experience daily life working alongside local families, collecting reeds for basket making, and helping out at the flour mill. Activities will be organized depending on the community’s needs when you visit and may include the building and maintaining of community infrastructure such as the school, family settlements, and planting areas.
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> beach stay from $128 per person 1 week at the El Misti Hostel in Copacabana Come and meet people from all over the world here at this affordable and friendly hostel. El Misti is in an ideal location with the famous Copacabana Beach just 5 minutes away, Ipanema, is also very close by. Trip Code: STARIOMCO
Football Game at Maracana Stadium from $48 per person Experience the passion of a local soccer derby in the infamous Maracana soccer stadium. Watch and join the locals beat their drums, blow their trumpets as they support their local team. Trip Code: STARIOFGM
Brazil Community Reforestation WORK IN
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PROJECT:
AT L A N T voluntEER
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
14 days FROM $1,079 EXTRA WEEKS FROM $450
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
Experience Brazil’s rural countryside living on a family farm while working alongside local farmers WORK andWITH learning WORK WITH WORK IN WORK WITH ANIMALS CONSERVATION the benefits COMMUNITIES CHILDREN of agro-forestry.
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
Marilia, BRAZIL
ABOUT THIS PROJECT This project aims to plant more than half-a-million trees in rural Brazil, and provide local farmers with access to agro-forestry WORK WITH WORK WITH training workshops and seedlings so that they can increase food CHILDREN COMMUNITIES production for their families and their animals.
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A day in the life of a Volunteer Volunteer alongside a young, wonderful English-speaking Brazilian family helping with seed collection, planting trees, researching species, collecting food from the gardens, and trying out new agro-forestry techniques. Participate in educational programs at local schools and site visits to farms with free time to enjoy a Caipirinha while relaxing by the pool.
Fast FactS and what’s included Accommodation: Farm house (13 nights) Getting there: Transfer to/from Marilia airport is included Duration: Minimum stay 2 weeks, maximum stay unlimited In-country Support: Local project coordinator Meals Included: 13 breakfasts, 13 lunches, 13 dinners Budget: Allow $25 per week for meals not included Language Requirements: English Prices: Based upon 2010 departures. 2011 departures from $1,199 Trip code: GATSZCRJ
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EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Che Lagarto Paraty From $20 per person Paraty’s hippest hostel is calling all backpackers to stay the night! This green corner of the Rio state is spot-on for those seeking a comfy place to rest their head, close to the town center. Trip Code: STAFKDCLP
Che Lagarto Ilha Grande from $23 per person Want your own little bit of paradise, beach and rugged landscape for a few nights? This island backpackers will have you kicked back sipping ice beers as you watch the tide roll in and out. Trip Code: STAILHCHE
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Marilia Volunteer Project
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São Paulo
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How you make a difference You will not only get a deeper understanding of the benefits of agro-forestry and how it can benefit local families and farmers, but you’ll also experience life in rural Brazil as you’re welcomed into the hearts and homes of the local people.
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CENTRAL AMERICA
Where the jungle meets the sea
For its relative small size Central America certainly packs a punch! If you’re there for few days or a few months there are plenty of adventures to keep you talking about it for years.
IDEAS TO EXTEND YOUR STAY 1
LOOK AFTER TURTLES IN COSTA RICA
Think pristine tropical paradise then think of stepping out of your every day life to work on protecting these engaging creatures.
2
PARTY IN CANCUN, MEXICO
Sandy beaches, clear waters and world famous clubs make Cancun a popular beach destination.
3
RELAX IN A HOT SPRING IN COSTA RICA
Unwind in a hot spring at dusk and watch out for a volcanic eruption – complete with lava.
4
EXPLORE ANCIENT CIVILIzATIONS ACROSS CENTRAL AMERICA
Central America is peppered with remnants of ancient cultures towering pyramids and colonial history, all waiting to be discovered.
5
CHILL OUT ON CAYE CAULKER, BELIZE
Step off the motor boat on this tiny island, and feel your troubles disappear.
MEXICO CUBA
CENTRAL AMERICA
BELIZE
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AVERAGE HIGH TEMPERATURES CITY Mexico City D.F Cancún San Cristobal Acapulco Belize City Tegucigalpa Guatemala City San José Tamarindo Havana
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Caribean Sea
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21 days FROM $1,499
voluntOUr
San José WORK WITH
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San José, Costa Rica
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Want to give back to Mother Nature and hit some of Costa Rica’s highlights, too? Spend two volunteering on a sea WORK IN WORK WITH WORKweeks WITH CONSERVATION turtle ANIMALS COMMUNITIES conservation project, then travel to the Rara Avis Cloud Forest, and enjoy the spectacular views of the Arenal Volcano from La Fortuna.
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BEST BITS
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COMMUNITIES • 2 weeks of volunteering for sea turtle conservation • Night patrols on the beach • La Fortuna • Hiking in the forests of Rara Avis
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Accommodation: Hotels (5 nights), shared basic lodges (15 nights) Duration: 21 days / 20 nights Transport: Public bus, tractor, van, walking CUBA Viñales Group Size: Maximum 15; AverageCamagüey 10 Baracoa Pi n rd el In-Country aSupport: Volunteer project coordinator, Chief Ri Santiago de Cuba o Experience Officer (CEO) Isla Mujeres Playa del Carmen Included: 14 breakfasts, 14 lunches, 14 dinners Meals Cozumel Budget: Allow $100-150 per person for meals not included ni
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WORK WITH Day 1 San José Arrive at any time. COMMUNITIES Days 2-14 Sea Turtle Conservation Project Two weeks of volunteer activities including night patrols along the beach, data collection, beach clean-up and area maintenance, monitoring of the baby turtle hatchery, counting baby turtles and releasing them – depending the season. There is also the option to visit Manuel Antonio National Park. (12B, 12L, 12D) Days 15-17 La Fortuna / Arenal You have the option to try rafting, waterfall rappelling, to hike around the base of Arenal Volcano or soak in hot springs. Days 18-19 Rara Avis Enjoy a guided nature trail walk through primary rainforest, visit to butterfly farm and two spectacular waterfalls. You will also have the option to climb up to a viewing platform in the canopy, some 100 ft above the jungle floor! (1B, 2L, 2D) Days 20-21 San José Return to San José and spend your last night in the city before departing. (B)
About this Project The Playa Matapalo Sea Turtle Project is a conservation program created to protect sea turtles, their nests and their hatchlings on Matapalo Beach. Using a man-made shelter called a “vivero” to protect the eggs.
La Ceiba
DEPARTURES
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Costa Rica Sea Turtle Conservation
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NICARAGUA La Fortuna
Rara Avis San José
Playa Matapalo COSTA Volunteer Project RICA
2010 Departs on Sundays until 07 Nov10 Price from $1,499 per person based on twin share. 2011 Departs on Sundays between 03 Jul11 until 04Dec11 Price from $1.499 per person based on twin share. Tour Code: GACRSTJ
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Learn Spanish and Chill at the beach 7 days from $441 per person Immerse yourself in the culture of Costa Rica and come away with more than the ability to conjugate at this friendly school right by the beach. You’ll build your Spanish knowledge from real experiences - chatting with local characters, learning about the nature reserves and on day trips to local towns. And when you’re not in a classroom, Tamarindo Beach is your backyard - swim in the sea, test out your surfing skills, try a spot of fishing, or simply snooze in the sun. Trip Code: STATNOWAY
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PROJECT:
Teach Children and Surf
14 days FROM $1,069 EXTRA WEEKS FROM $350
voluntEER
Playa Matapalo, COSTA RICA
WORK IN
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ANIMALS
CONSERVATION
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COMMUNITIES
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Volunteer at a special high school that teaches tourism training, conversational English and WORK WITH CHILDREN sustainable farming with free time for surfing, relaxing on the beach and watching legendary Pacific sunsets.
ABOUT THIS PROJECT WORK WITH
CHILDREN This technical high school teaches students practical skills like agriculture, raising farm animals, community based eco-tourism, and hospitality. With lots of projects to choose from, one of the most impressive is the recycling project which includes not only andI separation A TtheLcollection A N T C O of C plastic, E A cans N and glass, but also transforms manure into organic fertilizer to be used in the tree nursery as well as for bio-fuels. Talk about sustainable!
How you make a difference Your contribution to this school will help these young students succeed in their future careers in sustainable agriculture and tourism. By helping them to achieve their goals you are helping to achieve a sustainable future for us all.
A day in the life of a Volunteer M E XProject I C O Start Day:
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Arrive Sundays to start Mondays except December to February and 1st two weeks of July C U B A dormitory Accommodation: 13 nights in a multi-share Viñales Camagüey Baracoa Pi Transfers from San José Airport to the Getting there: project na rd el Ri Santiago de Cuba o are included Cancún Isla Mujeres Duration: Minimum stay 14 days, maximum stay unlimited Playa del Carmen In-country Support: Volunteer project coordinator and school Mérida Cozumel Chichén staff Itzá Tulum Meals Included: 12 breakfasts, 12 lunches, and 12 dinners Budget: Allow $40-50 per week for meals not included Chetumal Language Requirements: Intermediate Spanish recommended BELIZE Belize City Prices: Prices are based on departures in 2010 and 2011 Caye Caulker San Ignacio C A R I B B E A N S E A Dangriga Trip code: Roatan BayGATCRCDJ Islands Tikal Glover's Atoll Sittee
Spend half-days volunteering at one of the various school programs. There are so many things to participate in from helping out in the practice kitchen, the computer lab, a dairy and cheese workshop with bovine care to boot, a chicken coop, an organic plantain plantation, a tree and plant nursery, teach conversational English, or assist with the recycling project. An English lesson schedule will be arranged with the teachers on your arrival. In your spare time enjoy all that Playa Matapalo has to offer including surfing lessons, visits to a sea turtle conservation project, relaxing on the beach and enjoying the sunset.
La Ceiba
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Costa Rica Adventure 15 nights from $1,299 per person
VOLUNTEER
NICARAGUA
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COSTA RICA San José Playa Matapalo
Costa Rica is one of the most biologically diverse countries in the world - a true Garden of Eden. Let Costa Rica mesmerize you as you explore its rainforests, rushing rivers, pristine beaches and towering volcanoes. This two week trip combines world-class highlights with more remote areas for an authentic adventure experience. Trip code: GACRA
Rural Community Development
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voluntEER
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
14 days FROM $1,969 EXTRA WEEKS FROM $560
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Contribute to the development of a local community by working alongside your WORK hostWITH family on a women’s paper WORK WITH COMMUNITIES recycling CHILDREN project with free time to enjoy rural Costa Rica’s farms, lush rainforests and active volcanoes.
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Ciudad Quesada, COSTA RICA
ABOUT THIS PROJECT WORK WITH WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES This women’s recyclingCHILDREN association was formed by ten Costa Rican women who wanted to create an environmentally sound business opportunity for themselves and who now produce stationary, bookmarks, photo albums, and other products from recycled paper. The women also give workshops on how to make paper and other art from old recycled office paper. Volunteers WORK WITH have the chance to learn about the process and help the women COMMUNITIES run their day-to-day business.
How you make a difference
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EXTEND YOUR STAY >>
Oaxaca
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Project Start Day: Arrive Sundays to start Mondays except Christmas & Semana Santa (Easter Week) CUBA Accommodation: Hotel (1 night); familyViñales home-stay (12 nights) Camagüey Pi na rd Getting there: Transfers from San José Airport to the project el Ri Sa o are included Cancún Isla Mujeres Duration: Minimum stay 14 days, maximum stay unlimited Playa del Carmen Mérida In-country Support: Volunteer Cozumel project coordinator and staff Chichén Meals Included:12 breakfasts, 12 lunches & 12 dinners Itzá Tulum Budget: Allow $40-50 per week for meals not included Language Requirements: Basic / intermediate Spanish recommended Chetumal Prices: Prices are based on departures BELIZE Belize City Caye Caulker in 2010 and 2011San Ignacio Palenque C A R I B B E A N Dangriga Roatan Bay Islands Trip code: TCRFLJTikal Sittee Glover's Atoll Vi
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Spend 4-6 hours per day volunteering alongside the women helping them produce recycled products, and with the other areas of their micro-enterprise. Enjoy free time on weekends and evenings to explore lush rainforests, spectacular waterfalls, active M E X I C O volcanoes, amazing wildlife, or go hiking, ziplining, and rafting.
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Immerse yourself in the daily life of your host family in rural Costa Rica and contribute to the development of this sustainable microenterprise which empowers women and helps them to provide for their families. By volunteering on this project you are directly helping to support the local rural community.
San Cristobal de las Casas
Flores
Placencia Tela
La Ceiba
Chichicastenango
Volcanoes & Beaches adventure
O 7 Cnights E Afrom N $696 per person Experience the best of Costa Rica with this seven-night trip. First you’ll visit the Arenal Volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in the Americas that experiences eruptions almost daily. Then, you’ll head up to the North Pacific coast, where you’ll see the dry forest and one of the world’s most amazing surf beaches, with crystal-clear waters and amazing sunsets. Tour Code: STASJOVJB
NICARAGUA Ciudad Quesada COSTA Volunteer Project RICA San José
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PROJECT:
Arts and Culture on Lake Atitlan
21 days FROM $899 EXTRA WEEKS FROM $230
voluntEER
Antigua, GUATEMALA
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Set in the mountains above the beautiful Lake Atitlan, La Cambalacha Arts and Cultural Center is a magical WORK WITH CHILDREN place where volunteers interested in the arts can contribute to an inspirational development program giving children from indigenous Mayan communities the WORK WITH opportunity to explore their creative side. CHILDREN
ABOUT THIS PROJECT
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
This project brings art and culture alive for kids. It is a unique and well run program with activities such as gymnastics, dance, Mayan heritage, theatre and arts, and crafts available to children who would otherwise never have the chance to experience this type of education.
How you make a difference You can make a difference by assisting local youth leaders who have graduated from the program themselves with all activities. You’ll act as a friend and role model for the young children in the community. By volunteering you give these children the chance to experience arts and culture and learn more about their own cultural heritage.
Fast FactS and what’s included Project Start Day: Sundays year round except Christmas and Semana Santa (Easter Week) Accommodation: Simple hotels (2 nts), multi-share dorm (18 nts) Getting there: Transfers from Antigua Airport are included Duration: Minimum stay 21 days, maximum stay unlimited In-country Support: Volunteer project coordinator and staff Meals Included: 15 lunches (Monday to Friday at the project) Budget: Allow $225-300 for meals not included Language Requirements: Basic Spanish recommended Prices: Prices are based on departures in 2010 and 2011 Trip code: TCGCAJ
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S E A
Puebla
I C N
Learn Spanish in Antigua 7 nights from $266
C A R I B B E A N
Mexico City
Study Spanish the South American way with sunshine, smiles and salsa! At our language school you’ll get something rare - a teacher all to yourself! Add to that the chance to stay in a happy homestay or a gregarious guesthouse and to get involved in everything from eco-activities to cooking classes and football festivals. Tour Code: STAIAWIXC
GUATEMALA Antigua Guatemala City
NICARAGUA
73 San José
Puerto Viejo Bocas del Toro
COSTA RICA Boquete
Panama Santa Clara
PANAMA
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Assist with various activities including gymnastics, dance, theatre, painting, and other arts and crafts for half-days throughout your stay. In your spare time, get to know this unique town, go swimming in the lake or hang out on the beach, and take boat rides to explore surrounding villages.
EXTEND YOUR STAY >>
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Lake Atitlán Volunteer Project
A T L A N T I C O C A day in the life of a Volunteer
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Take part in a successful afterschool program that helps to improve the lives of children who live just WORK WITH CHILDREN outside the beautiful colonial town of Antigua. Making lasting friendships and living with a local family adds to the unforgettable experience.
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ABOUT THIS PROJECT The aim of this project is to improve the living conditions of more than 1,000 children who come from poor coffee-growing families by providing meaningful education opportunities to help them gain the skills and confidence needed to create a brighter future. Programs that this project runs include computer classes, tutoring to improve reading and writing skills, English classes, recreational activities, and a bi-monthly health clinic.
How you make a difference By sharing your skills and enthusiasm in areas such as language, IT, literacy, arts, crafts and sports, you will help to make a difference to the lives of the staff and children at the project. Participate in recreational and educational activities and help make learning fun, so that children are inspired to continue with their studies and to make their dreams for the future come true.
A day in the life of a Volunteer G
Spend 4-6 hours a day working alongside friendly staff and international volunteers by assisting with recreational activities, art, computer classes, and tutoring to improve reading and writing skills. Your weekends are free to enjoy all that this beautiful place has to offer.
Fast FactS and what’s included
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Project Start Day: Mondays year round Accommodation: Family home stay (13 nights) Getting there: Transfers from Antigua Airport to the project are included Duration: Minimum stay 14 days, maximum stay unlimited In-country Support: Volunteer project coordinator and staff Meals Included: 13 breakfast, 13 lunches, 13 dinners Budget: Allow $50 per week for meals not included Language Requirements: Basic Spanish recommended Prices: Prices are based on departures in 2010 and 2011 Trip code: TCGCDJ
EXTEND YOUR STAY >>
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Hop-On / Hop-Off Bus Pass from $233 per person
C A R I B B E A N
Mexico City
Experience all that Central America has to offer as comfortably as possible, with a flexible hop-on/hop-off bus pass. There are lots of routes to choose from; you could start your journey in Antigua and travel leisurely along the Caribbean coast enjoying beautiful white-sand beaches, historic towns, ancient ruins, and impressive coral reefs all the way from Belize and Mexico! Tour Code: STAGUABMA
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Puebla
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Antigua, Guatemala
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14 days FROM $1,039 EXTRA WEEKS FROM $140 WORK WITH
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Teach life skills in Antigua COMMUNITIES
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GUATEMALA P A C I F I C O C E A N
Antigua
Guatemala City
San JosĂŠ
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Puerto Viejo Bocas de
COSTA RICA Boquete
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Marine Conservation Expedition
5 WEEKS FROM $3,355 EXTRA WEEKS available
voluntEER
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
Learn how to dive and contribute towards crucial coral reef research in the Caribbean. WORK WITH WORK WITH ANIMALS
COMMUNITIES
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ABOUT THIS PROJECT This coral reef research expedition allows you to experience scuba diving and earn an internationally recognized PADI diving qualification. In the turquoise Caribbean waters ofWORK Mexico’s WITH COMMUNITIES Yucatan Peninsula, you can take part in important marine conservation work on the world’s second largest barrier reef; by helping with coral reef and fish monitoring, protecting turtle nesting sites and conducting crocodile surveys. On land you may help with community education and sustainable tourism development programs.
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How you make a difference
COMMUNITIES
The data obtained through your work as a volunteer provides an invaluable baseline to assess the health of reefs found in pristine locations around the world. A variety of changes have been implemented in this area, including educating local fishermen, increasing development controls and creating signs to educate visitors about this fragile ecosystem. You will be helping to implement these changes during your stay.
Fast FactS and what’s included Project start days: 01 Oct10, 07 Jan11, 01 Apr11, 01 Jul11, 30 Sep11 Accommodation: Basic, comfortable cabanas Getting there: Transfers available from Playa del Carmen Duration: Minimum stay 36 days In-country Support: Volunteer project coordinator and staff Meals Included: Yes Budget: Allow for about $40-50 per week Language Requirements: Good written and spoken English Prices: Based on 2010 departures. Discounts and additional start dates are available for PADI qualified divers Trip code: STAPCMMAR
A day in the life of a Volunteer
T yourself L A Ntraveling T I C C E A N During a typical day you’llAfind to the O survey sites and conducting survey work on the marine environment. You will also assist with washing down the diving equipment, filling air tanks ready for the next day and reviewing the data that has been collected during the day. At the end of the day, the whole team gathers in the evening to debrief, eat and socialize over a few drinks as the sun goes down.
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Mayan Adventure 22 days from $1,749 per person
VOLUNTEER
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Cancun
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Merida
Playa del Carmen
M E X I C O
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MEXICO
Volunteer Project Chetumal Belize City
C A R I B B E A N S E A
BELIZE GUATEMALA Lake Atitlán Antigua
NICARAGUA
A 3-week adventure through Mexico, Belize and Guatemala. This all-encompassing journey combines the beauty of the highlands, the mystery of great Mayan sites and the beaches of the Caribbean. Check out ancient ruins of Chichén Itzá and Tikal, the colorful city of San Cristobal de las Casas, the volcanoes of Panajachel or simply take it easy in the laid-back setting of Caye Caulker - a tiny island with no traffic and lots of reggae music. Tour Code: GACAM
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
Jaguar and Puma research project voluntEER
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
14 days FROM $1,690 EXTRA WEEKS AVAILABLE
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COMMUNITIES
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Help to research jaguar, puma and other big cats and their preyWORK at WITH the ReserveWORK of WITH El Eden, a WORK WITH ANIMALS COMMUNITIES CHILDREN privately-owned protected area that preserves over 3,000 hectares of forest and wetland near tropical Cancun. COMMUNITIES ABOUT THIS PROJECT
COMMUNITIES
Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico
COMMUNITIES
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This project aims to protect key eco-systems for the conservation of jaguars and other species and also works towards the creation of a biological corridor in the north Yucatan Peninsula. The project and its volunteers help with placing and checking of camera traps for big cats (such as WORK jaguar, pumas and ocelots) andWITH potential prey. The Yucatan COMMUNITIES Peninsula is also home to ancient Mayan ruins, outstanding culture, food and history, and pristine beaches making it Mexico’s most popular region.
How you make a difference Jaguars are quickly disappearing from the Yucatan Peninsula due to deforestation, land partitioning and illegal poaching. The work carried out during your stay helps increase the knowledge on jaguars and pumas and their eco-systems and allow for management plans to be developed and implemented within this reserve and in other areas throughout the peninsula.
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During a normal day, you will be trekking to camera traps to check and fix them if necessary, and to download the captured images of these reclusive cats. You will also be checking for signs of jaguar, puma or ocelot activity as well as assisting with bird monitoring. There will also be some biodiversity assessment tasks in the forest. You will learn wildlife tracking skills while hiking through wetlands and forests and will also observe crocodiles to learn about their behavior patterns.
Fast FactS and what’s included
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Project start days: Selected Mondays year round Accommodation: Basic, comfortable cabanas Getting there: Transfers included from Cancun Airport Duration: Minimum stay 14 days, maximum stay 28 days In-country Support: Volunteer project coordinator and staff Meals Included: All meals included Budget: Allow $100-200 per week Language Requirements: Basic Spanish recommended Prices: Based on departures in 2010 Trip code: STACUNJAG
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EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Yucatan Quest 7 NIGHTS from $649 per person Explore one of Mexico’s most fascinating regions, climb ancient temples, discover lost cities, relax on beautiful beaches, snorkel the vibrant reefs of the Caribbean and soak up the culture of the Yucatan’s capital, Merida on this 8-day adventure. Tour code: GACMYQ
Volunteer Project
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Cancun Playa del Carmen
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Mexico City
C A R I B B E A
Chetumal
Puebla
Belize City
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BELIZE GUATEMALA
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Lake Atitlán Antigua
NICARAGUA
PROJECT: voluntEER
14 days FROM $1,429 EXTRA WEEKS FROM $660 Granada, Nicaragua
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L earn Spanish in the beautiful colonial town of Granada with an opportunity to volunteer at an after-school skills WORK WITH CHILDREN training program for young people, a community-run pre-school, and an ecolodge in the countryside.
WORK WITH WORK WITH ABOUT THIS PROJECT
COMMUNITIES This spanish-language CHILDREN school assists students in quickly and efficiently establishing a firm foundation in Spanish. Family home-stays will help you to communicate effectively and introduce you to Nicaraguan social and cultural life. Your time spent volunteering at the pre-school, after-school program and on the eco-lodge will enable you to give back to this WORK WITH friendly community. COMMUNITIES
How you make a difference Choose to volunteer at a small pre-school run entirely by volunteers or at an after school program that provides a place for young people to getOhelp with homework, English lessons A T L A N T I C C E A N and making arts and crafts. You can also help out at a familyowned co-operative eco-lodge where help with farm work and lodge maintenance is always needed.
Fast FactS and what’s included
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Project Start Day: Mondays year round except Christmas, New Year and Semana Santa Accommodation: 3 nts multi-stay dorm at a family home-stay Getting there: Closest Airport - Managua (about 45 mins from Granada) Duration: Minimum stay 14 days, maximum stay unlimited In-country Support: Volunteer project coordinator and staff Meals Included: 13 breakfasts, 13 lunches, 13 dinners Budget: Allow $50 for meals not included Language Requirements: Basic Spanish recommended CancĂşn Prices: Prices are based on departures in 2010 and 2011 Playa del Carmen Trip code: GATCNCVJ C A R I B B E A N S E A
Palenque
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Learn Spanish & Volunteer
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NICARAGUA Granada Spanish School & Volunteer Project
A day in the life of a Volunteer Spend half your day learning Spanish and the other half volunteering at one of the three projects; helping out with 2-4 year olds at the day care center, helping with maintenance and sustainable farming practices at the ecolodge or assisting at the after-school program with painting, jewelery-making, English lessons, helping with homework or on a recycling project. Granada is a fun place to be, as the local people are charming, funny and welcome visitors with open arms.
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15 days FROM $1,529
Granada
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Granada, Nicaragua WORK IN
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Volunteer with Nicaragua’s first lending library while chilling in laidback San Juan del Sur, then spend a week WORK WITH CHILDREN exploring the highlights of this country full of life, volcanoes and history.
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BEST BITS WORK WITH WORK WITH • Volunteer with mobile library project in San Juan del Sur COMMUNITIES • Catch the sunset over CHILDREN the beautiful Pacific beaches • Explore the cobblestone streets of Granada and León • Experience rural Nicaragua on the volcanic island of Ometepe • Breathe in the refreshing cloud-forest air in the hills of Matagalpa
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COMMUNITIES Day 1 Granada Arrive at any time. Days 2-7 Mobile Library Volunteer Project in San Juan del Sur Five days volunteering with young people at the San Juan del Sur Mobile Library, assisting with homework, arts and crafts, games, reading and other various activities. (5B, 5L) Days 8-9 Ometepe Perhaps climb one of two volcanoes or visit a local swimming hole. Days 10-11 León You could go ‘volcano boarding’ down Cerro Negro, visit Central America’s largest cathedral, or explore León’s history-filled streets. Days 12-13 Matagalpa Maybe hike the hills or visit a coffee farm. Day 14 Granada Perhaps pay a visit to still-smoking Masaya Volcano or kayak through the many isletas in Lake Nicaragua. Day 15 Granada Depart at any time. f u l
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This is the first of many lending libraries in Nicaragua, aiming to inspire a real reading culture among children. This is a meeting place for children who often have nowhere to do their homework. Volunteers can do arts & crafts, play or read with children, help with homework, or give computer lessons in the internet room.
FAST FACTS AND WHAT’S INCLUDED
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Accommodation: Hotels (14 nights) Transport: Public bus, van, boat, ferry, taxi Duration: 15 days/14 nights Group Size: Maximum 10 In-Country Support: Volunteer project coordinators and Chief Experience Officer (CEO) Meals Included: 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches Budget: Allow $200-275 for meals not included Language requirements: Basic Spanish recommended Prices: Prices are based on departures Cancún in 2010 and 2011 G U L F
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Playa del Carmen
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DEPARTURES
C A R I B B E A N
Mexico City
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Puebla
2010 and 2011 M E X I C O Departs on Saturdays Oaxaca Palenque Monte based Albán Prices on twin share Tuxtla Gutierrez Tour Code: GACNNMJ P A C I F I C O C E A N
Mexico City / Cancún Cancún / Antigua Antigua / San José
León
NICARAGUA Matalgapa Granada Ometepe Island
San Juan del Sur Volunteer Project
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San José / Panama City
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Panama Safe Drinking Water Adventure 14 days FROM $1,899
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Panama City WORK WITH
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Panama City
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Install rainwater tanks at schools in villages throughout the Bocas del Toro WORK Archipelago, before setting off WITH CHILDREN on a week of adventure in other parts of Panama.
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BEST BITS • Install rainwater catchment tanks in Bocas del Toro WORK WITH WORK WITH
• Hike the rolling hills CHILDREN around Boquete COMMUNITIES
• Relax on the Pacific beaches of Santa Catalina • Experience the hustle and bustle of the capital
ITINERARY
A T L A N
FAST FACTS & WHAT’S INCLUDED Accommodation: 8 nts hotel; 6 nts multi-share dorm Duration: 14 days / 13 nights Transport: Public bus, van, boat, ferry, taxi, plane Group Size: Maximum 15; Average 10 In-Country Support: Volunteer project coordinator and Chief Experience Officer (CEO) Meals Included: 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners Budget: Allow $135-180 for meals not included Language requirements: Basic Spanish recommended
Day 1 Panama City Arrive at any time. WORK WITH Days 2-7 Operation Safe Drinking Water Project Volunteering in COMMUNITIES Bocas del Toro Spend five days installing rainwater catchment tanks on the islands of the Bocas del Toro Archipelago. (6B, 6L, 6D) Days 8-9 Boquete Maybe hike through the cloud forest or go whitewater rafting. T Days I C 10-12 O C Santa E A N Catalina Perhaps surf, visit nearby Coiba National Park or chill out on the beach. Days 13-14 Panama City You might visit the world famous Panama Canal or explore the old city. Day 15 Panama City Depart at any time.
About this Project No one should go without water, especially in a place where it rains so abundantly. Many indigenous children here drink from muddy water holes dug in the ground and are exposed to dangerous water-borne diseases. Install rainwater catchment tanks all throughout the islands to give more families access to safe, clean water.
VOLUNTOUR VOLUNTOUR
DEPARTURES
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2010 and 2011 Departs on Saturdays Price based on twin share Tour Code: GACPDWJ
NICARAGUA C A R I B B E A N S E A
Bocas del Toro Volunteer Project COSTA Boquete RICA
Panama City
PANAMA Santa Catalina
P A C I F I C O C E A N
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Panama City Experience 3 nIGHts tour from $499 per person See where the colonial and modern, Latin and international collide. So much more than the site of the famous canal, Panama City is both a historical town of colonial-era charm, and one of the most modern, international metropolises in Latin America. Tour Code: GATCPPXC
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
Learn Spanish & Volunteer
voluntEER
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
14 days FROM $1,549 EXTRA WEEKS FROM $740
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
WORK WITH
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
COMMUNITIES
Learn Spanish and volunteer in the community with plenty of free time for diving, snorkeling, surfing, exploring WORK WITH CHILDREN nature preserves, and beautiful beaches in this Caribbean paradise.
WORK WITH
Bocas del Toro, Panama
COMMUNITIES
ABOUT THIS PROJECT Choose to volunteer at one of three worthwhile projects WORK WITH WORK WITH including a day care center for children aged between 1-4 years, COMMUNITIES CHILDREN a home for elderly people by reading or playing games with them, or assist teachers at a nearby school who can always use assistance with English lessons.
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
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How you make a difference f u l
Taking Spanish classes and volunteering will give you a chance to connect and communicate with the locals. You will have the opportunity to volunteer with young and old alike, making your time in Bocas del Toro memorable and meaningful. Your contribution as a volunteer to this community is invaluable. o
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A day in the life of a Volunteer i a
Bocas del Toro, Panama, is the perfect place to study Spanish and volunteer. Bocas town is a fun place to live and the home stay is shared with other students so you’ll have plenty of friends to explore Panama with. After morning Spanish classes, you can go to three different projects to volunteer with young children, the elderly or help with English lessons at a local high school.
Fast FactS and what’s included Project start date: Mondays year round Accommodation: 13 nights home-stay Getting there: Fly to Bocas del Toro from Panama City (not included) Duration: Minimum stay 14 days, maximum stay unlimited In-country Support: Volunteer project coordinator and staff Meals Included: None - Access to a shared kitchen Budget: Allow $210-280 per week for meals not included Language Requirements: Basic Spanish recommended Prices: Price based on 2010 departures, 2011 prices from G U L F additional O F $1,759; weeks from $740 M E X I C O Trip code: GATCPCVJ
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Panama Experience - Panama City to San JosÉ, 14 days from $949 per person The best of southern Costa Rica and northern Panama, featuring an abundance of both natural and man-made wonders. As Panama is still off most travelers’ radars, it’s the perfect place for a genuine discovery experience, with plenty of activities ranging from fantastic bird watching to exhilarating white-water rafting. Tour Code: GACPPS
NICARAGUA C A R I B B E A N
COSTA RICA
S E A
PANAMA Bocas del Toro Volunteer Project & Spanish School
P A C I F I C O C E A N
VOLUNTEER
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PROJECT:
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Project El Salvador 13 days FROM $999
voluntOUr
San Salvador WORK WITH
ANIMALS
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
Playa El Sunzal
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
WORK WITH
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
Enjoy the highlights of El Salvador including Mayan pyramids and unique archaeological sites, then volunteer WORK WITH CHILDREN on a highland coffee farm.
BEST BITS
COMMUNITIES
• Explore the Mayan ruins of Tazumal • Ilamatepec Reserve WORK WITH BiosphereWORK WITH COMMUNITIES • Walk the trails of theCHILDREN Santa Ana Volcano • Volunteer at Los Pinos Coffee Cooperative • Check out Joya de Ceren Archaeological Site • Relax on Playa El Sunzal
ITINERARY
FAST FACTS & WHAT’S INCLUDED Accommodation: Hotel (8 nights), camping (4 nights) Duration: 13 days / 12 nights Transport: Private Van Group Size: Maximum 18, Average 10 In-Country Support: Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout Meals Included: 11 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 2 dinners Budget: Allow $75-125 per person for meals not included Prices: Price based on 2010 departures, 2011 prices from $1,099
WITH DayWORK 1 San Salvador Arrive at any time. COMMUNITIES Days 2-5 Apaneca/Ilamatepec Biosphere Reserve Explore the region by mountain bike, horseback or on foot. Visit Mayan pyramids, jade and indigo workshops, and a coffee farm. Hike around Laguna Verde and visit the Ruta de las Flores (the flower route). (4B, 4L) Days 6-9 Santa Ana Volcano/Los Pinos Volunteer for three days at Los Pinos Coffee Co-operative. (4B, 4L, 2D) Days 10-12 Joya de Ceren Archeological Site / Playa El Sunzal Visit the UNESCO Heritage archaeological site of Joya de Ceren. (3B, 3L) Day 13 Playa En Sunzal Depart at any time.
About this Project Spend three days volunteering with members of the Los Pinos Coffee Cooperative. The projects you be involved aim to improve the community’s quality of life, from helping on various community building projects, to assisting on the coffee farm and teaching a few simple English lessons. You will learn about the community’s efforts to improve their lives by developing eco-tourism here.
DEPARTURES
VOLUNTOUR VOLUNTOUR
2010 Departs on selected Mondays Prices based on twin share
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Los Pinos Volunteer Project Apaneca
San Salvador
EL SALVADOR
Playa Sunzal
2011 Departs on selected Mondays Price from $1,099 per person based on twin share Tour Code: GACEPJ
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> El Salvador Express 8 DAYS From $599 per person Enjoy this quick jaunt hitting the highlights of El Salvador and finishing in the beautiful colonial city of Antigua. This short adventure brings you to beautiful beaches, colonial cities and amazing scenery. Tour Code: GACESE
voluntEER
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
28 days FROM $2,355
WORK IN
Conservation projects in Belize
CONSERVATION
PROJECT:
CHILDREN
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
WORK WITH
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
CHILDREN
ABOUT THIS PROJECT
WORK WITH
WORK WITH
This is an experience of a lifetime as you get to help conserve Belize’s diverse WORK wildlife and archaeological WORK IN WORK WITH WITH ANIMALS CONSERVATION COMMUNITIES sites. Work in Belize’s national parks, archaeological reserves and a manatee rehabilitation center.
COMMUNITIES
COMMUNITIES
Sarteneja, Belize
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
Volunteers joining this project have the opportunity to participate in a variety of conservation, research and education projects in a number of awesome locations in Belize. Volunteers will be involved in practical conservation of its protected areas and ancient Mayan ruins. Working with reserve staff, volunteers WORK WITH may assist with trail maintenance, wildlife monitoring, research, COMMUNITIES running environmental field courses, or care for orphaned manatees at the Center.
How you make a difference This project is working towards ensuring a sustainable future for the people of Belize, through conservation, research, education and sustainable development. Your contribution as a volunteer helps to provide much needed assistance and skills to the NGOs and government agencies working on the ground. You will be helping to conserve Belize’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage.
A day in the life of a Volunteer
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Working alongside local reserve staff, you will be involved in a wide variety of practical conservation activities in tropical forest and coastal lagoon environments including research, education and reserve maintenance tasks, or caring for orphaned manatees in the National Manatee Rehabilitation Center. The work you do is deeply meaningful, rewarding and often life-changing!
Fast FactS and what’s included
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Project start days: 01Oct10; 07Jan00; 01Apr11; 01Jul11, 07Oct11 Accommodation: Basic shared cabanas Getting there: Fly to Sarteneja from Belize’s Philip Goldson International Airport (not included) Duration: Minimum stay 28 days, maximum stay 84 days In-country Support: Volunteer project coordinator and staff Meals Included: All meals are included Budget: Allow $50-100 per week for excursions and personal spending Language Requirements: Fluent English required, basic Spanish appreciated Prices: Based on 2010 departures Trip code: STABELCON
r n i a
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Spend three weeks covering the best of coastal Belize and cultural Guatemala! You’ll find yourself taking in a Spanish lesson, going on a tour of a Tikal archaeological site, enjoying a three day jungle canoe trip, snorkelling on the Belize Barrier Reef and joining a four day kayaking trip island hopping around the marine reserve. Tour Code: GABFB
G U L F
Cancun
O F
Merida
Playa del Carmen
M E X I C O
MEXICO
Mexico City
Chetumal
Puebla
C A R I B B E A N
Volunteer Project Belize City
S E A
BELIZE GUATEMALA
P A C I F I C O C E A N
VOLUNTEER
Full Belize 22 day from $2,449 per person
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Lake Atitlán Antigua
NICARAGUA
australia
new zealand and pacific The sheer size of this region will near blow your mind. Learn to surf on Australia’s East Coast, get your adrenaline pumping on a New Zealand bungee jump or chill on a pristine beach in the South Pacific - you’re sure to find your perfect experience here.
TOP FIVE EXPERIENCES 1
Sail the Whitsunday Islands
Explore the beautiful Whitsundays and their stunning scenery, epic views and fantastic marine life.
2
Chill out in Byron Bay
Climb the Byron lighthouse for an unforgettable sunset in this laid-back town.
3
Drive along the Great Ocean Road
You’ve seen countless pictures, but it’s nothing like seeing the majestic 12 Apostles first-hand.
4
Go Whale Watching in New Zealand
Keep a beedy eye open for these huge tails splatting onto the water – a memory you’ll keep with you forever.
5
Snorkel the ocean blue
Embrace the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean and marvel at the beautiful colors of the underwater world.
AUSTRALIA, NZ & PACIFIC
NORTHERN TERRITORY
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AVERAGE HIGH TEMPERATURES CITY Sydney Brisbane Cairns Melbourne Perth Auckland Wellington Christchurch Queenstown Nadi, Fiji
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VICTORIA
TAZMANIA
NEW ZEALAND
Marine Conservation
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
PROJECT:
voluntEER
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
14 DAYS FROM $1,995
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
A unique opportunity to volunteer for two weeks on a Marine Conservation projectWORK on an park in WORK IN WORK WITH WITHisland national ANIMALS CONSERVATION the Whitsundays. COMMUNITIES
COMMUNITIES
Brampton Island, Whitsundays
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
ABOUT THIS PROJECT You will be a part of small team of volunteers assisting the project staff to return Brampton Island National Park to its WORK WITH COMMUNITIES natural state. The majority of the work includes eradicating invasive vegetation, collecting and analyzing marine debris and conducting surveys on the coral reef. In your free time you will have the opportunity to snorkel the reef, explore the island and enjoy the local wildlife.
How you make a difference
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
Tourism has resulted in the introduction of invasive species and volunteers help by manually removing these weeds. Marine debris is very dangerous to marine animals so volunteers collect the waste, and classify and record the information. The data collected from the reef surveys, provides information to gauge the impact their strategies are having on the coral reef.
A day in the life of a Volunteer Fast FactS and what’s included Accommodation: Camping Getting there: Most people fly to Mackay. Greyhound Australia serves Mackay from Cairns on a Mini-Travelers pass. Duration: 2 weeks In-country Support: Project coordinator and staff Meals Included: Yes Budget: Please allow funds for side trips – otherwise there’s nothing to spend your money on, on the island. Prices: Valid for departures in 2010 Notes: During 2011 this project may be adapted to include a week on Brampton Island followed by a week of fauna work in a reserve on the mainland Trip code: STAWDSMCO
EXTEND YOUR STAY >>
Airlie Beach
Island Suntanner 14 days from $2,349 per person When it comes to awesome natural attractions, Australia’s popular East Coast has the lot! On this 14-day adventure you’ll travel from Sydney, home of the Opera House, great night life and amazing beaches along the East Coast to Cairns where you’ll find the Great Barrier Reef and stunning rainforest! This is the perfect way to kick back, relax and enjoy everything Oz has to offer! Trip Code: TDJQL14
Whitsunday Island Hamilton Island Lindeman Islands
Smith Islands National Park
Brampton Island Q U E E N S L A N D
Mackay
VOLUNTEER
A typical day starts with an Aussie-style breakfast at 7am. After your team briefing you’ll find yourself tackling the invasive species that plague the local flora and fauna. There is a break during the hottest part of the day for you to relax and enjoy this beautiful island paradise. Afternoons can be spent surveying the stunning coral reef. Your evenings are free for you to enjoy. You can go swimming, cook dinner, or simply watch the sunset.
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PROJECT:
Volunteer in the Magic Forest
4 days FROM $392 plus a local payment of NZ $150 (without pass from $213)
voluntEER
Starts anywhere
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
where you started
New Zealand is not just about party-time, bungee jumping, or just doing ‘out there’ stuff. You can help to keep New Zealand WORK WITH WORK WITH while having the time of your life! COMMUNITIES beautiful CHILDREN 4, 7 or 10-day conservation volunteer packages are available alongside countrywide travel passes. You can help protect the kiwi and other native flora and fauna whileWORK as WITH part of your travels. WORK WITH COMMUNITIES
CHILDREN
ABOUT THIS PROJECT The Magic Forest is a restoration project that aims to create an eco-corridor of native vegetation joining two of New Zealand’s well-established rainforests. This growing corridor will expand kiwi habitats, WORK WITH protect the area from harmful development and COMMUNITIES provide natural recreational trails for future visitors. The forest requires dedicated time and effort invested into regeneration, native planting and pest control.
How you make a difference
Fast FactS and what’s included Four days volunteering and a Magic Bus pass around New Zealand Project start days: Daily year round Accommodation: Multi-share dorm at a hostel (4 nights) Getting there: Your Magic pass must include a northbound coach journey from Rotorua to Tauranga/Mt Maunganui to reach the project In-country Support: Local project coordinator Meals Included: None Budget: Allow $75-110 per project for meals not included Trip code: STAROTMAG
Volunteers are introduced to the relationships between fragile ecosystems and human habitations as well as between cultures during this experience. You will learn about land management plans and local initiatives which will enhance the traditional Maori tribal land – working with the local community to spread the conservation message. Conservation work varies depending on the time of year with seasonal focus on tree planting, plant release, plant propagation, and track maintenance and development with year-round environmental monitoring.
A day in the life of a Volunteer Activities include assisting with bird counts, bird feeding and assisting with an endangered species program. You will also find yourself helping to install tracking tunnels, setting up environmental monitoring stations, building nature trails and planting native trees. You will also be able to learn about the Maori uses of native plants. At night time, you may find yourself conducting night surveys of the local wildlife.
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Volunteer in the Magic Forest 7 DAYS FROM $534
Auckland Tauranga T A S M A N S E A
Volunteer Project Rotorua
VOLUNTEER
N O R T H I S L A N D
Wellington
S O U T H I S L A N D
S O U T H P A C I F I C O C E A N
Christchurch
Queenstown
85 Fov
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plus local payment of NZ$ 240 per person Spend longer helping out here and also get to visit the world renowned Kiwi Recovery Program. Trip Code: STAROTMAG
Volunteer in the Magic Forest 10 days from $677 plus local payment of NZ$ 330 per person As well as visiting the Kiwi Recovery Program, you’ll get an immersion in Maori conservation practices and traditions – with the chance to visit to a local Maori marae and plus an opportunity to focus on a single threatened species during your volunteer program. Trip code: STAROTMAG
S
8 days FROM $581 Auckland
voluntOUr
Auckland, NEW ZEALAND WORK IN
CONSERVATION
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
Participate in a eight-day program involving community, cultural and conservation development at the the WORK WITH CHILDREN heart of Maori culture in New Zealand.
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• Stay in a living thermal village • Experience WORK WITHtrue Maori culture WORK WITH •COMMUNITIES Learn your own Maori CHILDREN song • Learn how to perform the world famous Haka • Volunteer on community and conservation projects
ITINERARY Day 1 Auckland Arrive at any time. WORK WITH Day 2 Auckland - Rotorua Head to Rotorua. (B) COMMUNITIES Day 3 Whakarewarewa Arrive at Whakarewarewa and be briefed about what you will be doing. Projects will differ depending on the weather, time of year and resources available. End the day day learning how to perform the Haka! (B, L) Day 4 Whakarewarewa Meet your guide and learn a Maori song! Experience a lively Maori cultural performance. The nightly Rotorua Maori cultural event features arts, craft, song, performing arts and traditional Maori feast. (B, L) Day 5 Whakarewarewa Participate in an activity that is part of village life – which may include the church, the pre-school or a community event run by the village. In the afternoon continue your volunteer work. (B, L) Day 6 Whakarewarewa Complete your volunteer work. This afternoon learn some traditional Maori practices. (B, L) Day 7 Rotorua – Auckland Head back to Auckland. (B) Day 8 Auckland Depart Auckland.
About this Project You’ll get a special opportunity to experience Maori culture firsthand. This project focuses on conservation and community work in this area, such as restoring walking tracks and reforestation.
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Kiwi Experience Travel Passes rom $678 per person per pass See New Zealand at your own pace - Kiwi Experience hop-on/hop-off bus passes offer a flexible way to travel around New Zealand. You’ll have 12 months to do this with unlimited stops, regular departures, and the inside info on where to stay and what’s happening. This is a legendary NZ travel network, offering you some of the most unforgettable experiences on the planet. Get off the beaten track and experience the adventure of a lifetime! Tour code: STAAKLZEP
FAST FACTS AND WHAT’S INCLUDED Accommodation: 2 nights hostel accommodation at Nomads Auckland and 5 nights hostel accommodation at Kiwi Paka in Rotorua Transport: Transfers between Auckland and Rotorua are NOT included. The Kiwi Experience: Geyserland Pass (which travels via Whitianga) is a good option for traveling between Auckland and Rotorua for $204 per person In-country support: An experienced English-speaking guide will be there to assist you throughout your stay Meals: 7 Continental Breakfasts. A packed lunch will be provided each day you are out at the village (4 Lunches) Budget: Allow $18 per person per day for meals not included
DEPARTURES 2010 and 2011 Price from $581 per person based on multi-share dorm room. Tour Code: STAAKLCUV
Hauraki Gulf
Auckland Bay
This package can also start in Rotorua for $581 per person. Two nights stay in Auckland is included in the price which can be used at any time during your trip. Tour Code: STAROTCUV
T A S M A N S E A
of P
lenty
Whakarewarewa Volunteer Project Rotorua
N O R T H I S L A N D
Poverty Bay Hawke Bay
Golden Bay Coo
Tasman Bay
rait k St
Karamea Bight
Wellington
S O U T H P A C I F I C O C E A N
S O U T H I S L A N D Christchurch
VOLUNTOUR VOLUNTOUR
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Maori Cultural Volunteer Program
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Work with Turtles in Vanuatu voluntEER
24 days FROM $2,320 Moso Island, Vanuatu
Help a rural community-based sea turtle nest survey and protection program on the beautiful Moso WORK IN WORK WITH WORK WITH ANIMALS CONSERVATION Island, Vanuatu. COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
ABOUT THIS PROJECT
A day in the life of a Volunteer
This vital sea turtle conservation project will take you to the turquoise waters and golden sands of Vanuatu. Contribute to research on local turtle populations, see nesting turtles and hatchlings and explore the stunning island beaches and forests. Volunteer activities can include reef surveying, teaching at the village school and cooking local food.
Your project life will vary depending on the time of the season. Daily activities may include reef surveys, helping with construction projects and nightly trips to the beach to survey and tag nesting turtles. Towards the late part of the season, more emphasis will be placed on monitoring and assisting the emergence of hatchlings, and determining the success of nests.
How you make a difference
VOLUNTEER
Without volunteers this survey would simply cease to continue. The work you do as a volunteer is hugely important to local research and conservation education efforts. Conservation work in this area ensures that this rare and beautiful animal can start to thrive. The money that the community receives from the volunteers provides a small income to many people in the village that would otherwise have none.
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The
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
l a c i h et oice
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
ch
voluntEER
CHILDREN
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
CHILDREN
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
WORK WITH
FAST FACTS AND WHAT’s included Project Start Day: 28 Sep10; 26 Oct10; 23 Nov10; 04 Jan11; 01 Feb11; 01 Mar11; 27 Sep11; 25 Oct11; 22 Nov11; 03 Jan12; 30 Jan12; 28 Feb12 Accommodation: Shared bungalow rooms Getting there: Head to Port Vila on Vanuatu Duration: Minimum and maximum stay of 24 nights In-country Support: Project coordinator and staff Meals Included: Yes Budget: Allow $30-50 per week Language Requirements: Good level of English Prices: Valid for departures in 2010 and 2011 Trip code: STAVILTUR
Sunae
VA N U AT U
Port Vila
VOLUNTEER
S O U T H P A C I F I C O C E A N
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EUROPE
Protecting fragile ecosystems
Witness jaw-dropping historical sights, stumble happily from gigantic beer halls, fall madly in love with the world’s most romantic cities, yodel yourself hoarse on green pastured mountain peaks … and come face to face with Europe.
IDEAS TO EXTEND YOUR STAY 1
Delve into an ancient civilization in Greece
Plunge into the land of Greek mythology, first ever Olympic Games and a great selection of islands and beach life.
2
Oo la la!
Try a wine and cheese tasting course in Paris – the gastronomic capital of the world.
3
STEP BACK IN TIME AT STONEHENGE, UK
Check out Stonehenge – a relic from a forgotten past and a civilization long gone.
4
BEER AND OOMPA BANDS
Munich is the beer capital of the world! They’ve brewed the stuff for 3,000 years – thousands of gallons are drunk at the annual Oktoberfest.
5
ENJOY LA DOLCE VITA IN ROME, ITALY
As you walk the streets of Rome, remember you’re treading the same path as emperors, popes, philosophers, and artists before you. ICELAND
Norwegian Sea SWEDEN
FINLAND
NORWAY
ng Worki
North Sea
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CITY
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London Athens Paris Rome Amsterdam Barcelona Madrid Munich Berlin Vienna
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57 75 61 72 57 70 66 55 55 57
50 66 50 61 48 61 55 45 45 45
45 59 45 55 43 55 48 36 37 37
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UK POLAND
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J F M A M J J A S O N D
CZECH REPUBLIC FRANCE SWITZERLAND
AUSTRIA
HUNGARY ROMANIA
CROATIA PORTUGAL SPAIN
SERBIA BULGARIA
ITALY ALBANIA
Mediterranean Sea
with
S O G N
ESTONIA
GREECE
Ionian Sea CRETE
TURKEY
Turtle conseRvation in Greece WORK IN
CONSERVATION
PROJECT:
voluntEER
WORK WITH
ANIMALS
14 days FROM $1,620
CHILDREN
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
CHILDREN
ANIMALS
WORK WITH
Help to protect and conserve an important loggerhead turtle nesting area in WORK the WITH Mediterranean. WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES
WORK WITH
WORK IN
CONSERVATION
COMMUNITIES
Mavrovouni , GREECE
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
ABOUT THIS PROJECT Lakonikos is perhaps best known as an important nesting area for loggerhead sea turtles in the Mediterranean and this WORK WITH project, with the help of volunteers, engages in daily surveys COMMUNITIES to record nesting activity and protects turtle nests from land predators, destruction and other risks. The project also provides conservation information and education to tourists and the local community.
How you make a difference
WORK WITH
CHILDREN
WORK WITH
COMMUNITIES You will work in cooperation with the local community, promoting conservation of these enigmatic animals. The public awareness activities that you will be assisting with help people adopt friendlier attitude towards their natural environment and ensure a future for the local turtle population. By helping to protect turtle nests against predators and other risks you can help to ensure that as many hatchlings as possible make it into the turtle population.
Fast FactS and what’s included
Jiu
Project Start Day: 05 Sep10; 12 Jun11; 26 Jun11; 10 Jul11; 24 Jul11; 07 Aug11; 21 Aug11; 04 Sep11 Accommodation: Camping (13 nights) Getting there: Fly to Athens and then take a bus to Gythio Duration: Minimum stay 14 nights, maximum stay 154 nights In-country Support: Project coordinator and staff Meals Included: Yes Budget: Allow $15-20 per day Language Requirements: Good level of English Prices: Valid for departures in 2010 and 2011 Trip code: STAATHTUR Mor
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In the morning, you will be conducting surveys of the beach, locating any new turtle tracks and/or nests, recording data and measurements, and installing protective grids around the nests. In the afternoon and evening, you will be involved with creative public awareness presentations. Other activities include harvesting bamboo and assembling the grids that are used to mark and protect the nests.
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A day in the life of a Volunteer
Dr
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Kamchiya
BLAC
EXTEND YOUR STAY >> Our small, comfortable yachts are ideally suited to sailing around the beautiful Greek Islands. Unique itineraries of 8, 10, 15 or 22 days offer you a chance to immerse yourself in Greek Island culture and history. Sail to small, seldom visited islands offering quaint shopping towns and the freshest seafood, or stroll through along the bright streets of more famous islands such as Santorini. Tour code: GAGVMS
AEGEAN SEA IONIAN SEA
Athens Mykonos
Volunteer Project
VOLUNTEER
Greek Islands Sailing from $1,199 per person
MIRTOAN SEA
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