MARINE CONSERVATION PROJECT
Management of marine fauna at a protected area and environmental educational programs at the local communities.
The project
Work directly with a National Protected Area, whose main purpose is the conservation of the dry forest and marine biodiversity. It works as part of the Ministry of Environment of Ecuador.
This volunteer project is ideal for people interested in the conservation of marine ecosystems. The organization works with the preservation turtle species such as Hawbill turtles (Ertmochelys imbricate), Grean Sea turtles (Chelonia mydas), and Olive Ridleys (Lepidochelys olivacea), they also work monitoring and helping in the recovery of different bird´s species like the Blue footed booby (Sula nebouxii).
Between June and September each year, whales come to visit the Ecuatorian coasts, so you´ll be able to watch them jump and dance, from October to February, turtle´s nesting season is here, and you will work at the nest monitoring and relocation.
It is necessary to work with the community and transmit the results of scientific research in order to do conservation activities effectively. Another objective of this project is to educate people living in the central coast about the importance of conservation, protection, and preservation projects respecting the environment.
Dates/Length
Costs
2 weeks – $1750
1 month – $2300
2 months – $3400
3 months – $4500
Each extra week – $275
Location details
The project location is coastal. Accommodation is at a shared house. Budget for two meals per day is included.
Requirements
Intermediate spanish, must be 18 and over, with valid passport and health insurance
Itinerary Sample
Work at the turtle´s rescue center and in the activities where the park rangers require your help, schedule is usually from 9am to 5pm, but it can vary if the have emergency rescues, releases or different activities.
Role of the volunteer
Assist at the Rescue Center, cleaning the tanks and the environment in general, cleaning the turtles, feeding the turtles and rescued birds.
Help the park rangers at the species monitoring, rescues and releases, learn how to deal with injured animals and help them.
Skills required
What’s Included?
Accomodation
Available during the length of the project (Either at the project or local homestay families with 2 meals included)
Transfer from Quito to project
Cellphone
Local cell phone is included with a refundable deposit of $50
Aiport pick-up
EcuaExplora staff ready to transport you
Support 24 hours
On the ground EcuaExplora staff available
First weekend accomodation
In a hostal in Quito with breakfast
Orientation
(includes city tour and lunch)
Not Included
Health insurance (REQUIRED)
Meals not specified
Transportation to/from the homestay to the project each day
Optional extras
Add $60 per week for 6 hours Spanish classes if in Quito.
