Project Overview
Overview
Why not visit one of the new Seven Wonders of the World?
Cut adrift in the Pacific Ocean 1000 kilometres off the coast of Ecuador, volcanic forces deep under the sea have thrown up a unique wildlife paradise that’s so popular the Ecuadorian government are about to limit the number of visitors dropping anchor on its unique shores. This makes it the best time to visit this amazing island for yourself, and remember to take a camera so people believe your stories! You’ll be based in a fascinating biological station whose aim is to help preserve the natural habitat of the island and introduce new organic farming methods to the islanders. Tasks include planting new crops, assisting in light building and helping maintain island trails. You can also take advantage of your colleagues’ expertise on various hikes to the island’s lagoons, forests and villages and learn about the ecological and human dynamics of Galapagos.
When you book this trip, in addition to the 52% typically of your programme fee that is spent in country, we will also use US$75 of your fee to purchase 7 tools such as machetes, hammers, matlocks and screwdrivers through our Big Giving programme.
Trip Highlights:
- Actually helping preserve these incredible islands - something to be immensely proud of
- Exploring the islands on your days off
- Living on the islands themselves rather than visiting - lucky you
Itinerary & Details
The Jatun Sacha Foundation is a non-profit, non-governmental organisation which has been running since 1985. The Foundation is dedicated to the research, conservation, and management of ecologically important habitats, as well as environmental education and community development.
Consistent with past work, one of the objectives of this Jatun Sacha station is to develop the technology to reconstruct the native habitat in the highlands on San Cristobal, and to serve as a centre for similar projects in the highlands on other populated islands in the Galapagos chain. In addition the foundation will be working collaboratively with local landowners to develop clean agricultural alternatives for the production of vegetables and fruits to sell to local universities, restaurants, and hotels.
The habitat restoration consists of eradicating invasive species of plants, especially a certain type of raspberry, in order to plant native trees and vegetation. Currently, the reserve is implementing a biological corridor going from 150 meters above sea level to 550 meters above sea level to demonstrate the different native vegetation at different gradients of the island.
The highland forests of the populated Islands in the Galapagos chain have been greatly altered due to the introduction of exotic and invasive species of animals and plants. Highland conservation, development and poverty issues have been almost completely neglected by conservation, development and government agencies. As a result of the lack of fruit and vegetable production on the Galapagos Islands, boats from the Ecuadorian mainland unload fruits and vegetables to hotels, restaurants, and markets on a daily basis. Quarantine regulations are consistently ignored and at least two exotic and/or invasive plant or faunal species enter the islands each day. Importantly, the local population, lacking most government services and suffering high unemployment levels, is almost completely excluded from working in and benefiting from the tourism industry: tour operators do nearly all their business from their boats, ignoring business possibilities with local Galapagueno's.
General fitness and lots of enthusiasm is definitely needed for this conservation project. Volunteers also need to be ready to take on any tasks that may be required of them, and to get dirty in the process! The work can be demanding so be prepared!
You will work on both the habitat restoration and agricultural components while at the reserve. In addition, foundation staff will lead you on various hikes to a nearby lagoon, native forests, beaches, and local villages to explain the ecological and human dynamics of Galapagos. Opportunities to work on group research and monitoring projects will be developed.
A typical week for volunteers might be as follows:
- 1 day work with reforestation with native and endemic species in the reserve and in local farms (collecting seeds, classifying, nursery work, out planting within the reserve or nearby areas, help maintain reforestation lines, etc.)
- 1 day on environmental education with local people and schools
- 1 day station maintenance (trail maintenance, sign elaboration for trails, basic construction activities, help clean fresh water supply, help in kitchen, etc.)
- 1 day organic agricultural activities and vegetable production (help maintain and secure food production for the station)
- 1 day guided hike throughout the reserve and/ or nearby related areas (learn about biodiversity themes, natural history and ecology)
- 1 to 2 kitchen duty turns per week, where you will help the staff in the kitchen for the different meals.
There is also the possibility of working on mini projects, although these will not be full days, such as the following;
- Petrels observation: nest finding, clearing around the nests to facilitate the mother’s entrance, birds behaviour.
- Fenology studies and flora inventories: observation and classification of native endemic and invasive species.
- Birds observation at the reserve to determine if they are native, endemic or invasive.
- Germination project: determine the most effective method for germination in vegetable production and other species.
- Coffee production to see the possibility of exportation coffee.
You will be working Monday to Friday for approximately 7 hours per day, weekend work is also available. Occassionally you may need to work a half day Saturday.
This reserve is located in the highlands of the island, 45 minutes by truck from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, on a 200 hectares site, where there is still native vegetation. The reserve is mainly an organic agricultural and habitat restoration project.
The flight from Quito to San Cristobal is about an hour, this flight will be booked for you and the cost added to your statement at the time of booking. The project is then a 30 minute taxi ride from the airport.
Stories
Heather Richardson gives this project 10/10
Here is what Heather had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
The Galapagos Islands are incredible and it's just amazing being here. I can't wait to tell everyone about the giant tortoises. One of the best things we've done here is go for hikes on our days off. Our guides tell us all about the forest; it's quite an education!
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
The work is really satisfying and if you concentrate on one little job at a time rather than the big picture it's easy to see the good that you are doing. It's brilliant to be able to experience this country while also helping its environment.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Bring high-strength insect repellent, long-sleeved tops and make sure your lower back doesn't show as this is nearly always the place that gets bitten!
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
The Galapagos Islands are so incredible!
Vikki Evans gives this project 10/10
Here is what Vikki had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
-Chopping down that invasive Mora! (to make way for native species)
-Seeing the tortoises at the Galapaguera
- Sleeping in those fantastic log lodges and even not minding the spiders after a while!
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
The Galapagos Islands are very beautiful and are understandably a huge attraction to people throughout the globe, but they are also very fragile and can only support a certain number of people each year. Allowing more will bring in more money, but will ruin the beauty and individuality of the islands and so great care must be taken. The introduction of invasive species of plant and animal has already wreaked untold damage on the flora and fauna of the islands and no more must be allowed to happen.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Bring long sleeved tops that cover up your neck and can be tucked into your trousers - or you'll be eaten by mosquitos!
Bring a swimming costume so you can enjoy the coast at weekends
Do not forget your torch and spare batteries, your camera, your suncream and your insect repellent (and your email address book!)
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
I believe my small contribution has made a difference.
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
When we arrived in Quito we were given testimonials from past volunteers at the projects and these were very useful, but would have been more so if we could have had these before we left home.
Mark Bessoudo gives this project 10/10
Here is what Mark had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
The conservation work that I completed, the people I met (other volunteers and locals), the life that I led!
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
I now realize how difficult conservation efforts are to implement
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
- Even if you are tired, dirty, or sore, savour every minute of it, because you might not ever get a chance to do something like it again!
- Contact as many other people as you can to find out about your project so you know what to expect when you get there.
- You are paying for this opportunity, so be enthusiastic and outgoing. No one likes volunteers that whine and complain. Accept the fact that you are going to be outside of your comfort zone in some situations- but that is the point of going to volunteer in another country.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
The best thing I have ever done!
Kathryn Kirk gives this project 10/10
Here is what Kathryn had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
Learning about the ecology of the Galapagos,helping to combat the invasive species(with a machete),the Friday excursions,meeting new and interesting and enthusiastic people,and having the opportunity to spend weekends in town(watching the sea lions) as well as visiting the other islands.
It was amazing to see how much could be accomplished in a short time by a large group of people.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
As a teacher, i was inspired to see so many young people from all over the world volunteering their time and energy.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Bring lots of good DEET bug repellent.
Don't bring a mosquito net or boots. Bring a fine-meshed head net. Learn some Spanish before you go.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
Spending time in the Galapagos Islands was an amazing learning experience.
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
I would have liked have visited the Jatun Sacha office in Quito(and gotten a Jatun Sacha hat and t-shirt).
More tools and wheelbarrows(in working condition).
More of an educational component as to why we were doing what we were doing and more guided learning of plant and animal species.
Lucas Ray gives this project 10/10
Here is what Lucas had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
Well the best part of the experience for me had to be the people I met and friends I made. Apart from that, the flora and fauna on all parts of the Galapagos were fascinating and breathtaking, and the work was tiring but rewarding.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
Working on San Cristobal most clearly demonstrated to me the effect human inhabitance can have to an ecosystem.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Apart from the ordinary clichés of bringing DEET, work clothes, etc...
1) Bring good books. You'll have copious amounts of free time, and San Cristobal's book selection is... slim (though other volunteers are sure to have decent books as well).
2) Invest in decent hiking shoes. You won't regret it. On this note, DON'T buy rubber boots--there are about 50 pairs at the station left by previous volunteers.
3) Perhaps this one is a bit cliché, but quick dry clothes are endlessly useful.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
Extraordinary, in every sense of the word.
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
It could always be cheaper ^^. Apart from that, I know Jatun Sacha does their own orientation in Quito as well--perhaps allowing volunteers for the Galapagos project to do that orientation in addition would be useful (or even in lei of i-to-i's orientation).
Simon Davies gives this project 10/10
Here is what Simon had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
Going into port at the weekend was great. I was a time to chill out and get away from the insects. There were many tours (with discounts to volunteers) to see the Galapagos. The work was challenging but i enjoyed every minute of it. I was able to prepare the fields, work in the nursery, work in the greenhouse, plant the fields and maintain the fields. You do fee you make an impact even during my short stay in the Station (only 4 weeks)
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
Just being on the Station felt as if it has changed my life and the way I view like. The atmospher with the other volunteers and the time you have to collect your thoughts was excellent. I´ve met some great friends from around the world and will buy a hamock when i return to the UK (the best way to relax).
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
1) Don´t bring rubber boots - everyone brings them and leaves them. Before long there will have to be a conservation exercise to rid Galapagos of Rubber boots.
2) Bring loads of mosquito repelant but you won´t need a mosquito net for the night as they are provided.
3) Open your mind to new idea and get ready to chill out the other volunteers and have a great experience.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
Couldn´t have been a better travel experience - totally chilled out
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
More mosquito repelant (those damm english customs took some of it off me).
hannah willard gives this project 10/10
Here is what hannah had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
The people i met on the trip, the locals who were on the project were amazing, some of the nicest people ive ever met. The whole enviroment was fantastic.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
I've become more tolerant with communication barriers. I got used to being somewhere without any home comforts, cold water, mosquitos, being dirty. But it was well worth it. I also relised life has its ups and downs but you have to make the best out of the situation.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
1. Make friends with the locals, even if you cant speak the same language, i couldnt but had so much fun with them.
2. Get stuck in! forget about being uncomfortable, dirty and mosquitos and just throw yourself into it.
3. Take alot of memory cards for your camera....preferably a water proof one, or one with a water proof cover!
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
Best laugh ive had in years.
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
I didnt get one with some people, but 99% of people were amazing. Knowing more about what i needed, bringing alot of high deet insect repellent, not buying wellies as loads there, and knowing at weekends you can easily need $160, and there is a four day trip most people go on which is $440. But its well worth doing.
But everyone do it! and make sure you build lots of bonfires!
Elise Gouvernet gives this project 10/10
Here is what Elise had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
Staying on San Cristobal was an amazing experience, the actually work was quite difficult but the people you meet makes the experience worth it. Cesar the station manager is extremely friendly and knowledgeable but unfortunately he was away and only got back a few days before i left but i think those days were much more worthwhile as he has so much knowledge to impart. The whole experience was amazing so i couldn't pick one part.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
no
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
If your on the Galapagos make sure you have more money than you think you need as there are so many snorkelling trips, hikes and island tours each weekend and not matter what the cost is they are really worth it.
Strong insect repellant.
STRONG SUN BLOCK! The sun is so strong, you are gaurenteed to get burnt where you don't apply sunscreen. I have the worst sun tan fromsloppy sun screen application.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
Too much fun - I don't want to leave
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
no
stuart corinaldi gives this project 10/10
Here is what stuart had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
All of it, it was amazing
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
when sat in traffic when a young boy was juggling for money whilst carrying his baby sibling on his back
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
take everythink as it comes, dont pass on any opportunites, have a laugh and enjoy it
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
the best thing i could have ever done
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
no
Em Devenport gives this project 10/10
Here is what Em had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
walking to the nearby waterfall afterwork, the other volunteers and playing cards, chopping mora :) and collecting fruit
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
1.Its really hot so dont bring a sleeping bag or jumper, a towel or sleeping bag liner are enough
2. bring a mix of natural and deet bug spray - moov and burts bees repellant work well and you can buy a cream deet repellant in port which works well and the locals use,
3. bring two long sleeve high neck shirts and two pairs of long thing trousers and lots of socks, then you can wear one set by day and one by night, pyjamas, cargo or gringo trousers are the best
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
The best decision of my gap year so far!
Marieke Evertsen gives this project 10/10
Here is what Marieke had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
The Jatun Sacha station at San Cristobal is one big highlight. Hard to pick something out of it.... maybe it is the fac t that it took me just one day to get over my lifelong fear of spiders? :-)
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Repellent! (buying in town is prety cheap though but still, you need it from the first second onward day and night)
Be open for a completely different experience then expected, the basic environement and especially the great things you will be able to do out there
Enjoy all of your time!
And a 4th: if you bring your own musquiton net, don´t bring a bell shaped one but a rectangle! And yes, it is always appreciated if you do bring your own and leave it behind for re-use.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
My lifew will never be the same again
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
Booking my flights and all was even for me as an experienced travel agent a bit of a nightmare. No clear communication on where to fly to (Quito or san Cristobal...), or when (the 19th in Quito or is it the 19th in San Cristobal), and the same for the way back (do I fly back from Quito on the 25th or as it turns out 2 days earlier as appareantly people like to spent time at the i-to-i office in Quito).
Also information regarding the work you do can be better. i-to-i is most definetly better then any other tour operator I have come across in my 5 weeks stay but still gives out summier information regarding the project and what to expect.
I for one really enjoyed the very basic accomodation and learning new skills every day but not everybody who comes to the station is ready for the really hard physical labour involved or can understand why community work is also part of the conservation program.
Marcel van Dijk gives this project 9/10
Here is what Marcel had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
Well, sea lions everywhere... when you get used to it it's quite normal over there. :) And working with machete's, which was unexpectedly very cool to do.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
I already did a lot of trips around the world, but it was, for some reason, the first time I realized what impact some natural changes can have on a island. Really interesting.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Bring a lot of insect repellent with you, and spray it everywhere. You are bitten by musquito's before you know it! A face net is also really useful! Also rubber boots are essantial, and bring a lot of (old) trousers with you. Specially in rainy times, you have to be prepared to get muddy, wet and dirty.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
Sea lions and machete's are a perfect match! ;)
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
I did this trip for 2 weeks, and yes, it was too short. I recommend a stay for more then 3 weeks, specially because you have then time to spend your time also on another island. How ever, if you stick to the 2 weeks, you still will have a amazing experience.
Tessa Hawes gives this project 9/10
Here is what Tessa had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
Snorkelling with a shark, seeing Lonesome George, Climbing a Volcano and roasting my own coffee!
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
The work generally that the biological station does has made me very aware of how special not only the Galapagos islands are but the whole world, and how what we are doing on a day-to-day basis has a huge impact.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Make sure that you have plenty of long sleeves for working in, shirts should do up right to the neck.
Don't underestimate the amount of insect repellant you will need! A high percentage of DEET is pretty essential.
The working gloves you bring should be pretty strong, not just normal gardening ones.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
Completely unforgettable, the best thing I have ever done.
sarah lobley gives this project 9/10
Here is what sarah had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
The people I met and the beautiful islands of the Galapagos.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
The conservation work - mainly reforestation, we knew this was a crucial part of the Galapagos islands.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Go with an open mind and you will have a fantastic time.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
Amazing place, unique experience.
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
More information from i to i regarding the times that you flew out to the islands i.e. you don't fly out until the wednesday and therefore dont' get a full week. This wasn't so much a problem for me as I had signed up for 3 weeks, but for some of my freinds which had only signed up for 2 it meant that they were at the project for considerably less time.
Jenn Walsh gives this project 9/10
Here is what Jenn had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
The animals in the Galapagos! Using a machete! Making my own juice! How great the staff was! What an incredible experience I had!
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
Listening to Cesar's lectures once a week on the ecological and social problems facing the Galapagos was really eye opening. I have always heard of what a wonderful place the Galapagos is, but I was unaware of all the problems the people face daily.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
-Research your location and talk to past volunteers, as the placement details are always changing
-Keep an open mind! First glance may not be what you expect it to be, but give it time and you will learn to love your placement!
-Challenge yourself! Get involved in something you never thought you would have the guts to do.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
INCREDIBLE!
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
Updated information on the station. Jatun Sacha DOES has electricity, and I would have brought more long sleeve shirts and zio-lock bags to keep my things dry and mold-free!
Danielle Martin gives this project 9/10
Here is what Danielle had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
The people whom I did the conservation work with.
The weekend tours on the Galapagos.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Have an understanding that it can be hard work, and that insects can bother some people more than others. Be prepared for the hot and humid climate and for working under the hot sun.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
An experience that has made me grow
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
To have been given more information of the Jatun Sacha work station before arriving in Ecuador. I would have like to be informed of the exact work before I left home.
servat eric gives this project 8/10
Here is what servat had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
WILDLIFE
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
UNSOLD CROP
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
BRING ADDITIONAL FOOD
BRING MEDECINE
DRINK WATER EVEN YOU ARE NOT THIRSTY
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
A REAL BREAK FROM EVERYDAY HABITS
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
MORE TIME ON SITE
Ryan Borgen gives this project 8/10
Here is what Ryan had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
The best part of the trip was meeting new people from all over the world and going snorkeling with them to see blue footed boobies, sea lions, and penguins!
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
The trip made me realize how lucky I am to be able to travel the world when most of them have never left the city they grew up in.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Be ready to sweat. It's hard work, but if you have a positive attitude about it, it is enjoyable.
Learn some Spanish before you come. It was really hard to communicate with some of the local people who don't speak any English.
Be open minded. Eat what they give you because you'll be really hungry if you dont!!
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
HARD work but loved every minute of it!
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
If I had known more spanish going into the project.
Laura Duckett gives this project 8/10
Here is what Laura had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
All the wildlife I saw every day! Its such a bizarre mixture of flora and fauna it never ceases to amaze you.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
Doing such worthwhile work at the project was very rewarding at the end of each day, and made me realise just how important it is to conserve the environment for future generations.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Make sure you do your research well in advance, i.e. vaccinations, travel insurance and supplies, bring mosquito repellant and plenty of suncream!!!!!
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
Amazing is the only way to describe it
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
hot water!
Rachel Duckett gives this project 8/10
Here is what Rachel had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
I felt like is was drifting around in a dream, and sometimes a really weird film like one written by Woody Allen or something. There was one Island which had a population of about 100, and it was so eery.. empty swings still in motion in a dusty playground surrounded by a worn metal fence that wouldn't really keep anything in or out..
Another Island was like a large beach, except we couldn't actually find the sea for quite a while. There was sand, everywhere, and hammocks too. Sand on the pavement, sand on the road, in my shoes (along with the mud from the previous day's hike)...
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
Yeah, it was weird being right on the equator, like everything was upside down. for example, my sister is usually really good at directions and i'm terrible. but in the Galapagos it was the other way around.
The world will never cease to amaze me..In the Galapagos you can be on the same Island, and at one end experience scorching hot dry wheather then drive for 20 mins into the highlands and the air will be thick with humidity and you will shuddenly find yourself in a cloud of fog and rain!
I got a bit upset when i was a small boy selling bags of milk my the road...
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Don't bother with insect repellent, it just seems to attract them more
water tight bags!
enjoy urself
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
a mesmerizing dream and unforgetable experience
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
better accomodation in the galapagos islands. in quito the accomodation arranged by itoi was great though.
patrick steele gives this project 8/10
Here is what patrick had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
the tours on the weekends are amazing and all the people there are so cool and easy to get on with. they help you organise your own trips at the weekends if you want so they got me on a dive trip where i swam with hammerheads and sealions.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
i learnt alot more about the way plants can change so much on an island just by bringing in one new speices of plant and how important the local plants are to the wildlife.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
dont buy boots they have loads at the station.
be ready to just find work for yourself there is plenty to do and often the people are also to busy working to be chasing you around telling you what to do next.
bring tape for blisters.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
an amazing time in a unique place.
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
not that i can think of now.
Matt ´Pine gives this project 8/10
Here is what Matt had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
The animals.
The people.
The experience.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Long sleeves and trousers for working. You WILL be throwing them away afterwards.
Insect repellant. Lots. DEET important.
Mosquito facenet. Absolutely must.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
An experience thats made me open my eyes to what the world has to offer.
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
Cheaper i-to-i costs.
Melanie Johnson gives this project 7/10
Here is what Melanie had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
The variety of wildlife and sea life that could be experienced away from the reserve at weekends and during a four day trip I took over a holiday weekend.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
The enthusiasm of the local people and the hard work of the team in contributing to the daily chores on the reserve.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Bring enough money for weekends and try to go on excursions otherwise you will not get to see all the fascinating wildlife.
Bring lots of antibacterial gel.Hygeine is not what you may be used to back home.
Try to learn the language of the country you are visiting.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
It was a dream come true seeing the extraordinary wildlife.
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
I wasn't aware that the reserve was so remote.
If there was a least a small shop nearby selling snacks it would have made a fortune.We were all craving chocolates and sweets by the weekend but these could not be kept at the reserve because of the rodents.I think a small kettle at each accommodation would have been great to make tea outside of mealtimes.
I think a system for hot water would have been good for showers and for cleaning dishes.It seemed unfair that the staff quarters had hot water and the volunteers didn't!
Karin Bieri gives this project 7/10
Here is what Karin had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
That I worked with a Machete and didn't hurt...
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
That you have to think about the Consequences when you do something with your environmentally.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
1. Take good well-fitting working gloves, so you don't get any blister.
2. Good insect reppelent - wearing all the time on your body.
3. Try to ignore the spiders...
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
Hope the little plants I help to plant will survive.
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
I didn't get my Welcome pack, that was disappointing for me. And I would have appreciate, when we could be at the Station Jatun Sacha earlier, than wednesday. So I worked at the first week only on thursday. So I have the feeling after this trip, that I don't work that much I could and wanted on the Galapagos.
Chris Jukes gives this project 6/10
Here is what Chris had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
Meeting and working with volunteers from around the world.
Jungle hikes.
Travelling to Isabela.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Don´t under-estimate the mosquito problem!
If you are interested in research, bring your own literature and materials as resources at the station are extremely limited.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
Back to basics but fun!
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
Had I followed the tips in 2, or if the station had better access to scientific resources.
Matthew Seeley gives this project 5/10
Here is what Matthew had to say:
What were the highlights of your trip?
Nothing that stands out.
Was there a part of the project that changed the way you look at the world or affected you in some way?
Not really.
Do you have 3 top tips for future travellers?
Budget for a lot - a lot of the time isn't included in the trip cost.
Be prepared for not having anything to do - too many people are being sent out with very little work actually available.
Make sure you pack trousers - seriously.
Give Us Up To 10 Words That Sum Up Your Experience: For example - "A life changing experience!"
It was built up to be more than it was.
Is there anything that would have made your experience better?
Less volunteers and therefore more work to do. There was little variation in the work and at times there wasn't any to be done because there were far too many people there.
