At a glance
- Visit the Charles Darwin Research Centre
- Care for the iconic Galápagos giant tortoise
- Survey other species, like sea lions and petrels
- Work alongside park rangers to maintain Galápagos National Park
- Facilitate the restoration of natural habitats
- Take a two-day tour of Santa Cruz Island
Is this project right for me?
This project is perfect for those looking to:
- Take part in conservation work alongside those travelling aboard the Oosterschelde with the Darwin200 initiative
- Make a positive, lasting impact and work alongside expert conservationists to protect the wildlife of this beautiful location
- Explore unique flora, fauna, and wildlife just as Charles Darwin did almost 200 years ago
- Stay in San Cristobal – the first island Darwin explored in the Galápagos during his impressive 5-year expedition
- Visit the Charles Darwin Research Centre and learn about its foundation's contributions to the Galápagos Islands and current scientific projects
You don't need any conservation experience to join this programme, just a passion for adventure, nature, and conservation! Gain practical experience as you learn from experts within the Galápagos National Park, contributing to vital research, assisting with park maintenance, and bettering your understanding of local wildlife.
This seven-day programme will be running for two weeks only. All you need to do is decide if you’d like to join week one, or two, and complete our application form with a £195 deposit. Then, we’ll take care of the rest!
What will I do on this project?
During your time on this project, you will work with conservationists at the Galapagos National Park to complete a range of important tasks such as:
- Feeding giant tortoises
- Maintaining animal walkways, enclosures, and bathing pools
- Removing invasive, alien plant species
- Beach clean-ups
- Taking care of baby tortoises
- Complete surveys to note the populations of frigate birds and sea lions in the area
The Galapagos is home to a unique population of bird and animal life. It’s also considered a research hotspot for scientists from around the world. During your time here, you’ll work with conservationists on various research projects in the Galapagos National Park.
Due to a lack of funds, the park struggles with a lack of staff. Consequently, conservationists are unable to keep up with research, instead needing to focus on maintenance and animal care tasks. As an extra pair of helping hands, you’ll help them with collecting data during surveys. This is important work, as the results are used to advise the Ministry of Environment for policy-making.
You’ll also get involved in the removal of alien plants. These plants are a threat to local species that are only found in the Galapagos.
Not only will you be removing invasive plants, but you will also help plant mangroves to restore the habitats of marine life around the island.
Where will I work?
San Cristobal
The Galapagos Islands are hugely popular for anyone with an interest in biology, science, and wildlife. These volcanic islands are home to a vast number of species that occur nowhere else in the world. A few examples include the Giant tortoise, marine iguanas, Galapagos fur seals, and Galapagos penguins.
What are the aims and impact of this project?
Darwin200
Darwin200 is an initiative taking 200 conservationists around the world, following the journey Charles Darwin made on the HMS Beagle back in 1831.
After landing in the Galapagos, Darwin collected a wide range of data from flora, fauna, and wildlife. With many species here being native to the Galapagos, Darwin was able to draw comparisons between wildlife on the mainland and the islands. Darwin made many observations throughout his research, which consequently led him to his theory of evolution by natural selection.
Through this programme, you can walk in Darwin's footsteps and explore the amazing wildlife that calls the islands home. Better your understanding of Charles Darwin's long-lasting, positive impact on the world of conservation, while you make your own!
Conservation
Due to insufficient funding from the government, the Galapagos National Park is understaffed. This makes it difficult for staff and conservationists to do everything that’s needed. It also means that research projects get delayed.
Through conducting wildlife surveys, collecting valuable scientific data, and doing reforestation work in the park, you'll provide park staff with additional support with daily tasks and assist them with their research projects.
Measuring our impact
Our projects work towards clear long-term goals, with specific annual objectives. Every volunteer and intern we send to these projects helps us work towards these goals, no matter how long they spend on our projects.
Every year we take a step back and look at how much progress we've made towards these goals. We put together a Global Impact Report, which documents our achievements. Find out more about the impact our global community of volunteers, interns and staff make, and read the latest report.
Food & accommodation
You'll share accommodation with other Projects Abroad volunteers during your stay in San Cristóbal. This is a great way to get to know your fellow volunteers and interns, share experiences, and explore your surroundings in your free time together.
While on Santa Cruz Island, you’ll stay in a hotel!
All accommodation is safe, clean, and comfortable. Your programme fees include three meals a day.
Safety and staff support
Your safety and security is our prime concern. We have many procedures and systems to ensure you have the support you need to enjoy your trip with peace of mind. Our Projects Abroad staff are available 24 hours a day to help, and will be on hand to make sure you settle in well at your accommodation and placement. If you encounter any problems, they will be available to help at any time.
Find out more about safety and backup.
This placement is fully researched, safety audited, and risk assessed in accordance with the British Standard BS8848 for the Adventure Travel Sector
We currently don’t have any available dates for this project. Contact us on 01273 007 230 to discuss future dates or alternative projects.
Want to know more?
If you're interested in this Darwin200 programme or would like to know more about it, get in touch with one of our Programme Experts and they will be happy to help!
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