Galapagos Learning Service: Transformative Student Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Galapagos Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique biodiversity. This is an example of a 14-day program. However, we are happy to customize our programs based on your duration and to meet your group’s aims.

Due to insufficient government funding, the Galapagos National Park is understaffed. This means that conservationists are unable to keep up with routine tasks like research and maintenance. By volunteering, you can support vital research, collect valuable scientific data, and maintain the islands' world-famous biodiversity.

Actively contribute to vital conservation efforts, working alongside local experts to protect endangered species like the Galapagos giant tortoise. You’ll also connect with local communities, sharing cultural experiences and engaging young people in educational activities. Through these connections, you’ll raise awareness around the work being done by conservationists, encouraging the next generation to make a change, too.

There will also be plenty of time to wind down and explore. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters, hike through volcanic terrain, and witness the power of nature firsthand. This extraordinary journey across the three main islands of the Galapagos will leave you inspired and committed to environmental conservation.

View example itinerary >

Highlights

Collaborate on conservation efforts to protect indigenous and endemic flora and fauna, preserving habitats and maintaining the unique biodiversity of the islands.
Learn from conservationists as you care for tortoises at the San Cristobal Tortoise Breeding Center, research sea lions, and explore a variety of habitats.
Participate in workshops and lectures to better understand the history of the Galapagos, its wildlife, challenges, and vital research conducted there.
Explore Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, and Isabela Island as you snorkel within this archipelago and venture through lava tunnels!
Empower the next generation through hands-on environmental initiatives and awareness campaigns.
Unlock key accomplishments via a reflective workshop at the end of your trip.
Dedicated pre-departure assistance.

Contact us

Team up with one of our Partnership Managers today to begin planning your trip to the Galapagos.

Overview

While we offer a flexible trip duration, here's a sample itinerary showcasing an exciting two-week adventure in the Galapagos.

Week One

As you step off the plane at San Cristobal Airport, you’ll be met by Projects Abroad staff, who will help you settle into your new surroundings before starting your project. Embark on an orientation tour of the charming town of San Cristobal, familiarizing yourself with the surroundings and key landmarks. Say hello to the sea lions sunbathing around town.

Learn about the ongoing conservation work in the Galapagos with a Conservation Workshop. This will provide context into local efforts to preserve the surrounding ecosystem. Contribute to these efforts as you care for the tortoises at the San Cristobal Tortoise Breeding Center, conduct sea lion surveys, and clean up the beach at Opuntia Bay.

Raise awareness of local conservation issues through a workshop designed by your group. Present your activities and motivational talks to young people at the nearby community center. You’ll also spend an afternoon with young people planting Indigenous plants. By including them in the solution, you will empower them to create positive change.

Round off the week with a trip to Santa Cruz! Learn about the history and research techniques of conservationists on the islands further with a trip to the Charles Darwin Research Station, go underground to explore the Lava Tunnels, relax on the breathtaking Tortuga Bay, and spot black sea turtles and marine iguanas.

Week Two

Continue your island exploration with a trip to the remarkable island of Isabela. Here, you'll witness the raw power of volcanic landscapes, hike across lava fields, and encounter unique wildlife, including flamingos, blue-footed boobies, and penguins. You'll also learn about the geological forces that shaped these islands and the delicate balance between wildlife and human habitats.

Returning to Santa Cruz Island, you'll have the opportunity to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Las Grietas, marvelling at the vibrant marine life. You'll then continue your conservation work at the Tortoise Breeding Center and engage with the local community through games, activities, and cultural exchanges.

As your adventure draws to a close, you'll reflect on your experiences and the importance of preserving the Galapagos ecosystem. You'll share insights, celebrate friendships, and leave with a deeper appreciation for the natural world and a commitment to sustainable practices.

If you want to go for longer or have specific requirements for your trip to the Galapagos, contact us to start planning your trip today.

About The Galapagos

The Galapagos National Park covers 97% of the Galapagos.
Straddling the equator, the Galapagos Islands are in both the northern and southern hemispheres, making the Galapagos penguin the only penguin to live north of the equator.
The Galapagos Islands consist of 18 main islands, 3 smaller islands, and 107 islets.
Nearly 20% of marine life is endemic, meaning it is found nowhere else in the world.
Created by volcanic activity, the Galapagos is currently home to 13 active volcanoes.
Charles Darwin developed his Theory of Evolution while visiting the Galapagos.
The Galapagos National Park has strict regulations to manage tourism and protect the fragile ecosystem. These include limiting the number of visitors to certain sites and requiring all visitors to be accompanied by a licensed guide.

What's included

We handle all the essentials, so you can focus on the experience.

Your trip includes the following as standard. Talk to us if you’re looking for anything customized; we can help.

Accommodation
Three meals per day
Drinking water
In-destination transportation, including airport transfers
One free staff place for every nine students that travel
Excursions, cultural activities, and social events
Project materials
24/7 staff support for the duration of your trip
A custom-made reflective journal (upon request)
A fully customizable bespoke itinerary
An in-person or online talk before you sign up
A Q&A presentation for students, parents, and teachers
A pre-departure presentation prior to travel
A full risk assessment for every group trip
Support from application to departure
Fundraising advice
Assistance with booking flights
Comprehensive induction and orientation upon arrival
Dedicated group pre-departure support

For more information, request your Teacher Handbook, our practical guide designed to support you in planning, organizing, and delivering a safe and successful school trip.

Sustainability promise

Projects Abroad is a Certified B Corporation, which means we have joined the global movement of businesses committed to using business as a force for good.

We also calculate emissions linked to our programs before funding climate action projects that offset what is produced. We then go further, adding a 10% contingency to account for any variation, and planting a tree for each participant. This makes our operation climate-positive — we offset more carbon than we create.

Read more about our commitment to Sustainability.