ecology & Environment
in ecuador:the Amazon & the galapagos

only two spots left. Apply now!

DATES: DEC 30, 2009 - JAN 14, 2010

COST: $5275.
Program fee Includes: three semester credits tuition, domestic airfare, transfers, accommodations, meals, guides, park fees, wet suit rental, snorkeling equipment rental, airport departure taxes, pre-departure orientation, international student identity card, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation insurance.

International Airfare not included.

CREDITS: 3 semester credits in Biology 440 or 507, Environmental Science and Public Policy 490 or 505 or New Century Learning 395. Seeking credit approval for: Geography 333.

TYPE OF HOUSING: Hotels, Campgrounds, and Research Stations

HIGHLIGHTS: Tiputini Research Station in the Amazon Rainforest; canopy exploration in Yasuní National Park (a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve); extinct and active volcanoes; Playa Ochoa, a beautiful powder-sand beach; the marine sanctuary, Los Túneles; New Year's Eve in Quito!

CONTACT: Marie alice Arnold or 703.993.2167

Watch a video journal from one of last year's participants:

This program must be capped and will reach its maximum number of participants. Do not wait until the last minute to apply.

Surrounded by forested mountains and volcanoes at 9,350 feet above sea level, Quito is the second highest capital city in Latin America. Despite the fact that it's only 15 miles south of the equator, Quito's elevation gives it a wonderful spring-like climate year-round.

This program's participants will explore and compare the natural and cultural highlights of the Amazon, and the Galapagos Islands; experience the diverse ecosystems of each of these areas including the Galapagos Archipelago, where on the voyage of the Beagle, Charles Darwin developed key ideas that led to his theory of evolution; observe recent volcanic and tectonic features in both the Andes and in the Galapagos; visit areas of cultural and anthropologic significance in and around the capital city of Quito.

Participants will often be joined by scientists, naturalists, and local experts who will guide the group by providing lectures on biodiversity, culture, evolution, volcanism, and various environmental issues. A variety of activities including kayaking, camping, hiking, snorkeling, and swimming, will require a moderate degree of physical fitness from participants. Over night accommodations include rooms in hotels, campgrounds, and research stations.

Due to the sensitive nature of the Galapagos Islands, this group's size will be limited.

*CGE reserves the right to make changes to a program in light of currency fluctuations, changing security and safety conditions, or any other unforeseen circumstances.