Description

The National Park beaches, in Manabi, are considered some of the last nesting areas for sea turtles in Ecuador. Even though the number of sea turtles which migrate yearly to the coast is low compared to other areas of the world, it is very important to evaluate and protect the nests of these animals. Nesting season starts by the end of January. Daily visits to the main beaches of the area are required in order to identify nests and protect them.

Also, sea turtles nesting in the area will be tagged with tags provided by NOAA La Jolla (tagging will be supervised at all times). Once the nesting season is over, volunteers will start diving to observe sea turtles and try to identify markings on individual animals. Diving activities will also attempt additional new tag deployments. Using tested methods, project participants will capture turtles, collect measurements and samples, and to apply fin tags.

Highlights

Eco Volunteer UP Foundation is a non-profit organization which is recognized legally by Ecuadorian Government. We offer volunteers real immersion in the various Ecuadorian ecosystems, and real opportunities for learning and sharing the Ecuadorian cultures, costumes and traditions.

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

USD 450 per month

Program Fees Include:

* Accommodation in a volunteers house in Puerto Lopez (shared bedrooms, water, and kitchen)
* 3 meals per day (in restaurants or in the volunteer house)
* Volunteer certificate

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Application Process Involves

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Eco Volunteer UP Foundation's Mission Statement

We are a non-profit organization which is legally recognized by the Ecuadorian Government. Volunteers with Eco Volunteer UP have the choice of many worthy programs, such as vulnerable orphanages, institutes for children with disabilities, street children and local indigenous communities. There are volunteer programs located in and around Quito, the capital of Ecuador, as well as programs located in the Cloud Forest and its communities close to Quito, the Ecuadorian Amazon, the Galapagos Islands and other key places around Ecuador. We offer volunteers real immersion in the various Ecuadorian ecosystems, and the unique opportunity for learning and sharing about Ecuadorian cultures, costumes and traditions.