Description

Experience a unique opportunity of developing an eco hostel on the rim of the largest natural crater on earth. The Crater, and the town of Mitzpe Ramon are located in the middle of the Negev desert in the southern part of Israel. You can go hiking, star gazing, mountain biking and meditation!

The Green Backpackers is a friendly, affordable and clean home-away-from home for backpackers who wish to experience the desert and marvel at the beauty of the crater. The hostel was opened by two tour guides who love the desert and share their love with all of their guests.

As a volunteer you will become part of the hostel team and assist with its development. Duties will include some the following:
- Cleaning and maintenance
- Managing the hostel when the owners are away
- Painting walls
- Assisting with green initiatives, such as planting a garden
- Taking groups to experience the Bedouin culture and local agricultural volunteer projects

Highlights

* Volunteers will have an opportunity to host backpackers, help maintain the hostel. Since The Green Backpackers is still in its opening stages, volunteers will have an opportunity to use their creativity in planning and building the ecological garden and other parts of the hostel.
* The Ramon Crater is one of the most stunning places on earth. Besides excellent hiking and bicycle trails, you will be able to experience many attractions during your free time.
* The Albert promenade & Camel Hill: A trail decorated with impressive environmental sculptures starts from the Visitors Center and goes along the edge of the Ramon Crater.
* Archery in the Desert: A unique park that combines an archery game with the desert scenery. While enjoying an exciting activity, participants can appreciate the beauty and serenity of the desert.
* Horseback Riding: A 1.5 hour horseback excursion departing from the alpaca farm in the direction of the Ramon Crater.

Travel Types

• Archaeology
• BackPacking Abroad
• Camping
• Caving/Spelunking
• Climbing
• Cycling (Mountain)
• Cycling (Road/Touring)
• Eco Tours
• Ecology
• Environmental Studies
• Geology
• Horseback Riding
• Language Immersion
• Mountaineering
• Off Road / 4X4 Driving
• Overland Tours
• Photography
• Student Tours
• Tours
• Trekking
• Volunteering

Qualifications

- Minimum age 18- 45
- Phone interview following reservation
- Cultural tolerance and open-mindedness
- A minimum 3 week commitment
- High level of independence and flexibility
- Good level of English
- Motivation to work with tourists
- Interest in organic gardening and ecological tourism
- Full travel & medical insurance
- Immunizations (please consult your doctor)

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

400

Cost Includes:

• Emergency evacuation services
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Pre-departure orientation/Training
• Registration fees
• Written materials abroad

Program Fees Include:

Food will be provided at a cost of USD 7.25 per day. Cost covers all administrative fees as well as housing and training and staff support.

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Typical Volunteer

Volunteers are generally open minded travelers looking to experience cultures around the world, and give back to the places they are visiting.

Age Range

18-45

This Program is open to

American, Asian, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African and Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Dormitory

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

in Groups of 2

Application Process Involves

• Phone/Video Interview

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network

GoEco - Volunteer Abroad's Mission Statement

(1) Encourage ecological and volunteer tourism that promotes sustainable development (2) Enable travelers to experience different and more rewarding kinds of tourism. (3) Encourage travelers to volunteer for the benefit of others and thus to serve as a good-will ambassador to other countries in the world. (4) Encourage travelers from all over the world to come to Israel for ecological and community-based projects, in both the Arab and Jewish sectors, and experience firsthand the unique cultural and natural diversity in this region. (5) Support environmental and humanitarian projects that promote understanding and good will between ethnic societies in Israel. (6) Conduct further research in the field of ecological tourism, such as the 'Ecological Footprint' as a tool for sustainable tourism development. (7) Establish an in-depth and up-to-date data base of the relevant projects worldwide. (8) Create a platform from which to explore the various organizations that support the environment and actively encourage volunteering.

Year Founded

2005