Description

Volunteering in Brazil shows the other side to the glitzy carnivals, hotels and tourism of the big cities. Our volunteer projects are situated both in Salvador and in the Pantanal, Brazil. Whether you are interested in community development or environmental and wildlife conservation, we have 2 incredible projects in the heart of Brazilian Culture.

Programs:

1. Endangered Species Conservation in the Pantanal
2. Youth Development through Environmental Education and Art in Brazil

Amongst the carnival streets and sunkissed beaches, Bahia sees family disintegration, violence, family breakup and increases in children living on the streets, and a number of vital Kaya projects are working towards improving Bahia's future, and we need your help.

Highlights

Salvador is one of that select band of cities which has an electricity you feel from the moment you arrive with the magnificence of its natural setting on the mouth of the enormous bay of Todos os Santos.

Salavador Wreck Diving

Salavador is a haven for wreck divers. In the mouth of the bay there are over 90 wrecks from the Dutch invasion and is an archaeological site. Salavador also has the largest ship wreck in Brazilian waters, the 'Cayo Artemidi'. It is 160 meters in length and has gaping holes for easy access and searching of the wreck. With clear, warm waters and amazing marine life nestled in over 100 ship wrecks this truly is a diver's paradise.

Salvador Carnival

Spanning several kilometers through the streets is the Bahia Carnival. So, it is not a surprise that Salvador has one of the best carnivals in Brazil. According to Guinness, with 2,000,000 people (including 800,000 tourists), Salvador has the largest street carnival in the world. Salvador is home to capoeira, the Brazilian martial art; to acaraje, the bean and shrimp fritters that make for delicious street food; and to a particularly devilish strain of caipirinha cocktails.

Amazon Rain Forest

The world's largest tropical rain forest, Amazonia covers more than half of Brazil. The Amazon represents over half of the planet's remaining rain forests, and it comprises the largest and most species-rich tract of tropical rain forest in the world. Float down lush river corridors teeming with rain forest birds and wildlife. Experience the warm tropical water via raft, kayak or dugout canoe. Enjoy the South American birds, wildlife, flora and fauna unique to the Amazon. Hike through the jungle with a shaman or naturalist and discover medicinal plants, spiritual traditions and the history and politics of the Amazon rain forest. If you've ever wanted to visit the Amazon basin, now is the time before it changes forever and its culture and wildlife disappear.

When you're not working one of the best things to do is to relax, eat, socialize, exercise, surf and swim on the beautiful beaches of Bahia. The main beach you will get to know is Porto da Barra, which is set within the bay and the water is much calmer than on the Oceanside beaches. It's good for swimming.

Qualifications

Participants must possess enthusiasm and a willingness to learn about the environment and the people. Additionally, a love of working in the community and interacting with people is essential.

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

Cost Includes:

• Excursions
• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Language instruction
• Pre-departure orientation/Training
• Registration fees

Program Fees Include:

* Accommodation: Single room
* Food: 2 meals/day Breakfast and Dinner
* Airport pick up and drop off
* Training: Orientation and language classes provided
* Support: 24-hour partner project support
* Excursions: World class beaches, experience Afro-Brazilian religious and cultural ceremonies, tour Pelourinho, the colonial centre of Salvador

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Typical Volunteer

A Kaya volunteer shows enthusiasm, spirit and life to stimulate and bring something new to the residents; love, patience and a listening ear for the people; and a good motivator with a positive and optimistic attitude.

Age Range

Must be more than 18 years old

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Home-stays

Participants Travel

Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network

Kaya Responsible Travel's Mission Statement

Kaya's mission is to promote sustainable social, environmental and economic development, empower communities and cultivate educated, compassionate global citizens through responsible travel.

Year Founded

2008