Description

Fiji is home to the third-largest reef system in the world and thousands of exotic marine species. Most tourists who come to this island nation dive in its warm waters and enjoy its marine life without ever considering the fragile state of the underwater world they are enjoying. Your trip to Fiji will be more meaningful than a simple island tour. You'll learn about the issues that threaten the reef system and lend a hand to help preserve it. You will see life beneath the surface that depends on the reef, and the work you do on land will help ensure this underwater world's lasting survival.

The Secrets of the Sea
Your introduction to Fiji's marine environment will start on a breathtaking boat ride through the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands. When you reach Malakati Beach home base during your time here you'll receive an introduction to the reef system and learn about the threats this fragile environment faces.

In an effort to preserve the fish population and diversity of species here, Rustic Pathways has joined forces with Malakati Village to create a marine reserve. Part of your work on the Marine and Environmental Monitoring program will be to count the species in this reserve in order to monitor the health of the reef. You'll work hard, but don't forget that you'll also be snorkeling with exotic fish, squid, sea turtles and stingrays in one of the world's most beautiful reef systems.

Sit Back and Relax
When you take a break from marine monitoring, you can relax island-style and enjoy beautiful Malakati Beach. Take a kayak out for a paddle or spend an afternoon playing with the village children. Our Base is close to Malakati Village, and you can wander over to meet the locals and learn about island life. Learn how to spear fish for dinner and cut open a coconut, play with the kids, or just sit back and enjoy the sunset.

Those with an adventurous spirit will also be able to take part in optional activities throughout the week. Hike to the tallest point on Nacula Island, where you will take in a view of the vast Yasawa Island group. You can also visit magical underwater caves or spend a morning scuba diving.

Who Should Come?
Marine and Environmental Monitoring is an exciting mix of science and sun suitable for anyone interested in the marine environment. Whether you are unfamiliar with ocean life or you have already taken marine biology, you will love this week of research and relaxation. Come prepared to swim and snorkel in the ocean, but don't fret if you've never pulled on a mask or a pair of flippers. Your trip leaders will guide you through the process and make sure you know what you're doing before you get in the water.

This program easily connects with all of our other programs in Fiji, New Zealand, and Australia.

Highlights

COUNT fish and other marine species to help monitor the health of Fiji's tropical coral reefs and coastal waterways.

LEARN about the importance of environmental conservation and what you can do to help fragile marine ecosystems.

SWIM, snorkel, and play in beautiful South Pacific waters amid a host of exotic tropical fish or go for an optional scuba dive.

SUPPORT educational initiatives that will contribute to the overall health of the pristine waterways surrounding the islands.

Travel Types

• Ecology
• Environmental Studies
• Hiking
• Kayaking (Sea)
• Scuba
• Skydiving
• Snorkeling
• Volunteering

Qualifications

Students must be 14-years old and up to participate on the program. Additionally, participants must submit an application through the Rustic Pathways website and complete the appropriate documents before traveling on the program.

Type of Programs

• Adventure Travel
• Community Service / Volunteerism

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

1,895 USD + International airfare

Cost Includes:

• Excursions
• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Travel while in host country
• Written materials abroad
• Written materials pre-departure

Program Fees Include:

The above cost includes all ground transportation in-country, 3 meals a day, housing, staff through the duration of the program, all supplies for the volunteer projects and all excursions on the program itinerary not listed as optional.

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

This Program is open to

American, Asian, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African and Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Other

Scholarships are Available

Rustic Pathways is providing over 100 scholarships for the 2012 season based on a mix of both need and merit. Application deadline is every year in early Spring. Please contact us for more details on applying for a scholarship and other financial aid options.

Application Process Involves

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Typically The Application Process Time is

1-2 business days

Rustic Pathways's Mission Statement

Rustic Pathways is a pioneer in providing superior quality travel and service programs for students and families in some of the world's most welcoming countries. Rustic Pathways demands professionalism and integrity across all of its operations, insists on quality in all aspects of its programs, and places the safety of its students above all other considerations. We enrich the lives of our students and our staff, benefit the parts of the world we serve, and build cultural bridges that lead to greater global understanding and cooperation.

Year Founded

1983