Operation Wallacea

Hoga Island marine research in the coral reef

Submitted by Serena - University of Edinburgh | October 11, 2017

The diving was my highlight at Hoga Island. We explored different diving sites around the island. Each was unique and being surrounded by so much marine life was unforgettable and enriching experience. I felt safe and reassured that the leaders made sure you were feeling alright throughout the dives. The atmosphere on the island itself was friendly and relaxed. The talks and optional lectures added to my overall experience and made me think it was worthwhile spending the money because it had educational elements. I would have liked it if there was more transparency on the extra costs and equipment we needed to invest in because it increased the price of the overall trip more than what I expected.

Program: Operation Wallacea - Indonesia

Research assistant

Submitted by Erin - Edinburgh Scotland | October 08, 2017

Where to begin.... It started in Mexico in 2013 I arrived in Calakmul to spend my first 3 weeks in the forest site before heading to Akumal for another 3 weeks. Calakmul is a amazing site to visit it is a biodiversity hotspot for many mammal, bird and herpetofauna species. The large expanse of forest is home to spider and howler monkeys too. The forest is a special site due to the history and Ancient Mayan Ruin sites found within the forest.
My visit to Calakmul was amazing I saw so many species and learnt a lot about different survey methods and the importance of collecting data for this reserve.
My experience with Opwall and Calakmul has been amazing so much that I returned in 2014 and 2015 as habitat staff and 2017 as volunteer coordinator.
I would recommend this site to anyone who wanted to learn about a wide range of biodiversity.

Program: Operation Wallacea- Mexico

Fantastic trip to Seth Ifrica

Submitted by Monica Taylor - University of Bristol | October 04, 2017

I had the most amazing time in South Africa with Opwall. The first week in Dinokeng was a blast, involving some early starts in the bitter cold on the back of a truck and many beautiful African sunsets. As well as seeing some incredible animals in the wild, I learnt a lot about the ecosystem, the local communities and the difficulties facing conservationists. I feel very lucky to have had such a wonderful expedition group and staff team, I miss them all loads. A 10 hour minibus drive took us to Sodwana Bay, where we learnt to scuba dive, 100% the most terrifying thing I’ve ever done! Very grateful to have the PADI qualification under my belt but the best part was experiencing the stunning, surreal underwater world. We did a beach clean-up (would have been good to do this perhaps every morning rather than just the once) and attended a lecture by a shark conservationist which was FAB. The whole experience was invaluable to me and I leave with some unforgettable memories, a deeper understanding of the interplay between South African people, land and animals, plus inspiration for future conservation work. Thank you Opwall!

Program: Operation Wallacea - South Africa

Spider monkeys disseration

Submitted by Kate - University of Dundee | October 03, 2017

Opwall provided me with one the best opportunities I could have asked for so I could carry out both a unique and complex dissertation for my undergrad. The support I received from the beginning was great, and in the field, the staff provided me with all the help and assistance I needed.
Opwall offer brilliant opportunities which are fun and rewarding, but most of all, educational. They are a bit pricey, but anyone who is interested in conservation and ecology (no matter your degree pathway), should consider it, the friends and the memories you come home with make it worth it.

Program: Operation Wallacea- Mexico

Unforgettable experience

Submitted by Kiran Sehra - Buckinghamshire United Kingdom | October 03, 2017

For two weeks I volunteered as a Research Assistant in Buton Island. From the beginning to the end of my time there I felt the structure of the days were well planned and interesting. We had the opportunity to learn a wide range of surveying techniques which are invaluable skills if you wish to pursue a career in conservation. As university students we had quite a great deal of flexibility on which surveys we wanted to participate in, enabling us to concentrate on what group of animals we found more interesting. Jungle skills training was probably the most enjoyable part of the trip - living within the jungle was so amazing and fun! Additionally we were able to interact with local Indonesians on a day to day basis which made the trip all the more special! I think Opwall tries it's best to integrate the local community with its conservation goals which is why I feel it's so different! Definitely recommend spending your time and getting involved !

Program: Operation Wallacea - Indonesia