GVI have combined the best elements of 3 of the most popular programs in South America to create the amazing explorer package, ideal for anyone wanting to combine conservation and community work. This explorer trip spans 13 weeks in total. 5 weeks will be spent working on a research expedition in Ecuador’s Amazon rainforest. 4 weeks will be spent in Otavalo teaching local Andean communities. Another month will be spent in working in the “pueblos jovenes” or “young towns” in Peru surrounding the colonial city of Arequipa.

*How this program makes a difference*

GVI makes a difference in Ecuador’s Amazon by supporting the Yachana Foundation in their efforts to preserve the rainforest and its extraordinary diversity of plants and animals. Efforts include promoting sustainable economic development and agricultural alternatives for the inhabitants, many of whom are from poor, indigenous communities. On the teaching projects in Peru and Ecuador GVI aims are first and foremost in education and particular attention is pay to improving the standards of literacy and education of the children of each community.

Highlights:

• Intensive in-camp training
• Gain basic knowledge of the environment
• Experience sights and sounds of the rainforest
• Enjoy wildlife observation from the river
• Explore different parts of the Amazon
• Learn how to navigate in the forest
• Work with the local community
• Immerse yourself in the indigenous culture
• Contributing to the education of underprivileged children
• Live with a local host family
• Practice your Spanish

Please visit the GVI website for more information on this program:
http://www.gviusa.com/projects/South%20America/Ecuador/south-american-explorer/home