subject: Vanuatu Volunteer: Turtles and Community Development [print this page] Vanuatu Volunteer: Turtles and Community Development
Volunteering with turtles is part of a vital international sea turtle conservation program that will take you to the turquoise water and golden sands of Moso Island in the South Pacific, Vanuatu, previously voted theHappiest Place on Earthby the New Economic Foundation. In addition to providing you the opportunity to help save sea turtles, this grassroots effort also gives you the chance to engage in many other activities that occur in the village, such as reef surveying, teaching at the village school, and cooking local food. In your spare time you can snorkel on tropical reefs and learn to dive or just sit andstorianwith your new friends in the village!
Highlights
Contribute research to the turtle conservation efforts
Observe nesting turtles and hatchlings, a rare experience
Explore the stunning island's beaches and forests
Expand awareness about the importance of the conservation projects
Help local teachers in schools (and enjoy the children!)
Experience a unique culture
Accomodations
Shared bungalows with single beds, bucket flush toilets and bucket showers, a dining hall/common room for meals andhanging out. All meals are prepared for by members of the community.
Duration
4, 8, or 12 - week options
Sustainable Elements
The surveys of turtles' nesting beaches that volunteers conduct are a vital part of the conservation efforts of these communities, without which the communities would lose funding and staffing to continue the surveys, resulting in loss of conservation efforts
The money that the local populace receives from volunteers provides a small income to many people in the village who would otherwise not have one
Cost
From $2,500 - $4,000.Price includes all accommodations, meals, airport transfers, training, material and equipment.
