Mexico
Mexican Marine Conservation Expedition in the Caribbean SeaThis unique expedition takes you to learn scuba diving and earn yourself an internationally recognized PADI diving qualification in the Caribbean waters of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Here you can take part in important marine conservation work on the world’s second largest barrier reef with coral reef and fish monitoring, turtle nesting and crocodile surveys, as well as community education and sustainable tourism development on land. On top of the dive training, volunteers will have the chance to vastly expand their knowledge of this tropical marine environment, learn Spanish and partake in expeditions to the almost innumerable places of interest in this beautiful and historically rich area. This expedition takes place in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a stunning area with diverse wildlife both above and below the waves.
Ecology Center/Sea Turtles
Work Description: Working with an marine ecology center. Tasks vary seasonally and include monitoring nesting sea turtles, assisting with constructive wetlands projects for waste water disposal, coral reef research, working with local school children on environmental education projects.
Location: Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico
Meals & lodging: Meals and lodging are provided at the project facilities. Costs to be arranged.
Dates available: Year-round
Requirements: Interest in marine and coastal ecology, interest in teaching and working with children.
Migratory Bird Sanctuary
Work Description: Working with biologists at a migratory bird sanctuary and sea turtle nesting area. Tasks vary seasonally and include assisting with investigations of bird and fish populations, monitoring nesting of sea turtles, teaching English to local guides, guiding tours for visiting eco-tourists.
Location: Yucatan Peninsula
Meals & lodging: Volunteers pay $15 per day for meals and bunkhouse lodging, provided at the reserve.
Dates available: Year-round
Requirements: Strong Spanish conversational skills, prepared to live and work in a remote setting, 1 month minimum stay.
Teaching
Work Description: Assisting with teaching at a secondary school. Volunteers may assist with teaching English and/or other basic subject areas (sciences, math, health, history), sports and recreation activities.
Location: Yucatan Peninsula
Meals & lodging: Volunteers live with local host families and pay $5 to $8 per day for meals and lodging.
Dates available: Academic calendar (school on vacation from June to August.)
Requirements: Strong Spanish conversational skills, interest in teaching and working with youth.
Conservation Projects and Research
Work Description: Assisting with conservation and research projects focusing on bird and fish populations. Volunteers collect migratory and behavioral data, monitor fishing permits, construct interpretive trails, design and implement public education projects.
Location: Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico
Meals & lodging: Volunteers pay $15 per day for meals and lodging provided at the reserve.
Dates available: Year-round
Requirements: Strong Spanish language skills, interest in conservation and field work, 1 month minimum stay.