Best Save-the-Earth Trips

Amazon rainforest conservation, Ecuador
Global Vision International

Where you go: Deep into the Yachana region, which encompasses some 4,500 acres of Amazonian rainforest in the eastern part of Ecuador. This is the real deal—hot, humid, outrageously lush wilderness that hums with the sounds of thousands of birds and insects.

What you do: Long-term volunteers (who must commit for a minimum of 5 weeks) work alongside scientists, researchers and local students to document the conservation value of the area by identifying and cataloguing local mammals, reptiles, birds, and plants. Some participants also teach English and collaborate on sustainable agriculture practices among local villagers.

Roughing-it rating: High. Though volunteers stay at a base camp with dormitory-style rooms, cooking facilities, showers and toilets, this is about as remote as remote gets (wandering alone into the forest is strongly discouraged, as it’s easy to get lost here). Program participants should expect to get dirty and mosquito-bitten, and should also be strong swimmers (some fieldwork transport takes place via motorized dugout canoe). Phone and e-mail?Forget about it. Amazing wildlife sightings in the planet’s most biodiverse landscape?Count on it.

Cost: $2,690 for 5 weeks.