Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands:

a Field Excursion

June 30- July 17 , 2010

Program:

On this 18-day intensive field course we will study the ecology, evolution of diverse tropical forest sites and the Galápagos Islands. The Galápagos are famous for the amazingly tame creatures in an unusual volcanic setting right on the equator.

We will start in Quito, the Ecuadorian capital that blends ancient traditions with modern bustle. An excursion will lead us into the Andes mountains and into the rainforest. From there, we fly to the Galápagos to learn about the fragile ecology of the archipelago and to witness the beauty of the tame wildlife. Look forward to watching sea turtles and marine iguanas, observing sea birds nesting two steps away from you, snorkeling with playful sea lions. Would you enjoy a face-to-face encounter with ancient giant tortoises in their natural habitat? Or does the idea of a horseback ride up a recently active volcano tickle you?

Three faculty travel with students on this adventure: Ulrich Reinhardt directs the program and teaches Biology. Rick Sambrook offers the Travel and Tourism courses, and Sandra Rutherford teaches graduate-level Earth Science Education.

In the end, you have done it all:earned EMU credit, canoed over a placid jungle lagoon, frolicked in the ocean, watched sunsets on the beach, observed wildlife from real close, and experienced the unique ecosystems of the Galápagos Islands.

This program is open to any major.

Benefits of this excursion to the students include:

• Learning principles of ecology and evolution with special emphasis on the tropics.

• Observing first-hand the economic realities of a developing country and the conflicts that arise between economic development and preservation of nature.

Advantages of the Galápagos excursion:

Great value for your money:

Since this trip is sponsored by a non-profit American university, it costs much less than comparable commercial tours, while providing guidance by an expert faculty member and the opportunity to earn college credit at the undergraduate or graduate level.

A safe experience of a tropical country:

1. Students can experience the beauty and fragility of tropical ecosystems directly by their sense of vision, touch, and smell.

2. Galápagos is a world-class destination for a safe experience of pristine ecosystems.

Top-notch instruction:

Intimate knowledg of the natural history of the islands and university teaching experience in ecology and conservation assure that this trip is far more rewarding (and challenging) than your typical tourist travel. Instruction if further supported locally by excellent bilingual guides.

Photo Gallery

Credit:

Choose from these Credits: BIOL 279 or 596, Graduate-level Earth Science SC, Travel and Tourism. This class can count as an upper-level elective toward the Biology Major. For more information, see the Academics link.

Biology majors are eligible for a $500 scholarship for this class. Contact Dr. Reinhardt for details

2010 Excursion Length: Eighteen days

2008 Program Fee: $ 2260* 2010 Program Fee: TBA

* We will do everything possible to limit program costs as we monitor economic conditions beyond our control. Program fee does not include regular EMU tuition and fees, and other required expenses.

Program fee includes:

• All in-country program-related transportation

• Transfers between airport and hotels

• Jungle trip including accommodations and meals

• All accommodations during the trip and most meals

• Day and overnight trips in the Galápagos archipelago

• Local guiding and interpretation services

• International Student ID card

• Health Insurance

Program fee does not include:

• Roundtrip international airfare

• EMU tuition and fees

• Beverages for some program lunches and dinners

• Galapagos National Park Fees ($115)

• Ecuador airport tax ($35)

• Personal expenses and independent travel

• Tips and gratuities for local guides and personnel

Additional Information:

Professor Ulrich Reinhardt
Department of Biology
316 Mark Jefferson
734.487.4242
FAX: 734.487.9235
ureinhard@emich.edu

and

Dr. Rick Sambrook

Department of Geography-Geology
205 Strong Hall
734.487.8489
rsambroo@emich.edu


Or contact:

Academic Programs Abroad
103 Boone Hall
Eastern Michigan University
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
Telephone: 734.487.2424 or 800.777.3541
FAX: 734.487.4377
programs.abroad@emich.edu