Study Abroad Programs
Regenerative
Programs
#Ecological Restoration in Cuba
Program Description
This program is designed to provide first-hand experience in the field of Ecological Restoration. This course takes place on ‘La Isla de la Juventud’, where participants will live for three weeks in the beautiful town of Cocodrilo, Cuba.
Traveling can be an incredible catalyst for education and a life-changing experience. It takes us out of our comfort zone, where we can rethink our cultural habits, prejudices and personal beliefs. However, at the same time, we understand that safety is paramount for our partners and participants. With this in mind, health and safety protocols are implemented and updated at all times.
Students will have the opportunity to participate in three different ecological activities: monitoring and protection of the sea turtles nesting on the beaches; help clean the surrounding tropical forest of invasive species and play an active role in underwater restoration of the town’s coral reef.
We will also have real immersion into the local community; improving our Spanish and intercultural skills, building life-long bonds with locals and enjoying the beauty of the Cuban lifestyle, reported to be one of the most ecologically sustainable in the world.
Course Objectives
Program Components
Tropical Forest Activities
Turtle Nesting Sessions
Restoration of Coral Reef
Intercultural Sessions
Small groups
2 weeks
2 trips are included
Turtle Nesting Sessions
La Isla de la Juventud is the nesting haven for three different species of sea turtle: Carey (Eretmochelys imbricata), Caguama (Caretta caretta) and Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas).
For a few days, we will move to the beach `Rincon del Guanal’, where turtles come out of the ocean to nest. There, we will patrol the beaches to mark and protect the nests the turtles make every night during nesting season.
We will mark as many turtles as possible for their future monitoring. As our numbers grow and the project finds resources we will carry out further studies from these monitoring techniques.
Tropical Forest Activities
In the tropical forest we will carry out several different activities.
We will mainly help clean the coastal areas of an invasive species of pine tree, Casuarina equisetifolia, that is rapidly colonizing the beaches and replacing the local ecosystem.
In addition, we will carry out workshops to identify and monitor the local tropical forest diversity of birds, amphibians and reptiles.
Restoration of Coral Reef
In this component of the program, our local experts will teach us underwater coral reef restoration techniques. This will compliment the theoretical knowledge about issues of Ecological Restoration discussed throughout the program.
*To prepare for these activities a PADI Open Water Course will be included for everyone that is not a certified diver.
Intercultural Sessions
These sessions will allow us: to reflect on culture and interculturality skills; to bond with the local community and learn from a much closer to nature life style.
We will compare different cultural views in conservation and will expand our perspective of the unique Cuban culture.
Program Site: Cocodrilo Town
Cocodrilo is the last town on the south west of la Isla de la Juventud, an island located to the south of the main island of Cuba. As one of the most remote corners of this incredible country, Cocodrilo preserves the slow and sleepy feeling of the fishing towns of the Caribbean. In this incredible location, facing west at the shore of the Caribbean Sea, you will have access to some of the most beautiful sunsets and people you could imagine.
This small town offers few leisure activities so sport, music and mingling with the locals will be some of our possibilities for our free time.
Academic Field Trips: La Habana
The program starts with three days in the jewel of Cuba, La Habana, a city full of energy, history and art.
Walking through its streets we will understand the unique characteristics that define the Cuban culture, lifestyle and present challenges. Meet locals and party like Cubans.
*ACCOMODATION
We will live in “Casas Particulares”, the local houses adapted to receive foreign visitors and will share meals and experiences with the Cubans hosting us.
Academic Field Trips: Viñales
In this 3 day visit to the heart of the valley we will experience rural and agricultural Cuban life.
Participants will engage with local farmers and learn about tobacco, rum, coffee or honey while taking strolls and horseback rides.
We will sleep in a breathtaking lookout spot in the mountain and enjoy the music of Viñales night life.
Services Included in Our Program
⇒ Multidisciplinary team for the course seminars
⇒ Coordinator and orientation
⇒ Language and Culture training
⇒ Seminar reflection and debate sessions
⇒ Cultural Activities
⇒ Accomodation and meals
⇒ In country Transport
⇒ Health and Safety Protocols
⇒ Community Service opportunities
⇒ Post program counseling
Not Included in the Program
⇒ Air Travel: Students should arrive in La Habana
⇒ Travel Insurance
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