Explore Oaxaca Mexico Summer 2010

Experience 9 amazing days of educational eco-adventure as we explore the hidden habitats of an ancient land; from cool misty mountain cloud forests to warm white sand tropical shores.

In 9 days participants will hike in a temperate rainforest at 10,000ft above sea level, experience ancient cultures and temples in the Central Valley, sleep in the jungle at a working coffee plantation, live on the beach in a small pacific coast village, work side by side with community members on a mangrove reforestation project, snorkel coral reefs, and raft the beautiful Copalita River.

Oaxaca (pronounced Wah haa ka) is a state of Mexico located on the far southwest corner of the country. With a reputation as the true Mexico, many of the ancient traditions of the indigenous people are evident in daily activities, and there is very little influence from foreign cultures. Oaxaca is just as rich in natural wealth as it cultural experience. Over the last decade, Oaxaca has been declared one of the best sites for eco-tourism in the country, according to the Mexican Secretary of Tourism, because of their efforts to preserve their natural resources and cultural heritage through tourism.

Its breath taking landscapes, extensive biodiversity, and conservation efforts make this natural classroom the perfect setting to study tropical ecology and to interact with a culture whose lives have been and still are rooted in the natural systems. Participants will learn to identify common flora and fauna of each biological zone, attend presentations from local experts, and participate in community conservation efforts.