Eco-Trip to South America
Adventure to the Ecuadorian Cloud Forest
9 days, 8 nights - Cloud Forest stay in Ecuador
In Ecuador there is a special forest located on the equator between 3,000 and 12,500 feet above sea level. While the technical name for it is the Andean Humid Forest, it is more commonly known as the Cloud Forest. This is due to a unique phenomenon whereby hot equatorial air from the Pacific Ocean hits the steep slopes of the Andes, rises and then bathes the mountains with moisture and clouds. Because of this unique location and climate, the forest is home to plant and animal species unknown in any other part of the world.
Join us as we explore this wonderful region, combining ecological study with immersion Spanish classes.
We arrive in Quito, spend a day seeing the sights and then depart for the Cloud Forest. We stay in a eco-lodge in the midst of the flora and fauna found exclusively in the equatorial cloud forest. A nature lover’s paradise!
What:
Ecological trip to one of the most fascinating and unique eco-systems in the world.
Where:
Cloud Forest, 3 hours from Quito, Ecuador in South America.
The Cloud forest is located on the equator between 3,000 and 12,500 feet above sea level. Often referred to as the Andean Humid Forest, it is more commonly known as Cloud Forest. Hot equatorial air from the Pacific Ocean hits the steep slopes of the Andes, and as it rises up, it bathes the mountains with moisture and clouds. Because of this unique location and climate, the forest is home to plant and animal species unknown in any other part of the world.
Who:
Nature enthusiasts, hikers, bird watchers, aspiring Spanish speakers and those looking for an adventure are invited to join us! Adults 18 and over are welcome to participate (children as young as 9 may be permitted on a case by case basis and only if accompanied by an adult)
This program is offered in conjunction with the National Registration Center for Study Abroad (NRCSA). NRCSA has been facilitating intercultural programs and exchange since 1968. Classes, lodging and activities are all organized by the NRCSA center in Quito.
Why:
This unique region of the world is not often included in most tour packages. Experience first hand the wonders of the incredible Cloud Forest while immersing yourself in the language and culture of Ecuador. See flora, fauna and animals that are found nowhere else in the world. Promote socially and ecologically responsible travel.
How much:
$1265 USD the cost includes:
- TUITION – Spanish classes in small groups, 4 hours per day, Monday-Friday in forest lodge.
- LODGING in hostal on first 2 & last night, double rooms in rustic eco-lodge Monday to Friday.
- THREE MEALS DAILY.
- EXCURSIONS AND FIELDTRIPS. 2 hours per day Monday-Thursday
- TEXTS AND CLASS MATERIALS, but bring your own dictionary!
- AIRPORT TRANSFERS (in Quito) roundtrip from the airport to our lodging on arrival and departure.
- TAXES - U.S. Departure Taxes, value added taxes for included features.
- PREDEPARTURE PACKET including information on city, culture, climate, etc.
- STUDENT TRAVEL INSURANCE during program dates in the foreign country.
- 24-7 WORLDWIDE TOLL-FREE EMERGENCY HOTLINE