What People Say About The Earthwatch Experience
Avril G, Over 10 Earthwatch Expeditions
"When friends ask why I enjoy Earthwatch projects so much it's hard to isolate one or two special moments. My memories are a kaleidoscope of exhilaration, awe, friendship, learning, exhaustion, anticipation, trepidation and continually expanding my personal boundaries."
Jill F, Freshwater Turtles of the Kimberley
"This trip was everything I hoped it would be and more! Loved the opportunity and sense of worth the work was to the local land managers and traditional owners. The opportunity to undertake real field work and contribute to real land management practices was incredible."
Diane C, Echidnas & Goannas of Kangaroo Island
"An amazing experience from all points of view - great company, great instructions, great learning experiences and just awesome in all areas."
Linda F, Hawksbill Turtles of the Great Barrier Reef
"This trip exceeded my expectations. I enjoyed being able to actively contribute to the research. I also love being outside doing physical work instead of being stuck in the office back home. Learning new things and living in a beautiful part of the world also adds to the experience."
Maria T, Lions of Tsavo
"Ecotourism at its best. Giving something back rather than just being a passive observer - making a difference while still feeling like a holiday, changed what I will want out of future holidays - and made me more determined to do things to develop the environment and especially endangered species."
Bethwynne R, Amazon Riverboat Expedition
"What were my most positive experiences? Being out there in the Amazon. Seeing growing evidence of large primates and wildlife returning to the area thanks to the efforts of the project. Experiencing the wildlife itself - pink river dolphins, monkeys, squirrels, caiman, ocelot, tapir, sloth, birds, turtles, fish and so much more. Watching dusk and night fall, experiencing storms, walking through the jungle, learning, working and talking with the amazing local people, scientists and crew. The most profound message I learnt from the project is the importance - and success - of involving local people in their local conservation and land management plans."
Chelsea E, Crocodiles of the Okavango
"Not everyone gets to hold a crocodile with their bare hands in their life time. Being close enough to truly appreciate an animal like the Nile crocodile, and having the advantage of tactile sensation (that isn't possible through documentaries or books) is truly unique. And of course catching one by myself was a highlight!"
Pam P, Echidnas and Goannas of Kangaroo Island
"Earthwatch is a very necessary organisation which gives those whose livelihoods have been in other areas, an opportunity to explore the scientific approach and even help make a difference. It has the capacity to change attitudes."
Alan D, Seed Dispersal in Australia's Tropical Rainforests
"I believe Earthwatch has established an effective model whereby industry and science communities can move forward towards improving the sustainability of our environment whilst achieving our community and industry goals."
Caroline R, Climate Change in the Rainforest
"Participating on this Earthwatch project has been the most incredible experience and absolute privilege for me. I have learnt more than I could have ever imagined, about reptiles, birds, mammals and the habitat of the rainforest, also I have had the pleasure of meeting some amazing people who I hope to keep in contact with."
Nathan M, New Zealand Dolphins
"I doubt that any person can go on an Earthwatch expedition like this and not come back changed. It's not a holiday, because you are part of the team. It's not a tour, because you believe in what you are doing. It's not hard work - you decide your own limits. What it is is an exciting adventure, where you are placed on the OTHER side of the "tourism tape"."
Julia B, Macaws of the Peruvian Amazon
"The leaders and guides were truly dedicated to helping the macaws and the environment. The birds and the jungle setting were exhilarating, and the accommodation quite wonderful. The cooks outdid themselves in providing meals with limited resources."
Ria K, Cheetah
"I feel privileged to have been allowed to participate in the protection and observation of these magnificent, regal cats."
Kathy G, Echidnas and Goannas of Kangaroo Island
"It's not just the animals that make this project worthwhile. It's the whole exposure to sustainability and renewable living practices that others would benefit from experiencing."
Angelinie W, Chinese Village Traditions
"It was an experience of a life-time. I think everyone should take this expedition as only then would they treasure and cherish what they have in life."
Elanor S
"I have volunteered myself and my son Jayden for the Ark in The Park project run by the Royal NZ Forest & Bird Society. They are trying to restore the rainforest to its natural state by controlling and removing non-native pests and predators. It looks like we're going to start with rat monitoring, checking rat and stoat traps and laying rat bait. I probably would never have volunteered for this if it wasn't for Earthwatch, as I would have assumed you needed specialist knowledge or skills.... Now I know better! Every helping hand makes a difference!"