Standard Research Days

When there is a period of unscheduled time during a standard research day, volunteers will have the option of signing themselves out but leaving information on where they are going and when they expect to be back. Volunteers should always carry contact information for the expedition when signing out. In the case that a volunteer does not return before the next scheduled activity, Earthwatch's Missing Person Emergency Response Plan will be triggered.

Non-research Days

On non-research days, volunteers will have the option of joining approved team activities or outings that have been vetted by Earthwatch or staying at the accommodation to rest. Depending on the location and resources in the expedition location, approved options may be as unrestricted as walking to town to visit local shops or as structured as a hired safari to a nearby National Park. The options on any particular expedition will be clearly communicated in the Expedition Briefing, as will any fees for recreational activities that are not covered by the expedition contribution.

Exceptions

In some cases, local conditions may indicate that volunteers should not venture out during recreational time. In these instances, if volunteers choose to venture off on their own against Earthwatch advice, they will need to sign waivers. Please keep in mind that local events may sometimes trigger changes in the policy for your expedition. We will do our best to keep you informed of any changes.