Mexico: Protecting Paradise in Puerto Escondido

Introduction

Global environmental challenges are a pressing concern, and Mexico is no exception. The country faces significant issues such as air pollution, water scarcity, and deforestation, primarily driven by increased tourism and the impact of waste from municipal, industrial, and agricultural sources. In fact, transportation alone accounts for a staggering 76% of air pollution in Mexico.

Through this program, you’ll be at the forefront of efforts to protect the planet for future generations while experiencing the vibrant culture and beauty of Puerto Escondido. Caring for our environment is more than a responsibility; it’s an adventure that begins with you!

Set in this picturesque beach town, our project includes a variety of initiatives aimed at making a meaningful difference for the local ecology and community. You’ll engage in diverse activities that not only contribute to environmental conservation but also provide you with a well-rounded experience in different aspects of the project.

We focus on incorporating original and creative elements into both your lessons and hands-on responsibilities. These engaging experiences will create lasting memories and empower you to influence positive change for years to come. Together, we can help heal Mother Nature and equip the next generation with the knowledge to continue these efforts.

Take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn, grow, and leave a lasting impact through our carefully organized sessions in beautiful Puerto Escondido!

Daily Life

Be a catalyst for change as a participant in our Environmental Protection program in Puerto Escondido, Mexico. Here, you’ll play a vital role in addressing urgent environmental concerns while actively supporting the local community. This program offers a unique blend of hands-on conservation work, education, and community engagement.

Tree Planting: Join our reforestation efforts by planting tropical trees, contributing to the restoration of the natural landscape, and creating essential habitats for local wildlife.

Coastal Clean-Up Drive: Take part in coastal clean-up activities to safeguard the beachfront from plastic pollutants, preserving the beauty of the coastline for both local residents and tourists.

Garbage and Plastic Collection: Collect and responsibly dispose of trash and plastics found on the beach and in nearby areas, significantly reducing the environmental impact of pollution.

Stray Dog Rescue and Shelter: Participate in the rescue and care of stray dogs from the streets, making the community safer for both the animals and the inhabitants. Provide these dogs with shelters and an improved quality of life.

Environmental Education: Share your knowledge and passion for environmental protection by teaching local children and community members. Raise awareness about local environmental concerns and promote sustainable practices.

Community Engagement: Contribute to community development initiatives that align with environmental protection goals, fostering a sense of responsibility and ownership among the local population.

Our programme is designed to cater to your needs, and you will be supported by our local coordinators. The schedule provides ample time for relaxation and rejuvenation, beginning at 9:00 AM and concluding at 11:00 AM, with a break before resuming at 2:00 PM and concluding at 4:00 PM. Your journey to make a positive impact begins here.

Itinerary

Monday

• Getting Acquainted: Start the week with an introduction meeting where we’ll cover house rules, set expectations, and provide essential health and safety advice. We’ll also assist you with necessary documents.
• Cultural Dive: Immerse yourself in Mexican culture with a lesson on “Mexican Do’s and Don’ts.” You’ll also embark on basic survival Spanish/Mayan language lessons.
• Local Exploration: Take a tour around the compound and the local area. Discover where to find local shops and, if needed, arrange for a local sim card.
• Lunch: Recharge with a satisfying meal.
• Project Preparation: Get ready for the environmental conservation project, and visit the project sites.
• Warm Welcome: Enjoy a typical welcome dinner with your host family.

Tuesday to Friday

• Start Your Day Right: Begin your days with a hearty breakfast.
• Environmental Conservation: Dive into a range of activities focused on environmental conservation, including tree planting, coastal clean-up drives, garbage and plastic collection, stray dog rescue and shelter efforts, environmental education sessions, and community engagement.
• Midday Break: Pause for a delicious lunch.
• Continued Impact: Resume your environmental conservation activities.
• Evening Dinners: End your active days with well-deserved dinners.

Please note: The specific activities of the week may be tailored to local requirements and community needs, ensuring your contributions are most valuable.

Flexibility Matters: Keep in mind that this schedule can be adapted or modified based on factors such as weather conditions, local circumstances, and unforeseen events. Our focus is to ensure a safe, engaging, and meaningful experience for all.

Intro Week

Immerse yourself in an (optional) first week of pure magic as we invite you to join our captivating Mexican culture week! This program is a kaleidoscope of culture, creativity, and coastal beauty that will leave you breathless. From the moment you step off the plane, you’ll be welcomed into the heart and soul of Mexico, embarking on a journey that promises to awaken your senses and ignite your imagination.

Discover the secrets of Mexican customs, history, and artistry as you dive into an orientation like no other. Unleash your inner artist in a vibrant workshop where tradition meets innovation, crafting your own masterpiece amidst the backdrop of ancient techniques and contemporary inspirations. Feel the ocean breeze on your face as you sail along the rugged Oaxacan coast, followed by a culinary adventure that unveils the tantalizing flavors of this region.

Encounter the wonders of Mexican wildlife, catch a wave in the Pacific, or become a guardian of sea turtles. Finally, prepare to be enchanted by the luminous beauty of a bioluminescence boat excursion, leaving you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. Get ready to write your own story in the book of Mexico’s wonders!

Monday:
Start your day with a hearty breakfast, followed by an orientation meeting covering house rules, safety tips, and document handling. Learn about Mexican customs, history, and “Do’s and Don’ts.” Spanish lessons prepare you for local interactions. Enjoy a tasty lunch and explore the city and market. End the day with a delicious dinner, reflecting on newfound friendships.

Tuesday:
Today, we embark on a vibrant journey through the heart of Mexican creativity, where the air is infused with the scent of molten wax and the streets echo with the rhythmic clinking of artisans’ tools. In this enchanting workshop, our souls will be painted with the colors of tradition and innovation, as we meld ancient techniques with contemporary inspirations. With each brushstroke, each thread woven, and each bead strung, we’ll unravel the tapestry of Mexico’s artistic soul, a kaleidoscope of culture and craft that dances to the rhythm of our collective imagination. Today, we become artists, storytellers, and dreamers, in a world where creativity knows no bounds.

Wednesday:
Today, we embark on a voyage of wonder, setting sail on a coastal boat trip that promises to sweep us off our feet with its breathtaking scenery. As the waves dance beneath us, we’ll be captivated by the rugged beauty of the coastline, where lush jungles meet the azure embrace of the Pacific Ocean.

But our adventure doesn’t end with the boat ride. No, we’re in for a treat as we anchor on the shores of Oaxaca. Here, amidst the vibrant culture and flavors of this region, we’ll immerse ourselves in an Oaxacan cooking class. The secrets of age-old recipes will be unveiled as we don aprons, chop fresh ingredients, and stir pots filled with tradition.

Thursday:
Witness the incredible wildlife of the Oaxaca coast thriving in their natural environment. Explore the stunning Zipolite Beach and savor the opportunity to indulge in a delectable seafood brunch at Estacahuite Beach.

Explore the wildlife at the Laguna Ventanilla Ecological Park
Take a boat through the mangroves and watch some migratory birds
Admire the famous beach of Zipolite
Cross the little ex-coffee port of Puerto Angel
Swim in the quiet water of Estacahuite Beach.

Friday:
Kickstart your day by catching some waves with a thrilling surf lesson suitable for both novice riders and seasoned surfers. OR you could choose to immerse yourself in the world of turtle conservation during the day.

Cap off your evening with a captivating bioluminescence boat excursion that will leave you spellbound. Bid farewell with a grand dinner fiesta.

***This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances.***

Travel and Accom.

Upon arrival, you will be welcomed and picked up from the airport, before being taken to your accommodation.

Our accommodations are gender separated rooms in a hostel setting.  It is a typical Puerto Escondido neighbourhood, and our local hostel host is enthusiastic about providing local family-style interactions and cultural exchanges.

You will be taken directly from the airport to your accommodation and assigned to the same room for the duration of your stay. You will be staying in one of two downtown hostels with shared bedrooms. The accommodation center is located near Puerto’s downtown area. This small beach town has a beach area populated by a friendly and welcoming local community. It has become more popular over the years but still keeps its virginal charm and is part of one of the most inexpensive and underrated states in the country. Oaxaca is known for its beautiful beaches and capital and is a very popular destination for eco tourist backpackers who want to see the real Mexico largely untouched by the global modern world.

There’s a lot of activities beach related to do in Puerto specially surfing which has become the main activity that has brought tourists from all around the world during surf season.

Food

The food will be traditional Mexican, with plenty of corn tortillas, beans, rice, chili peppers, potatoes, wheat and other grains, and chicken, all of which are vegetarian-friendly. Keep in mind that some local dishes may be spicy!

All meals will be provided at the mentioned accommodation. Every day of the program, three full meals will be provided, beginning with breakfast at 8am, lunch at 12pm, and dinner at 6 p.m. On weekends, there are two meals available: brunch at 10 a.m. and dinner at 6 p.m. Food consists primarily of traditional local dishes prepared and served at the accommodation or in the surrounding area. Meals will be served based on your dietary requirements, but you must notify us in advance.

Requirements

• Minimum age 18
• Passion and enthusiasm for environmental conservation
• Not afraid to get your hands dirty!
• Ability to work within a team environment
• Minimum 2 weeks commitment
• CRB Police check (or equivalent) showing that you have no previous criminal convictions
• Good English skills
• Necessary vaccinations
• Necessary flight & visas
• Full travel & medical insurance. Full assistance will be provided in getting everything you will need ready if you choose our Placement Support Package.

Costs

£550 GBP per week

* Check the latest currency conversions with xe.com
** All payments incur a 5% bank transfer fee
*** Placements are confirmed with a 1 week deposit, minimum 2 weeks booking

What’s Included:

Project Fee includes food, accommodation, airport pickup, orientation, in-country support and project activities.

What’s not included:

Flights, insurance, visas (if applicable) and vaccinations. Full assistance will be provided in getting all these arranged if you choose our Premium Support.

Premium Support Upgrade

We understand there’s a great deal to plan and organise for your trip. When booking a Placement, many of our participants choose to purchase our Premium Support Upgrade to benefit from the expertise, knowledge and experience of our Project Coordinators.

We can provide the personal advice you need to ensure your trip is organised with excellence and planned with efficiency; ensuring the very best experience possible. Read more about how we can help you.