Course Description

Nicaragua is the “Land of Lakes and Volcanoes” and we will explore several of each during our visit. We will visit smoking Volcan Conception and swim in Apoyo crater lake. We will take a boat to stay two nights on Isla de Ometepe with its two volcanoes, ancient petro glyphs and White-faced Capuchin and Howler monkeys. We will explore the natural flora and fauna of this beautiful country and visit historical and cultural landmarks including the classic colonial city of Granada and tour its hundreds of islands in Lago de Nicaragua. In this 15-day travel course, students will learn about the cultural, historical, and environmental issues confronting the Nicaraguan people and devote significant time to service learning projects.  We will spend several days working with La Esperanza Granada, a commended local agency that regularly works with world wide student groups, and a local school doing a project that improves their newly built school and assist with student learning.  We will be working with local educators and also be involved with the students themselves in and out of class including a field trip.  We will explore the diverse landscape of Nicaragua and spend several days visiting the Pacific coastal environment as well with their turtle hatching beaches.  We are looking for students who desire to help others and are adventurous in spirit. Learning and practice of the Spanish language will be available on a daily basis.  Learning of ecotourism, biodiversity, ecological systems, conservation and education will also be a significant focus. Knowledge of Spanish is helpful but not required. We hope you will join us on this amazing trip.