global explorers catalog

A Nonprofit Educational Travel Organization

with curiosity...Travel

a purpose

4 // Global Explorers // www.globalexplorers.org // 1.877.627.1425

Global Explorers

Testimonials

My favorite part is watching thechange that students go throughwhile on the trip. ey wake up excited and are ready for the daywell before I am! On our trips, theygo back to the simple things thatmake life fun. It’s about the basics:friendship, food, exploration andletting your mind and body dictatewhat needs to happen instead of aclock. ey find they don’t needmp3 players, cell phones and suchto be happy.

Dara, EducatorFredericksburg, VA

Canyon Skies: U.S. Southwest

I’ve learned confidence, open-mindedness,flexibility, independence, tolerance and patience. Ihad the opportunity to see the world from anotherperspective, to live in it and relish it.

Madi, StudentBoston, MA

AYLP with Cambodia

International travel has provided my childwith a worldly perspective not only in respect to his Global Explorers travels butin his everyday life. Even at his youngage, he is able to confidently speak aboutworld issues and advocate for the countrythat he has visited. It has been a positive,life-changing experience that has includeda higher level of maturity.

Darlene, ParentLibertyville, IL

Machu Picchu & e Sacred Valley: Peru

e program taught me more aboutmyself and my ability to impact theworld. I returned from the trip with agreater sense of purpose in my life.Global Explorers is an excellentprogram for anyone looking to beinspired, and to catch the travel bug.

Corey, StudentColorado Springs, CO

Sustainable Tropics: Costa Rica

is trip has had a profound impacton Anna and will certainly shape herfor the better. I wish there was a wayfor every kid to have this type of opportunity – the world would be adifferent and better place.

Richard, ParentSeattle, WA

e Maya Yucatan: Mexico


Office 420 S. Howes, Suite B300Fort Collins, CO 80521office 1.877.627.1425fax 1.970.672.1073

www.globalexplorers.org

Catalog DesignCatalog design time was graciously donated by

Jess Vulcan and Dina Snow.

All catalog photos were generously donated by the Global Explorers family of

students, educators and staff. ank you all!

Communications & Outreach ManagerKatie Watkins

[email protected]

With this once-in-a-lifetime adventure, mystudents have gotten to admire, explore andconquer. ey have gained self-confidence,tasted independence and success, and areeager to do more, to see more and to keepreaching for more.

Molly, EducatorChicago, IL


A trip like this is beyond words. Justimagine something that fills you upinside and clears your head. You feel better for being involved insomething way bigger than yourselfand it changes your life for thebetter.

Caynen, StudentEl Paso, TX

AYLP with Cambodia

Global Explorers

Table of Contents

1.877.627.1425 // www.globalexplorers.org // Global Explorers // 5

Our Destinations

Letter from the Director

Core Values

Staff Bios

Partnerships that Matter6

7

8

10

Amazon Adventure: Peru

Machu Picchu &The Sacred Valley: Peru


The Maya Yucatan: Mexico

18

20

22

24African Discovery: Tanzania

Canyon Skies:U.S. Southwest

Arctic Exploration:Canada

Specialty Programs

26

28

30

34AYLP with Cambodia37

Administrative Information

Frequently Asked Questions

32

33

What to Expect16

What We Teach

Programs that Work

More an Just Travel

Honest Pricing12

13

14

15

My first international travel experience was to a remote community in the FijiIslands as a young teenager. It profoundly changed the way I see the world. e connections Imade and the growth that followed my journey to Fiji changed the trajectory of my life. eexperience informed what I studied in college and graduate school; sparked an insatiable desire toexplore the world; and influenced my choice of jobs, internships and eventually my career path.

Years later, I felt inspired to provide opportunities for young people to have a similarly life-changing experience. A close examination of the travel industry convinced me that there wasmuch room for improvement. Student travel in particular must not only be thought-provoking,educational, sustainable and inclusive, but also affordable to families.

e result is what we’ve created at Global Explorers – an extraordinary nonprofit organization thatprovides unique educational travel experiences designed to inspire responsible global citizenship.

Parents, students and educators believe in our mission because they have personally experiencedthe transformative power of a Global Explorers program. I invite you to join us!

Julie Dubin, Director

Global Explorers

Letter from the Director


Global Explorers

Core Values


Our Organizational Values

Hold true to our mission of inspiring responsible global citizenship throughtravel.

Contribute to the communities we visitthrough service, cross-cultural exchangeand financial and technical support.

Never sacrifice educational quality for financial gain.

Be honest, caring and compassionate inour work with students, educators, staffand partners.

ink systemically and seek synergies.

Empower volunteers to contribute thousands of hours of work annually to support our mission.

Offer opportunities to students of allabilities and backgrounds.

Live, work and travel sustainably.

e educational quality of ourprograms begins with anoutstanding and highly qualifiedstaff. All of us at Global Explorersare educators at heart, and we can allrecall life-changing travel experiencesthat have helped shape who we aretoday. ese moments continue tomotivate the work we do.

Global Explorers

Staff Bios

Erik WeihenmayerBoard Membere only blind man to have reached thesummit of each of the seven continents’tallest mountains, Erik is an incredibleinspiration. He is also the author of twosuccessful books, e Adversity Advantageand Touch the Top of the World, and anacclaimed motivational speaker. In 2005,he partnered with Global Explorers tocreate the Leading the Way program,offering a unique opportunity for visuallyimpaired students to participate inextraordinary travel. He is also a founderof Global Explorers’ partner organizationNo Barriers and its Soldiers to Summitsprogram. Erik continues to inspire anaudience worldwide as he helps pioneerand spur new technologies both in hispersonal life and in the lives of others.

Tom LilligBoard PresidentA true global marketer, Tom has extensiveexperience managing internationalmarketing campaigns. His work and hisadventurous spirit have taken him to someof the far corners of the world. Tom hasbeen recognized for his efforts leadingaward-winning advertising campaigns,crafting groundbreaking marketinginitiatives and launching new products fora number of prestigious companies andorganizations including the Peace Corps,Kellogg’s, Reebok and the U.S. PostalService. Tom is the Director of AccountManagement for Stone Ward, anadvertising and marketing agency.

Andrea DeloreyBoard MemberBefore establishing roots in Colorado, Andrea called at least a dozen differentcities “home,” and she continues to thriveon new experiences and learning. Withover 15 years of experience as an educator,Andrea is currently Social StudiesFacilitator for Poudre School District in Colorado. Previously, she taught ininternational schools in Venezuela, Chileand Ecuador, as well as in the New YorkCity public school system. Andrea earnedher Master’s in Education from TeachersCollege Columbia University.8 // Global Explorers // www.globalexplorers.org // 1.877.627.1425

Global Explorers staff members do an amazing job of facilitating arich and complete experience – somehow orchestrating the detailswith finesse without losing the excitement, spontaneity andchallenge that are the reasons we choose to travel in the first place.

Hans, EducatorOakland, CA


MEET

STAFFOFour

aF

EW

Chris Frost, Ph.D.Field InstructorChris is an ecologist and plant biologist who has worked in the tropics of Peru andtemperate forests of the eastern U.S. Whileearning his master’s at the University ofFlorida, he compared perceptions andattitudes about forests between young adultsin the U.S. and the Peruvian Amazon. Hisdoctoral work examined the role of insectherbivores on ecosystem processes. Hecurrently works at Penn State University,where he focuses on airborne volatilecompounds emitted by plants in response toherbivores. In Peru, he has served as anaturalist guide and helped to develop andlead extension workshops with youth. Chrisis very interested in developing scientificand ecological literacy in people of all ages.

Percy Rengifo Unuma Field GuidePercy was born in the village of Santa Ritade Castilla on the Chambira River, atributary of the Mananon River, whichflows into the Amazon in Peru. Percy hasbeen guiding for 12 years. He speaksSpanish, English and German and his areasof expertise are fishing and nature walks.Percy enjoys sharing his culture with somany different people and showing off thebeauty of the rainforest to the world.

Global Explorers

Staff Bios

Aracely RojasExpedition LeaderBorn in a small town in ruralNicaragua, Aracely moved to MexicoCity as a teenager before settling intoBaja California Sur, Mexico. It was inLa Paz that Aracely focused her life onthe ocean and the outdoors, studyingmarine biology at the state universitywith a focus on marine protected areas.She is a strong female role model forstudents and exudes passion for sharingthe joys of science that can bediscovered in every nook and cranny of the world.

Katie WatkinsCommunications and Outreach ManagerWith a childhood landing her in over 10different schools, Katie was aware early onof the regional differences within theculture of the U.S. is, combined withher personal philosophy that everyonecan teach you something, inspired herinsatiable curiosity about the cultures ofthe greater world around her. Her firstinternational travel experience was at 17,when she participated in a humanitarianhousing project in Mexico. e passionignited in her from that experience hastaken her abroad for both business andpleasure. She has a B.A. in marketing anda diverse background within the studenttravel industry.

Brian MillerExpedition LeaderA community service trip to Costa Rica in9th grade, followed by a semester abroad inArgentina, changed the direction of Brian’slife forever. Brian’s past work includesteaching biology at the Westridge School forGirls, where he started an environmentalclub, a recycling program, a wormcomposting program and an Earth Daycelebration. Currently, Brian owns andoperates an event photography companycalled LA Photo Party. He received a degreein community-based conservation fromColorado College.

H. Bruce Rinker, Ph.D.Field InstructorDr. Rinker is a distinguished ecologist,educator and explorer. His scientificexpeditions have included numerous tripsto remote locations around the world,especially in the tropics. Co-editor andcontributor to Forest Canopies (2004)and Gaia in Turmoil (2010), Dr. Rinkerhas received many awards, including“Outstanding Biology Teacher” from theNational Association of Biology Teachers.His undergraduate work at Virginia Techconcentrated on forestry and wildliferesource management; his Ph.D. fromAntioch University Graduate School inenvironmental studies focused on tropicalforest ecology.

Jimmy Trejos CamachoField GuideJimmy grew up in the Sarapiquí region ofCosta Rica in the middle of the rainforest.Jimmy is a knowledgeable guide withexperience in the ecology, conservationand culture of Costa Rica. With a passionfor sharing his country with others, heruns a certified guiding company withseveral childhood friends. He loves seeingthe spark in the eyes of youth as theymake a new discovery and a smile comesto their faces.



Global Explorers

Partnerships that Matter

The future of our global community depends on the young people of the world.And the future is looking brighter because of the work of Global Explorers.

– Andrew Zimmern, Host of Travel Channel’s Bizarre Foods

e OtterCares Foundation supports scholarships for students in our home base of NorthernColorado and is dedicated to educating and empowering youth towards positive growth.

OtterCares Foundation

NativeEnergy helps Global Explorers offset the carbon footprint of all of our expeditions by investingin community-based renewable energy projects.

NativeEnergy

Wimmer Solutions is a Seattle-based business and technology consulting company whose work isrooted in the belief that care creates community. Wimmer Solutions supports our programs fordiverse Seattle-area youth.

Wimmer Solutions

Global Explorers is committed to buildinglong-term relationships with partnering organizations around the world. esepartners improve the educational qualityof our programs, expand the scope of ourimpact and provide new opportunities thatinspire our participants and staff. Meet afew of our partners.

PARTNERSHIPS

Global Explorers provides programming for girls of all backgrounds and abilities, helping them“discover, connect and take action.”

Girl Scouts of the USA

e Pearson Foundation, a supporter of our Learning AFAR programs, aims to make a difference bypromoting literacy, learning and great teaching.

e Pearson Foundation

Together, through our Learning AFAR program, the AFAR Foundation and Global Explorerspromote cross-cultural exchange by sponsoring travel for high-achieving students who could nototherwise afford the experience.

e AFAR Foundation

Partner description and logo in no way represent a formal endorsement of Global Explorers.

Schlumberger is a leading oil fields services provider that aims to make a positive difference in priority areasincluding: education, human health, climate change and the environment. Schlumberger is a sponsor ofLearning AFAR Houston.

Schlumberger

rough the Roots & Shoots Tanzania program, we organize authentic and educational cross-culturalimmersion opportunities as well as meaningful service learning projects.

e Jane Goodall Institute

is Peruvian nonprofit develops our in-country service projects and promotes rainforest conservationand education for the people who live along the Amazon and Napo rivers.

CONAPAC


Global Explorers

Partnerships that Matter

Focused on environmental education, community development, conservation and tourism, the SCLCassists with service project development in Costa Rica.

Sarapiquí Conservation Learning Center

We support the Yanamono Medical Clinic in the remote Amazon basin of northeastern Peru – a regionalclinic that provides primary care to families throughout the region.

Amazon Medical ProjectAMAZONMEDICALPROJECT

If you or your organization would like to contribute to our efforts to open the doors to travel for all students, please contact our Executive Director at [email protected].

In-Country PartnersWe partner with respected non-governmental organizations in each of our host countries to provide youthwith authentic cross-cultural exchange and service learning opportunities. Some of our partners include:

Together with GCY, we provide experiential education along the rivers and canyons of theSouthwest, inspiring curiosity and appreciation of the natural world and our community.

Grand Canyon Youth

Khiri Reach helps disadvantaged people in ailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia. Khiri Reach facilitatesour relationships with local communities in Cambodia.

Khiri Reach

is network of communities, non-governmental organizations, academic institutes and companiessupports, promotes and advocates for sustainable tourism in Cambodia. CCBEN ensures that our youthexperiences in Cambodia are authentic and meaningful.

Cambodia Community-Based Ecotourism Network

Global Explorers

What We Teach


DISCOVER THELEADER WITHIN

EXPLORE YOURWORLD

Scientific Curiosity & Competence:Students develop a curiosity towards thenatural world and understand the complexity of interrelationships betweenhuman and environmental systems.

Cultural Curiosity & Competence: Students build curiosity, respect and tolerance for different ways of life andexperience connectedness with people around the world.

Career Exposure & Leaders that Inspire: Students learn about themotivating factors behind career choicesmade by a diverse group of professionalsand develop ideas about fulfilling careersfor themselves.

Service Knowledge: Students explore themeaning of service learning and civic responsibility and navigate the challengesof working with communities to identifyand evaluate needs.

INSPIRE CHANGE

Appreciation for Life: Students deepentheir appreciation for the opportunitiesthey have in life and recognize that thereare many ways to make a difference inthe world.

Inspired Action: Students take action andengage in service before, during and aftertheir Global Explorers expedition.

Service Attitude: Students develop confidence in their ability to inspirechange and demonstrate an ongoing willingness to spend time bettering communities at home and abroad.

Before I left, I was a child looking for an outlet to adulthood. Global Exlorers has helped mefind that outlet and pushed me into becoming a fully functioning adult. GEx has changedmy life for the better and taught me values that I am going to remember and cherish for therest of my life. Before traveling with GEx, my mind was locally based. I hadn’t seen outsideof my own town. GEx opened my eyes to the world that we live in and truly helped meopen my heart to everyone around me.

– Ethan, Student

Our mission is to inspire responsible globalcitizenship by providing life-changing travelexperiences for students and educators of allabilities and backgrounds.

Our unique educational model equips students to explore science and culture for a deeper understanding of the world, to discover their personal interests and to tacklecommunity issues with passion and wisdom.

WHAT WETEACH

Self-Awareness: Students explore theways they see themselves, others, theworld and their place in it.

Communication: Students learn to listen, to appreciate diverse perspectivesand to improve their peer-to-peer communication skills.

Collaboration: Students learn about creating a shared vision and utilizing theskills and abilites of all team members.

Critical inking Skills: Students practice problem solving, analysis, logicand reflecting on the big picture using systems thinking.

Self-Direction: Students explore theirpersonal passions, adaptability, sense ofresponsibility and personal vision.

Information Literacy: Studentsinvestigate various forms of knowledge acquisition, source discernment andmanagement of complex information todeepen the quality of their analyses.

Global Explorers

Programs that Work


Annually, Global Explorers works with outside researchers fromTexas A&M University to conduct a thorough evaluation ofour programs from start to finish. We use the results to guide thecontinuous improvement of our programs.

RESEARCH

Overall,

participantsrated GEx

programs

as 4.8out of 5

Global Explorersprograms reach students

from DIVERSEbackgrounds and of ALL ABILITYLEVELS

My research indicates that participation in

the GEx program positively impacts students’

knowledge, attitudes and behavior related to

science, culture, leadership and service.

– Mathew Duerden, Ph.D.

Recreation, Park and Tourism Sciences

Overall participantsshowed significantgrowth in each ofthe following areas:

of participantssaid they wouldlike to stay involved withGlobal Explorers

95%

DID

YOUKNOW?

Environmental Awareness

Critical Thinking

Problem Solving

Communication

Civic Engagement

Identity Development

Leadership

Research gathered from Global Explorers participants has been presented in the following academic journal articles:

Duerden, M. D., Witt, P. A., & Taniguchi, S. (2012). eimpact of postprogram reflection on recreation programoutcomes. Journal of Park and Recreation Administration

Duerden, M. D., & Witt, P. A. (2010). e impact of socialization on youth program outcomes:A social development model perspective. Leisure Sciences

Duerden, M. D., & Witt, P.A. (2010). e impact of direct and indirect experiences on the development of environmental knowledge, attitudes and behavior. Journal of Environmental Psychology

Global Explorers

More Than Just Travel

:: Phase One:: Preparation

Global Explorers’ user-friendly preparatory curriculum and support materials arecustomized to your destination. We offer fun but challenging activities designed toprovoke questions and critical thinking while improving global knowledge, skills andattitudes. Experts from such diverse organizations as the Peace Corps, the Jane GoodallInstitute, the Center for Creative Leadership and the World Wildlife Fund assisted withthe development of our curriculum.

Programs that engage learningand inspire curiosity before,during and after travel.


:: Phase Two:: Expedition

e time spent on your expedition is designed to inspire responsibleglobal citizenship. is is not a sight-seeing tour. Our small groupexpeditions foster meaningful and challenging discussions, engagestudents in service and develop important civic and leadership skills.Educators can customize programs to meet their targetededucational goals.

MORE

RAVEL

:: Phase Three:: Global Citizenship Project

e Global Explorers experience continues in your own community after yourexpedition is over. Participants take a leadership role in designing and implementinga service project that makes a positive difference post-travel.

T H A NJ S TU

We believe that in order to truly harness the full power of ameaningful travel experience, a program must also includethorough preparation and follow-up action. Our three-phaseprograms engage students before they travel, provide real-worldconnections to those lessons during travel and challenge themto make the most of their experience upon their return. T


Global Explorers

Honest Pricing

!

* Airfare to the city in which your program starts (price of airfare not included in program fee, but we will work with our travel agent to organize the best group airfare for your needs)

* Passport fees * Visa fees (where applicable) * Extra snacks or beverages at meals* Meals while in transit on international travel days* Immunization fees * Spending money for souvenirs & gifts* Personal travel items* Airline baggage handling fees* Expenses as a result of travel delays or cancellations that fall

outside of Global Explorers’ control

Watch out for HiddenCosts with other CompaniesBe careful as you compare travel options. Many companiespublish prices on marketing materials that do not include all theessentials. Here are just a few things that often cost extra:

Global Explorers’ all-inclusive program fees are designed to make your travel experience as stress-free

as possible. You can feel at ease knowing that yourGlobal Explorers Expedition Leader handles all travel

and program-related financial transactions.

H O N E S T PRICING

What’s NOT Included:

+ All transportation & lodging upon arrival at your destination+ All activities including guides & entrance fees+ All meals & drinking water during program+ An individual bed for every traveler+ A private experience for your group – you’ll never be joined

by students you don’t know+ A world-class Expedition Leader+ Various other experts, scientists & educators+ Certified local guides & drivers+ Respectful gratuities for local guides, drivers & other services+ Free educator spots with paying participants+ Your choice of program & travel dates+ Comprehensive preparatory curriculum+ Extensive staff support before & after travel+ Carbon offsets+ Basic travel insurance+ Customized promotional materials to help organize your group+ 24-hour emergency service with GEx staff and a U.S.-based

physician on call+ T-shirts, travel journals, luggage tags & pre-travel student

program handbooks+ Airport departure fees+ Online log-in for details & fundraising resources

What’s Inc luded:

- Optional activities: $20 - $200- Enrollment fees: $80 - $100- Lunches or other meals: $10 - $15/day- Travel insurance: $20 - $150- Private group fees: Up to $500/student- Taxes & other fees associated with airfare (if price indicates

airfare is included): $100 - $400- Private beds (base price may require students to share beds): $30 - $40/night

- Gratuities: $15 - $20/day


Global Explorers

What to Expect

From the moment you contactus until the completion of yourglobal citizenship project, you’llhave a Global Explorers teammember helping you every stepof the way.

STARTFINISH-t

o-

9 - 12 months prior

* Select a destination and timeline that matchyour group’s specific goals* Solidify school approval and travel dates

7 - 8 months prior

* Promote program and recruit students* Host information sessions

1 - 6 months prior

* Implement preparatory curriculum* Individual and group fundraising efforts* Arrange pre-travel essentials (e.g., passports, immunizations)

Expedition 7 - 18 days

* Have the experience of a lifetime!

1 - 4 months after

* Plan and execute globalcitizenship project

Planning a travel program with your studentswill take some time and effort. Here’s what youcan expect before, during and after travel.

Your Communications and Outreach Manager will helpyou select a destination that meets your group’s needs. She willwork with you to customize your itinerary and finalize pricing.She will also help you recruit students by providing group-specific promotional materials and fliers and presentations forparent meetings. When possible, she will present at your school.

Once your group of students is solidified, you will beginworking with our Director of Group Management. Hewill help you to book flights, provide preparatory curriculumand other materials, and manage every detail of the planningprocess, right up to the day you leave.

Your Expedition Leader(s) will manage all of the logisticaldetails once you arrive at your destination. ey will guidestudents through meaningful activities and discussions andmanage relationships with local vendors and partners for aseamless experience.

Global Explorers is passionate about providing a unique, life-changingtravel experience for students and educators. Our team is here tosupport and guide you every step of the way. Here are a few of thepeople you’ll encounter while working with us:

Meet Your TeamGlobal Explorers is a family that givesyoung adults incredible opportunitiesand teaches life skills that make us allbetter people.

Laura, StudentMadison, WI



Global Explorers

Our Destinations

Arctic Explora

tion

page 30

African Discovery

page 26The Maya Yucatanpage 24

MEXICO TANZANIA

CANADA

CAMBODIA

Canyon Skiespage 28

U.S. SOUTHWEST

Sustainable Tropicspage 22

COSTA RICA

Machu Picchu

& The Sacre

d Valley

page 20

PERU

Amazon Adventurepage 18

PERU

DESTINATIONSOUR

American Youth Leadership Programpage 37

Program DescriptionFew places on Earth can rival the rich diversity, bothcultural and ecological, of the Amazon rainforest. evastness of the Amazon captivates the mind and revealsa world full of secrets. Experience the hustle and bustleof Iquitos, one of the largest cities in the Amazonbasin, and immerse yourself in the slower lifestyle ofrural river communities. Along the way, search forscarlet macaws, poison dart frogs and thousands ofother species that call this amazing place home.rough engaging science activities and meaningfulvisits to local communities, this program presents agenuine opportunity to understand the importance ofconservation in the rainforest. A true living classroom,the Amazon has the power to open the mind like notextbook can.

Amazon ecology and rainforest conservation

Pre-Travel Curriculum

Peruvian history, Yagua culture and Spanish language

Leadership skills, service learning and responsible travel knowledge


Program Highlights

Experience the rainforest as toucans and monkeys do – over 100 feetabove the forest floor on one of the longest canopy walkways on theplanet. Explore this rarely-seen world with field scientists and localguides.

Search for pink river dolphins, barter for Yagua handicrafts, fish for piranha and have a mud fight on the mucky banks of a river island.

Scour the tree line for boas, monkeys, three-toed sloths and othercritters on a silent moonlight float along the Amazon River.


Days 8 - 9: City Tour & Return to LimaAfter a morning hike we say goodbye to therainforest and make our way by boat back tothe friendly city of Iquitos in the lateafternoon. We enjoy dinner at a restaurantin town, then spend the night at a hotel. emorning of Day 9 is spent touring the cityby foot. We do some souvenir shopping andvisit a market before catching a lateafternoon flight back to Lima. Dependingon our flight schedule, we may stay at theairport and wait for our connection back tothe U.S. or have time to sleep at a hotel inLima.

Day 10: Travel DayContinue traveling and arrive home.


Day 1: Travel DayWe depart the U.S. and arrive in Lima, thecapital of Peru. Depending on our flightschedule, we may spend the night at a hotelor we may head directly to Iquitos.

Days 2 - 3: Amazon Culture & Rainforest Living A short flight brings us to Iquitos, a bustlingjungle town on the banks of the AmazonRiver. From here, we climb aboard amotorized boat for a spectacular ride downthe river to Explorama Lodge, our home forthe next two nights. Here, we meet our localguides, enjoy open air meals and learn a fewskills used to live in this ecosystem. We visita Yagua community to catch a glimpse of adifferent rainforest life and barter forhandicrafts. e surrounding forest offersmany opportunities for guided afternoonhikes and nighttime forest walks byflashlight.

Days 4 - 5: Ethnobotany & Canopy Walkway At dawn, we enjoy a short wildlife excursioninto the forest to look for and identify a fewof the hundreds of species of birds in theregion. We then get back on the motor boatto travel further downriver to ExplorNapoLodge, a more remote facility where we visit a local shaman. Later, we explore a

blackwater lake and spend the evening on amoonlight river float, enjoying themagnificent night sky. A short hike on Day 5brings us to the Amazon Conservatory ofTropical Studies (ACTS) Field Station, hometo one of the longest canopy walkways in theworld. From the walkway, we watch the sunset over the canopy and learn about themany different layers of the forest and usesfor plant life.

Days 6 - 7: Service Project & Swimming A short boat ride brings us back toExplorama where we will stay two morenights. We eat lunch and spend theafternoon fishing, swimming and searchingfor pink river dolphins in the magnificentAmazon river. We may have the opportunityto hear from Dr. Linnea Smith, an Americanphysician who moved to the region andopened a rural health clinic. On Day 7, weparticipate in a service project alongside localcommunity members. is is often thehighlight of the week for many participants!

Program Itinerary


is is a sample standard 10-day program. Number of days and orderof events can be amended to better suit your needs and goals.

Program DescriptionMachu Picchu tops the must-see list for many of theworld’s intrepid travelers. After encountering this mysterious sanctuary and its famous walls, it comes asno surprise that Machu Picchu was named one of theNew 7 Wonders of the World. Navigate the lush andjagged peaks of the Andes and explore a variety of richcultural and historical sites in Cusco and the mysticalSacred Valley. Engage in service, dive into the lively culture of the Peruvian highlands and ponder yourplace in the world while gazing at some of Earth’s mostextraordinary scenery.

Andes ecology and regional conservation issues


Incan history, Peruvian culture and Spanish language


Machu Picchu & The Sacred Valley: Peru

Program Highlights


Experience the solitude of the Andes as you trek to the ancientcitadel of Machu Picchu. Gaze in awe and explore these fabled ruinsfirst-hand.

Discover the wonder of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, the famouscenter of the Incan Empire known for its stunning highland terrain,colorful culture and captivating history.

Enjoy a fireside Pachamanca dinner, cooked in the ground, and engage in a service project alongside members of a rural highlandscommunity.

Days 7 - 8: Machu PicchuWe say goodbye to our camp crew thismorning and hike an easier trail for severalhours down a stone-paved road withincredible stairways, a small tunnel andseveral viewing terraces. We enjoy a lunchat Wiñay Huayna and continue on to IntiPunku, or “the Gate of the Sun,” where wecatch our first glimpse of Machu Picchu.Today, we spend some time exploring theruins on our own and spend the evening ata hotel in the nearby town of AguasCalientes. On Day 8, we have a full day ofguided tours of Machu Picchu followed bysome additional time to explore ruins onour own. In the afternoon, we board thetrain to return to Ollantaytambo and thenreturn to our hotel in Cusco.

Days 9 - 10: Travel HomeOn Day 9 we do some last-minutesouvenir shopping in Cusco and catch ourflight to Lima. We then relax at the airportwhile waiting for our connection back tothe U.S. and arrive home on Day 10.

is is a sample stand-alone 10-day program. is program can be amended to serveas an extension of the Amazon Adventure program. Visit our website for information

on other itineraries, including alternate trails or train rides to Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu & The Sacred Valley: Peru

Day 1: Travel DayAfter departing the U.S., we arrive in Lima.Depending on our flight schedule, we mayspend the night at a hotel in Lima or we mayhead directly to Cusco.

Days 2 - 3: Cusco & Sacred Valley of the IncasWe settle into our hotel in Cusco. A hotcoca tea eases our adaptation to the highaltitude (Cusco is 11,200 feet above sealevel). After a light lunch, we meet for aguided tour of the city and the nearby ruinsof Cusco. In the evening we enjoy a welcomedinner with a cultural show at a localrestaurant. On Day 3, we visit the SacredValley, beginning in the colonial town andInca City of Pisac. After shopping at thelocal craft market, we travel by roadfollowing the sacred Urubamba or VilcanotaRiver on our way to Ollantaytambo. Weenjoy lunch and take time to visit theimpressive Inca remains there. Later, weproceed down the Sacred Valley where weenjoy dinner and camp for the night.

Days 4 - 6: TrekkingWe meet our porters on the morning of Day4 and begin our trek. After a couple of hoursof gentle hiking we reach and visit the Incaruins of Llactapata. We continue hiking, thistime away from the Urubamba River,ascending and following a stream towardsthe village of Huayllabamba. We have apicnic lunch nearby and continue toPaucarcancha, a magnificent archaeologicalsite, and right next to it a locally ownedprivate campsite where we set up camp forthe evening. On our second day on the trail,we march on past Huayllabamba to a lunchsite with spectacular mountain views. Wepass through a cloud forest and hike overWarmiwañusca, the highest point of our trekat 13,830 feet above sea level. We enjoyincredible views during a brief descent to ournext camp at Pacaymayu. Passing throughdifferent ecological zones the next day, weclimb our second highest pass and may catcha glimpse of the snow-covered peaks ofCordillera Vilcabamba above the lush valleybelow. We encounter masterful Incaengineering at several more ruin sites andreach our final campsite before MachuPicchu at Phuyupatamarca, the “Place Abovethe Clouds.”


Program Itinerary

Program DescriptionFull of adventure, beauty, captivating culture and richbiodiversity, Costa Rica has everything you could ask forin an educational travel destination. It’s small in size andwell-traveled, making it one of the best countries onEarth for student groups. In the Sustainable Tropics program, explore three different ecosystems and visitlesser-known learning spots in some of Costa Rica’s mostenticing destinations. Search for all kinds of wildlife andlearn about the successful sustainable developmentstrategies that have made Costa Rica famous forconservation and ecotourism. Interact with ruralcommunity members and collaborate on service projects.As you travel by foot, kayak, boat, canopy walkway andzipline, you will experience this wonderful country in atruly authentic way.

Tropical ecosystems, sustainable development and rainforest conservation


Costa Rican history and culture and Spanish language



Program Highlights

Stroll along Caribbean beaches, explore the rainforest and cruisethrough the cloud forest on zip-lines as you experience themyriad ecosystems and incredible biodiversity this tiny countryhas to offer.

Immerse yourself in the animated “Pura Vida” lifestyle thatmakes Costa Rica’s vibrant culture world-famous.


Search for howler monkeys, poison dart frogs, resplendentquetzals, three-toed sloths, nesting sea turtles and more withexpert local guides.

coffee production from start to finish. Weenjoy our final lunch in the community beforeheading back to the San Jose area, where weparticipate in our closing ceremony and spendthe night at a comfortable hotel.

Day 8: Travel DayWe depart San Jose and return home.

is is a sample standard 8-day program. is itinerary can easily be made into a 10-day program by adding a coastal extension.Specialized itineraries are available if you are interested in more emphasis on culture & language, service or science.


Day 1: Travel DayWe depart home and arrive in San Jose, CostaRica, where we meet our Expedition Leader andget oriented to the area. We spend the night at acomfortable hotel near San Jose.

Day 2: Costa Rican Humanitarian FoundationToday we spend the majority of the day with theCosta Rican Humanitarian Foundation (CRHF)in La Carpio outside of San Jose. Founded bysquatters in the mid-1990s, La Carpio is a villagecomposed primarily of Nicaraguan immigrantsand is one of the poorest communities in CostaRica. We spend the day learning about LatinAmerican history, participating in service projectsand playing games with the children of LaCarpio. In the late afternoon we drive a couplehours to our next stop, the Sarapiquí region.Tonight we spend the night at a rainforest lodge.

Day 3: Rainforest ExplorationToday includes a visit to La Selva, one of themost important sites in the world for scientificresearch on tropical forests. Established in 1968as a biological reserve, it protects 3,900 acres oftropical and premontane forest and connects tothe Brauillo National Park (100,000+ acres). AtLa Selva, we are likely to see many species thatlive in the forest, including mammals such asmonkeys and coatimundi. In the afternoon, wecontinue our exploration of the rainforest as wefloat down the Puerto Viejo river by kayak.Tonight, we reflect on the many complex factorsof sustainable tourism and spend a second nightat the same lodge.

Day 4: Service ProjectsWe spend the morning engaged in ameaningful service project with a local NGOcalled the Sarapiquí Conservation and LearningCenter (SCLC). We work alongsidecommunity members and may even get to playa game of soccer together. Later, we travel toFortuna where we have the opportunity tospend the day and night at an educational farmcalled Don Juan’s. We help harvest items formeals, tour the farm and even get to try ourhand at pressing sugar cane. We spend thenight in a comfortable bunkhouse on the farm.

Days 5 - 6:Ziplining & e Cloud ForestOur next stop is the Monteverde region, filledwith cloud forests and wildlife. We arrive at theUGA San Luis Research Station in theafternoon of Day 5, where we stay for the nexttwo nights. We spend the afternoon discussingsustainability and participate in an ongoingconservation project that will contribute tooffsetting some of the carbon our trip hasproduced. Day 6 begins with a bang as weexperience the forest as the birds do, zippingthrough the canopy and exploring a series ofwalkways! In the afternoon, we explore thecommunity and learn to make handicrafts. isevening, we enjoy dinner with a local family.

Day 7:Coffee PlantationWe spend the morning touring a local coffeeplantation where we learn about the process of


Program Itinerary

Specialized Costa Rica Itineraries

Tico Life (Cultural Immersion)A focus on Spanish language, cross-cultural exchange and extended time in local communities, includingadditional service. Home stays are alsooptional.

Learn & Serve (Service Learning)An intensive focus on service learningincluding a multi-day project withCRHF, optional home stays, andadditional projects throughout yourtravel experience.

Nature Lovers (Science)A deeper focus on education andexploration of Costa Rica’s diversenatural history, conservation efforts androle in the global marketplace.

Program fees and length of itinerariesvary. Contact us for more information.

Program DescriptionMexico’s Yucatan Peninsula may seem close to homegeographically, but the natural wonders and ancientcultures of this region reveal an exotic land. eYucatan’s lush vegetation, idyllic beaches and monumental ruins call out to the explorer in us all.Venture off the beaten path and into Maya andMexican cultures, past and present. Explore the prosand cons of development and tourism and visit the communities that exist outside of the Yucatan’strendy Riviera Maya. is exciting program highlights global issues that affect life everywhere,exploring the delicate balance between human lifeand environmental concerns.

Coastal ecology, tropical conservation, ecotourism and sustainabledevelopment


Maya history, Mexican culture and Spanish language



Program Highlights

Cool off in the Yucatan’s famous freshwater cenotes, take a“lazy river” float down a freshwater canal and snorkel at theworld’s second largest barrier reef.

Marvel at the awe-inspiring Maya ruins of Chichen Itza and admire the beachside temples of Tulum.

Swim alongside whale sharks, the largest fish in the world, and camp on the deserted beaches of Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve.


Day 8: School Visit & Snorkeling is morning we rise early to visit a localschool and participate in a culturalexchange. In the afternoon we have anopportunity to snorkel off the beaches nearour hotel. We take some time to relax andwrite in our journals, reflecting on ouramazing experiences and the issues we’veexplored.

Day 9: Travel DayToday we may have some time to relax onthe beach before heading back to Cancunto catch our flight home.


Days 1 - 2: Travel & SnorkelingAfter a brief travel day to Cancun, Mexico,we take a short drive to the small fishingtown of Puerto Morelos. Here we watch thesun set on the beach and discuss forcesshaping the local ecology, culture andeconomy. We spend the night in a modestlodge. We begin Day 2 by learning the basicsof snorkeling and then try out our skills byexploring the world’s second largest greatbarrier reef. Later, we visit the breathtakingvistas and beachside ruins of Tulum andspend our second night in a different lodge.

Days 3 - 4: Fresh Water Swimming Today we travel south to Sian Ka’anBiosphere Reserve and visit thearchaeological ruins of Muyil. We cool offon a “lazy river” float down naturalfreshwater canals and then search for lagoonwildlife by kayak in the evening. We stay inthe same lodge in Tulum tonight. On thefourth morning we visit and swim in abeautiful cenote – a limestone sinkhole thatcreates brilliant freshwater pools. Later, wetravel inland and visit with local Mayawomen from a handicraft cooperative in asmall interior village. We also tour a smalltortilla factory and move on to the colonialcity of Valladolid, where we spend the nightin an historic estate-turned-hotel.

Days 5 - 6: Maya Culture & Service is morning we embark by boat on a tourof Rio Lagartos, a wetland BiosphereReserve. Rich in biodiversity, Rio Lagartos ishome to many species of birds, including avery large population of Caribbeanflamingos. We spend the afternoon and thenext morning engaged in a service project ina small Maya village called Ek Balam locatedin the interior of the Yucatan Peninsula –well off the beaten path. Alongside localcommunity members, we forget ourproximity to the massive tourist resorts andwork together on a project to address a needexpressed by the village. We get to knowcommunity members and have a chance toappreciate the similarities and differences ofour cultures. Following completion of theproject, we visit the nearby ruins of EkBalam. We stay two nights at a community-run ecotourism lodge in Ek Balam.

Day 7: Chichen Itza – Wonder of the World is morning we head to one of the mostincredible archaeological ruins in the world:Chichen Itza. We spend most of the daylearning about the history of this site and thepeople who called it home. Following ourvisit, we cool down by swimming in nearbyDzitnup Cenote and return to PuertoMorelos, where we spend our last two nightsat our beachfront hotel.



Program Itinerary

Program DescriptionTanzania is truly a gem that showcases Earth’s amazing cultural and ecological diversity. Under the shadow ofMount Kilimanjaro, it’s easy to feel a deep personal connection to this region known as the “Cradle ofLife.” Marvel at an abundant array of animals thatrivals any wildlife experience on Earth while on safariin Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater.Learn about human life in Tanzania, past and present,through a visit to a Maasai boma and several days ofcultural activities with local students in Moshi. eAfrican Discovery program reveals a fascinating world,opening doors to personal reflection like nowhere else.

Grasslands ecology, wildlife management and conservation issues inAfrica


Tanzanian history, Maasai culture and Swahili


African Discovery: Tanzania

Program Highlights

Search for lions, cheetahs, giraffes, wildebeest, leopards, elephantsand more on multi-day safaris in the savanna.

Experience life as a tribal Maasai villager, cook a traditionalTanzanian meal and practice Swahili alongside local students withour partner youth organization, Roots & Shoots.

Work side-by-side with students from the Moshi area on ameaningful service project that will support the community.


Days 11 - 12: Final Activities & Begin Journey Homeis morning, we bid farewell to theSerengeti with a final game drive. Our returnto Arusha affords us a welcome hot showerat our hotel and a chance to do somesouvenir shopping. After a late lunch on Day12, we head to the airport to begin ourjourney back to the U.S.

Day 13: Arrive Home We arrive home and begin sharing ourstories with friends and family!


African Discovery: Tanzania

Days 1 - 2: Travel & Arrive in ArushaWe leave our home city and spend the dayin transit to Tanzania. We arrive atKilimanjaro International Airport on theevening of our second day and spend thenight at a hotel in Arusha.

Days 3 - 6: Service & Cross-Cultural ExchangeWe spend our first several days in Tanzaniaalongside our local Roots & Shoots studentpartners. Together, we engage in varioushands-on, experiential activities designed toteach us about ecology and conservationissues in the region, enjoy true cross-culturalunderstanding and friendship building, andwork on several meaningful and fulfillingservice projects. Our days are filled withsuch varied activities as building fuelefficient stoves, conducting a forestinventory, visiting a community of elders,cooking a traditional meal, participating in a reforestation project, and exploringtraditional medicines at a clinic. We get ourhands dirty, entertain our hosts throughdances, try new foods, gain perspective andunderstanding, and make many new friends.

Days 7 - 8: SafariWe begin our safari experience inNgorongoro Conservation Area and visit arural Maasai village, or boma, along theway. We settle into our beautiful campsiteon the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater andspend the next day touring one of Africa’sbest-known wildlife viewing areas. isstunning 12.5 mile-wide crater is home tothe world’s largest density of predatoryanimals and humans alike, and we have theunique opportunity to become a temporarypart of this symbiotic relationship. At nightwe camp under the stars.

Days 9 - 10: Serengeti National ParkOn the morning of Day 9, we head toSerengeti National Park. After a stop atOlduvai Gorge to learn about the Origin ofMan, we continue on to an official parkcampsite within the Serengeti plains. Day 10 is filled with game drives in theSerengeti, during which we can expect tosee lions, elephants, buffalo, cheetahs,antelopes and hippopotamuses. We campagain tonight under the Serengeti skies.


Program Itinerary

Program Descriptione stunning scenery of the Southwestern U.S. neverfails to awe and inspire those who take the time todiscover its riches. is region, known as the FourCorners, showcases dramatic geologic formations andsits at a crossroads of American Indian, Spanish andAmerican cultures. As a testament to the uniquecombination of natural and cultural history in theregion, the Colorado Plateau boasts the country’shighest concentration of National Parks andMonuments. Raft the San Juan River, explorespectacular National Monuments, and visit the NavajoNation, the largest American Indian reservation in thecountry. ere’s no better place to contemplate yourplace in the universe than under the desert sky’smagnificent canvas of stars.

Desert ecology, soundscape research and Southwest conservationissues


Navajo culture and Spanish, American Indian and U.S. history



Program Highlights

Warm yourself by a campfire as you visualize ancient tales recounted by a Navajo storyteller and flute player under the endless stars of Canyon de Chelly.

Enjoy a true escape as you raft the San Juan River, embrace themystical power of the desert and conduct important researchon the impact of sound on the environment.


Explore hidden and mysterious cliff dwellings and learn howtheir original inhabitants faced conservation issues similar tothose we face today.


Day 1: Travel DayToday we travel to the heart of the Southwest– either Albuquerque, New Mexico orDurango, Colorado, depending on whetherwe drive or fly. Here, we spend the night at amodest motel.

Day 2: Canyon de Chelly & Navajo CultureToday we travel to the Navajo Nation,specifically Chinle, Arizona – the gateway cityto Canyon de Chelly National Monument.We get our first taste of Navajo culture andwatch the sun set from an overlook on therim of spectacular Canyon de Chelly. Tonightwe camp at a campground on the rim.

Day 3: Hiking & Storytelling Before we hike down into the dramatic redrock walls of Canyon de Chelly, a NavajoPark Ranger introduces us to the challenges ofprotecting an area that’s been inhabited byhumans for over 5,000 years. Once in thecanyon, our resting spot is Antelope HouseRuin, where we camp under a massive alcoveon a Navajo family’s property. Tonight we arecaptivated by fireside Navajo storytelling andmusic as we gaze at the stars above.

Day 4:Hiking & Service Today we engage in a service project that willhelp the family whose property we’re stayingon. We may help clear the area of invasivespecies or assist Canyon elders with a specialproject such as building fences or benches.We hike out of the canyon in the lateafternoon and then drive a few hours to theSan Juan River. Tonight we meet up with ourriver guides from Grand Canyon Youth andcamp near the river at a campground calledSand Island.

Days 5 - 7:Raft the San Juan River We begin our voyage down one of the mostspectacular rivers in America, the San Juan.We spend the next four days floating 27 milesfrom Sand Island, Utah to Mexican Hat,Utah. Although we use rafts to make our waydown the river, we actually spend quite a bitof time on land hiking to ancient ruins,playing games around camp and exploringthe amazing geological features of the region.is is a calm section of the river and thelargest rapids we encounter are Class II.During our time on the river, we camp onsandy beaches every night and help with eachmeal preparation.


is is a sample standard 9-day program. Number of days in the Navajo Nation and on the San JuanRiver can be increased to better suit your needs and goals. is program provides an intense wilderness

experience – travelers should be in good physical health and comfortable “living” in the outdoors!

Day 8: Transition DayToday we spend our last morning on theriver and then help our guides unload allthe boats and pack up gear. From the“take-out” in Mexican Hat we either driveto Gallup, New Mexico or Moab, Utah.Here, we enjoy a much-deserved shower atour motel and reflect on our awesomeadventure.

Day 9: Travel Day Depending on whether we’re driving orflying, we may have time to visit anotherNational Park nearby before heading home.

Program Itinerary

Program Descriptione lure and intrigue of the Far North has brought explorers to the Arctic for years, but it still remains avast, remote land. Polar bears, giant herds of caribou,great boreal forests and a fascinating mix of culturescall this region home. Employ scientific researchtechniques alongside biologists and delve into a studyof the area’s natural diversity. Look for polar bears,catch a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis during the veryfew hours of summertime darkness, and meet withCree, Metis or Inuit community members. e ArticExploration program gives you a chance to hear first-hand from the local people how this unique place ischanging and impacting its residents – from belugawhales to polar bears to human beings.

Northern Canada biomes, Arctic conservation and climate issues


First Nations history and culture


Arctic Exploration: Canada

Program Highlights

Watch beluga whales make their annual migration in theChurchill River and Hudson Bay.

Gaze at the surreal and entrancing glow of the Aurora Borealis, orNorthern Lights.

Experience an epic train journey through the beautiful Canadianprairies to the Hudson Bay and conduct field research on tundraand boreal diversity.


Arctic Exploration: Canada

Days 1 - 3: Travel & Train RideToday we travel to Winnipeg, Manitoba andsettle into a hotel. We begin Day 2 with acity tour of Winnipeg, followed by a visit tothe Manitoba Museum. Next, we board atrain that will take us to Churchill. On thetrain, we have time to admire the amazinglandscape and conduct some preliminaryresearch using GPS units by plotting ourjourney as we head north.

Days 4 - 5: Field Research in the TundraWe arrive in Churchill early on Day 4 aftertwo nights aboard the train and get situatedat a local lodge or research center. We thenhead out on our first excursion into theArctic tundra, where our instructor acquaintsus with the area. On Day 5, we conduct fieldresearch and set up transect-plot studies in atleast two of three distinctive ecosystems here.is afternoon, we visit a nearby lake to fishand go for a chilly swim. In the evening, weare treated to a handicraft-making lesson,storytelling or drumming with a localcommunity member.

Days 6 - 8: Whale Watching, Aurora Borealis & Serviceis morning, we head out to the HudsonBay to learn about and search for belugawhales – one of the most amazing whale-watching experiences in the world! We spendthe afternoon continuing our field research.Our next morning we visit the tundra, taigaand coastal Hudson Bay ecosystems wherewe progress with our research. After lunch,we head into town to explore Churchill andthe Eskimo Museum. is evening includes atraditional Arctic dinner and a potentialviewing of the Aurora Borealis. On Day 8,we participate in a service project inpartnership with Parks Canada, theequivalent to the U.S. National Park Service.After dinner we catch an evening train toWinnipeg and ride off into the sunset.



Days 9 - 10: Train RideOn the train, we have plenty of time toreflect and record our final thoughts in ourjournals. We arrive at the Winnipeg trainstation on the morning of Day 10 and stayin a hotel overnight.

Day 11: Arrive HomeWe travel home and begin sharing ourstories with family and friends.

Program Itinerary


Global Explorers

Administrative Information

Our Nonprofit Status: We believe our nonprofit status speaksstrongly about our commitment toproviding a meaningful, educational andlife-changing program. Our Board ofDirectors consists of current and formerteachers, administrators and travelexperts. e Board guides our long-termvision and ensures that we are providingthe inspirational programs to which weaspire.

Professional Liability Insurance: Global Explorers carries a professionalliability policy that includes bodilyinjury, property damage, professionalerrors and omissions, and personalinjury. Educators who travel withstudents are considered volunteers forGlobal Explorers and are included in ourliability coverage. A certificate ofinsurance can be provided upon request.

Exclusive Group Travel: Groups are not paired with otherparticipating groups at Global Explorers unless specifically requested or stated in the programdescription. We offer a personalizedsmall group-based experience that includes pre- and post-travel support,diverse educational resources andknowledgeable Expedition Leaders onall Global Explorers expeditions.

Educational Quality & Course Credit:Due to the educational nature of ourprogram, many of our schools provide course credit to theirparticipating students. Additionally, students who are 16 and over are eligible to receive two college creditsand participating teachers are eligibleto receive up to three graduate credits. Contact us for details oncourse registration fees and processes.

Adaptability of the Program: We’re happy to work with your schoolto tailor a unique program that reflectsyour school’s culture, character andeducational goals.

Travel Insurance: Every Global Explorers participant iscovered by a travel insurance policythat typically covers the costs ofemergency medical care, evacuation,travel delay and baggage loss. Coverageis provided by Travelex InsuranceServices. Global Explorers providescoverage details to all participants atthe time of booking. Trip cancellationor trip interruption coverage isavailable for an extra charge.

References: We are happy to provide referencesfrom teachers and/or schooladministrators who are familiar with our program.

Global Explorers works with publicschools, private schools and avariety of other educationalinstitutions across the U.S. andCanada. The following informationmay be useful to administrators.

Information for YourSchool or Organization

Frequently Asked Questions


Q: Are your programs safe?

A: We take a proactive approach towards safety. at’s why wespend so much time preparing students and our staff for thekinds of experiences they are going to have in the field. Whiletraveling, students will always be from within minutes to a fewhours of excellent medical care. We work very closely with ourin-country partners to provide the most up-to-date policies andprocedures to deal with unexpected emergencies. Our staffmedical training and first aid kits are developed in consultationwith a family physician who specializes in travel health. Ourphysician is also on 24-hour call for consultation when ourgroups are traveling. All travelers are required to completehealth, booking and liability forms in order to participate in aGlobal Explorers program.

Q: Do educators travel free with group programs?

A: We waive one educator program fee (airfare not included) foryour first 10 paying travelers; thereafter, we waive one educatorprogram fee for every five paying travelers up to 40. In addition,we offer proportional discounts for educators when the totalnumber of paying travelers is not a multiple of five. Contact us fordetails and for groups larger than 40.

Q: What type of food do you eat while traveling?

A: We eat the local cuisine for the regions we visit. Most placesthis is food you will recognize like fish, chicken, rice, beans andfruit. ere are always multiple options available and we canaccommodate most types of diet restrictions.

Q: Can parents travel with their student?

A: We recommend that only students and educators travel ongroup programs; however, we leave the decision up to each group.It is usually not possible for parents to travel on individualenrollment programs.

Q: What kind of lodging do you use?

A: Our accommodations are always safe, comfortable and responsible. We purposely strive to take students to locationsthat are rustic and comfortable, not extravagant. We do our bestto ensure that we treat the local economy, culture and ecologywith respect by seeking out partners and accommodations thatdo the same.

Q: Who travels with the students?

A: Students travel with at least one teacher or representative fromtheir school or organization in addition to a Global ExplorersExpedition Leader, local guides and various other experts.

Q: Can we add custom activities or days to any ofthe programs?

A: Absolutely! We work with many groups to customize theitinerary to meet specific needs and requests.

Q: What type of liability protection do you provide?

A: Global Explorers provides industry-standard liabilityinsurance. Participating educators and their schools ororganizations are covered as volunteers under our liability policy.

Q: What are your cancellation policies?

A: Global Explorers will work with you to determine the mostconvenient payment schedule for your group. Deposits are non-refundable. Payments must be made in full no later than 60 daysprior to travel. Withdrawal 46-90 days prior to date of departureresults in loss of 50% of program costs. Withdrawal 45 days orless prior to date of departure results in loss of 100% of programcosts. Late payments beyond 30 days are charged an 18% servicefee and can result in the loss of your reservation.

Global Explorers


Global Explorers

Specialty Programs

A few ways we break down barriers:

Provide Individual Opportunities: We know that not everyone can travel with a local group, sowe provide individual enrollment programs open to studentsacross the country. Visit www.globalexplorers.org/individuals for info on our current offerings.

Welcome Diverse Abilities: We encourage students of all abilities to participate in ourprograms. See page 36 for details on our Leading the Wayprogram, specifically designed to accommodate students whoare blind or visually impaired.

Award Full Scholarships: We provide full travel scholarships to several high schools inlow-income communities every year. See the next page fordetails on our Learning AFAR program. We also provide fulltravel scholarships to individual students accepted into ourAYLP with Cambodia program. See page 37 for details.

Offer Financial Support: We know that cost is often the biggest barrier to travel. Visitwww.globalexplorers.org/moneymatters to checkout our fundraising resources. Learn how to devise asuccessful fundraising strategy, write grant requests, accesscurrent scholarship opportunities and more!

A NO BARRIERS

R AV E LA P P ROA C H T TO

We truly believe that a Global Explorers travelexperience can change lives. Yet, many young peopleface obstacles that prevent them from evenconsidering travel. We are committed to makingtravel accessible to students of all backgrounds andabilities. By collaborating with diverse partners, westrive to remove obstacles and empower students whodream of travel to embark on their journeys.

Learning AFAR


In addition to the standardGlobal Explorers programcomponents, the AFARMedia team introducesstudents to travel writing as ameans to not only tell theirtravel story but also to learnself-advocacy in the telling oftheir own “life” story. Ourend goal is to help studentsunderstand they are part of alarger, interconnected worldand that their actions have animpact on the world aroundthem.

To learn more about how youcan become a part ofLearning AFAR, please visitwww.globalexplorers.org/learning_afar.

Born from the idea that travel is the best form of education, Learning AFARgrants travel scholarships to high-achieving students who would nototherwise be able to explore our world. Learning AFAR is the flagshipprogram of the AFAR Foundation, the philanthropic affiliate of AFAR Media.

How to Apply:Annually cities are selected throughout the U.S. Each fall, educators apply on behalf of theirschool to receive scholarships for 10 students and one educator. Students apply once theirschool has been selected to participate in the program.

Eligibility:is program is designed for educators and students at the high school level.

Educators & SchoolsWe seek educators with a passion for travel, a commitment to teaching students aboutresponsible global citizenship and a proven track record for success as an educator in and outof the classroom. Successful candidates currently work within a school serving a large low-income population.

StudentsStudent selection is based on the following selection criteria: financial need, merit, leadershippotential and lack of previous international travel experience.

Scholarship Details: Successful applicants receive scholarships for full program fees and airfare. Travelers areresponsible for their own passport fees, immunizations, gear and spending money.

Sample Program Timeline:Educator and student applications: September - NovemberMonthly preparatory sessions: January - May Travel orientation and media skills retreat: March/AprilWe Give Books service project: March/April10-day expedition: SummerGlobal citizenship project & Learning AFAR magazine development: September - November

Global Explorers

Global Explorers

Leading the Way


Developed in partnership with world-renowned blind mountaineer andGlobal Explorers Board member Erik Weihenmayer, our Leading the Wayprogram unites students of mixed abilities on incredible adventures around theworld. Participants gain unparalleled skills as leaders who focus on building ashared vision, encouraging independence and teamwork, learning frommistakes, questioning assumptions, promoting trust and embracing adversity.

All participants learn the adaptive skills necessary to fulfill their roles asmembers of a diverse team striving to accomplish a common goal.

Every summer we offer at least one expedition for blind, visually impaired andsighted students. We also offer programming for students who are deaf, hardof hearing and normal hearing.

To learn more about how you can be a part of Leading the Way, please visit:www.globalexplorers.org/leadingtheway.

Individual enrollment opportunitiesfor students of diverse abilities

How to Apply:Our annual application deadline is in November.Students apply online or they may contact us for aprint application.

Eligibility:is program is designed for students ages 15-21.Ideal candidates demonstrate leadership experienceand leadership potential in their application.

Destinations:Destinations vary each year. Visit our website forcurrent listings.

Sample Program Timeline:Application deadline: NovemberMonthly preparatory sessions: February - JuneNo Barriers Leadership training retreat: Spring1-3 week expedition: SummerGlobal citizenship project: September - November

e 10 days I spent in Peru were some of the bestdays of my life. I saw, heard, and accomplishedthings I never knew I was capable of. My life haschanged for the better as a result of this trip. Ihave come back a better hiker, traveler, tourist andoverall human being.

– Alex, Student

Global Explorers

AYLP with Cambodia


Eligibility:All eligibility criteria are compulsory; we cannot make exceptions.

Students1. Citizen of the United States of America 2. Between the ages of 15 and 17 on the first day of the expedition 3. Currently enrolled in high school and have at least one semester of

high school remaining after the expedition

Educators1. Currently hold a position working directly with students 2. Have plans to remain in a similar position after travel

How to Apply: Applications for students and educators are typically available onlinebetween October and December of the year prior to travel. Please visitthe Cambodia page listed above for up-to-date information.

:: The American Youth Leadership Program with Cambodia

A Program of the United States Department of State,Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs’ YouthPrograms Division, Managed by Global Explorers

e American Youth Leadership Program (AYLP) with Cambodia is afully-funded cross-cultural exchange program for individual high schoolstudents and educators across the United States. Each year, GlobalExplorers selects students and educators with exceptional leadershipexperience and potential to receive full scholarships for this 3 - 4 weekexpedition in Cambodia.

is program is part of the U.S. Department of State’s efforts to offerAmerican citizens different opportunities to learn about global issuesthrough cross-cultural exchange. In addition to standard Global Explorersprogram themes, AYLP with Cambodia specifically explores Environmentand Climate Change and Conservation and Sustainable Development.

To learn more about how to be a part of the next AYLP with Cambodia,please visit: www.globalexplorers.org/cambodia.

Sample Program Timeline: Application deadline: November or DecemberMonthly preparatory sessions: January - May3 - 4 week expedition: June (including 3-daypreparatory retreat immediately prior to travel)Global citizenship project: July - December

Scholarship Details: All major costs associated with domestic andinternational airfare, as well as ground costs inCambodia such as room and board, are funded by theU.S. Department of State. Travelers are responsible fortheir own passport fees, immunizations, gear andspending money.

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I noticed a young girl in a bright orange sweatshirt.She was examining tattered children’s books one byone, and after gently leafing through the pages, shecarefully returned each to the little shelf in the backof the classroom. I took books for granted growingup, having plenty. ese books were torn, dirty andvery well-loved, filled with scribbles. I walked overand sat down next to the girl. We started thumbingthrough each book together; she liked the animalsthe best. I started reading off the English names,“cow, chicken, horse, pig.”

She went back to the first page. I started making thenoises this time, “moo, cluck, neigh, oink.” Shelaughed and flashed me a smile. I started to feelbetter. We picked out another book, and I startedpointing to objects, telling her their color, “green,blue, orange.” She had no idea what I was saying. Iwent back to page one, and pointed to every greenand brown object on each page. She grabbed anotherbook, I repeatedly pointed and said emphatically,“green” and “brown.” I wanted this girl tounderstand me. I wanted to relate to her, tocommunicate, and I didn’t know how. Suddenly, shegot it. She grabbed my hand, tugged me out the

doorway, and started showing my everygreen and brown object in her schoolyard. We were both giddy withexcitement.

is little girl made a huge impact onmy life. She taught me humility andcompassion. I don’t know her name, norif I’ll ever see her again. It’s possible shedoesn’t remember what green or brownis. But I can guarantee that for those 30minutes, I made her smile and laugh,and I smiled and laughed with her. InCambodia I found happiness; I learnedto focus on others. For the first time inmy life, it wasn’t about me or myschedule. It was about just being andembracing the situation, something Irarely do in my hectic life. Traveling intothat little girl’s world allowed me toforget myself.

Madison AYLP with Cambodia

Global Explorers

Reflection

We know that you have many choices available as youconsider the best travel options for your students. Part ofour commitment as a nonprofit organization is to help yousort through all the details. To find a program that is rightfor you, we encourage you to consider the following.

HOWCHOOSE

- t o -

Quest ions to ask other organizat ions

•What are my goals for this experience?

•What types of activities do I want my group toparticipate in?

•What size group would I like to travel with?

•What do I want my students to walk away with?

• Am I looking for a “tour” or an in-depth travelexperience?


Global Explorers

How to Choose

•What is the goal of your travel program?

• How do you help participants prepare for travel andprocess their experience upon return?

•What costs should we be expected to pay while travelingthat are not covered by your program fee?

• How much extra money do we need while we travel?

•Will my group be combined with others?

•What does a typical day on your program look like?

Quest ions toask yourse l f

420 S. Howes, Suite B300Fort Collins, CO 80521office 1.877.627.1425fax 1.970.672.1073

[email protected]


When I think about the major problems facing theworld, what gives me the most hope for tomorrow isthe youth of today. Young people today are inspired tocare about the world around them thanks to the workof organizations like Global Explorers.

Dr. Jane Goodall

global explorers catalog

Documents

global explorers travels

everyday life

costa ricais trip

costa ricaa trip

cambodiainternational

travel bug

costa ricathe maya yucatan

perusustainable tropics