Tentative Program Dates: May 17 - June 3, 2026

This study abroad course is complementary to materials learned in Biology 295 “Tropical Ecology and Conservation” (a prerequisite for this course). The course includes international travel where students will experience nature, culture, myths, and legends in one of the most culturally and ecologically diverse countries in the world. We will visit montane glaciers, the Amazon rainforest, river raft in Andean cloud forests, and swim with sea lions, sea turtles, and sharks in Galapagos Islands. We will walk the trails of the Incans, Conquistadors, Amazonian tribal groups, and tyrannical pirates, as we explore these amazing landscapes and have our own adventures.

This course requires that we spend a lot of time outside in challenging weather and conditions. Expect cold, winter-like weather in the high Andes, hot and humid days and nights in the Amazon, and tropical, dry heat in the Galapagos. Come prepared for all climates the world has to offer as we explore Ecuador. Be prepared to hike several miles each day.

What is Included:

Accommodations, all meals, tips, international health insurance, and group activities.

What is NOT Included:

Airfare, tuition (2 credits), travel insurance, and personal expenses. 

Students are responsible for purchasing their international airfare to and from the program destination(s). Students should not purchase their flight until receiving specific instructions from the faculty leaders after December 1.

 **Passport Requirement** 

Deadline: December 1, 2025

Student with a Valid Passport: 

Students who have a current passport will need to upload an image of their passport by December 1, 2025 to their enrollment forms.

Student without a Valid Passport

Apply for or renew your passport immediately. After November 1, students must pay to expedite the application process. Do not delay beginning this process.

Application & Renewal Website: 

The routine processing time is currently up to 6 weeks and expedited services is up to 3 weeks. These processing times are subject to change and can lengthen significantly. We highly recommend applying for or renewing your passport as soon as possible. Most countries require at least 6 months remaining time on your passport expiration from your intended date of departure. Example: If your passport expires December 1, 2026, you would need to renew your passport to travel in the summer 2026. 

**Preparing for Travel** 

Travel and Entry Requirements: U.S. State Department Website: 

Each country has established entry requirements and travel restrictions set for foreign visitors and their citizens. Any country can change their regulations at any time. We encourage all students and their families to review details about the country or countries you plan to travel to and to continue monitoring the information leading up to your departure. 

U.S. State Department Website: Ecuador