Explore the magnificent Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, the largest protected area of pristine tropical rainforest in Peru as an active member of a research team investigating biodiversity.

Spanning over 2,000 km², the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve is a truly exceptional wilderness area based at the head of the River Amazon with a unique flooded forest ecosystem that is home to some of the greatest diversity of animals and plants found anywhere on Earth. Some of the fantastic wildlife you are likely to discover includes birds such as parrots, hummingbirds, kingfishers, macaws and hawks; mammals such as jaguars, spider monkeys and river dolphins; fish such as piranhas, pintados and electric eels and over 1,800 species of butterfly!

The area you will be exploring is only accessible to recognised scientific research programmes and this is currently the only UK youth expedition lucky enough to be allowed access. This gives you the unique opportunity to work alongside a team of dedicated researchers and conservationists from the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and the Peruvian University of Amazonian Studies to contribute to the preservation of one of the last true remaining wilderness areas on Earth.

On arrival at the remote jungle outpost of Iquitos you will travel deep into the Amazon rainforest by boat entering into the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve where you will establish two base camps (land and boat based) and train in jungle survival and fieldwork techniques.

Research
You will be collaborating with experienced fieldworkers on biodiversity projects that will determine the abundance and behaviour of rare, threatened, and endangered species within the reserve. This data will be used in developing and modifying the reserve’s management practices.

Water-based research projects include surveying pink and grey river dolphins in the Samiria Rivercollecting turtle eggs and relocating them to secure hatching areas away from poachers, and catching and measuring caimen. Back on dry land you will conduct census work on many types of primates such as the red howler monkey and the rare spider monkey, survey the tropical birdlife and search for new species of insect as you explore the thick forest trails. This is a fantastic opportunity to get really stuck in and contribute to worthwhile projects. The 2006 Amazon expedition rescued 30,000 turtle eggs that would otherwise have been threatened by poachers.

Adventure
The expedition will attempt to visit previously unexplored territory that has never been surveyed or visited by any research groups before. This adventure phase will involve cutting transects through dense primary rainforest and wild camping in the jungle sleeping out under stars surrounded by the wild animals of the forest. You will also explore the river in small native canoes.

Jungle survival and boat handling training will be provided, in addition to lectures by leading conservationists and researchers on the jungle ecosystem and the problems faced by this wilderness area.

BSES Expeditions is a youth development charity and strives to keep expedition costs as low as possible. Please note that advance planning to remote and often difficult to access wilderness areas is subject to many variables and the costs may vary but will be confirmed six months before departure. You are required to organise and run your own fundraising activities, lots of advice and encouragement will be given. We can offer mentoring support, for those who feel completely daunted by the prospect of fundraising, to ensure you reach your targets. Click here for more information

How to Apply

Complete your application form and send to the BSES Office today! Places are limited and issued on a first come first served basis after interview.

Good luck!

Cost
Your contribution will be in the region of £2,400 including a deposit of £500
Flights are expected to be around £1,000 including all taxes

Key dates

Application Deadline Friday 4^th April, 2008

Compulsory Briefing Weekend Friday 18^th - Sunday 20^th April, 2008

Expedition Dates 22nd July to 25th August, 2008

BSES Annual Presentation of Expedition Reports Saturday 31^st January, 2009

Once you are onboard you will have access to a password protected area of the website which contains all the information you need for the expedition, from a full kit list and equipment advice to health information, suggested fitness programmes and logistical information.

All details are subject to change and correct at time of writing.

For our cancellation policy, please contact the BSES Office.

CASE STUDY

"I had an amazing time in the Amazon. I saw some incredible wildlife, and learnt a lot about plants, the rainforest, other people and myself. I think the trip has made me grow up and confirmed my desire to 'reserve animals in their natural state' as a career. I have had a wonderful time and will definitely go back one day." Alice Hughes

 

Read all about Alexander Curan's experiences here

Read all about Jo Beker's experiences here