Overview
Marine Conservation and Diving Expedition in Mexico and Central America

This marine conservation expedition is ideal for anyone with previous diving experience, who wants to dive in a variety of spectacular locations whilst they contribute to the protection of vital coral reefs. After mastering monitoring techniques and performing some research dives in Mexico, volunteers will travel and dive in the warm Caribbean waters of Guatemala, Honduras and Belize. In each country you will collect data and contribute to research on the Meso-American Barrier Reef – the world’s second largest barrier reef- that aims to protect it from the threats which are increasingly diminishing it. In each country you have the opportunity to go on a range of adventure side-trips; explore Mayan ruins, go into caves and even toast marshmallows on the lava of an active volcano!

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A truly unique opportunity to carry out marine research and dive within four great destinations

John Reeves

What Difference Does This Expedition Make?

All the countries you will visit and dive in on this expedition have coral reefs that form a vital part of their coastal ecosystem. The reefs provide food and an income source to many diverse peoples and indigenous groups, but due to increasing populations and a rapid growth of the tourism industry, these coastal areas and habitats are in danger of being degraded beyond a point they can recover from. The research dives you do and the data you obtain will be used to raise awareness of the plight of the reefs and influence use and policy decisions.

Highlights

Doing science and dive training in a magnificent white sand beach location; visiting amazing Mayan ruins in four countries; experiencing the different cultures of the region; being part of a team of like-minded people; diving on pristine reefs; and having the chance to see sharks, turtles, manatees and more across Mexico and Central America!

Skills And Qualifications Received

PADI Coral Reef Research Diver Distinctive Specialty, First Aid & CPR training, Coral reef ecology lectures, Theoretical and in-water fish, coral and invertebrate identification skills, Turtle ecology and monitoring protocol (seasonal), Use of O2 equipment workshop, Diving compressor training workshop with practical experience, Environmental Education, Interpersonal skills


See Requirements And Training page for more information

Location

Your training and the first part of your trip will take place 30kms north of Mahahual in a remote marine beachside base in Mexico. From there you will travel and dive in the Belizean Cays, off the Guatemalan coastal town of Livingstone, and finish in either Roatan or Cayos Cochinos in Honduras.

See Life on the expedition page for more information

Field Conditions

Accommodation will be shared and basic but comfortable, and always in a magnificent location. Running water and electricity (sometimes via small generator for only a few hours) will normally be available. Food will be nutritional and a high-carb diet, to cope with the strenuous nature of the days, and fresh fruit will always be available.

See Life on the expedition page for more information