Join us for our experiential learning!
Experiential Learning
Our experiential learning programs are designed to accommodate students, researchers, interns, and volunteers in study abroad, gap year or distance learning activities that contribute to local community development and conservation. We also welcome families and individuals with an interest in getting involved in conservation efforts.
Programs are developed in conjunction with our parent organization, Ya’axché Conservation Trust, which manages 770,000 acres across its focal area called the Maya Golden Landscape. By supporting us, you are helping to achieve Ya’axché’s vision for harmony between nature and human development for the benefit of both.
Participants in our programs work with Ya’axché enforcement rangers, science rangers, extension officers, program managers, and program directors. Programs can be tailored according to your length of stay in the country. Southern Belize is the perfect location to gain hands on experiences that will allow you to expand your knowledge, skills and values in conservation and sustainable community stewardship. Together we can plan a quality learning experience through a variety of activities from presentations to eco-friendly tours to service projects with stakeholders directly involved with the work Ya’axché does.
Our friendly and highly qualified staff can provide experiences that will create lifelong memories for you or your group. Specialties include tropical forestry, protected areas management, research and monitoring, geographic information systems, freshwater monitoring, bird and mammal monitoring, snail collection and identification, botany, community outreach and education, integrated farming, establishing cacao-based and Inga alley cropping farm plots and eco-tourism. Your group can enjoy our rustic, off grid, eco-friendly bunkhouse or camping grounds and Wi-Fi facilities at our Field Center during your stay with us.

Community-based Service Learning
Participants are able to contribute to Ya’axché’s unique approach to forest conservation of involving communities through outreach and livelihoods. Invaluable knowledge about real-world applications of theoretical models can be received.
Common goals that can be achieved:
- Enhance participatory learning
- A broader appreciation of the discipline and enhanced sense of citizenship

Capstone Project
Students can choose from one of Ya’axché’s many conservation priorities that aligns with their topic of interest for their capstone projects. This opportunity will allow students to develop their critical thinking, problem solving, research, teamwork, goal setting, planning and time management skills.
Goals that can be achieved after completing a capstone project:
- Increase experience in international development
- Increase educational and career aspirations
- Demonstrate learning and proficiency
Let us discuss how we can help you accomplish your capstone project in southern Belize.

Academic Research
Previous research findings have been incorporated in the management and conservation action plans for protected areas and threatened species. Let our conservation sites inspire your academic research. Let your next ground-breaking and innovative findings impact conservation and livelihoods work in the Maya Golden Landscape.
Goals that can be achieved:
- Make significant contribution to conservation in southern Belize, while achieving your goal of a specific academic research
- Research can have both theoretical and practical implications
- Research will contribute to the fulfilment of your degree