Our experiential learning programs are designed to accommodate students, researchers, interns and volunteers in study abroad programs, gap year or distance learning activities that contribute to local and community conservation. We also welcome families and individuals with an interest in learning about conservation and sustainability.

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 program directors and wider staff inclusive of the protected areas rangers, science rangers, extension service officers, and program managers. Experiential learning 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, sustainable development and community stewardship. Together we can plan a quality learning experience through a variety of activities from classroom sessions to eco-friendly tours to service projects with stakeholders and Ya’axché.

curated learning experiences

Our friendly and highly qualified Ya’axche staff provide experiences that will create lifelong memories. Expertise includes protected areas management, research and monitoring, climate-smart agriculture practices and community engagement. We offer services in:

Tropical forest management
Freshwater monitoring inclusive of macroinvertebrates
Bird and mammal monitoring
Botany
Geographic information systems
Integrated farming systems (cacao-based agroforestry, inga alley cropping and beekeeping)
Community outreach and education
Eco-tourism

Community-Based Service Learning

Participants can contribute to Ya’axché’s unique landscape approach to forest conservation by involving indigenous and local communities through outreach, education and livelihood improvements. 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
Enhanced sense of citizenship and good stewardship

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.

Common goals that can be achieved:

Increase experience in international development
Increase educational and career aspirations
Demonstrate learning and proficiency

ACADEMIC RESEARCH

Previous research findings have been incorporated in the management and conservation action plans for protected areas and threatened species in the Maya Golden Landscape. Let our conservation sites inspire your academic research, resulting in groundbreaking and innovative findings that will impact conservation and livelihoods work in Belize.

Experiential Learning