Biosphere Expeditions

I had a great experience volunteering with Biosphere Expeditions on their whale and dolphin conservation program in the Azores. I thought it was a well run volunteer project (especially compared to some other organizations I've volunteered with in the past) and it was interesting to learn about the whale and dolphin research being done in the Azores. Plus, the Azores is a beautiful destination to visit!
I've written a more detailed review of my volunteer experience here:
https://www.spendlifetraveling.com/volunteering-with-whales-in-the-azores-biosphere-expeditions/

From Sand Dunes to Skyscrapers

What comes to mind when you think of Dubai? Shiny high rise hotels or extravagant shopping malls with giant aquariums? Perhaps the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa, or palm shaped man made islands reclaimed from the sea. But there is another side to the story of Dubai and I travelled to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR) with Biosphere Expeditions to discover more about it.
The DDCR is committed to re wilding a huge desert area of over 225 square kilometres which represents 5% of Dubai’s land mass. The reserve safeguards the stunning desert landscape with its dramatic dunes, gravel plains and rocky areas and has a provided a vital habitat for Dubai’s native species, many of which had become extinct in the wild. More than twenty years on from its creation by the ruler of Dubai - Sheik Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum - the reserve is now home to hundreds of Oryx, the majestic national animal of the UAE. In fact this is now the largest free roaming herd in the emirates...
In addition there are about 300 elegant Arabian gazelles and 100 Sand gazelles. Other species include Arabian red foxes, hares, the Ethiopian hedgehog and some nocturnal rodents like Cheesman’s Gerbil. There are dozens of birds here too, including the endangered lap-faced vulture and the Pharaoh Eagle Owl. Lizards, snakes and scorpions also call the DDCR home.
On arrival we are given a tour of the brand new visitor centre which is really well done and a great introduction the reserve. From there we make our way to the conservation office to meet our scientists Maria and Basil. We learn about the equipment we will be using in the field. GPS trackers, compasses, datasheets and the all important binoculars (best to bring your own.)
We are then introduced to our camp, a small tented settlement close to the boundary of the reserve. There are basic toilets and showers and a kitchen, but the emphasis here is on the animals and not the people. This is no luxury holiday, you are here to work!
The whole reserve is divided into over 60 quadrats, and we are briefed the night before about where we are going the next day. We head out in our four wheel drive vehicles, after deflating the tyres and taking a ‘driving on sand roads’ test, which was actually rather good fun.
When we reach our destination, we observe from every angle for 30 minutes and record the type and number of species we see. Some of the time we are bird counting or looking for signs of the Pharaoh Eagle Owl which has been spotted in this reserve.
Our assignments take us out across the landscape to experience this stunning desert environment. There’s no spectacle quite like a glorious desert sunrise or the early morning mist snaking through the sand dunes like a silk scarf, before it burns off for the day.
This trip is in January so it’s not too hot in the day, but you do need to be prepared to walk a few kilometres and scale a substantial sand dune or two to reach your observation point. It’s also cold at night in the desert, so be prepared.
My companions, on this trip were from the UK, Germany and Italy and a nicer bunch of people I have yet to meet. A highlight for me was spotting a beautiful Arabian fox trotting along a sandy track in the far South of the reserve.
Malika, our Biosphere expedition leader said “It’s really important that we support the efficient management of the reserve and the animals seem to be thriving. The citizen science element of the trip is crucial because there are two scientists working in an area of about 225 square kilometres and there is a lot of wildlife out there. Doing a yearly inventory is an impossible thing for them to do; they need more eyes and ears out in the field to count animals and record data. We set the activities and the field science that we want teams to help us with, in a way that it’s like collecting stamps. You don’t have to be a biologist to collect data.”
Chris, one of the participants on the trip added “when you’re travelling it’s very easy to see lots of sights but it’s very rare that you actually get to contribute to the places that you are visiting, and with Biosphere you actually get to be a part of a scientific expedition collecting real data that helps to protect the ecosystem that you’re spending time in. What looked like just desert when you’re flying into Dubai airport comes to life and you get a very different perspective on things. You get to roll up your sleeves and make a difference.”
I took my leave of the desert and its delightful wildlife, with reluctance. I am heading for the vibrant metropolis of rapidly expanding Dubai city, so close to this precious re wilded place.
In just one hour I am transported to another world where high rise buildings are growing like a forest with the unfettered energy of this extraordinary city. Dubai's expansion is a testament to human ingenuity and ambition. Skyscrapers pierce the sky, luxury hotels redefine opulence, and city lights create a dazzling spectacle. Dubai is a story still being written at an incredible pace. Let’s hope the desert and its wildlife remain as a key chapter in that story.

Hey marafiki,

my name is Tim and i want to share a little piece of the last Kenya Expedition with you.

It was a fantastic experience to be a part of this outstanding group and expedition, to learn from such excellent scientists and meet people full of love for nature. The highly professional team were first-class in preparing us for the work and the goals of the expedition. From the first to the last second, the journey was a real treat of research and humanity. I have never experienced anything comparable! So a special thanks to the Biosphere Expeditions team and the wonderful people on site. It was perfect.

Thanks a lot!!!

_thetruezoo_

Four years after going to Tien Shan for snow leopard conservation I did my second trip with Biosphere Expedition this year. The German wolf expedition is very different to Kyrgyzstan in many ways: For example you stay in a nice little hotel and not in small tents in a mountain valley on 3.000 meters elevation. You do (relatively) easy forest strolls vs. physically demanding mountain hikes. And the chance for snow in summer is much smaller in the beautiful Lüneburg Heath area!

What both expeditions have in common is the amazing people you will meet – expedition leaders, scientists, locals and the other participants. The strong feeling that you are *actually* contributing to science and conservation. All the many things you learn about nature, animals and conservation work. Fantastic food. And the very low chance to actually see the main target species. ;-)

While I absolutely loved the Kyrgyzstan expedition, it was very special for me to do something like that in my home country Germany. I can highly recommend both expeditions and Biosphere Expeditions as an organization in general. Thank you!!

I've had the pleasure of documenting two expeditions. The first was Kenya, and the second was in Kyrgyzstan. I've just returned from the Tian Shen Mountains.
Pre-trip, the dossier was incredibly in-depth, and I was so thankful for it. I was prepared for any type of weather (and we encountered all of it—often on the same day).
During the trip, we not only got to work with locals (such as one who worked for an anti poaching patrol unit), but I had the pleasure of getting to interview shepherds and their wives, eat their local foods, and share in a traditional blessing.
We didn't get to see any snow leopards (we didn't expect to), but I was the queen of spotting marmots.
I can't wait for my next one!

I have just returned to Australia from the wolf expedition in Germany. It was a wonderful experience, where I met amazing people and explored beautiful landscapes.
It's not a tourist trip - as they make clear in the briefing - but a proper scientific endeavour, where you're making a meaningful contribution to the conservation of wolves in Lower Saxony. In the first couple of days, you learn about the return of wolves to Germany and find out why the work you're participating in is so important - it's also really interesting having multiple myths about wolves disproven.
Each day consisted of a four to six hour hike through a different forest in the areas surrounding the base. Volunteers paired up and headed out to search for signs of wolves, using the equipment we had been thoroughly briefed on to stay safe and record data.
It's unlikely that you will see a wolf, as they are shy and still quite rare. But you walk the trails were they have walked (sometimes only hours beforehand) and can witness countless other wildlife species as you wander through the forest. I was able to see a family of wild boar during one of my hikes. The landscape is peaceful and varied, making the hikes lovely.
The expedition base was much more comfortable than I was expecting, it was a beautiful historic hotel, where I had a nicely sized room with an ensuite. The food was also great, a different, generously sized vegetarian meal every time - with plenty of coffee and biscuits sustaining us through scientific briefings.
The other volunteers were the best part of this experience, I met interesting, funny, and friendly people from all walks of life. The expedition scientist and expedition leader were also exceptional people, they went out of their way to accommodate me and made every activity enjoyable.
Thank you!

What a great experience in Kenya... This is the first thing I want to say. The whole project is fantastic and should be a symbol for other areas in Africa. A piece of Land - overfarmed and almost dead - turned into a green paradise for Farm animals and wild animals together. In Africa, where Population grows rapidly, space for wild animals gets smaller and smaller. So this project in Enonkishu Conservancy is a good example, how to create new or lost habitat for wild animals. It is a Win-Win-Project, because not only the wild animals have a new place to live in, also the Kenyans benefit. Involving the villages and especially the school children, the understanding and acceptance is growing. For me - as Part of the group counting the animals, it was an amazing experience. To see, how Elephants, Cheetahs, Zebras and Giraffes, come back into this piece of land and choose it to live in, is a big success for this region and for the wildlife of Africa. Malika, Alan and our Ranger Albert (and of course all the others involved in this project), did an excellent job. Being part of a fantastic team of motivated people from all over the world, who live and work for the same goals in life, made the time in Kenya perfect.

We had an amazing expedition to Enonkishu Conservancy in Kenya, February 2020. Would we see lions? Would we see elephants, rhino's? We were not sure beforehand. Well, ranger Albert took us on a game drive on our first afternoon in Enonkishu and he found all of them. But the expedition got even better. Because you will learn to find these animals yourself. Whether on a car transect in the back of a 4x4, on a foot patrol or watching the animals drink from a hideout at the water hole, we loved every minute of our Biosphere expedition. And on the last morning, we simply took ourselves on a game drive to watch the cheetahs and look out for the leopards. This is not a safari, this is an adventure.

I took part in the Reef Check Biosphere Expedition in the Maldives and hands down it was one of the most rewarding and enjoyable experience of my 20 year diving career.
If you want to make one week of your life really count - then get involved in a Biosphere Expeditions and take part in some leading citizen science in far flung places.
Not only will you be doing something positive with your skills, but you'll learn, laugh, have deep conversations and above all work hard, but with a great sense of reward.
The team leaders and scientists were engaging and interesting, the expedition was well run and we had delicious veggie food. I would highly encourage anyone with an interest in science, conservation and travel, to join a Biosphere Expedition - it's time and money well spent!

I was on the Maldives expedition this September, an incredible adventure of exploration and learning and would highly recommend Biosphere Expeditions on how it was managed. Two long dives a day in tropical waters, observing such rich biodiversity around the coral reefs and with a scientific purpose, it was a dream come true. It was work too though, as a team we studied hard over lectures and exams to qualify to a standard when conducting our reef check. While we were trained by the expedition leader and scientist to be knowledgeable about types of coral, fish, invertebrates, be able to spot coral damage, and handle science apparatuses, we also had to learn how to communicate all this to each other underwater – every day was great fun! The itinerary was excellent, as was the liveaboard boat and staff, and meals. It was wonderful to be part of this expedition, and also to compare how the state of the coral reefs of the Maldives atolls are from past expeditions.

I joined Tien Shan expedition in Kyrgyzstan. What an incredible two weeks! My time in Tien Shan base camp researching the snow leopard is something I will never forget in my life. I gained some unique experiences, from gathering the camera traps in the amazing Kyrgyz mountain landscape to joining a game of Ulak tartysh. And who would have thought that my time in the Kyrgyz mountains would turn me into a bird spotter, looking for buzzards, golden eagles, lammergeiers and lots of LBB’s (little brown birds). Looking back I'm proud of the legacy I have left behind on this expedition. The moment I received a photo of a snow leopard in my e-mail inbox, made by one of the camera traps, is unforgettable. The trip was exhausting at moments, hiking in rain, snowstorms, at altitude, but so rewarding. The team made sure we had a great time. I am thankful for the opportunity to join Biosphere Expeditions and I hope to join you again on another expedition some day!

I was on the 2019 Kenya Biosphere Expeditions trip. It was a life-changing experience and one I would recommend to anyone. Fantastically well-organised, great accommodation and food, educational, exciting and incredibly worthwhile.
We spent our days monitoring the wildlife using scientific methods to record the species, numbers and locations.

This was definitely not a 'safari holiday' but so much more - we had experiences that you simply cannot get on a package safari holiday and being able to contribute something positive to help this crucial ecosystem was very satisfying.

Highly recommended - don't waste your holiday time lying by a pool - get out there and do something amazing with Biosphere Expeditions!

My blog post of the trip (with lots of photos) is here: http://www.christaylorphoto.co.uk/a-world-away-kenya-biosp…/

Went on Arabia 2019 expedition. Great combination of learning how science works, getting out there contributing to it, meeting diverse likeminded people and good fun. All well organized and arranged be the office team upto the expedition and by professional scientist and Biosphere expedition leader on-site.

I joined Biosphere Expeditions in Sumatra, Indonesia, in 2015 when I was 17.
I always knew I wanted to work in conservation but was struggling to find a
place to get experience under the age of 18 other than zoos. Whilst that is
great experience I had done it before and knew it wasn't exactly where I
wanted to be - I wanted to see the work being done on the 'frontlines' of
conservation! Biosphere Expeditions were the only place I could find that
had no age limit on volunteers, and I liked their serious, scientific
approach to the projects, as I was keen to take my first steps into the
field.

As I write this, I am 20 and on an internship with a conservation NGO in
Thailand during a sandwich year on my university course - BSc Wildlife
Conservation. Without Biosphere Expeditions offering me that first step into
independent travel and grassroots conservation, I would still have studied
Wildlife Conservation at university, but I doubt I would have had the
confidence to travel alone as extensively as I have, and I would certainly
not have had enough conservation experience on my CV to gain an internship
that usually goes to Masters or PhD students!

Sumatra is a beautiful place, and the Indonesian people so welcoming and
friendly - the experiences I had there at 17 have largely shaped my world
outlook as an adult. I made friends there that I am still in contact with to
this day, and memories that I will never forget: swimming in the river with
a monitor lizard (entirely by accident, on both our parts!), delicious food,
friendly locals and pushing myself to achieve things I never thought I was
capable of.

I owe a huge part of my current success and drive to Biosphere Expeditions
and I hope one day to return to the people who gave me my first taste of
real, in-the-field conservation. I would definitely recommend them to anyone
who is looking to see what conservation work is really like, who wants to
contribute to saving our beautiful planet, or to anyone who doesn't believe
in themselves - once you have completed this, there is nothing you can't do.
Thank you Biosphere!

I have been on the first Expedition in Malawi.
There have been so many imaginations and questions about this in advanced.
As i arrived and worked there, all of them are just better then i thought before.

The Expedition was very well organized. And i enjoyed every day out in the field.
My highlights has been the walking transects, where i could be as close as possible with this incredible nature and wildlife that i still got Goose bumps.

i am so thankful for making this adventure and especially for helping our beautiful world, even it is just a tiny bit right now.
Thank you for open up my horizon and to learn so much more about life in this world

It was 2006 when I signed up for my Biosphere Expeditions trip – to the Peruvian Amazon. A six-hour-boatride away from the closest little town, separated from the noisy inhabitants of the jungle only by a mosquito-net, I felt – amazingly – just as at home as in a crowded big city. Or rather: even more. I was fascinated by the rainforest and I felt as if all my senses suddenly came to life. I felt ALIVE. Mosquitoes, poisonous snakes and spiders, scorpions, jaguars hiding in the dark heat – yes, please! Can I get some more?

My first jungle-encounter was followed by more trips to rainforests all around the world – to Peru again, then Ecuador, Madagascar, Costa Rica, Borneo, Australia, Bolivia. Sometimes I did volunteer work, other times I took photos of the amazing inhabitants of the forests. Exploring remote, primary rainforests became a sort of passion, and it led me to deeper questions too. How does time spent in nature, in wilderness, affect us psychologically? How can these experiences be transferred to our everyday lives? I turned to books on eco-psychology, attended workshops in deep ecology and wrote my master degree thesis with this question in mind (the title was: Facilitating Wilderness Solo Experiences for Greater Self-Awareness, Self-Actualization, Creativity and a Sense of Life-Direction)

My deepening interest led me to a one-year course in Experiential Education and Outdoor Training with a specialisation in Adventure- and Wilderness Therapy, and last year, with my trainer collegues we organised a two-week summer camp for kids in state care. It was one of the most challenging – and most rewarding – experiences of my life. It was amazing to see the changes in these boys during the time we spent in the forest – how they became more self-confident as they faced the challenges provided by nature, and how they became more open as we sat around the evening fire and told stories under the stars-filled sky. I hope I can take many more people – young and adult – to wild places and let them experience their life-changing effects. Just as my first Biosphere Expeditions journey changed my life too.

Back home after my Biosphere Expedition in South Africa.
Very impressed with the scientists, expedition leader, cooks and Blue Hill Nature Reserve owners. A wonderful experience!

The huge knowledge base - whether that be via scientists or the extensive library
that was freely available to us - was amazing.

Such a variety of activities - leopard monitoring, small mammal trapping/release (finding
new species to the area!), bird surveys, establishing botanical plots for scientific research and recording/identifying bats.

I'm not only looking forward to reading the Expedition report and seeing articles or other outcomes from this well organised field work - but hoping to volunteer again soon.

I encourage you to look at the photos/reports on the Biosphere Expeditions website.
Sandi

Before Biosphere Expeditions, little attention was paid by my government to the reefs of Musandam. This has all changed and there are now protected areas, based on scientific advice, and a local NGO, coming out of capacity-building efforts. Thank you so much for all this.

Hi

I am Almaz

I should say Biosphere Expeditions has done a great job in order to bring public attention on Snow Leopards of Kyrgyzstan. Which we have only few left.

Since Biosphere Expeditions started their project in 2015 situations with Snow Leopards has significantly changed. We have a lot attention.

We have a lot attention from the government and local communities to the problem of disappearing Snow Leopards. It is really brought Snow Leopards to the center of Kyrgyz society. This is really helping to save thouse animals which we are lucky to have.

Thanks to Biosphere Expeditions helping save Snow Leopard. Big privilege be part of this very important work for my country

The moment I read about BE's Wolf expedition I knew it was exactly what I was looking for. A chance to pick up skills and contribute to wolf conservation (without getting a PhD first). My week turned out exactly as Biosphere Expedition promised it would. Their staff are professional, helpful, genuine and serious about conservation first. That I liked!

The expedition definitely broadened my views on conservation work. I hope to apply all that I learnt in Germany to wolf conservation in the Indian landscape. If you are passionate about wildlife and wants to do something about it, what ever your age, I think you don't have an excuse anymore. :)

I participated this year in the Maldive expedition (after doing the Malaysian last year)
Great experience! Catherine and the crew made this week really exceptional. Sharks, turtles, rays, octopi and all the other animals were not shy to show off their beauty. The team was so nice, and we worked smoothly like a machine. After one week I am an expert in laying the tape to gather data for reef check!
I appreciate that the data collected during this week is briefly analyzed at the end of the expedition and compared with past years data, to get a general idea regarding the development of the reefs. It is very rewarding to see so clearly your contribution.

It was 2:30 in the morning. I was walking 5kms in soft sand, guided only by the moonlight. I was carrying a bag weighing about 6kgs, sharing the load with two wonderful colleagues. I was exhausted, drenched in sweat, covered in sand ........ and had an enormous smile on my face. The reason for the smile lay in the bag we were carrying - 75 precious leatherback turtle eggs. We had rescued the eggs from a nest, ensuring they weren't taken by poachers, and were carrying them to the safety of the hatchery at our camp. This was the highlight of my latest expedition with Biosphere Expeditions in which they partner with LAST (Latin American Sea Turtles) to protect nesting leatherbacks, hawksbills and greens - all on the IUCN Redlist - at Playa Pacuare on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica.
This was my seventh trip with BE and, yet again, it provided many special memories, all wrapped up within Biosphere's highly professional approach to citizen science projects. The Biosphere leaders were exceptional and kept the team informed at all times; as a result the international team of volunteers bonded superbly and everybody contributed fully to the expedition. I can't recommend Biosphere Expeditions highly enough, if you are interested in making a meaningful contribution to wildlife conservation, no matter which expedition you choose to join.

I joined Biosphere's Dubai desert expedition in January 2017. I particularly liked the type of people this expedition attracted. All very
interesting, from different backgrounds, with a range of expertise. I also really enjoyed the landscape, people and driving through the dunes in 4x4s, as well as the level of autonomy Biosphere gives you. Would recommend this to anyone and already considering doing one of their other expeditions, possibly Amazonia.

I have worked with Biosphere Expeditions as an expedition leader for three years now and am often asked why I choose to work with them and what makes them different. Primarily, I feel the work they do is very important – these are not tours, they are expeditions that take you to the heart of an environmental issue, whether that be underwater investigating coral reef health, patrolling turtle beaches to intercept poachers, or setting camera traps in jungles to get a better idea of tiger populations. I completely endorse their integral involvement of the scientist: this brings the expedition to life, adds an educational sphere that many expeditions lack, and gives the work, which is often physically very demanding, a real purpose. I enjoy the diversity of the team members Biosphere attracts, and the fact that people come back year after year to participate in different expeditions is testament to the quality of the experience they provide, it’s also great to meet up with those returnees in different corners of the globe - makes it feel like a real team effort! I’ve dedicated the best part of my life to conservation, and feel privileged to be part of an organisation with such a great ethos.

I am just back from my first trip with Biosphere Expeditions as an Expedition Leader in training on the Costa Rica Leatherback Sea Turtle expedition. I was impressed with the quality of the science carried out, this is not some data gathering exercise, but real science that is guiding real conservation efforts. The caliber of the partner organisation and scientist was extremely professional and the quality of the volunteers on this expedition was exceptional. It was a great experience to carry out important conservation work with a group of like minded, hard working, and excited volunteers. Biosphere Expeditions does an excellent job in marrying important conservation projects with enthusiastic citizen scientists.

I am a freelance travel writer specialized in volunteer vacations. I have spent countless hours researching opportunities for volunteering that are responsible and effective for my guidebook Volunteer Vacations in Latin America (http://www.amazon.com/Volunteer-Vacations-Latin-America-Handbooks/dp/1612386415), and for other articles I have written. I have heard nothing but good things about Biosphere Expeditions. You can read many of my articles about responsible volunteering at my website, www.amyiswriting.com/clips.

Having been on another trip as a travel writer with Biosphere I've come back even more convinced that not only do they absolutely deliver on what they say they will in terms of the science, but they also provide experiences for volunteers which have an authenticity you won't find anywhere else.

Their organisation inspires great loyalty despite the fact they can ask quite a lot of their volunteers. Their briefings are comprehensive and well prepared but they are also very helpful for those with questions before you all set out so you feel you are in very safe hands, even though you are heading for the middle of nowhere!

A lot of what they ask is very hard work when you are there, but absolutely everyone I've been away with has found it a good deal more rewarding, and relaxing, than a typical holiday. I think this is why people return so often - it's the best possible feedback that those who find out about these expedititions like to return, and do more because they feel they can actually help in some small way to make a difference.

I have been involved in three Biosphere expeditions and as a professional ecologist, I have found the organisation to be highly committed, ethical and a genuine contributor to conservation. The projects are hands-on and meaningful and offer a unique opportunity to experience the natural environment in a much more intimate and connected way than you can achieve through traveling as a tourist. This is a great way to meet passionate and dedicated people, contribute to conservation at a global scale and contribute to the local area when you are traveling. I highly recommend Biosphere as a volunteer organisation and as a conservation partner.

I first volunteered on a Biosphere Expeditions study in 2007. I had previously been on traditional photographic safaris in Kenya, Tanzania and South Africa but wanted to be more involved and not just live in a bubble having images of Africa served up on a plate.

So I volunteered for a study of cheetah numbers and distributions on Namibian farmland. It was a life-changing experience. We never once saw a cheetah or leopard in the whole two weeks but we learned from the trackers, San bushmen, how to tell apart the tracks of cheetah, leopard and hyena, find their scat and collect some for DNA anaysis. We would follow tracks in the soft sand of dried up river beds and could easily imagine the animal walking beside us, stopping to sniff at marking trees and leave their own scent. Tasks were assigned by an expedition leader and volunteers rotated around to have the chance at each activity, taking measurements and recording data for later analysis by the scientist. I found it remarkable how, with just two days of training, we were able to make a serious contribution to the science.

I was hooked and returned a further 7 times to Namibia until my declining health made it impossible. On each return my skills walking in the African bush depened and it felt like a second home. The study has changed over the years covering more species such as elephants so has always offered new experiences

I found BE by searching the internet but there are many websites offering volunteer programmes of varying lengths and costs so you have to go behind the glamorous descriptions and seek out the truth. The deciding factor for me was a BBC radio account of a journalist visiting the Namibian project which warned that this was not a big cat petting site but a genuine scientific study to which enthusiastic lay persons like me could actually contribute.

Wow, what amazing reviews on here! But I whole-heartedly agree. I have been on several wildlife volunteering expeditions (with Biosphere and others, such as Earthwatch) and Biosphere has been by far the best. As people before me have observed on here, their focus is on conservation (not money), on integrating you into the work, making you feel part of something bigger, and challenging yourself in the best way possible. You are also looked after very well, treated as an adult and given plenty of responsibility and surrounded by very knowledgeable and helpful staff and interesting people. I have made many friendships on expedition and learnt a lot of new things and skills. Each time I felt I have developed as a person too.

Also, once the expedition is over, you are not just forgotten about. Instead you receive expedition reports and news (which you can opt out of at any time), invitations to events, etc., which is great. For me the expedition reports in particular showed me that Biosphere Expeditions is a highly ethical organisation that delivers on its promises. It showed me that they are serious about their conservation work, and my contribution to it in terms of the work I put in, and being transparent about where the money goes (the report covers both in great detail). No other organisation I have volunteered for even comes close to this level of transparency and serious science.

Volunteering has come in for some criticism in the media lately for being exploitative and for bogus science and projects. In my opinion Biosphere is a shining example of how it should be done.

Anyway, before I ramble on too much, let me finish by saying - along with many others here - that if you are thinking about wildlife volunteering, then stop thinking and start doing!

i participated in the Amazonia expedition in Peru. This was without doubt one of the most exhilarating and enriching experiences i could ever have hoped for.
Great organisation by the Biosphere Expeditions team and on-the-ground scientists made you feel safe while still pushing the boundaries of your comfort zone to allow for some incredible wildlife experiences. Don't think about doing this; just do it!

I came across Biosphere whilst looking for expeditions that I could volunteer for. I was so impressed by their work across the globe and the variety of projects that they run I volunteered my company to help them to spread the word. I help out with some Social Media work for Biosphere and I look forward in joining in on some of the dive expeditions as I'm an experienced diver.

Andy Gahan
www.ThePixelBullies.com

I have done several expeditions with Biosphere Expeditions now...it must be good, since I keep coming back!!

I am a keen scuba diver and I have been twice on both the Oman and Maldives trips, where the volunteers train in and then use the Reef Check methodology to gather data on marine health. When I first signed up, I knew very little about the organisation, but I really wanted to go diving with a purpose, and this was a great opportunity to do something meaningful in a relatively short space of time.

The expedition far exceeded my expectations - really professional organisation, a lovely group of people with a common aim (safety, science and satisfaction - as we were reminded several times - in that order!), some beautiful scenery and diving, good accommodation, and a trip that was both purposeful and relaxing. As with any dive trip, it's pretty active, and you should be prepared for a bit of study to learn the marine life you need to recognise/count, but everyone in all my groups passed the tests and were able to collect data, and it's all set out very clearly in the trip notes.

On one of my Maldives trips we were lucky enough to find two whale sharks (which we were trying to spot in order to take identification photos and other data), and swimming with them was fantastic - they really are amazing animals. On my second Maldives trip we didn't see any - but it is testament to how much fun the rest of the trip was that this really didn't detract from another great experience.

I am happy to participate such project which can add more practical research methods to my experience. As well as adding people to my friendship worldwide.

My participation in Biosphere Expeditions begun in 2005, first by setting up an expedition in Brazil and latter in a role as scientist in Peru and Oman. Since then I have been involved in the scientific supervision of other expedition projects with large mammals, including study design, data analysis, report reviews and publication in scientific journals.

During this period, I was able to witness the progress that was gained to deliver good science, result of a constant pursue for improvement in several fronts - be it in the involvement of partners and local communities, number and quality of activities to be developed during expeditions, presentation of results in a daily basis to follow the expedition progress, constant improvement in training to shorten the learning curve and increase understanding so that reliable information is retrieved from field surveys and rigorous report reviews.

I'm happy to have made part of this story, and recommend the expeditions to anyone that is found of wild places, adventure, good company and wants to be involved in research and conservation of wildlife.

As other volunteers here, I was looking for a true opportunity to assist scientists in their fieldwork while spending my holydays abroad. I am a wildlife lover but also very curious on a scientific level. Unfortunately, my career choices have led me away from these interests and I have always tried to find a way to make up for that.

I was very sceptic at first, having seen many places where volunteers were just sent on car safaris or in petting farms. One day thankfully, I stumbled upon the Biosphere expedition website and after reading many expedition reports and seeing the awards/sponsors, I decided to give it a try. Since that first expedition I have committed to do one expedition each year. Every time i come back to my "normal" life feeling very privileged.

A Biosphere Expedition is not simply another opportunity to give some of your time and money to help a wildlife conservative project and feel good about yourself. It is a unique and amazing experience both on a social and personal level. You get to meet truly interesting volunteers from all around the world, passionate scientists and locals. You find yourself discussing about life (wild or not) late at night around a fire, overseen by thousands of stars in the purest of the night skies. But you will also be exploring remote and truly unique locations, with beautiful landscapes, or sometimes have the privilege of accessing otherwise restricted areas of wonderful natural preserves.

Not only that, but you will also be helping a scientist or a group of scientist in their studies in a very practical and direct manner, somùehow helping to protect the wildlife you respect and admire. Along the way you will learn a little more about the complex ecosystems you will be exploring, learning to decipher the behavior of some truly amazing fauna and sometimes have the chance to get up close with wonderful creatures. Maybe the most important aspect in these studies is the level of trust that is given to the volunteers. You will be lent high quality gear (telemeters, lenses, jeep…) trained on the first day or two, and then after a good breakfast, sent on your own by teams in order to complete the targeted surveys, set up or recovering traps... Of course the participant’s safety is the main concern for the Biosphere’s team and everyone is thoroughly briefed. At the end of the day the data is generally collected and immediately processed by the scientists. Any interesting result will then be debriefed the next days during the dinners. The cooks hired on the expeditions are also always incredible, managing some truly delicious dishes with little kitchenware and sometimes a capricious environment.

Biosphere Expeditions is really well organized with very serious and helpful staff members who love what they do. Each expedition is well prepared and thoroughly described in a specific documentation available on the website or sent to you by email. Regular reports are also sent to everyone you whish to include.

In these expeditions you are really doing something useful and learning a lot while operating in amazing environments.

I am happy and proud to be part of this specific biosphere

Going on an expedition with Biosphere Expeditions was, hands-down, the best outdoor experience I have ever had in my life. Besides the fun I had while working with the team and the loads of information I gained from this work, the way the expedition's supervisors and guides treated us was outstanding. I mean in terms of hospitality and assistance they were great and made us feel home. They provided us with everything we needed to spend our time in the wild; great food everyday, advanced equipment, amazing guidance and assistance. We learned a lot about wildlife research and conservation, as well as how to use the scientific equipment in the field. If I have a piece of advice to you guys, get on a Biosphere expedition as soon as you can; you will have an unforgettable experience.

I was lucky to get a placement and take part in the Tien Shan expedition for snow leopards in July 2015. I'm so grateful for the ongoing research. Great job and priceless contribution to study and preserve this gorgeous but rapidly declining in number big cat. As and developing country we have no enough resources to conduct a research in areas as Biosphere Expeditions can do with help of volunteers from all around the glob.

I've joined 6 different conservation holidays with Biosphere Expeditions to some amazing parts of the world, including Namibia, Oman, Altai mountains and the rainforest in Peru. On each expedition I've felt I'm playing a small, but vital role in helping to understand more about the protection needed of the different environments and the species that live there.

The one thing that has always impressed me is the organisation of each expedition. On arrival, time is spent learning how to use any equipment or drive off-road, invaluable and important skills once you are out in the field carrying out the research, and also useful back at home (not the off-road driving so much!).

I've met some great people, both locals and other volunteers, and each expedition has created long lasting memories.

Since 2010 I've joined 4 expeditions with Biospheres Expeditions in 3 different areas and I have already booked one for this year and planned one for 2017.
I have volunteered with another organisation before and was quite disappointed. Spending my time and money on volunteering I expected to be part of it and to be informed about what has been achieved. With
Biospheres I have the feeling to make a difference, no matter which project I participated in. After the expedition you get an expedition report and can follow up on the work done.
Being (and wanting to stay) a small organisation, Biosphere manages to care for you as a volunteer and as a 'friend of Biosphere'. I personally have the impression that for Biosphere Expeditions money is not everything - and I appreciate it!

Since 2002 I have been on 13 expeditions with Biosphere Expeditions most recently in Sumatra in 2015. I totally agree with everything said by Safari Girl and Alan Hoffberg. Each and every expedition has been a wonderful experience.

If you are looking for a totally authentic conservation experience, which fully involves non-scientists in all aspects of the work after training in country, look no further than Biosphere Expeditions.

I've volunteered with Biosphere Expeditions three times between 2002 and 2012. Each of the three expeditions was based in Namibia, but each had its own study species and was led by a different scientist. I remember searching online back in 2002 for a volunteer opportunity that would offer the chance to learn about and get close to African wildlife. I figured it was hopeless without a science background...but then lo and behold, there was Biosphere Expeditions.

It was important to me to volunteer with a non-profit that operated ethically and did not exploit the wildlife in any way. As you can see from the awards and commendations on their website, Biosphere puts ethics and responsible volunteering right up there at the top of the list. The expedition contribution that each volunteer pays goes directly to funding the project. Without it, the research wouldn't be possible.

Biosphere's organization and leadership are also top-notch. In addition to the scientist(s) overseeing the study, with whom you'll be closely involved, there is always a team leader who makes sure that everything runs smoothly. Thanks to the detailed materials you'll receive ahead of time, you will have a very good idea of what to expect before you head out. However be ready as well to "expect the unexpected" and embrace those spontaneous adventures!

In addition to great leadership, you will find yourself among volunteers of all ages from across the globe, who share your passion for wildlife and conservation. If your family & friends are tired of hearing you talk endlessly about wallabies, snow leopards, or 3-toed sloths, this might be the place for you.

Rest assured that you will be well looked after. Delicious food and comfortable accommodations are the norm (even in the African bush). You will get to be involved in all aspects of the research as you rotate through a variety of activities. On my most recent expedition, I got to swab the inside of a hyena's mouth [see photo] and take its temperature. That picture made for a pretty unique Facebook post back at home. And yes, the hyena was under sedation.

You will most likely discover that you've stretched way out of your comfort zone and loved every minute of it. Keep an open mind and embrace every moment. Be prepared to work hard, get dirty, learn and laugh. I highly recommend volunteering with Biosphere Expeditions. You will be contributing to wildlife conservation and will have an incredible experience in the process.

California, USA

My wife and I participated with Biosphere Expeditions since 2003. During these 13 years, we participated in numerous expeditions, taking us to South America, Central America, and Africa.

Each expedition includes one to two days of on-site training, depending upon the project complexity and body of knowledge. The volunteers conduct meaningful tasks which contribute to the research findings. And several months later, Biosphere Expeditions and the lead scientist publish and distribute a comprehensive report describing the project, including methodology, conclusions, and project participants.

An expedition leader accompanies each Biosphere Expedition project. This fact sets this organization over and above most of the other research organizations utilizing volunteers. The removal of the expedition leader does cuts operating costs; however, the lead scientist has to handle administrative and organizational tasks - which are usually areas in which he/she has little or no experience.

The scientists are graduate/doctoral students or research professionals. For the past 15+ years, we have volunteered at a local zoo in the Education Department, preaenting programs to adults and children. We discovered we can share new information with the scientists and project participants.

This weekend we depart for Biosphere Expeditions' current Costa Rica project, dealing primarily with sea turtles.

Hosting Biosphere expeditions at our research project has been a 5 star experience.
They are completely professional in their approach, and have the best interests of not only their participants, but also the wildlife and researchers they are assisting. There are no other organizations that are so thorough and dedicated. It has been an absolute pleasure to work alongside like minded people that are hear for the right reasons. Long may our working relationship last!