Spend your morning learning about Hope Garden Nature Preservation Foundation, a local NGO that carries out projects aimed at the conservation and management of the Hope Royal Botanical Gardens. The Hope Royal Botanical Gardens represent the last large remaining urban green space for the country’s capital city.

After a brief introduction to the NGO, head to the Royal Botanical Gardens of Hope. There you'll split up into teams to work with local community staff on preservation projects at the plant nursery. There you’ll find many species of exotic and indigenous plants of Jamaica. 

Next head to Hope Zoo Preservation Foundation which has a wide variety of animals from around the world and is responsible for promoting awareness and conservation of our local Jamaican wildlife.

This sanctuary is a refuge for native wildlife and an important partner in protecting the birds and reptiles that are endemic to Jamaica. While there, experts will discuss its role as a sanctuary for native wildlife and how the organization works closely with our government and other stakeholders to protect, rescue & rehabilitate native birds and reptiles endemic to Jamaica. Students will also learn about two different methods of conservation, and how they have been successful in improving the population levels for Jamaica's Iguanas.

Continue your community service work by assisting staff in feeding, cleaning and petting local wildlife at the sanctuary.

Today you’ll travel to Port Royal and begin your Marine conservation work with Yardie Environmental Conservationists to learn about coral species.

This is your opportunity to get your PADI Dive Certification. Students will be given a lecture session and introduction to marine biology. Diving begins early. Students will be led on an underwater adventure of discovery as they identify and observe the fish and coral species that they’ve been learning about. After a morning of service, enjoy a hearty Jamaican lunch at a restaurant located in the picturesque marina. 

You will now begin your community service by helping local nonprofits and NGOs preserve and protect marine wildlife and the Port Royal ecosystem. Participate in a beach cleanup service project and collect data.     

Next, it's time for fun - with a purpose! Take a boat ride to Lime Cay to participate in water tubing. Discover Jamaica's natural beauty on this water adventure of the cays of Port Royal! If you’re lucky, you may be able to spot some marine mammals such as dolphins and reef sharks. 

Today is your second day at your conservation work in Port Royal. Students will put what they have learnt from workshops and discussions into practice by taking a tour with the marine conservation experts from a local NGO. They'll get hands-on experience studying and analyzing the modification of plants at the coastline. 

Take a tour of the mangrove ecosystem and discuss the roles of various organisms and plants. Students will also construct food webs and chains and observe the negative impact of humans on the mangrove ecosystem. 

Wrap up your service project by going for a recreational snorkeling and diving experience. Take a 15 minutes boat ride to your own private paradise, and explore crystal clear waters in search of varied marine life (kingfish, coral, barracuda, etc.). It'll be a great change of pace to just relax and have fun. Once you have explored the private island, enjoy a beach BBQ with the local team.

Today you will learn about the world-famous Port Royal port featured in popular films such as “Pirates of The Caribbean”.

The city has been repeatedly ravaged by nature's fury. From hurricanes and fires to earthquakes. The largest earthquake occurred back in 1692 when 90% of the population was immersed under the sea.

Take the opportunity to walk back in time and explore the renowned city that was once the capital of Jamaica and is now a sleepy, laid-back fishing town. With rumors of treasure still afloat, you'll be sure not to want for adventure when exploring these remains! Hear stories from locals about how things used to be, then try out their signature dish, the famous fish and bammy.

After Lunch, go for recreational swimming, snorkeling, and have fun. It’s all about the water. You’ll snorkel, kayak, scuba dive, and spend plenty of time on the beach (while wearing your reef-safe sunscreen, of course!). End the day by taking part in recreational diving activities.

Wrap up your conservation work today by taking an exciting tour of the Black River Safari. This tour is the perfect combination of education and adventure. 

Journey to the south coast, Saint Elizabeth, commonly referred to as the “Breadbasket of Jamaica”. Boat down the longest river in Jamaica through the mangrove forest and meet crocodiles in their natural habitat. The Jamaican Crocodile is an endangered animal species with only less than a thousand left in existence. Students will learn about the conservation efforts taking place to preserve them.  

Next, travel to YS Falls, a hidden gem in the heart of Jamaica. Take a zipline and canopy tour through the lush, stunning vegetation. Admire the beauty of the rainforest as you rope swing into the base of the waterfall. Relax and swim by the pool and enjoy authentic Jamaican food. 

After an exciting day with your new friends, head back to your home base to rest and relax. Your trip will culminate with a Jamaican Night Celebration. Embrace Jamaica’s culture with mouth-watering food and pastries. Dance to the rhythm of Reggae music. Spend this last night in Jamaica celebrating all your hard work with those who you have met along the way. Have Fun... Fun... Fun…

The time has come to say goodbye. You will be leaving the Home Base staff and community members who now feel like family. Leave Jamaica with memories to last a lifetime.