National Geographic Student Expeditions: Tanzania

  Tanzania

• Other Cities in Tanzania: 
Rural Areas

Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: June 19-July 8, 2010; July 9-July 28, 2010

Description: Tanzania is renowned for its incredible wildlife, yet its diverse cultures and welcoming people are equally fascinating. Though the Maasai are perhaps the most widely recognized tribal group, Tanzania is home to more than 120 ethnicities. Immerse yourself in village life, and discover how tribal communities have interacted with their environment for centuries. From vibrant villages to open savanna plains, examine the challenges of preserving Tanzania's prized wildlife and cultural traditions.

Choose one of these On Assignment projects. Throughout your expedition, you'll break into teams to delve further into your selected area of focus.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Document your exploration of Tanzania in photographs. Capture images of market-bound trucks heaped with bananas, Maasai children nestled up against their mothers' backs, or a lioness tending her cubs. Teach photography skills to Tanzanian teens.

WILDLIFE & CONSERVATION: Investigate local and national efforts to protect Tanzania's incredible wildlife. Meet rangers in training at a wildlife management school. Track lions or elephants and learn to identify rare bird species. Talk with park officials about anti-poaching laws and the balance between resource management and the economic needs of local communities.

EXPLORATION: Identify a topic that interests you and explore it in depth. Learn about Maasai life while driving cows and goats with children, or study the behavior of predators in the wild. Interview locals about the ways that technological advances are affecting traditional tribal dynamics and wildlife monitoring.

Highlights:
* Hike on tribal lands with Maasai warriors
* Tutor local children in English
* Work on a community project, such as building teacher housing
* Go on safari in three parks and encounter elephants, lions, and hippos
* Experience life in a rural village and in a Maasai community
* Delve into your On Assignment project: Photography, Wildlife & Conservation, or Exploration

Cost in US$: USD 7,590

International airfare is not included. We have arranged round-trip international group flights between New York and Arusha.

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Tanzania Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

National Geographic Student Expeditions's Mission Statement: In the spirit of adventure and discovery that has inspired National Geographic photographers, writers, and scientists over the years, National Geographic Student Expeditions invites the next generation of explorers to join us in the field. Our expeditions go beyond just exploring great destinations. Students participate in an On Assignment project, get involved in local communities, and travel in the company of dynamic trip leaders and a National Geographic expert. By offering high school students the opportunity to experience new cultures and environments firsthand, National Geographic Student Expeditions is an extension of the National Geographic Society's mission to increase global understanding through exploration, geography, education, and research; and to inspire the next generation to care about our planet.

Year Founded: 1888