Buenos Aires Ecotourism

As more people realize that long-cherished habitats and structures are in danger, diverse programs have stepped in to aid the concerned in lending a hand. There are also opportunities that place volunteers in positions that are not necessarily directed at environmental conservation, but still allow for experiential learning and work on the Argentine frontier.

World-Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF), WWOOF Administrator, Moss Peteral, Brampton CA8 7HY, England, UK (www.wwoof.org). Arranges volunteer work with organic and eco-conscious farms around the world. Though Argentina doesn’t have a national organization, there are a number of independent hosts within the organization who can arrange volunteer work.
Foundation for Sustainable Development (FSD), 517 Potrero Ave., Suite B, San Francisco, CA 94110 (☎415-283-4873; www.fsdinternational.org). This organization, established in 1995, supports the efforts of grassroots environmental groups working to improve sustainability in their communities. Programs in Argentina are directed at running community-awareness workshops, measuring greenhouse gas emissions and developing plans to reduce them, and preserving trails used by hikers and bicyclists. Pricing varies from program to program.
Global Vision International, Boston, MA 02116 (☎888-653-6028; www.gviusa.com). Expeditions include a trip into the Patagonian Andes Mountains to study the fragile ecosystem of the region while hiking and ice climbing. Other opportunities available. Trips usually last around 5 weeks. From US$2990.
Earthwatch Institute, 3 Clock Tower Place, Suite 100, P.O. Box 75, Maynard, MA 01754 USA (☎800-776-0188; www.earthwatch.org). An international nonprofit organization that promotes the conservation of natural resources and cultural heritage around the world. Occasionally offers trips to Argentina. Past trips have focused on studying endangered wildcats in the Argentine wilderness. Expeditions about US$1000 per week.
LEAPNOW, 11640 Hwy. 128, Calistoga, CA 94515 (☎707-431-7265; www.leapnow.org). This organization offers volunteer positions on Argentine Patagonian ranches. Available opportunities allow for working while learning about the gaucho culture. Programs last from 2 weeks to 6 months. From US$750.
i-to-i Meaningful Travel (☎800-985-4864; www.i-to-i.com). Work available in Posadas, Misiones province, home of Iguazú Falls , in animal care. Posadas is home to an animal breeding and rehabilitation center that protects the native species of the region’s delicate ecosystem. Programs last from 2 to 6 weeks. US$1195 for 2 weeks, plus US$225 for each additional week.