Spend January Term exploring one of the world's most pristine natural laboratories in the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador. Based at Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ) Extension Campus on San Cristóbal Island, you'll earn 3 semester credits studying environmental science while discovering ecosystems and species found nowhere else on Earth. This immersive program combines classroom learning with extensive field excursions to designated visitor sites, where you'll observe marine iguanas, giant tortoises, frigate birds, sea lions, and manta rays in their natural habitats.

Your experience begins in Quito, Ecuador's historic capital, where you'll spend time at the start and end of the program exploring the city's colonial center, visiting the Middle of the World Monument, or browsing the traditional markets of Otavalo. From there, you'll head to San Cristóbal Island, the easternmost island in the archipelago—the very place Charles Darwin first landed to inspire his groundbreaking work "On the Origin of Species." Throughout your two weeks, you'll participate in guided visits to iconic sites including Frigate Bird Hill, El Junco Lake, La Galapaguera tortoise breeding center, La Lobería beach, and Kicker Rock, one of the best locations for spotting manta rays, sea turtles, and sharks. A snorkeling excursion to these world-class sites is included, though you should be a confident swimmer.

You'll also spend time on Santa Cruz Island, home to the Charles Darwin Research Station, where you'll deepen your understanding of conservation efforts and visit the Lava Java Organic Coffee Plantation. USFQ and AIFS Abroad are committed to sustainable tourism and conservation education, ensuring all visits support the islands' ecological protection. Throughout the program, you'll stay in tourist-class hotel accommodations with daily breakfasts and most group lunches included, along with a farewell dinner in Quito.

This program is ideal for students interested in environmental studies, biology, ecology, and sustainability who want hands-on learning in a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll have dedicated on-site support from an AIFS Abroad Program Director who provides academic advising and helps you navigate both university requirements and cultural immersion. The program includes 24/7 emergency support, comprehensive insurance, and carbon offsetting for your flights. An optional travel package with round-trip flights from 25 U.S. cities and airport transfers is available, making logistics seamless.

Whether you're a high school graduate, first-year student, or upper-level undergraduate, this January Term program offers a transformative opportunity to study biodiversity in its most iconic setting, gain academic credit, and develop a deeper understanding of global sustainability and conservation. You'll return home with not just course credit, but unforgettable memories of one of the planet's most biodiverse regions and new perspectives on humanity's relationship with nature.