The following was written by Jax Bound, a member of the Equestrian team. Jax is majoring in Animal Bioscience had the opportunity to participate in the Tropical Entomology and Evolutionary Biology in Ecuador and the Galapagos study abroad program in May 2024.
At the conclusion of my junior year, almost as if on cue that a life-changing exploration was needed, I was fortunate enough to be included in a study abroad trip to Ecuador. Twelve of us set out from Atlanta, and I, for one, could not imagine what to expect or what we would encounter. As with any successful trip, our group quickly adapted to our new surroundings and bonded with each new adventure we experienced. During our 2 1/2 weeks, our UGA collective transformed from strangers into friends as we explored an entirely new world. We traveled by land, sea and air to experience the most this country had to offer. Adventures greeted us everywhere, from hikes through the floor of the rainforest in the darkness of night, to the thrill of zip lining through its canopy we immersed ourselves into the jungle. Our accommodations allowed for a true ‘live within’ experience as it was actually an open “tree house” built within the ecosystem. Direct encounters with birds, insects and even a resident kinkajou within the lodge continued to showcase the diversity of inhabitants that the forest housed. As we learned about ecotourism we also immersed ourselves within the Ecuadorian culture and the products that are produced. Tours of a coffee plantation and learning where chocolate derives from are experiences that allowed us to realize the beginnings of our simple treats.
The second half of the trip we traveled to the amazing Galápagos Islands. After spending a week in the rainforest of Ecuador, our next adventure was going to the Islands. As soon as we took flight over the ocean to begin our next adventure, we were met with sun filled skies and bright blue waters. The diversity of the climate and landscape allowed for new expeditions to be had. The first Island, San Cristobal, we began to appreciate the historical importance of Charles Darwin and the impact he made on the Islands. We continued our search for wildlife, but this time it was in the sea. Snorkeling excursions allowed me to witness the playfulness of sea otters, sea turtles and even an inquisitive shark. As we continued our Island tour, Isabel was our next destination. Our snorkeling opportunities continued there, but activities also included kayaking through the ocean to witness the famous Blue Footed Boobies and the Galapagos Penguins. To continue the eco diversity, and the fact the Islands are created from volcanic activity a visit to a volcano crater was a must. The last transportation of our Island tour was by ferry to Santa Cruz. This island is home to the Giant Galapagos Tortoises and the famous original Lonesome George.
This was definitely a trip of a lifetime. The memories I have made as we explored the rainforest and oceans will be an experience I will never forget. I would highly recommend traveling abroad, actually submerging yourself in your education. It creates bonds with friends for life and creates memories to last a lifetime. I am so thankful for the opportunities UGA offers to students to learn and grow in so many different ways. The breathtaking landscapes of Ecuador and all the environment offers left a lasting impression on all of us.
