Teaching English to Ecotoursim Guides

Project Summary

This project is located in the Azuero region of Panama that is one of the driest areas in the nation do to the dwindling forest canopy. The project will give volunteers a remote location full of beauty and wonder. The focus of their work will be on helping local tour guides learn English while at the same time helping save the environment. If the locals speak better English it will help increase tourism and boost their economy. Volunteers help tour guides and boat operators learn the global language of English. When they retain these language skills it will in-turn help their businesses, the economy, and the community as a whole.

Skill/Qualification

There are no skills required to volunteer in the project. You should however be physically fit as the work can get physically demanding. Prior teaching experience, especially teaching English, is a plus, but not a requirement. If you understand Spanish, you’ll be able to communicate with the locals and work more effectively, however knowledge of Spanish isn’t a must. You must also adapt to the heat and humidity of the region. There will also be mosquito and sand flies.

Volunteer's Responsibilities

The main responsibilities of volunteers will be to teach useful English skills to those working in the tourism group. This will include nature- and tourism-based vocabulary as well as words and phrases useful for businesses. Volunteers are encouraged to make the learning experience dynamic and fun. Move out of the classroom and explore the island with the group! Volunteers will also have a chance to teach young children and adolescents. Volunteers may also engage in sea turtles protection and reforestation activities. Volunteers with backgrounds in business, marketing, or accounting are encouraged to apply.

Project Location

Volunteers in the project will be staying on a small island on the Azuero Peninsula. It is a beautiful island located 5 minutes off the mainland. Volunteers will board a modern motorboat to cross over to the island, which is a protected wildlife reserve for thousands of sea turtles that hatch on its shores every year. The work site is located close to Tonosi. A mid-sized town, Tonosi offers internet cafes, stores, and various restaurants should volunteers want to take a short trip out of their communities to explore. Volunteers of both communities are also encouraged to hop on a morning bus that will deliver them to Las Tablas, the capital of the Los Santos province. A small, traditional city, Las Tablas offers a wealth of things to do and see. Volunteers can attend parades, watch cultural dances and festivals, and buy hand-made arts and crafts. Located no more than 2 hours from either site, Las Tablas has internet, grocery and clothing stores, restaurants, and ATMs.

In general, Panama has a great many opportunities for you to explore. There are thousands of plant and bird species in Panama to observe. Panama City is close to many of our projects and volunteers are encouraged to take a short trip and experience the city. Panama City is the capital and the largest city and is full of history and urban splendors. For those working in projects in Azuero there are awesome sights to see on the Azuero Peninsula. There is Artisan fairs in Las Tablas and many festivals in Herrera. Panama is full of delightful beaches for volunteers to explore and relax during their free time.