Galápagos

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The GalápaGo! Research based Learning Abroad Program has three main parts:

  1. A spring-semester preparatory course - BIOL 4302 
  2. A one-month abroad experience in the Galápagos with host families and global scientists
  3. A post-trip event, Galápafest!, where students share personal and professional reflections.

The program is open to all majors, with scholarships available.

This course is about preparing for a required study-abroad trip to the Galápagos Islands in the summer of 2026. There, students will spend approximately one month assisting faculty with ongoing research projects. To prepare for this immersive research experience, we will read and discuss both the theoretical and experimental background for the projects during the spring semester.  In addition, we will use the Galápagos Islands as a model to explore several topics in geology, evolutionary biology, history and conservation. The course will include integrative projects, readings, student-led discussions, films and lectures.

RESERVE YOUR SPOT!

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NOTE: This page is currently under construction


students scuba diving

Research

The trip is organized in partnership with the Universidad San Francisco de Quito. USFQ runs the Galápagos Science Center, a research station in Playa Mann on San Cristóbal Island. At the research station, and through the adjacent GAIAS program, you will interact with faculty from USFQ and around the world working on projects in the islands.

 

students with exchange family in Galapagos

Cultural Experience

Students will stay with local families who have been thoroughly vetted and have hosted participants in previous years. Breakfast and dinner will be provided daily by the host family. While fluency in Spanish is not required for the trip, having some proficiency in the language will be helpful when staying with your host family.

 

student in the Galapagos

 

students on top of a mountain

Excursions

Each excursion in the Galápagos brings you closer to the islands’ unique wildlife and breathtaking beauty. Some excursions include day trip  to Quito, Kicker Rock for snorkeling, Punta Pitt for hiking and snorkeling, Cerro Colorado Tortoise Reserve, Puerto Chino and El Junco Lagoon for hiking and snorkeling. 

 

 

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Galápafest!

About a month after their trip, students gathered for Galápafest!, an annual event where students present personal narrative projects to fellow classmates, professors, UH Learning Abroad staff and their families.

 

large group posed in the galapagos


students working on beach

 

FAQs

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Two. Dr. Marc Hanke and Dr. Ricardo Azevedo
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Yes. GalápaGo! Research Based Learning Abroad taught in Spring 2026
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According to the U.S Department of State Travel Advisory, Ecuador is at a Level 2. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/ecuador-travel-advisory.html