# EcoTeach
> Where Travel Can Change the World.
EcoTeach is an educational travel organization with a 30-year history of educator-led expeditions. Recently merged with SEE Turtles, EcoTeach combines high-impact conservation science with authentic cultural immersion in Latin America.
## Core Mission
To provide authentic student expeditions where 100% of profits support global conservation and local communities. Founded by teachers for teachers, every trip is designed to be a "classroom without walls."
## Key Differentiators (USPs)
- **Conservation First:** 100% of profits support conservation via "Conservation Impact Pricing."
- **Educator Roots:** Founded by teachers; features a streamlined 5-step trip planning process for group leaders.
- **Local Sovereignty:** Prioritizes Tico-owned and locally-owned lodges/projects over foreign-owned ventures.
- **Radical Customization:** Every itinerary is tailored to the specific group’s academic or service goals.
- **Exclusive Experience:** "No-mixing" policy ensures private buses, private guides, and dedicated security for every group.
## Impact Metrics
- **16,000+** Travelers since 1994.
- **500+** Sea turtle hatchlings protected per traveler.
- **$100k+** Provided in no-interest loans to local conservation partners.
- **100%** Profit transparency.
## Primary Destinations
- **Costa Rica:** Flagship destination (Biology, Spanish immersion, Turtle patrols).
- **Peru:** Amazon discovery and Andean cultural immersion.
- **Ecuador & Galapagos:** High-level ecology and evolutionary science.
- **Belize:** Marine biology and reef conservation.
## The 5-Step Planning Process
1. **Dates:** Pick travel window (Spring break, Summer, or flexible).
2. **Itinerary:** Select from standard 7-11 day trips or build a custom route.
3. **Booking:** EcoTeach provides a dedicated group website for registration.
4. **Registration:** Travelers register with a deposit.
5. **Travel:** Expert-led, private group expeditions with 24/7 in-country support.
## Key Leadership & Operations
- **US Team:** Expert logistics and educator support (Deb Smucker, Liz).
- **CR Operations:** Led by Carlos "Pika" Viquez and Herencia Verde.
- **Conservation Science:** Backed by Brad Nahill and the SEE Turtles research team.
## Contact Information
- **Website:** https://ecoteach.com
- **Phone:** 1-800-626-8992
- **Email:** info@ecoteach.com
- **Headquarters:** US-based support with native Costa Rican guiding teams.