GREECE
TURTLE CONSERVATION EXPERIENCE
For College Students
Experience hands-on marine conservation in Kefalonia, from ancient Athens to the Ionian Sea.
Program Overview
Immerse yourself in Greece, where classical heritage intersects with critical marine ecosystem preservation. Rapid environmental shifts, expanding maritime activity and habitat degradation place vulnerable Mediterranean species—most notably endangered Loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta)—under unprecedented pressure.
Designed for university-level students in biological sciences, veterinary medicine, environmental policy and ecology, this program pairs field study with deep cultural immersion. Based on the island of Kefalonia, you will complete 35 verified observation and field research hours alongside seasoned wildlife biologists and conservation specialists. Engage in frontline population monitoring, assess marine health indicators along coastal transects and analyze the complex socio-ecological policies balancing tourism with species survival.
Your journey begins in Athens, examining millennia of human history across landmarks like the Acropolis before transitioning to the rugged coastline of the Ionian Sea. Alongside hands-on ecological fieldwork, explore sustainable local agro-ecology at a regional apiary, engage with coastal fishing communities navigating conservation regulations and experience the cultural depth and cuisine of the Greek islands.
On GLA’s Greece: Turtle Conservation Experience program you will:
- Visit the Acropolis in Athens and embark on a food tour around the city
- Earn 35 Observational Hours focused on ecology and marine conservation
- Explore the island of Kefalonia and learn all about Loggerhead sea turtles in the area
- Leave a positive footprint by volunteering with a local organization that helps towards the conservation of this magnificent species
- Learn how to conduct snorkeling surveys and collect valuable data on seafloor coverage
- Visit a bee farm and learn firsthand about bees and their contribution to sustainability worldwide
Program Menu
GREECE
TURTLE CONSERVATION EXPERIENCE
Sample Itinerary Coming Soon!
Let’s take a sneak peek at what your program experience might look like this summer! Please note that the order of activities may differ for each program session. The details provided here represent a general outline of what you can anticipate, though community service projects and activities are subject to change based on the needs of our local community partners, cultural celebrations and traditions, weather conditions and the specific requirements of the student group.
GREECE
TURTLE CONSERVATION EXPERIENCE
Program Details
Dates & Tuition
2027 Session Dates
July 06 – July 19, 2027
What's Included in Tuition
In-country transportation
Lodging
3 meals per day
Professional full-time staff and experts
24/7 parent support hotline during program
Secondary medical and evacuation insurance
Cultural activities, lectures and excursions
Pre-departure materials and support
Educational materials
to hold your spot on-program.
Program at a Glance
Program Location: Greece
Program Type(s): Career Exploration, Service Learning, Exploratory Travel
Every GLA Program is Backed by our 5-Point Safety Systemâ„¢
GLA HOME BASE:
SAFE & SECURE LODGING
CARING SUPERVISION &
EXPERT LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
SAFE
TRANSPORTATION
HEALTHY FOOD
& PURE WATER
24/7 SUPPORT &
EMERGENCY RESPONSE
Recommended by Students and Parents
Sonya C. | 2021 Alumni Parent
“The trip was extremely well organized and my daughter had an absolutely transformative experience. The leaders and mentors were excellent and the program provided the perfect balance of service, sightseeing and cultural activities. She returned home energized, full of insights and confidence.”
The Program Experience
Career Exploration
Gain intensive, real-world field research and conservation experience across the dynamic coastal ecosystems of the Ionian Sea. Working alongside experienced marine biologists, wildlife ecologists and field researchers, you will tackle pressing Mediterranean conservation challenges, observe active wildlife rehabilitation and monitoring protocols and deepen your understanding of coastal resource management and European environmental policy in action. Through active participation in daily ecological case reviews and research briefings, you will sharpen your scientific reasoning and analyze how climate shifts, maritime commerce and anthropogenic pressure directly impact endangered marine species.
This program delivers 35 full observation and research hours under the direct mentorship of licensed conservation scientists and marine specialists, tailored specifically for university-level students. Documenting this volume of verified field observation in an international setting provides a distinct advantage for your graduate school or professional ecology applications.
Service Learning
Bridge environmental research and applied habitat protection through high-impact conservation service on the island of Kefalonia. Partner directly with frontline conservation initiatives dedicated to protecting vulnerable Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) populations and endangered coastal ecosystems. Support local conservation teams with early-morning nesting surveys, biomonitoring, clutch protection and nest excavations to mitigate predation and light pollution risks.
Collaborate with professionals to execute systematic harbor tracking, assess human-wildlife interactions around commercial fisheries and conduct systematic marine debris cleanups to safeguard critical nesting beaches.
Exploratory Travel
Gain a broader perspective on regional ecology and cultural history through unique hands-on learning experiences across Greece. In addition to marine protection efforts, visit a local bee farm to discover the vital role bees play in global sustainability and food systems.
Beyond conservation, explore Athens’s ancient landmarks and exciting culinary scene.
Adventure
Explore the rich history and maritime geography of Greece, beginning your journey in Athens, taking in breathtaking views of the Acropolis from every angle before ferrying across to Kefalonia—one of Greece’s most ecologically diverse and stunning Ionian islands.
Dive into crystal-clear Mediterranean waters on thrilling snorkeling excursions and cap off your island experience with a boat ride through Melissani Lake, gliding across underground waters inside an awe-inspiring limestone cave.
Country Spotlight
Experience the dynamic natural beauty and rich culture of Greece as you travel between historical cities and pristine island coastline.
Lodging: This is a moving program with stays at three comfortable hotels in different parts of Greece. Students stay in shared double or triple rooms equipped with private en-suite bathrooms and air conditioning.
Meals: Savor world-renowned Greek cuisine packed with fresh vegetables, olive oil, Greek yogurt, crisp salads, feta cheese and delicious locally prepared meats all richly seasoned with Mediterranean herbs.
GREECE
TURTLE CONSERVATION EXPERIENCE
Photo Gallery
GREECE