Travel to Croatia for Volunteer Programs in Wildlife Preservation & Conservation with an Exciting Adventure Tour

Croatia Volunteer Programs & Adventure Travel Tours

Travel to Croatia and take part in volunteer projects protecting the Eurasian Griffon Vultures and their environment or contribute to the preservation of the Brown Bear population of Croatia. Then take a two week adventure tour that takes you across land and sea from rock climbing on limestone cliffs to scuba diving in the Adriatic to sea-kayaking around carved out ocean coves. ISV Croatia will be an adventure you'll never forget!

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Conservation projects include:

Eurasian Griffon Vulture Conservation

Monitoring populations around the island and caring for wounded birds.
Restoring stonewalls to help mitigate strong winds and erosion.
Cleaning of freshwater ponds on the island to maintain biodiversity.
Marking and maintaining eco-trails for visitors.
Assisting the local people by picking olives and shearing sheep.
Guiding visitors through exhibitions
Making souvenirs to sell with profits being donated towards the protection of griffon vultures.

Brown Bear Preservation

Walking trail construction.
Monitoring bear activity.
Plant vegetation for food.
Assisting in the care of orphaned bears.
Education of day visitors to the center.
Renovation of volunteer accommodations.

Tour Highlights include:

Island hoping thru the Adriatic Sea on our own weeklong yacht cruise.
Visiting Croatia's capital- Zagreb.
Rafting on the Mreznica River.
Discovering a world of lakes and waterfalls in Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Rock climbing on limestone cliffs.
Scuba diving and snorkeling in the Adriatic's submarine world.
Exploring the rich heritage of Austrian and Roman influenced coastal and island settlements by foot and cycle.
Canyoning in deep ravines.
Sea-kayaking around coves to idyllic sandy beaches for swims.
Sampling the Croatian nightlife around coastal harbors.
Visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites at Trogir, Split and Dubrovnik.

The ISV Croatia Program is four weeks and consists of a two-week Volunteer Work Project and a two-week Outdoor Adventure Tour within Croatia.

Programs run between May 16 and September 5, 2008

Volunteer in Croatia - The Jewel of Eastern Europe!

ISV is excited to announce that 2008 will be the first year that ISV will be working in Croatia. We are currently researching all possible volunteer opportunities and assessing where ISV can best be of service to local organizations that work on conservation and community development projects. For 2008 we have selected two exciting projects with local organizations that offer superb conservation project. Both projects also have a strong community emphasis. Watch this space as we continue to research other possibilities against our standards for professionalism, safety, logistics, and sustainability.

Conservation and Community Development Volunteer Projects

Each project runs for two weeks and is operated in partnership with well-established local organizations including non profit and private groups, government departments and local grassroots groups or researchers. Projects are based in various locations throughout the country. Each volunteer project team will be supervised and directed by professional staff from the host organization and an ISV project leader. The volunteer team will consist of around 8 - 15 like minded people. *Please note that certain projects only operate on specific program dates.*

ISV will send you a Project Overview prior to departing to Croatia, and you’ll gain all the skills and training you need to participate fully in all aspects of the program. Prepare to be challenged in a safe, comfortable and fun setting where you will learn so much about the environment and culture in this part of Eastern Europe!

Accommodations during projects vary considerably. All your meals (3 per day) are provided during the volunteer project and reflect the local cuisine. Don’t worry! You don’t need to be able to speak Croatian, but some basic knowledge of the language is helpful.

Volunteer Host Organizations

Eco-Centre Caput Insulae Beli (ECCIB): ECCIB is a non-governmental and not-for-profit organization established in 1993 in order to protect the Eurasian Griffon Vultures, as well as the whole natural and historical heritage on the island of Cres. It conducts its mission to protect and preserve natural biodiversity and work towards the protection of original values and cultural-historical heritage, through seven main programs: Eurasian Griffon Vulture protection; volunteer; education; interpretation; biodiversity preservation; preservation of historical heritage; and eco-tourism.

Volunteers will work on such tasks as:

Monitoring griffon vulture populations around the
island and caring for wounded birds
Restoring stonewalls to help mitigate strong winds and erosion, also helping local farmers to contain sheep
Cleaning of freshwater ponds on the island to maintain biodiversity and provide drinking water for sheep and Griffons
Marking and maintaining eco-trails for visitors
Assisting the local people to maintain traditional
lifestyles by picking olives and shearing sheep
Guiding day-visitors through the interpretation centre’s exhibitions of griffon, vultures, natural biodiversity of Cres, and historical background on the village Beli and Tramuntana
Making souvenirs, such as necklaces using griffon feathers, and greeting cards, for sale in the shop with profits being donated towards the protection of griffon vultures (rainy day activity)

As a volunteer you will be involved in all programs to facilitate an understanding of the diversity of nature protection. In addition Centre staff will lead you on various destination hikes, including a boat trip around the island, to view nesting vultures and learn more about the Continental and Mediterranean environments.

Refugee Centre for Orphan Bears, Kuterevo: In 2001 the community of Kuterevo came together to contribute to the preservation of Brown Bears in Croatia. The Project is based in the mountain village of Kuterevo which borders the North Velebit National Park. The centre includes several enclosures for orphan bears that have lost their mothers and require immediate care before being released back into the wild. The community runs an education program aimed at increasing the public’s awareness of brown bears and campaigning for the protection of them and their habitat. The program also aims to promote the sustainable living traditions of the local mountain community, who have lived in the area for many generations. Larger enclosures with walking trails are being constructed in the surrounding forests to facilitate the re-introduction of the bears back into their natural environment.

The centre runs a volunteer program which contributes to the communities program for the preservation of brown bears. It aims to connect volunteers to the environment through simple living ideals, engagement with nature and work on the brown bear project
Volunteers will work on such tasks as:

Walking trail construction in the new enclosures
Monitoring bear activity in the surrounding forest
Helping in the gardens (growing bear food)
Assisting in the care of orphan bears
Education of day visitors to the centre
Renovation of volunteer accommodations

ISV

Croatia – Adventure Tour

You will travel throughout Croatia, by land and by sea. The five Included Activities (included in the Program Cost) will be determined by ISV and will be included in the ISV Participant Travel Manual sent to you 30 days prior to their departure date. The adventure will included such optional activities as:

Visiting the cultural attractions of Zagreb (Croatia’s Capital and artistic hub);
Rafting on the Mreznica River;
Discovering a world of lakes and waterfalls in Plitvice Lakes National Park;
Rock climbing on limestone cliffs;
Island hopping thru the Adriatic Sea on our own private motor yacht;
Snorkeling in the Adriatic’s submarine world;
Exploring the rich heritage of Austrian and Roman influenced coastal and island settlements by foot and cycle;
Canyoning in deep ravines;
Sea-kayaking around coves to idyllic sandy beaches for swims; and
Sampling the Croatian nightlife around coastal harbors.
Visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites at Trogir, Split and Dubrovnik.

Sample Itinerary Outdoor Adventure Tour

Day 1 – Arrive in Zagreb (Tour Orientation/City Sights Tour)
Depart your volunteer project and travel to Zagreb the centre of Croatian art, culture and entertainment! After your tour orientation meeting (mandatory), we launch straight into a city sights tour, exploring both the Upper and Lower Town by bus and foot. Our professional guides will showcase landmark buildings, monuments, and parks from the earlier centuries of Zagreb’s history, introducing historical figures and German-Hungarian influences. The evening is free to take in a show or dance the night away with the locals at one of Zagrebs many nightspots.

Day 2 – Zagreb (Free Cultural Day)
There is a lot to see and do in Zagreb, and after the city sights tour, today is a free day to take a closer look at Zagrebs cultural attractions. Not to be missed is a visit to MIMARA Museum which showcases over 3,750 works of great value, from ancient times, to paintings by artists such as Raphael, Rubens and Rembrandt. For a look at more contemporary art, head to the Art Pavilion, then delve back into pre-history at the Croatian Natural History Museum. Take advantage of great shopping or simply wander the streets, not forgetting to take a coffee break in one of the many outdoor settings.

Day 3 – Medvednica Day Tour
Today we head above the city to Mt Medvednica, which dominates the skyline and offers great views of Zagreb and the surrounding plains. Here we will explore the medieval fortress of Medvedgrad, originally built in 1250 to protect the city from Tartar invasions. Afterwards, enjoy a stunning hike through dense forests before returning to the city. The rest of the day is free - for a change of pace why not head out to Jarun Lake, a popular swimming destination for the locals.

Day 4 – Mreznica River Rafting
Get ready for some paddling action as we play on the Mreznica River - swimming in clear pools and jumping off waterfalls! Tonight we will travel to Korana Korana, on the doorstep of Plitvice National Park, where we unwind amidst a traditional village setting.

Day 5 – Plitvice Lakes National Park (Walking/Boat Tour)
Today we explore the magical world of lakes, forests, and waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park. The surrounding wooded hills enclose 16 turquoise lakes, which are linked by a series of cascades and waterfalls, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 6 – Korana to Zrmanja River (Kayaking – Day 1)
Pack your swimmers because today we embark on our 2-day Zrmanja River kayaking adventure! Over the next few days we will explore the beautiful river surrounds - swimming in clear warm waters, paddling through splashing waves, jumping from rocks and showering beneath waterfalls. Once on the river, we navigate our way downstream through a series of rapids to make camp right on the banks of the river. Tonight we relax around the campfire, watching the stars before retiring to our tents to be lulled to sleep by the river.

Day 7 – Zrmanja River (Kayaking – Day 2) to Trogir
Before returning to our kayaks we will take a short walk to explore limestone karst formations in a nearby cave and take in the views of the surrounding farmland from a hilltop. Once back on the river, we continue downstream to finish our paddling adventure at a small rural village. Our bus will then take us back to civilization on the Dalmatian coast. Overnight in Trogir.

Day 8 – Trogir to Omis (Trogir Sights/Motor Yacht)
Enjoy a free morning exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site of Trogir, famous for its Romanesque and Renaissance architectural styles. On the tiny island bound by stone walls, wander amongst the 13th and 15th century buildings, making sure to stop at the Cathedral of St Louro - one of the finest architectural works in Croatia. We then travel by bus to the former pirate town of Omis, where dinner awaits us aboard our very own chartered yacht!

Day 9 – Cetina River (Canyoning/Motor Yacht)
Today is adrenaline packed as we navigate our way down the Cetina River on a canyoning adventure! After rappelling into the steep canyon we will swim and wade through pools, jump off ledges and negotiate the more difficult sections by zip-line. Our professional guides will help us to make this an unforgettable day. Afterwards there is time to relax as we sail to the coastal town of Makarska where we overnight amidst an impressive backdrop pebble beaches and dramatic cliffs.

Day 10 – Mljet Island (Day Sailing/ Motor Yacht)
With the maestral winds on our faces we sail amongst spectacular islands to Mljet, stopping enroute to swim and explore hidden coves and beaches. Once on the island we have free time to explore the harbor-side village, or to take a walk in the national park - renowned for its two beautiful lakes connected via a channel. Overnight in the harbor.

Day 11 – Kolocep to Dubrovnik (Sea Kayaking/Motor Yacht)
Our first stop today is on the island of Kolocep for a sea-kayaking adventure! Kolocep features centuries-old pine forests, olive groves and orange and lemon orchards. We will paddle to secluded bays and swim at sand-and-pebble beaches. Next stop is at the ‘pearl of the Atlantic’ – Dubrovnik. The Old Town (now a UNESCO World Heritage Site) was fortified in the 9th century against barbarian invasions and sports a rich cultural history. The evening is free to explore the Old Town with its marble streets, baroque buildings and fine restaurants and cafes. Spend the night in the Dubrovnik harbor.

Day 12 – Korcula Island (Motor Yacht)
Korcula Island and the Peljesac Peninsular is our next stop featuring dense woods, indented coves, rolling hills and a walled Old Town - best explored by bike. Witness one of the islands most colorful traditions – the Moreska Sword Dance, only performed here! As we sail into another secluded cove there are more opportunities for swimming and snorkeling before the waves lull us to sleep.

Day 13 – Hvar Island (Free Day/Motor Boat)
Hvar is one of the liveliest and sunniest islands in the Adriatic Sea. Today is free to explore Stari Grad’s gothic palaces and marble streets, relax in one of the many cafes, take a hike or try scuba-diving. Late in the day we sail to Brac island where we overnight in Povlja’s harbor.

Day 14 – Omis to Split (Rock Climbing/Motor Yacht)
On the final day of activities we return to Omis’ dramatic landscape of rock and sea - this time for a rock climbing adventure. Get ready to test your courage on the limestone cliffs as our professional guides instruct us in the intricacies of rock craft and how to scale to great heights! In the afternoon we will dock in the city of Split, where the afternoon is free to visit yet another World Heritage Site (the Diocletian’s Palace), shop till you drop or dine in a sea-side restaurant. Tonight is all about celebrations as our Adventure Tour draws to a close. Overnight in Split’s harbor.

Day 15 – Split (End of Tour)
After breakfast we wave goodbye to our boat crew and Croatia as we transfer to Split’s airport for our flight home. The ISV Adventure Ends!

Accommodations: All accommodations have been carefully selected for their comfort and ideal locations. Accommodations range from nice tourist class hotels to youth hostels (dormitory style), including one weeks accommodations onboard a motor yacht.

Meals: Most meals are provided by ISV. Meals during times of sightseeing will be the responsibility of participants. ISV also stays in some accommodations with kitchen facilities to allow participants to prepare their own meals.

Activities: ISV includes more activities to make your experience unforgettable. Activities are subject to change but may include activities such as a Zagreb City Tour, rock climbing, canyoning/rappelling, thermal springs, kayaking and cycle touring.

Volunteer Project: ISV will send you the Project Overview for you assigned volunteer project along with your ISV Participant Travel Manual, approximately 30 days prior to departure.

Optional Activity Package (OAP)

Disclaimer: Exact dates, itineraries, accommodations and included activities will be given to participants in the ISV Participant Travel Manual approximately 30 days prior to departure. ISV reserves the right to change the ISV tour itinerary, accommodations and activities without notice. Any and all changes are within the discretion of ISV, Inc.