Study Focus : island ecology, mangrove forests, coral reefs and inter tidal zones

Just south of Padang, West Sumatra, a hidden archipelago offers students a chance to discover some of Southeast Asia’s least spoiled islands. Island hopping in traditional outrigger boats (sampans), students will be able to fish for their own food, snorkel over pristine reefs, learn about the many mysteries of the mangrove forests, discover monkey and monitor lizards on isolated beaches and possibly have opportunities to swim with dolphins and sea turtles.

Simple beach bungalows, hammocks strung between coconut trees and tents will provide Robinson Crusoe-style comfort for two nights under the stars. A ‘Survivor Challenge’, where students must start their own fire as well as catch and cook their own food on the beach, will provide an educational experience never to be forgotten.