Ecuador Amazon Expedition Facts

Medex International is recruiting physicians, dentists, nurses, pharmacists, veterinarians and other medical professionals who are interested in volunteering with us in the Amazon basin region of Ecuador in 2007.

When:

TBA

Expedition-in-Brief:

Our medical sites will be the Achuar communities of southeastern Ecuador.  The Achuar Federation is located in one of the most pristine and remote rainforests of the Amazon basin, adjacent to the Peruvian border.  It is accessible only by air or river. 

The Achuar had their first contact with western civilization in the late 60's. Even today, western influence is minimal and the Achuar still remain almost completely self-sufficient, obtaining most of what they need from the forest.  Proud warriors of the past, the Achuar face the challenges of modern-day integration. One such challenge is the need for medical attention.  The most common diseases are malaria, diarrhea, parasites, upper-respiratory infections and anemia.  On this trip, we will provide medical care to families living in three Achuar communities.   We will also treat the staff at the Kapawi Ecolodge.

Before we begin our medical work in the Amazon, we'll spend time exploring Quito.  On Monday, we'll fly into Kapawi, via the jungle town of Shell.  We will travel by motorized canoe to the communities, visiting a different community each of the following three days.  We'll then return to Quito on Friday and end our trip with a visit on Saturday to Otavalo, a small town north of Quito, famous for its friendly people and Saturday market which dates back to pre-Inca times.

During the medical phase of our mission, we will stay at the Kapawi Ecolodge & Reserve: www.kapawi.com.  In addition to helping those in need of medical treatment, we will experience an unforgettable Amazon adventure at this magical place.  When we are not providing medical care, we'll have the opportunity to go bird watching, kayaking and hiking through the rainforest. Perhaps we will visit a local shaman. 

Costs to cover expenses:
$2295. This includes medical supplies, lodging, transportation, local guides and leisure activities (kayaking, bird-watching, jungle walks, tours), all meals, and tips. Please note: this price does not include airfare from the US.

Trip Leader: Rachel Friday 

Please note that spaces are limited and you must be in good physical condition for these trips.  MEI will send a detailed itinerary to those who are interested in participating. Please fill out online application or contact us at info@medexinternational.org or call us at 404-815-7044 for more information.