| Home |
|
|||||||||||
| Back to Mundo Azuls first Dolphin Conservation Volunteer Group |
Nick Bonfield
To sum up my month here in Peru is virtually an impossible task; you really have to see it to believe it. Before coming here, I remember watching footage of dolphins and thinking how beautiful they were. Let me tell you, nothing can prepare you for seeing them in the flesh. They are such stunning, graceful creatures. Images of dolphins jumping out of waves and doing back flips, actions which I never believed to occur in reality, are certainly ones that will stay with me forever. To put it simply, seeing a dolphin rising out of the water is to me what winning the world cup is to a footballer: a simply unforgettable moment.
Whilst dolphins were the main ingredient in my stay, I genuinely believe the experience would not have been the same without the people I met: Always up for a laugh, cheering you up when you are missing friends and family, and just generally great to be around. Stefan Austermühle, the Executive Director and cofounder of Mundo Azul is a man worthy of much respect for his efforts in dolphin conservation, whilst at the same time giving off a friendly vibe and ensuring that your stay is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. I will certainly miss seeing the smile on Aldo’s face come rain or shine, his hospitality, and I am confident that I have made friends for life in Dan and Toni, whom I thank for such great times.
Aside from dolphin research, the weekends and locations are something to behold. Pucusana is a place with a great atmosphere, great people, great food, and beautiful scenery. Paracas is a quieter place, but what it lacks in atmosphere it certainly makes up for in beauty. The many different landscapes are stunning and trips to neighboring places such as Huacachina are readily available and well worth the minimal costs. So, whether it be in a discotheque in Lima or sand boarding in the Ica desert, every aspect of this trip has been incredible. Would I consider coming back here? Just give me that chance!
Nick Bonfield 28th September 2006
Click here to see Nicks best pictures
If you would like to learn more about our volunteer programs, please follow the following links: