Join a unique professional development experience that brings together educators and scientists in the stunning landscapes of Chilean Patagonia. Mission Patagonia is an immersive, place-based program designed to deepen understanding of climate science, conservation, and community engagement. Through hands-on exploration and collaboration with local experts, participants gain powerful tools to inspire environmental stewardship and civic action in their own communities. Educators from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Learn more and apply now.

Learn More

Mission Patagonia is an outdoor environmental education program in southern Chile, born in 2022 as a collaborative project between Associated Universities Inc. (AUI) and Melimoyu Elemental Reserve (or REM in Spanish). Mission Patagonia’s main goal is to promote the ecosystemic approach through an educational collective experience of people interested in educational and outreach projects. We faithfully believe that inspiring people to ecosystemic belonging will promote a sustainable society in harmony with the planet for future generations.

To achieve this, nature will be our greatest ally. Thus, for over a week, participants will experience different activities at Castro City (part of Chiloe’s archipelago), and at Melimoyu Elemental Reserve (Aysén region). The Reserve is a private protected area of over 16,000 hectares designated to conservation and surrounded by volcanos, glaciers, fjords and patagonic evergreen forests.

During the program, participants will be immersed in hands-on experiences based on an environmental education model developed by the REM team.

Upcoming Expeditions

Planning for the next expedition is underway!

1. Expeditions can occur in November 2025 or March 2026 and are dependent on availability and interest. Who should apply? Those looking to have an experience in nature, citizens science folks, educators, scientists, researchers, and ecotourists.
2. Interested in bringing a group? We can tailor to your interests. Please reach out to us if you have any questions.

Applications will be reviewed periodically as they are received, so please submit early. The application will be open until August 31, or until we fill up 10 slots. 

Please send questions to Yasmin Catricheo at ycatricheo@aui.edu and Tiffany Stone Wolbrecht at twolbrecht@aui.edu.

Apply now through the Google form!

Participation Requirements

To participate in Mission Patagonia, applicants need to:

• Demonstrate interest in and commitment to environmental stewardship. Applicants are evaluated on their interest in and commitment to environmental conservation, climate change mitigation, and sustainability. This can include professional experience, volunteerism, part-time work or other activities.
• Describe the communities they reach and show a commitment to sharing their experience with others. Participants must be willing and able to share their Mission Patagonia experience with their communities. This can include sharing through social media, blogs, public presentations, or educational initiatives.

Participants will be selected based on a competitive application process. Applicants are asked to outline their qualifications, interests, and how they intend to use the experience to benefit their communities and professional networks.

Mission Patagonia is committed to building a diverse cohort. Applicants from underrepresented groups in environmental sciences and those from various geographic locations are strongly encouraged to apply.

Physical Requirements

Mission Patagonia takes place in one of the most remote and pristine locations on the planet, which can sometimes be physically demanding to navigate. Participants should be prepared for the following physical requirements:

• Hiking and Trekking: The program includes multiple hikes through rugged terrain, including trails within the Melimoyu Elemental Reserve. Participants should be able to comfortably walk up to 3 kilometers over uneven and sometimes steep ground.
• Outdoor Activities: Participants will engage in various outdoor activities, including wildlife observation and hands-on scientific exploration, which may require standing or walking for extended periods.
• Travel and Transportation: The journey to and from the reserve involves long travel times, including flights, ferry rides, and transfers by road. Participants should be physically prepared for these extended periods of travel and potential motion-related discomfort.
• Weather Conditions: Patagonia’s weather can be unpredictable, with conditions ranging from cold and wet to sunny and warm, often within the same day. Participants must be equipped to handle varying weather conditions and should be comfortable with exposure to the elements during outdoor activities.
• Health Considerations: Due to the remote nature of the program, participants should be in good health, with no conditions that could be exacerbated by strenuous physical activity or the limited availability of medical facilities. It is recommended that participants consult with a healthcare provider before joining the program to ensure they meet the physical demands of the expedition.