You are responsible for arranging your visa. If you have to apply for a visa for your project, allow plenty of time, and always ask for a tourist visa. Likewise, when you go through immigration, state that you are on vacation, to avoid the need for obtaining a work permit. You will find some couples or some participants who are travelling together, but the majority of our volunteers travel alone. Earthwatch is a safe way of traveling even to remote places because you will be met at the rendezvous site and will soon be part of a small team.
Many projects work in remote communities, some are far off the tourist track.
Earthwatch stresses the need for responsible behavior and common courtesy when traveling in these areas. When in doubt about what will, or will not, cause offense, be sure to ask your P.I. Wherever possible, try to learn and respect local customs, since being involved is one of the privileges of joining an Earthwatch project. Earthwatch projects enable you to get close to the action, and opportunities for photography or video are endless. Many local people find photography intrusive, so always ask your P.I. if it would be appropriate. Second, think about taking slides, since you may wish to give talks on your return.