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Volunteering Projects in Ecuador from $43 per day
You can become involved in a variety of conservation and community projects in Ecuador, including the Galapagos Islands and the Amazon.
You have the opportunity to participate in the programs of four different biological reserves, which contribute to to biodiversity conservation, community development and sustainable use of natural resources.
The Projects
Amazon
The Amazon Biological Reserve in located in the province of Napo in Ecuador. Of all the stations, Amazon is the oldest, and was created in 1986 out of the need to have a conservation, investigation, and education centre to host scientists and students interested in the tropical rainforests. The present size of this reserve is 2 200 hectares, created by donations from various individuals and organizations concerned with the rapid loss of the tropical rainforests in the Amazon and the world. This reserve is located in an Alpha Biodiversity Hot Spot, one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world.
Bilsa
The Bilsa reserve conserves a critical remnant of Ecuador's coastal pre-montane wet forest, of which less than 1% remains. Located in the Mache Mountains in the north western coastal province of Esmeraldas, this remnant of forest has a unique composition of flora and fauna, internationally renowned for both its diversity and rarity. The region's rugged topography (300 to 800 meters) and the coastal climate create a dense fog, which shrouds all of Bilsa's steeper ridges. Rare animals found at the reserve include the Jaguar, several small cat species, the Long Wattled Umbrella Bird, the Giant Anteater and abundant populations of the threatened Mantled Howler Monkey.
Congal
The Congal Biological Research Station was founded in 2000 in order to protect Ecuador's endangered coastal ecosystems. The Station features beach, estuarine, mangrove, wetlands, and wet tropical forest habitats, which account for the regions high biodiversity and local endemism. The purpose of the Station is to develop projects in the fields of conservation, organic and environmentally friendly aquaculture, farming and forestry.
San Cristobal
The San Cristobal Biological Station is located on the Galápagos Islands, off the west coast of Ecuador. The recently established reserve was established on a 200 hectare site in the highlands of San Cristobal Island. The objectives of the project are to reconstruct the original forests on the island, and to provide viable agricultural products for the local population to grow. Volunteers will work on habitat restoration and agricultural sustainability while at the reserve. In addition foundation staff will lead volunteers on explorations of lagoons, native forests, beaches, and the local villages, to explain the ecological and human dynamic of Galapagos.
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About Ecuador
Ecuador shares it's borders with Columbia in the north, and Peru to the East and South, and The Pacific Ocean at the Equator for which the country is named.
Ecuador is a country of many geographical contrasts, extending from the Amazon rainforest of the Orient and the high altitude forests of the Inter-Andean region, to the forests and beaches of the northern lowlands and the Galapagos Islands. Biological reserves are located in each of these different regions, many in extremely threatened areas, where the land in the reserve is among the last remnant of an area high in biodiversity.
Volunteer Impact
The principal aims of the reserves are the conservation of eco-systems and cultural diversity, environmental education, sustainable development projects, and research that promotes the improvement of the quality of life of people living in the zones of influence of its activities. The volunteer program is intended to provide practical experience for people interested in contributing to our partner's conservation activities and projects. Volunteers work on a variety of projects alongside the resident researchers, environmental education instructors, and administrative staff of each reserve.
What else can I do in Ecuador?
Visitors to Ecuador will be amazed by the geographical diversity of this country.
A nature and adventure lovers delight, Ecuador offers trekking, hourseback riding, and avariety of exotic flora and fauna (and some strange insects!). If you're a culture lover you can shop for hand-woven textiles at local indigenous markets, or browse the Unesco World Heritage Sites of Cuenca and Quito.
Online Spanish Lessons
Global Volunteer Network has established a partnership with the Spanish school Instituto Exclusivo, which offers GVN volunteers a 5% discount off their online Spanish lessons. This is not like other courses which give you pages of web material or recordings of various phrases to repeat. You will speak to, and see your instructor as he/she is giving you a private lesson, tailored to your level of Spanish. Learn spanish before you go
Costs
Application Fee – US $97
Your application fee is fully transferable and will secure your place on the Ecuador program, (or any other GVN program of your choice), at a placement date that is suitable to you.*
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*Your application fee provides you with access to any of GVN's volunteer programs over the next 5 years, as many times as you like without having to pay another application fee! |
Children under 18 are not required to pay the application fee when volunteering together with a parent/guardian. (Except for participants in our Youth Tour program who are required to pay a US$97 application fee.)
Program Fee – from US$ 43 a day*
Ecuador Program
- 2 weeks: US $1597
- 3 weeks: US $1797
- 4 weeks: US $1997
- 5 weeks: US $2097
- 6 weeks: US $2197
- 7 weeks: US $2297
- 8 weeks: US $2397
San Cristobal Program
- 2 weeks: US $1597
- 3 weeks: US $1797
- 4 weeks: US $1997
- 5 weeks: US $2197
- 6 weeks: US $2397
- 7 weeks: US $2597
- 8 weeks: US $2797
Please note: there is a separate fee for those who wish to volunteer at multiple reserves. If you are interested in this option please note it on your application form or contact us for further information.
Placements longer than 8 weeks are available, please contact us or apply online for details.
*Based on an 8 week placement
What’s included:
| Accommodation: | Volunteer House or cabins. |
| Meals: | 3 meals daily. |
| Training: | In-country orientation and training. |
| Supervision: | In-country staff supervision. |
| Support: | Pre-departure personal support from your volunteer coordinator, 24/7 in-country support from partner, and 24hr emergency line. |
| Extra: | Please be aware that what you pay to stay at the station is not only for your room and board, but also goes towards the salaries of the forest guards, purchase of land, and to pay land tax. |
Additional Benefits:
- A Quality Volunteer Placement
Dedicated staff with the sole focus of facilitating the placement of volunteers, reviewing and improving programs and supporting the work of our partners. -
Program Guide
Your online resource guide that covers topics such as country information, details on your placement, travel links, visa application process, and much more! - Fundraising guide
Your Fundraising Guide and Software which provides you with proven fundraising strategies, letter generating software and other resources to help you raise up to 100% of the cost of your trip. - Personal online journal
Which help you to communicate effectively and easily with your family and friends back home. - Access to a non-profit:
Contribute to the ongoing support of the charitable + educational work of community organisations.
What’s not included:
Flights, insurance, visas, vaccinations, accommodation in Quito before the program starts, bus transport to the reserve and departure from the program.
We recommend you allow a weekly budget of US $30 for your other expenses such as bottled water, personal items, beverages, transportation and entertainment.
Schedule
Program Schedule
Start Date: Start dates are flexible with volunteers able to start anytime of the month, however all volunteers need to attend an orientation session in Quito before traveling to their reserve of choice. Orientation sessions take place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays only.
Length: 2 weeks to 24 weeks
Please note:
A special visa is required to remain in Ecuador for more than 90 days. Volunteers are expected to work 22 days per month. Eight vacation days per month can be used upon approval by project coordinator. Volunteers are expected to work an average of 6 to 8 hours per day, depending on the activities they carry out.
FAQ
We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions which we receive at the GVN inbox. This is a great place to start if you have questions about Global Volunteer Network and our placement process. This information should answer the majority of questions you may have.
Tell me more about Ecuador?
Ecuador is bordered by Colombia, Peru, and the Pacific Ocean. There are three distinct zones: the Sierra or uplands of the Andes, the Costa, a coastal plain between the Andes and the Pacific with plantations of bananas, cacao, coffee, and sugar; and the Oriente, the upper Amazon basin to the east, consisting of tropical jungles threaded by rivers. Quito, the capital city is in a setting of great natural beauty, overshadowed by the volcano Pichinca with its twin peaks of Ruca and Guagua. For more information we suggest you purchase the Lonely Planet’s guide to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands.
What is the climate like in Ecuador?
The Ecuadorian climate is extremely diverse and because each reserve is located in varying altitudes and geographic zones, they all have different climatic factors to be considered. The temperature in Quito averages 14 degrees celsius throughout the year; June through to September is the driest period, while April often has torrential downpours during the afternoon.
What kinds of volunteer work are available?
Volunteers can participate in research assistance, education, community service, station maintenance, plant conservation, and agro-forestry activities carried out by the Amazon, Bilsa, Congal, and San Cristobal biological stations.
You can be involved in:
Plant Conservation: collecting seeds, reforestation, medicinal plant garden development, nursery work, and clearing areas of invasive species.
Community Work: teaching English in local schools, environmental education, and community visits.
Sustainable Income Generation: implementation of sustainable agriculture and aquaculture projects, crafts, and agro-forestry.
Supporting Local Research: assisting in collecting data for local research.
Wildlife: monitoring projects with birds and bears.
Is the program available year round?
The program is open all year round. Nevertheless, during Semana Santa (Easter) in March/early April the whole country shuts down for 5 days.
When will I know specific details about my placement?
Once you have secured your placement by paying your application fee, you will be put in touch with our partner who will provide you with more specific details.
Where will I be located?
There are four different reserves located around Ecuador, and volunteers may choose which reserve they would like to volunteer at. Please see the program page for more detailed descriptions of the specific reserves.
Tell me more about the research projects
It is possible to take part in research projects, although these will often require specialist knowledge. The reserves with ongoing research projects that volunteers may be able to assist with are Bilsa and Congal. If you have the relevant background and experience it may also be possible to design your own research project and work on it while at a reserve, but this will require you to work independently and you may need to bring your own equipment. For an independent project, ideally you would submit a proposal beforehand so that it can be approved by the reserve.
When can I teach?
Teaching programs are only available to volunteers staying longer than 2 months in one project.
What languages do I need to be able to speak to become a volunteer?
How safe is it to volunteer in Ecuador?
As in many countries, foreigners are perceived as wealthy in Ecuador. Although the people are generally warm and friendly towards foreigners, as well as appreciative of the work done by volunteers, not every individual is the same. We work extremely hard to ensure you are placed in safe environments while volunteering and security policies are in place to achieve this. However, as in any situation at home or abroad, there is no way to erase all potential threats. There is lower risk of crime at the volunteer placements in Ecuador, due to their remote locations. It is still important, however, to be wary of thieves and pick pocketing, especially in cities and crowded areas. You should also avoid extremely remote areas where you will be alone. You should also be aware that there are active volcanoes in Ecuador and minor earthquakes are relatively common. Volunteers will be given further safety advice, including for the case of natural disasters, in their orientation session.
Tell me more about flying into Ecuador.
For all the Ecuador programs, you need to fly into Mariscal Sucre International airport in Quito. While in Quito, you need to attend an orientation session, which take place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, before heading out to your reserve. You will need to make your own way to our partner’s office, details for which will be supplied after you have signed up for the program. You will therefore have to arrange for a couple of nights accommodation while in Quito. After you have signed up for the program we will provide you with some recommended options for accommodation in Quito.
Are there any specific starting dates for each project?
What happens once I arrive in Quito?
May I choose which reserve to volunteer in?
Yes, we’re happy to place you in the reserve of your choice as long as there is space available.
May I volunteer in a combination of reserves?
How do I get to the project?
What immunisations/vaccines will I need?
- Diphtheria and tetanus
- Polio
- Hepatitis A & B
- Typhoid
- Rabies
These are rare but do affect people in poorer communities that you may not even come into contact with:
- Yellow fever - you will need a certificate to say you have had this vaccination to be presented on arrival if you are from Africa or South America. In addition, the vaccination is highly recommended if you are travelling to the Amazon reserve.
- Malaria (needs to be closely discussed with doctor) Quito itself is free of Malaria. Bilsa reserve highly recommends immunisation as Malaria is present in some of the towns you may visit, even though it’s not on the reserve itself.
- Cholera outbreaks can occur in poorer areas of Ecuador; however vaccinations can become resistant to the disease so your doctor may say it is not needed. If you show any signs of violent vomiting and extremely watery diarrhoea see a doctor straight away for medication that can help treat you.
Some of these can be taken in oral form so please do discuss all options with your doctor to see what is best for you. Some people can be affected quite differently than others by medication.
What are the living arrangements when volunteering?
Can I bring my family/children to this program with me?
It is possible to bring your family to some of the larger and more accessible reserves, such as Amazon or Congal, as long as there is space available. If you have young children we would strongly recommend that two adults travel with the family, so that they are adequately supervised.
Can you accommodate specific dietary requirements?
What age do you have to be to volunteer?
How does GVN choose volunteers for this program?
Each GVN program has different criteria depending on our partner's requirements. Every application is reviewed to ensure that the minimum requirements (as set out on the program page) are met. Next we look to see what skills or experience you have that relate specifically to the program. We are also interested in any previous volunteer experience you may have (either local or international), travel experience, and your particular interest in the program.
After reviewing your application, should we require any further information from you, we will email you to request this.
What hours am I expected to take part in the program?
Are there holidays or festivals I should be aware of when traveling?
During Semana Santa (Holy Week/Easter) the whole of the country shuts down for 5 days. This takes place in late March/early April and you should take this into account when traveling.
Is there opportunity to take classes such as language or cultural activities while on the program?
You can arrange this for before or after the program, but not during, due to the isolated nature of some of the reserves.
Are we able to do any sightseeing while volunteering?
Yes, you get eight days off each month, and you are free to do as you please during this time. There are often other volunteers who want to go trekking or see the local sights. You will, however, need to have money for this time according to what you plan to do. You may want to spend some time in Ecuador before or after volunteering to see more of the country. You can survive on as little as US$7 a day in Ecuador. You can also spend much more if you want a bit of luxury.
What clothing is appropriate for the program?
Are there more expenses once I arrive?
The program costs cover accommodation and all meals. If you plan on arriving early or staying on, then you will need to have spare money for this time. Also some money may be required for your days off depending on what you intend on doing. Other costs include buying bottled water, visa (only required in staying longer than 90 days), departure tax, and any shopping you will do personally. All visitors to Ecuador are required to pay a US $31.60 departure fee in cash at Quito airport when they leave. There are also additional costs for the San Cristobal project - volunteers on this project will need to pay for the flight to the islands and a US $100 park fee upon arrival.
What happens if I get sick or have an accident while I’m at one of the reserves?
How many volunteers are there on site at any one time?
Can you tell me more about your partner in Ecuador?
What is the course content of the training?
While you are in Quito (where your international flight will land) you are required to attend an orientation session at the volunteer offices. These take place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at 3pm. It is a short session, no more than half an hour, on the rules of the reserve. You will be given more detailed directions on how to get to the reserve, and you should use this opportunity to ask any questions you may have. Once you arrive at the reserve you will be given a more detailed orientation on the work required, safety procedures, and work schedules.
Who organizes my visa for my volunteer placement?
If you need one, you will need to organize your visa through your travel agent before you leave for Ecuador. The information pack includes links to Ecuadorian Embassies through out the world.
Do I need travel insurance?
All GVN Volunteers must have insurance. You are free to take out insurance cover through any provider of your choice. However, as some policies do not cover volunteering, we recommend you check you are covered during your volunteer placement.
For your convenience we have arranged a comprehensive package specially designed for volunteering. It includes excellent medical and accident coverage as well as “loss of deposits” cover which covers fees paid to GVN, airlines etc. If you would like to learn more just follow this link: http://www.globalvolunteernetwork.org/insurance/
How do I pay my fees?
Your application fee secures your place on the program (remember this is fully transferable to a later date or different program if you decide not to take part in the program, subject to the terms of service). Your program fee is payable to Global Volunteer Network 12 weeks prior to the 1st of the month you wish to volunteer. Please note that all charges incurred by the payment of the program fee are at the volunteer’s expense, e.g. if a bank transfer incurs a bank fee at the point of origin, that is at the expense of the volunteer. Eighty percent (80%) of your program fee is refundable until one calendar month before the 1st of the month you are due to begin your program. Refer to GVN's legal terms of service for full details.
Volunteer Diaries
Lococolumbia
Thursday, November 10th, 2011
In the Zone Cafetera of beautiful Colombia, the hills are fertile and support fine quality coffee, bamboo for building, eucalyptus for paper and plantains for food. But in the main town of the region, Armenia, lots of people earn a living from selling mobile phone minutes to those with no access to a phone and [click here to read more]
Quito Days
Wednesday, October 26th, 2011
The capital of Ecuador lies north to south at the foot of a volcano, one of the 17 which there are in the country, 7 of which are active in some way. One has just shown signs of eruption quite nearby at Banos. On the bus journey to get here we tried to see as [click here to read more]
Toucans before breakfast or Spiders in the bathroom
Sunday, October 23rd, 2011
We trekked through the rain forest, assailed by the threat of poisonous snakes, lethal frogs and red termites, tarantulas and spiny trees, breathing the hot humid air and shadowed by the canopy, unable to see through the thick vegetation on either side if there were hostile tribes or jaguars prowling. In fact, we were being [click here to read more]
Please visit journals.globalvolunteernetwork.org for more journals and feedback from past volunteers
How to Apply
Program Requirements
- Be 18 years or over
- Have no major health problems
- Be moderately fit
- A basic level of Spanish is required for all reserves. If you do not know any Spanish you can choose to attend a 2 week Spanish course in Quito prior to volunteering, arranged through our partner organisation.
*Although there are no restrictions on the nationality of volunteers that wish to participate in this program, you need to be able to obtain your entry visa independent of the volunteer organisation.
The Application Process
Your application process is free and seamless, and if you are successful we will provide you with a choice of application fee payment options that include a secure online service. We also are one of the few organisations that allow you to transfer your application fee to another program at no extra cost.
Communication & Support:
Throughout the process, we are committed to working with you to answer any of your questions or concerns. During your placement we are also available as a form of support to you as a volunteer and will email you while in country to discuss how the program is going.
Volunteer Feedback
Thank you so much everyone for making this such a fantastic experience! I came here with no idea what to expect, and I am leaving after 8 weeks that were better than I could have ever imagined. This is such a incredible place and the work being done is truly inspiring. I think I'll start a little garden of my own when I get home. Keep up the good work and hopefully I'll visit again one day! Muchas Gracias!
Isabelle Clarks - La Hesperia
The staff at Amazon are awesome and friendly. There's a bar down the road and the volunteers and staff had many fun nights down there.
Nick, Amazon
I got back from Bilsa last night. I had an amazing time, the staff were wonderful. Julietta and Carlos were totally professional and lots of fun, in fact all the staff were lovely and so helpful despite the poor Spanish they had to put up with!
I did a personal project on ferns and the insects on them. I recognised quite a few genera from New Zealand (I was suprised how many) so we collected 60 insect samples using beating sheets from three of the main trails there and I have all the data in my diary.
I told Julietta I would write it up properly in between volunteering stints and do some basic statistics on it as well. We took some digital photos of the ferns, in case anyone wants to check my plant IDs. Not having seen any of the species before was a little difficult when they had no spores but the overall characteristics for the genera were pretty recogniseable.
- Charlotte, Bilsa
Articles
The Disappearance of Ecuador's Mangroves
Ecuador may be considered a "hotspot," but the tagline doesn't refer to a Spring Break destination. Ecuador is one of the leading countries in the world at risk of losing its biodiversity, and with it the livelihoods, culture and identity of many Ecuadorians. Due mainly to the shrimp aquaculture industry, Ecuador's precious...
Opening Pandora's Box: Oil Exploration in Ecuador
As the world becomes ever reliant on oil, and as oil becomes increasingly scarce, more and more untouched and once-protected areas are being opened up to oil exploration. GVN's Megan Tady interviewed Paula Palmer, executive director of Global Response, to discuss the environmental and social impacts of oil exploration in...
News From Ecuador
Application Form
Why Volunteer
At GVN we align with the idea of 'local solutions to local problems', so we work with local community organisations in each country. What this means for our volunteers is that they receive a unique and genuine cultural experience whilst being immersed in a local community.
If you're
- Graduating from school and not sure which direction to take, or you're not ready to jump into full-time employment just yet;
- Ready for a Career Break;
- An 'empty nester';
- Retired;
- Or ready for a change or new adventure
Volunteering abroad could be the very thing for YOU!
If you're looking for something worthwhile to do volunteering will give you the opportunity to travel whilst making a difference in the community you are based in.
Did you know taking a Gap Year can improve your college admission chances and success rate during your studies?
"Harvard College encourages admitted students to defer enrolment for one year to travel, pursue a special project or activity, work, or spend time in another meaningful way" – Harvard College Office of Admissions, 2010.
International volunteering is a great way to gain experience living in a developing country, learning about another culture and experiencing a different way of life. It is a fantastic way to grow as a person, to develop life skills, self-confidence and self-esteem, and is a tool for self discovery and identity formation.
Other personal benefits include, developing international friendships and networks, social awareness, and building independence.
Volunteering can increase your employability, help you to gain valuable work experience and enhance your CV/resume.
"Going to a foreign country for a volunteer experience is a huge boost on a resume. Employers love to see a person that can think outside the box and work past their comfort zone. The added benefits of teamwork, foreign language knowledge, and plain old hard work also add polish to the volunteer candidate. Since business now happens on a global scale, the volunteer is armed with useful, and potentially actionable, information." – USA Today, 2010.
Reputable Charity
The Global Volunteer Network (GVN) is a New Zealand Charitable Trust (non-profit NGO) based in Wellington, New Zealand. Our Charitable incorporation number is: CC46460. GVN has been verified and approved by Idealist (the largest volunteer portal on the internet. GVN is also a member of the World Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (WANGO), and our ‘sister’ organization the GVN Foundation has been granted special consultative status on the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). Prestigious web sites such as Lonely Planet and Goabroad.com have placed web links to us. Additionally, when you apply, we can provide you with contact information for previous volunteers if you wish. GVN is also an approved member of the Site Trust Network and you can view our verification page.
Recommended by Bill Gates
Bill Gates personally recommended GVN by stating "I'd love to see more young people taking action to help the poor and disadvantaged. Two places to get started are Network for Good and Global Volunteer Network." Newsweek Web
Proven Track Record
To give you peace of mind, GVN has over eight years experience and has placed 13,500+ volunteers since 2002. Read volunteer's journals and testimonials or speak to a returned volunteer directly about their experience abroad through GVN.
Volunteer Support
GVN’s specialist staff provide personal support to volunteers, assisting not only with preparation for your placement, but whilst in-country, and follow-up on return home. GVN provides comprehensive Program Guides, project resources (eg teaching resources).
Community Focussed
GVN aligns with the idea of 'local solutions to local problems', therefore we work with local community organisations in each country. We believe that local communities are in the best position to determine their needs, and we provide volunteers to help them achieve their goals.
Recommended by CNN
CNN listed the Global Volunteer Network as one of 10 organizations that can help you to make a positive impact on the world around you. CNN encourages you to visit our website to get more details on how you too can Be The Change.
Personal Security
GVN offer an insurance package tailored specifically for volunteers. Partner’s staff are always available (24hr/7days), along with this GVN also has a 24hr/7day emergency hotline.
Kenya. 
Vietnam. 
Peru. 
Nepal. 
