Volunteer in Ecuador

Experience the sights and sounds of this microcosm of South America – Mountains, jungles, beaches, ancient ruins and the Galápagos Islands are just a few of the most sought-after destinations to visit while volunteering in Ecuador. Wandering cobblestone streets and exploring 17^th-century monasteries can give you some insight into the complex history of this beautiful country. Ecuador’s natural and cultural diversity and ancient Inca heritage appeal to many volunteers. In spite of tremendous economic progress in the last few years, Ecuadorians are still working to reduce poverty and improve the standard of living for much of the country.

As a United Planet volunteer in Ecuador you have many outlets to get involved. United Planet has ongoing opportunities for you to work with children from low-income families at a day care or center for children with special needs, to serve at healthcare centers in areas like nursing or rehabilitation, or to volunteer with environmental or wildlife protection groups.

United Planet also offers long-term (6 months and one year) volunteer abroad programs and virtual volunteering and virtual internships (1 month to 6 months) in Ecuador.  Learn more about all of our volunteer abroad programs and virtual volunteering and virtual internship countries and projects in Latin and South America.

Our Ecuador Country Coordinator, Pablo Proano, shares how United Planet volunteers in Ecuador will experience a new culture, a new language, and the sights and sounds of microcosm of South America.

United Planet works closely with some unique healthcare projects in Ecuador, including public clinics, children’s hospitals, non-profit hospitals, and more. Volunteers may help with physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, nursing, and rehabilitation. Some projects are open to those without a medical background. Please note that the primary task for students is observation. Volunteer tasks will vary depending on the volunteer’s level of medical expertise and Spanish ability.

Volunteers have the option of working with children from low-income families at daycare centers or teaching English at an elementary school in Quito. Volunteers organize activities and spend time giving children the individual attention they need to thrive.

Volunteers can work to protect Ecuador’s flora and fauna and assist with environmental education and outreach in the Amazon Rainforest, and work to rehabilitate wild species of animals in a local wildlife sanctuary.

Ecuador Country Coordinator: Pablo Proano. Pablo has been United Planet’s Ecuador country coordinator since 2005. He has years of experience working with international students and volunteers in Ecuador through Spanish language schools and academic exchange programs.

During your orientation in Ecuador, you’ll receive a tour of the Old Town in Quito, the nation’s capital. You’ll also visit Otavalo, a beautiful indigenous artisan market.

To get you acquainted with your new surroundings, you’ll receive six hours of private Spanish lessons during your stay in Ecuador. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to put your new-found language skills to use.

If you’re volunteering in Quito, you’ll participate in a cooking lesson and dancing class during your stay in Ecuador. These cultural activities are a great way to immerse yourself in the unique culture of the region and make new friends.

Volunteers staying four weeks or more may participate in a hiking excursion around Quilotoa, a volcanic caldera in the western Andes Mountains. The water-filled caldera was formed 800 years ago with the collapse of the volcano.

Volunteers staying six weeks or more may take an excursion to the Cotopaxi volcano, the second highest point in Ecuador and the highest active volcano in the world.

Volunteers staying eight weeks or more can take an excursion to either the Mindo cloud forest, which includes hiking and a butterfly garden tour, or to Baños, where you’ll hike, explore waterfalls, and visit the Pichincha volcano.

Explore the Old Town in Quito: You’ll tour Quito during your Quest, but you may want to further explore the bustling area. Visit one of the many street vendors or soak up some history by visiting some of the churches, convents, chapels, and monasteries.

Spend an evening at El Pobre Diablo: El Pobre Diablo is one of Quito’s best live-music locations. There are shows most nights – in your free time, go hear  some jazz or blues and try some of the delicious food.

Check out Quito’s local markets: Visiting local markets is one of the best ways to immerse in the culture of an area and meet interesting people. Strike up a conversation with one of the vendors in Quito – you might learn something new!

Eat some llapingachos: LLapingachos are one of Ecuador’s most famous dishes. You won’t regret ordering these cheese-stuffed, fried potato cakes. Try it with some avocado, sausage, or egg!

Explore the Galápagos islands of Baltra and Santa Cruz. During your visit, you’ll discover incredible wildlife and plant life, including sharks, penguins, frigate birds, and sea lions. You’ll visit a giant tortoise breeding center, and will have the opportunity to snorkel among colorful fish and other marine life in the Bay of Santa Cruz and Tortuga Bay. A visit to the Twin Craters will allow you to learn about the volcanic origins of the islands. This trip also offers a look into the history of the Galápagos with visits to the Charles Darwin Research Station and more!

5-day Island Excursion: $2,135

*Please note that the cost of optional excursions is not tax deductible.

On the Amazon Rainforest Excursion, you’ll visit a jungle lodge near Tena, along the Rio Napo in the Amazon Rainforest. There is a high amount of biodiversity and you’ll be able to see various species of birds, including toucans, as well as ocelots, monkeys, and other protected species. Enjoy tubing, swimming, artisanal chocolate tours, and more, while learning about the indigenous women who run this community lodge!

4-day/3-night Amazon Rainforest Excursion (travel by bus): $485
Single room with private bath upgrade: $150

*Please note that the cost of optional excursions is not tax deductible.