Ecuador Volunteer Quests

Volunteer in Ecuador

"I couldn't have been more pleased with my experience in Ecuador. Wonderful host family, great program coordinator, and beautiful country. I truly felt that my work was appreciated and am eager to return to re-connect with the amazing people I met."

--Erin Harper, United Planet Volunteer in Ecuador

Volunteer Stories

Volunteer Stories

Hear directly from United Planet Volunteers about their experiences.

Facts

  • Name comes from location on the Equator
  • Unemployment rate of 11.1%
  • Smaller than Nevada

What makes a United Planet Short-term Quest unique?

United Planet’s Quest volunteer abroad programs are 100% cultural immersion experiences. UP Quest programs run year-round and are available to individuals and groups of all ages, skill levels and nationalities.  We have no doubt it will be life-changing and provide lasting memories. Read on for more detailed information about volunteer opportunities in Ecuador.

Quests include:

  • Flexible start dates and lengths of stay (1-12 weeks)
  • Personalized attention from Coordinators
  • Local home stays or on-site lodging options
  • Exciting excursions, cultural activities and/or language lessons
  • Optional: Add excursions to the Galapagos or the Amazon

Country Information

Experience both natural and cultural diversity in Ecuador. Considered a microcosm of South America, Ecuador actually offers mountains (Quito is at 9,000 feet), jungle, beaches, Inca ruins, indigenous communities, and the Galapagos Islands. As Ecuadorians speak excellent Spanish, it's a great place to learn the language.

Depending on your length of stay, the program includes visits to the famous Equator line, national parks and indigenous clinics and markets.You won’t even have to exchange money—Ecuador adopted the dollar in 2000 to stem inflation.

Volunteer Opportunities in Ecuador: 1 - 12 weeks

United Planet currently offers volunteering opportunities in different locations in partnership with local organizations in Ecuador.

What's Included and Program Details

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Ecuador Prices and Details

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Sample Ecuador Itinerary

Highlights

  • Spanish classes (Quito only)
  • Cooking and Salsa dance classes (Quito only)
  • Excursion to Otavalo, Ecuador’s most famous indigenous market
  • Excursion to the Equator line and Quito city tour
  • Optional excursions around Ecuador (Galapagos Island, Jungle expeditions and adventure trips)

Quest Program Briefs

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volunteer in Ecuador Ecuador Summer Program for High School Students
Two Weeks: July 7-July 21, 2012
Ages: 16-18  |  Group Limit: 8
Program Fee: $1665 (enroll by February 20th and save $100!)

Students will have the opportunity to see two sides of Ecuador: the cloud forest and the city of Quito. For one week, volunteers will work and live together in an environmental lodge; the other week they will be at an educational center and temporary housing for street children. Volunteers can tutor, organize games with the children, and will also work on a group project to be determined by the needs of the center (such as painting or fixing furniture). In Quito volunteers will live 2-3 volunteers together with host families.

This is a unique opportunity for volunteers to travel to Ecuador in a small group with other United Planet volunteers. No Spanish is required -- but volunteers must be English native speakers or have fluent English.
Sample Itinerary

Volunteer projects in Ecuador

Community Development Quests
In Quito: Volunteers can work with children from low-income families at a day care or center for special needs. Volunteers organize activities, and spend time giving children the individual attention. Volunteers may also teach English to high school students or work at a physical therapy practice.
In the jungle: Volunteers may live and work in an indigenous community. Read more...

Healthcare Quests
United Planet works closely with some unique healthcare projects: public clinics, children's hospital, NGO hospital, and more. Volunteers may help with physical therapy, speech therapy, nursing, and rehabilitation. Some projects are open to those without a medical background. Read more...

Environmental Quests

United Planet works with projects in the Cloud Forest of Nanegal, located just two hours north of Quito. Volunteers plant seeds and organic coffee, identify flora and fauna, and assist in environmental education and outreach in the local community.
In the Galapagos, volunteers work on a reforestation and community development project and may mentor children as well. Read more...
volunteer abroad with animals Wildlife/Animal Quests
Work with and protect Ecuador’s Amazon flora and fauna. Volunteers help improve the lives of animals that have suffered maltreatment and have been victims of trafficking. At the Animal Rescue Center, you will have the opportunity to house and properly feed these animals. Read more...
Volunteer to help environmental projects in Ecuador

Optional Excursions 
After your Quest Visit:
Galapagos Islands
Don't travel to Ecuador without taking the opportunity to experience one of Ecuador's most prized spots after your Quest! You can be one of the few people to swim with sea lions, see the famous blue-footed booby, or snorkel with the Galapagos shark. For more information click here!

Amazon Rainforest
Or, take the opportunity to experience one of South America’s unexplored gems after your Quest in the Amazon Rainforest. Hike, canoe, and speedboat through the Amazon River Basin where you will have the chance to see pink river dolphins, jaguars, monkeys, anacondas, and all the biodiversity the jungle has to offer. For more information click here!

Three Easy Steps to Apply

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Questions about applying? 1-800-292-2316

Call one of our friendly regional Quest coordinators today. We will walk you step-by-step through the application process and answer any questions you may have.

Step 1: Choose your Quest. Contact us at any time for help!  We'd love to talk to you. Email or call  1-800-292-2316.

Step 2: Enroll online. Please fill in the online application. At least 60 days before you depart, you will need to reserve your spot with a deposit.

Step 3: Meet your Quest coordinator and iron out the details. Once you've applied, someone from the United Planet Team will contact you, and arrange a time to talk about your Quest of interest. THANKS!

Fundraising

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