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Ecuador Volunteer Quests
Volunteer in Ecuador: 2-52 weeks

Special Offer! 20% discount on United Planet's Ecuador Quest through June 30th on travel in 2009. Please visit the 2009 special savings page for details on eligibility and to learn about additional offers.

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"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 Ecuador Volunteer

United Planet's Quest Volunteer Abroad program offers you or your group a life-changing opportunity to interact with local communities through customized work experiences, cultural activities, and home stays.

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Visit the United Planet YouTube page to view a Ecuador Quest video and more. Please also visit the Ecuador Quest photo gallery.

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Country and Community Information

Many consider Ecuador to be a microcosm of South America. The country boasts both natural and cultural diversity, with over 12 distinct bio-diverse zones and multiple ethnic groups. Ecuador is most famous for the Galápagos Islands, where Darwin formulated his theory of evolution. The population is mainly Catholic and Spanish-speaking, though about one quarter of Ecuadorians speaks Quechua. Ecuador’s Incan heritage is reflected in the many historic buildings in the south of Quito and the mysterious ruins of Ingapirca. Ecuador’s economy is dependent on exports. Until the 1960s the principal export crops were bananas and shrimp. The 1960s discovery of oil and subsequent exploration led to an export-driven boom in the economy. Nonetheless, as Ecuador’s prosperity is linked to world market prices for its exports, economic stability has proved difficult to sustain.

While switching to the dollar in 2000 has helped Ecuador to stem inflation rates, the population is still suffering from high prices and low wages. Roughly two thirds of Ecuadorians still live below the poverty line, with 17.7%  living on less than $1 a day, according to the UN. The country is also characterized by high regional and social inequality. The country ranks 83rd on the UN’s Human Development Index.

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Volunteer Opportunities in Ecuador (2-12 weeks)

	The purpose of this Quest is to promote a deeper level of cultural exchange and understanding through meaningful volunteer work at local schools, social activities with the local community, and both free and guided excursions. United Planet is currently working with different volunteer opportunities in partnership with local organizations in Ecuador.
	1) Community Development Quests United Planet offers several volunteer projects in Ecuador. Volunteers can work with children from low-income families at a day care or center for special needs. Volunteers organize crafts and sports activities, and spend time giving children the individual attention they lack. Other projects offered include teaching English to high school students or working at a physical therapy practice. Spanish language skills are required for all Quests. Read more...
	2) Environmental Quests United Planet is working closely with several 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. Basic Spanish required. Read more...
	Optional Spanish Language Immersion Program Volunteers also have the opportunity to include a Spanish Language Immersion course for the first one or two weeks of their Quest. Please see the Prices and Details page for more information. The Quests take place in Quito, and therefore provide many learning opportunities, through language lessons and cultural activities. We also provide excursions, such as: a trip to a highland market in Otavalo, a city tour, and a dip in nearby hot springs. Many of these are included in the program fee - please see the Ecuador Prices and Details page for more information. Please also note that language lessons are not included in the Environmental Quest.

• Ecuador Quests are available year-round and begin on every Sunday of each month.
• Up to 8 hours of private Spanish lessons per week are included for all levels!
• Click here for a sample two-week itinerary

Click here for Long-term Quests (6 months - 1 year) in Ecuador

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Visas
United Planet sends volunteers from many countries around the world. Obtaining a Visa (if necessary) is therefore the responsibility of the volunteer. U.S. citizens can visit the website of the U.S. State Department to learn more about foreign entry requirements. For citizens of all other countries, please contact your destination country's embassy in your home country or your government website. If you need a letter from United Planet to verify your participation in our program, please e-mail us with this request and we will be happy to provide one.

Health Issues and Vaccinations
Some countries require or suggest that volunteers have certain vaccinations before entering the country.  Please consult your country's government website for more information regarding the health of travelers. U.S. citizens can visit the website of the Centers for Disease Control to learn more about vaccinations and staying healthy while traveling.  It is also recommended that you visit the nearest travel clinic prior to departure.

Living and volunteering in another country, often in conditions you are not used to, can take a toll on the body and mind.  In addition to the information that is provided in your pre-departure package, please research how to stay healthy in your country of destination.  It could make all the difference!