Ecuador Environmental Quests

United Planet Volunteer Abroad Programs (1-52 weeks)

enviornemental project in ecuador

Galapagos Quest

Minimum Stay: 10 days
Volunteers Needed: Year Round
Requirements: At least 18 years old, Basic Spanish

Have the experience of a lifetime working in the Galapagos while getting to know a different part of Ecuadorian culture! Collaborate with the local community to work on organic agricultural projects, help eliminate invasive plant species and restore native and endemic species, as well as transplant them to their new permanent homes. Work on a reforestation and community development project where you can mentor children one day a week. Activities with the children include hippo therapy, gardening, environmental education, and fieldtrips to the farm. Enjoy free time after a long day of work back at the farm, lounging in hammocks, telling stories, writing in journals, and playing games.

Volunteers live in cabins on the farm, sharing common areas with each other and cooking meals for themselves. On weekends, volunteers can explore the island and delve into tourist attractions.

Cloud Forest Quest

Minimum Stay: 1 week
Volunteers needed: Year Round
Requirements: At least 16 years old, Basic Spanish

Volunteers will live in a community working in the organic garden planting seeds, looking after the coffee crops, and maintaining the reserves’ protected areas. Conservation work also may include cleaning trails and keeping an inventory of identified flora and fauna. Alternatively, volunteers can support environmental education initiatives in the local community, such as improving awareness of biodiversity and conservation methods.

Volunteers live in dorm-like housing and take meals in the cafeteria. On days off, volunteers can travel to Mindo to explore its butterfly farms, or partake in outdoor activities such as tubing, at additional cost.