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Overview of Volunteer Programs in Ecuador

Ecuador’s stunning diversity of landscapes and cultures belies its relatively small size. From dense jungles to Andean highlands to the renowned biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador contains tremendous natural resources, and its culture reflects a combination of indigenous, African, and European influences.

Despite these assets, many Ecuadorians still live in poverty, and the country struggles to protect its natural resources. World Endeavors volunteers in Ecuador support efforts by nonprofit and government organizations to strengthen education, social programs, and environmental efforts.

WHY VOLUNTEER IN ECUADOR

Volunteering in Ecuador presents a unique blend of cultural immersion and meaningful impact. This South American nation boasts diverse landscapes, from the Amazon rainforest to the Andes mountains and the Galápagos Islands. By dedicating your time and skills to volunteer work here, you can actively contribute to community development, environmental conservation, or education while embracing Ecuador’s rich heritage and natural wonders.

Engaging in volunteer projects allows you to make a tangible difference in local communities, whether by assisting with educational initiatives, supporting conservation efforts, or helping vulnerable populations. The experience fosters personal growth and global awareness as you collaborate with locals, exchange perspectives, and witness the positive change you help create. Volunteering in Ecuador promises an enriching adventure that combines altruism with adventure, creating lasting memories and broadening your understanding of global issues.

HIGHLIGHTS OF VOLUNTEERING IN ECUADOR

Here are just a few of the best things about volunteer work in Ecuador:

  • For a truly unique experience, consider volunteering in the Galápagos Islands, where you can contribute to conservation efforts while being surrounded by diverse and endemic wildlife.
  • Engage with Ecuador’s rich cultural heritage by living and working alongside local communities, participating in traditional festivities, and learning about indigenous customs and traditions.
  • Contribute to important conservation initiatives, such as reforestation, wildlife protection, and sustainable agriculture, and witness the tangible impact of your efforts on Ecuador’s ecosystems.
  • Ecuador offers a variety of outdoor adventures, from hiking to ancient ruins and volcanoes to whitewater rafting in pristine rivers, making your volunteering experience both fulfilling and exhilarating.

Our Ecuador Volunteer Projects

Browse all of our volunteer projects in Ecuador below. If you can’t find a suitable volunteer program, check out our main program finder to continue your search for volunteering beyond Ecuador.

Volunteer Abroad A focused young man engages in an intense conversation amidst a large crowd.
Ecuador

Youth Sports Coaching Volunteer in Ecuador

Join our sports-focused volunteers in Ecuador and make a positive change in the lives of young athletes.

Youth Sports Coaching Volunteer in Ecuador

Join our sports-focused volunteers in Ecuador and make a positive change in the lives of young athletes.

Volunteer Abroad A group walks in a line as they embark on a scenic walk through nature together.
Ecuador

Environmental Volunteer Program in Galapagos, Ecuador

As the population of the Galapagos Islands increases, the variety of products being imported to the islands to sustain the inhabitants has brought with it invasive insects and plants that threaten the local flora and fauna of this delicate natural environment.

Environmental Volunteer Program in Galapagos, Ecuador

Galapagos Environmental Program

As the population of the Galapagos Islands increases, the variety of products being imported to the islands to sustain the inhabitants has brought with it invasive insects and plants that threaten the local flora and fauna of this delicate natural environment. Join local and international participants working to eradicate aggressive introduced plants – like Mora, Guayaba and Superroza – help with reforestation of native and endemic plants, and support the La Soledad community in recovering the natural habitat of San Cristobal Island. Other tasks may include working in the nursery sowing endemic, native plants, fruits and vegetables, working on community suppor

Volunteer Abroad
Ecuador

Teaching Volunteer in Ecuador

In Ecuador, volunteers are instrumental in English classes, fostering children's language development for their future success.

Teaching Volunteer in Ecuador

In Ecuador, volunteers are instrumental in English classes, fostering children’s language development for their future success. Moreover, volunteers lend a helping hand to teachers by assisting in the classroom and coordinating extra-curricular activities.

Location

About Quito

Quito is the capital of Ecuador and the country’s second largest city. Nestled amongst the snowy peaks of the Andes and situated between the Pichincha Volcano and the Machángara River Canyon, the city flaunts beautiful panoramas and breathtaking views in every direction. Ecuadorian history comes alive in Quito; the city is a wonderful mix of colonial and modern architecture, and its historical center has been distinguished as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Quito also does not lack for a fantastic cultural element. The city hosts a variety of museums, festivals, art galleries, shops, restaurants, and cafés for its lively and engaged population. Visitors to Quito are fortunate to have a variety of outdoor opportunities at their fingertips; from hiking in the Andes, to paragliding from a volcanic peak, to archaeological or bird-watching tours, the area has something for the cautious as well as the most adventuresome explorer.

Dates & costs

The World Endeavors Volunteer in Ecuador program is flexible in duration and can be tailored to last between 2 to 12 weeks. If you have the time, we recommend a stay of at least 4 weeks. Admissions are rolling, and World Endeavors volunteers can choose when they would like to start their program. Due to holidays, traditional vacation schedules, and seasonal work availability, there might be better times than others to volunteer at a specific location or in a specific project.

When you are ready to start planning your volunteer trip to Ecuador, contact us. Our experienced advisors will help you sort through any timing considerations unique to your destination or your volunteer project.

Please wait until after you are accepted into the program and you have received the confirmed arrival and departure dates before you book your flight.

*Please note there is an additional fee for Environmental and Wildlife Conservation projects. Contact World Endeavors for details.

First Week: $3,390 | Each Additional Week: $1,490

Eligibility

  • Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older, though exceptions to this age requirement may be made on a case-by-case basis.
  • Successful volunteers are hardworking, flexible, and open to truly immersing themselves in the culture.
  • Keep in mind that all countries have different visa restrictions for varying types of passports.

Housing

Volunteers stay with host families, where they share space, build relationships, practice language, and learn about traditional culture, food, home rituals, and customs. Host families are welcoming and friendly, usually middle class, and are hand-picked by the World Endeavors team to ensure that placements provide a safe and positive environment for the volunteer. Housing accommodations are modest, safe, and clean, but may differ from Western norms in terms of space or amenities.

Every World Endeavors Volunteer Project Includes

Our carefully designed international volunteer programs encompass everything necessary for your success and well-being while abroad.

YOUR VOLUNTEER PROGRAM

  • Volunteer project customized to match your interests and goals and meet community needs
  • Year-round program availability
  • Flexible durations from 2 to 12 weeks

PEACE OF MIND

  • Comprehensive travel medical insurance
  • Mental Health First Aid-certified staff
  • 24/7 emergency travel assistance

ACCOMMODATION

  • Host family or shared volunteer house, depending on destination
  • Vetted and hand-selected with quality and safety in mind
  • 2 to 3 meals per day included

PREPARATION AND SUPPORT

  • Airport pickup
  • Pre-arrival and on-site orientation
  • 24/7 local support

TEAM OF EXPERTS

  • Dedicated one-on-one advisor
  • Local on-site coordinator
  • Volunteer project supervisor

RE-ENTRY AND CAREER INTEGRATION

  • Re-entry handbook and support
  • Assistance with resume updates
  • World Endeavors Alumni Network

HEALTH & SAFETY

When you feel safe and respected abroad, you will flourish. World Endeavors participants are transformed through enriching, rewarding and safe experiences around the world. We meticulously monitor travel recommendations and will only facilitate programs where we can ensure our participants’ safety. 

We take key steps to ensure our participants’ well-being, including providing a pre-trip success guide, 24/7 local support, in-country trained staff, pre and post-arrival orientation, comprehensive travel medical insurance, and Mental Health First Aid-certified staff. Please contact us if you have any specific questions or concerns.

WHAT TO DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME IN ECUADOR

In Ecuador, there are plenty of exciting activities to enjoy during your spare time. Here are some suggestions:

  • Explore the Amazon Rainforest: Nature enthusiasts can embark on guided jungle tours, spot diverse wildlife, and experience the rich biodiversity of the region.
  • Hike the Andes Mountains: Explore the stunning landscapes of the Andes on popular treks, such as the Quilotoa Loop.
  • Visit Historical Cities: Wander through Ecuador’s historic cities like Quito and Cuenca, where you can admire colonial architecture, visit museums, and soak in the local culture.
  • Enjoy Local Cuisine: Delight your taste buds with Ecuadorian cuisine, including ceviche, empanadas, llapingachos (potato patties), and delicious tropical fruits.
  • Experience Indigenous Markets: Visit indigenous markets like Otavalo Market, where you can buy unique handicrafts, textiles, and traditional souvenirs.

How to choose the best volunteer program

Choosing your volunteer program is easy when you evaluate your priorities. Follow these steps to guide you toward your ideal program.

Explore a New Career

Interning abroad offers a great opportunity to explore your professional and personal interests, and help define your career path. Peruse our internship fields and past examples to find the best fit.

Choose Your Dream Destination

Finding a meaningful way to combine interning and travel to your dream location is a big incentive. Carefully consider which destinations suit your interests and international internship goals.

Improve Language Skills

Immersing yourself in a language-rich environment is the ultimate method for developing fluency. If language-learning is your goal, favor destinations that use your language of choice.

Fit your budget

Explore scholarships and financial aid to determine if these may impact your destination options. Consider the overall cost of the program and cost of living in-country to identify the optimal match.

Try our program finder to filter based on your choices.

SEARCH

Recent Ecuador Testimonials

Laura NInternship in Ecuador

They are quick in responding and extremely helpful every step of the way! I highly recommend this organization for anyone who is looking to intern/volunteer/study abroad.

Marcella FIntern in Ecuador

World Endeavors is incredible! They are professional, efficient, supportive and timely in their communications. If you get the opportunity to work with them on your international travel I would recommend jumping at the opportunity.

Abby WIntern in Ecuador

This organization truly cares about the experiences of the people they send to various countries. They communicate extremely well and ensure that you have all the necessary information before going abroad. I went to Ecuador without being involved with a school or university, and World Endeavors made the process unbelievably simple and clear!

Courtney HIntern in Ecuaudor

Oh my goodness, it was incredible! It was so cool! I got to travel and see and do much more than I was anticipating! My Spanish improved so much while I was there. I definitely got a lot of experience in OT, and was able to clock all of my shadowing hours for OT school.

Ecuador FAQs

Are the Galapagos Islands part of Ecuador?

The Galapagos Islands are part of Ecuador, located approximately 1,000 kilometers off the Ecuadorian coast. The archipelago is considered an Ecuadorian province and part of the country’s national park system.

Is Ecuador a Developing Country?

Ecuador is considered a developing country because of its lower Human Development Index value than many others, meaning that Ecuador has a lower GDP, higher poverty levels, and fewer public services than other countries.

Is Ecuador a Safe Place to Travel?

Generally, Ecuador is a safe country for travelers. However, it’s essential to take precautions to ensure your safety. Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings at all times, use caution when traveling in certain areas at night, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

What is the population of Ecuador?

According to the World Bank, Ecuador has an estimated population of 18 million people.

What language does Ecuador speak?

The primary language spoken in Ecuador is Spanish.

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Our Top Volunteer Abroad Destinations

World Endeavors volunteers support communities in several destinations in Africa, the Americas, Asia and Oceania. Our programs are located in a variety of sites, including urban and rural, economically developed and developing, and English-speaking and non-English speaking.

How to apply for a Volunteer Abroad Program

You’ve decided to volunteer abroad – congratulations! Applying for your World Endeavors program is easy and stress-free. We can’t wait to get you on your way!

STEP 1
EXPLORE & ASK

Research and compare. If you can’t decide on a program, we can guide you toward the best fit.

STEP 2
SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION

Fill out our online application form to share all your relevant details with our team.

STEP 3
ENROLL & PREPARE

Receive your official acceptance and enroll. We’ll give you all the info you need to get ready!

STEP 4
START YOUR ADVENTURE!

You’ve researched, planned and saved. Now you’re ready. It’s time to PUT YOURSELF OUT THERE!