Description

AIDE Abroad's volunteer abroad program in Ecuador provides opportunities to explore the fields of ecotourism, conservation, and social development. On the Galapagos Islands you can work towards saving giant tortoises or teach English, and in Quito you can empower women by educating them about their rights. Volunteers will also have the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in Ecuadoran culture, which varies between the markedly different regions of the coast, mountains, and tropics. We offer placements throughout the country, where participants will have the opportunity to both explore nature and live with an Ecuadoran host family.

Highlights

While volunteering in Ecuador, you can explore the natural beauty and rich history for which this South American country is known. Whether your interest is visiting the Amazon, exploring colonial towns, or relaxing on the beach, you will be able to combine some or all of these with your volunteer abroad program. AIDE Abroad works with a variety of projects in Ecuador, and we will work with you to place you in a project that will benefit both you and the local community.

AIDE Abroad believes that international service learning develops intercultural competence, as well as tolerance and understanding of circumstances and societies that are different from our own. Our aim is to build a worldwide community of global citizens who will be part of an ongoing intercultural conversation. Welcome aboard, and we hope that you enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Acceptance to our volunteer abroad program may be dependent upon age and Spanish language ability. We offer in-country Spanish courses for those who would like to improve their Spanish before starting their volunteer program.

Qualifications

* At least 18 years old
* Some projects require intermediate Spanish. Languages courses prior to the volunteer program are available for beginners.
* Eligible to receive a tourist visa to Ecuador

Languages

• English
• Spanish

Cost in US$:

2 weeks start at USD 1,095; Additional weeks start at USD 200

Cost Includes:

• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Medical insurance
• Pre-departure orientation/Training
• Written materials pre-departure
• Registration fees

Program Fees Include:

AIDE Abroad Volunteer Abroad Services

- Guaranteed placement prior to departure for Ecuador
- Detailed placement offer (including duties, responsibilities, and other relevant information)
- Accommodation with a host family and meals
- Pre-departure orientation and detailed handbook
- Visa assistance (if needed)*
- Travel Medical Insurance
- Airport pickup and transfer to accommodation
- Arrival orientation
- Full-time local representative in Ecuador
- 24/7 personal support and emergency number
- Certificate of completion (upon request)
- Assistance receiving service learning hours (check with your university advisor for requirements)
- Language class placement (class prices not included in program fee)**

*Most tourist visas for Ecuador are valid for up to 90 days. The length of AIDE Abroad's programs depends on each participants visa allowance. All participants are responsible for ensuring their proper visa documentation for the extent of their stay. We recommend checking with your local Ecuadoran consulate for the most up-to-date visa information.

**For those who need them, optional language classes are available. Language classes are a great way to be introduced to a new country and to improve your Spanish skills. Classes are held prior to the start of participants volunteer programs, and participants will be placed in a small group to receive lessons. These classes are highly recommended, especially if you are not intermediate or have not practiced your Spanish recently.

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Home-stays
• Group living

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently

Application Process Involves

• In-Person Interview when Feasible
• Letters of Reference
• Resume
• Written Application
• Phone/Video Interview

Typically The Application Process Time is

3 months

AIDE Abroad's Mission Statement

AIDE Abroad's mission is to provide international experiences that impart professional and personal growth, develop leadership skills, and enhance intercultural competence and understanding.

Year Founded

2007