Description

Giant tortoises have lived on Isabella Island for ages, and since the introduction of different species to the island (such as cats and goats), the tortoise survival rate has been affected. Volunteers will assist in feeding and measuring the tortoises, and in monitoring the tortoise eggs. You will also assist in record keeping and logging descriptions of tortoise activities, behavior and changes. Volunteers should be sensitive to animals and the environment and willing to learn about environmental conservation and preserving local species. *Please note the minimum is 12 weeks.

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.

Qualifications

* Participants must be at least 18 years of age
* Participants must speak at least at an intermediate level of Spanish
* Participants must be eligible to receive a tourist visa to Ecuador

Languages

• English
• Spanish

Cost in US$:

12 weeks: USD 3,745; Additional Weeks USD 250 per week

Cost Includes:

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

• Animal Welfare
• Conservation
• Eco-tourism
• Marine Conservation
• Wildlife Surveying

This Program is open to

Worldwide, American, Australian, Canadian, European and Kiwi Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living
• Home-stays
• Other

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently

Application Process Involves

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

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