Description

Eco-Volunteer UP Foundation is a non-profit organization which is recognized legally by Ecuadorian Government. We offer volunteers real immersion in the various Ecuadorian ecosystems, and real opportunities for learning and sharing the Ecuadorian cultures, costumes and traditions.

Many people come to Ecuador either to visit the natural wonders that our country has to offer or to volunteer in projects around the country. We now have a new offer that will allow visitors to experience the best of both worlds in only two weeks.

With a two-week break on your hands, you can come to Ecuador and spend the first week volunteering and the second week visiting key attractions, and exploring the rich culture and many landscapes of Ecuador, from dense Amazon jungle to the volcanic peaks of the Andes. Or, if you would like to volunteer for a longer period in Ecuador, you can extend your stay in the volunteer program and take part in Volunteer-Ecuadorian expeditions at the same time.

Highlights

Expeditions:

* The Amazon: Travel by canoe with your guide on one of the vast rivers of the Ecuadorian jungle. Explore trails covered with lush and diverse vegetation and learn about some of the flora and fauna unique to this region.

Share the customs and traditions of some of the jungle cultures such as the huaorani or tagaeri people. You can join night walks to watch the caimans, fish for piranhas or participate in a shamanic ritual with the indigenous people. Your trip to the jungle will be an unforgettable experience.

* The Coast: Besides being one of the most important ports of the country, the province of Esmeraldas also boasts mangroves, exotic islands, some of the best beaches in Ecuador and, best of all for beachgoers, the warm water of the Pacific Ocean. The Choco bioregion is known for its incredible plant and animal biodiversity. You will know the Afro-Esmeraldas culture, swim and taste the best food in Esmeraldas beaches.

* The Andes: At 19,347 feet, Cotopaxi is the world's highest active volcano, and once you've seen this snow-capped wonder you will never forget it. South of Cotopaxi, at the foot of the fearsome volcano called Tungurahua, is the city of baths, or Baños. Baños is a paradise for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, photographers and, of course, bathers! Immerse yourself in this striking landscape and enjoy horseback riding, rafting or mountain biking. Another Andes town, Papallacta, is famous for its natural hot springs. This is an idyllic place to relax, surrounded by the stunning scenery of steep green hillsides and towering mountains. Finally, no visit to the Andes is complete without a trip to Otavalo, the largest indigenous handicraft market in South America where you can browse, bargain and buy items from the locals.

Travel Types

• Birdwatching
• Eco Tours
• Fishing
• Hiking
• Homestay
• Horseback Riding
• Nature Tours
• Photography
• Rafting
• RainForest Tours
• Sports
• Student Tours
• Tours
• Trekking
• Volunteering

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

Summer Volunteer Expeditions (2 weeks) USD 990

Program Fees Include:

Orientation and support during the time you are volunteering and on expeditions, pick up airport, seven days of volunteer work, seven days of trips, private transport (for the 7 days of the trip), three meals per day, accommodations, rafting, and entrance fees to parks.

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living
• Home-stays
• Independent living
• Other

Application Process Involves

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Eco Volunteer UP Foundation's Mission Statement

We are a non-profit organization which is legally recognized by the Ecuadorian Government. Volunteers with Eco Volunteer UP have the choice of many worthy programs, such as vulnerable orphanages, institutes for children with disabilities, street children and local indigenous communities. There are volunteer programs located in and around Quito, the capital of Ecuador, as well as programs located in the Cloud Forest and its communities close to Quito, the Ecuadorian Amazon, the Galapagos Islands and other key places around Ecuador. We offer volunteers real immersion in the various Ecuadorian ecosystems, and the unique opportunity for learning and sharing about Ecuadorian cultures, costumes and traditions.