GVI

Volunteer in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador, South America

Ecuador
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Location
Ecuador: Galapagos Islands

Program Duration
2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks

Typical Duration of Program
5-8 weeks

Dates
Please visit the website for upcoming start dates.

  • Description

    Known by ancient seafarers as the "Enchanted Isles", the island is famed for being part of the inspiration for Charles Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection.

    Join GVI in the Galapagos Islands and live in one of the world's finest habitats, amongst incredible wildlife including iguanas, tortoises, sea lions and a huge variety of bird species (many which are endemic to the islands). Help with data field research, environmental education, community service, plant conservation, agro-forestry and reserve maintenance. Gain experience, have a great time, and help on these conservation programs in a variety of ways. A week of Spanish lessons are also included on the program.

    How this program makes a difference?

    The Biological Research Station opened on San Cristobal in 2003. Since then, the station field house and a significant nursery and green house operation have been constructed. Volunteers have begun reforestation work with national park employees, replacing exotic invasive plants with native species. Future plans include the construction of a native plant corridor, from the dry forest portion of the reserve below to the moist forest above. The greenhouse operation will be used to develop organic production processes for fruits and vegetables that are on the approved growing list for the islands. Reforestation with native plants will be emphasized as a Plant Production Center is developed.

  • Highlights

    * Work in the Galapagos Islands
    * Participate in the restoration of habitats
    * Visit ecologically important sites
    * Teach visitors about ecological issues
    * Explore the island
    * Marvel at the unique wildlife
    * Participate in the restoration of habitats

  • Qualifications

    No special training or qualifications are required as you will receive all necessary training in the field.

  • Languages

    • English

  • Cost in US$:

    From USD 2,095 for 5 weeks

  • Program Fees Include:

    The Volunteer contribution includes all your food, accommodation, training materials and project equipment.

  • Experience Required

    no

  • Volunteer Types

    • Animal Welfare
    • Biological Research
    • Conservation
    • Cutting Wood
    • Eco-tourism
    • Fixing Fences
    • Planting
    • Reforestation
    • Trail Building
    • Wildlife Surveying
  • This Program is open to

    Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals.

  • Participants Travel

    Independently

  • Application Process Involves

    • Online Application plus Application Assessment
  • Typically The Application Process Time is

    1-2 weeks

  • GVI's Mission Statement

    Global Vision International aims to promote the advancement of sustainable development through the creation of partnerships, promotion of local and global education, opportunities and via direct financial support. GVI remains committed to its local partners by ensuring they receive full credit for any research undertaken or achievements reached.

  • Year Founded

    1998

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Testimonials

In 2005 I took a career break and decided to travel around Central and South America with some friends. I researched destinations and decided to spend some time in Guatemala as I was fascinated by ...

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Victoria Grant

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Institution Affiliates
World Youth Student & Educational Travel Confederation