Description

In today's world many of the mammal and plant species are endangered; and the ecosystems and habitats on which life depends is in decline. We have many projects that anyone with enthusiasm can be involved in from turtle conservation in Bolivia to Blue Macaw protection in Costa Rica. Through volunteering in wildlife conservation you will be able to take part in scientific research, environmental education, hands on experience with animals and work alongside experienced professionals.

*Environmental Conservation on Biological Stations in the Andes

Founded in 1985 with its original conservation center in the Ecuadorian Amazon, this premiere biological preservation foundation is committed to research and habitat restoration in natural areas deemed the most at risk by international conservation organizations. Despite its small land mass, Ecuador is renowned for its megadiversity due to its variety of life zones. Volunteers have 3 locations to choose from in the Andes. Although the locations are different, the aim of the Stations remains the same: to conserve the natural environment, work towards sustainable development, educate the community about conservation and ecology and to promote economic activities that are environmentally friendly, while also beneficial for the local communities.

*Environmental Conservation on Biological Stations on the Ecuador Coast

The mission of this project is to promote the conservation of Ecuador's biodiversity through scientific research, environmental education programs, community development and sustainable management of natural resources. In this coastal region - in which there are two locations to choose from - this program focuses on mangrove restoration and biomarine species, with other project options that involve direct interaction with the local community either in schools, hospitals or in the cacoa cooperatives.

*Amazon Rainforest Wildlife Rescue in Ecuador

Founded in 2006 in partnership with a local indigenous family that lives in the Amazon rainforest, this centre works with the Ministry of the Environment and the Environmental Police to rescue and rehabilitate wild animals from the jungle that were victims of abuse and animal trafficking. This placement is ideal for people interested in biology, animal rights, conservation, and environmental policy. Remote, but beautiful, the property teems with its talkative residents: parrots, monkeys, turtles, wild cats, and other mammals who call the verdant, lush green surroundings of this idyllic tropical location home.

Highlights

Nowhere else on earth will you find so much natural diversity - and all the fun that accompanies it - in such a small country. In one day's drive you can journey from the Amazon Basin across glaciated Andean volcanoes, down through tropical cloud forest and arrive at a seaside village on the Pacific coast, where the water is warm.

Traditionally the impoverished have resided in rural areas but with rapid urbanization over the last 25 years, the urban population in poverty has risen from 1.5 million to around 3.5 million. Some of the characteristics of poverty in urban and rural areas are low educational achievement, informal sector employment, and rented, instead of owned, housing.

*Mount Chimborazo:
Mount Chimborazo is an inactive volcano and is the highest peak in Ecuador at 20,565 ft. It is also the farthest point on the planet from the Earth's core. It is a day's climb to the summit from base camp and the awesome towering ice-capped peak is a major incentive to reach the summit.

*Paragliding in the Andes:
View the spectacular views of the Ecuadorian Andes through the thrilling experience of paragliding. Carry out a tandem flight and no experience is required. The best places to paraglide are Crucita beach, Pichincha Mountains and the cliffs above Canoa.

*Andean Biking:
Ecuador is a premier mountain biking destination with its diversity of biking terrain and scenery. From Quito there are a number of rides ranging from snow-capped Andean volcanoes, cloud forests and jungle upon hundreds of miles of traffic-free trails.

There are great projects doing great work but with more funds and staff so much more could be done. You can offer so many things to Ecuadorians. Volunteers can engage in numerous activities with the men, women and children.

Qualifications

Experience and passion for working in the community and interacting with the people are needed. Participants must also possess enthusiasm and a willingness to learn about the environment and the place's culture.

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

Please visit the website for more information.

Cost Includes:

• Excursions
• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Language instruction
• Pre-departure orientation/Training
• Registration fees

Program Fees Include:

* Accommodation: Shared room in a volunteer house.
* Food: 3 meals per day  Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
* Airport pick up and drop off
* Training: Pre-departure pack, on-site orientation and project induction included
* Support: 24-hour support
* Local SIM card: All volunteers are given a local SIM card to use in their mobile phones. The network of the SIM is Porta and your phone must be unlocked to be able to use it
* Excursions planning: Staff will help plan activities and excursions (activities may cost extra)

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Typical Volunteer

A Kaya volunteer shows enthusiasm, spirit and life to stimulate and bring something new to the residents; love, patience and a listening ear for the people; and a good motivator with a positive and optimistic attitude.

Age Range

Must be more than 18 years old

This Program is open to

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

Typical Living Arrangements

• Home-stays

Participants Travel

Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network

Kaya Responsible Travel's Mission Statement

Kaya's mission is to promote sustainable social, environmental and economic development, empower communities and cultivate educated, compassionate global citizens through responsible travel.

Year Founded

2008