Description

This grassroots farm is set in 25 acres of agro-ecologically farmed land, stunning views of the Andes, Cotopazi peak and snow capped Volcanoes of Cayambe and Fuya Fuya.

Established in 1953, the foundation that manages this farm is a non-profit, non-religious Ecuadorian NGO that continually initiates diverse community outreach programs in rural Ecuador. The foundation further promotes the participation of the farming communities and the local population in processes of building and strengthening their identities.

Highlights

Though tasks and pace of the farm may vary, we bet once your nearly done with your program, you'll be wondering where the time went! You'll have the incredible opportunity to practice local farming methods with some of the best farmers in the world!

Examples of typical tasks performed at the farm:

* Organic Vegetable garden: Soil management, seed beds, natural pest control, worm compost, BIOL liquid fertilizers, crop rotation and medicinal plants.
* Tree Nursery: Prepare seeds and substrate, graft plants, transplant seedlings, learn the uses of different tree species and reforestation (according to the season).
* The fields: Use the "azadon" to cultivate the land, water crops, harvest fruit and vegetables, crop diversity and live fences.
* Guinea pigs: Collect feed and encourage breeding (as a traditional meal, the "cuy" forms an important part of local culture).
* Cattle: Feeding and milking, collecting manure for composting and making cheese.

Fear not, not all your time spent here will be getting your hands dirty and brow wet! After work volunteers frequently head to town for personal shoppings or internet cafes or hang around the farm to set-up hammocks, read & relax, explore the area, hike to the laguna or takes trips to Otavalo's famous market!

Accommodations:
* Cozy dormitories
* Twin rooms and small dormitories (max. 4 beds/ room)
* Bathrooms with hot showers
* Lounge & BBQ area
* Full board

Qualifications

* Language: English and Spanish

* Skills: No special skills are required. You should have the wish to work in the nature and be committed to environmental conservation.

* Vaccination: Please ask for medical advice in your home country and check check the general entry regulation that apply for your home country.

* Insurance: Full travel & medical insurance for Ecuador

* Visa: Tourist visa (90 days, not extendable); for longer stays volunteer visa (valid for 6 months).

Languages

• English
• Spanish

Cost in US$:

see our website for exact prices

Cost Includes:

• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support

Program Fees Include:

What's included:
- Accommodation
- Three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Orientation kit
- Local support
- 24h-Emergency Number

What's not included:
- Flight
- Airport Pick-up
- Medical Insurance
- Visa (if necessary)
- Personal expenses
- Local Travels

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Age Range

18+ years

This Program is open to

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

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves

• Resume
• Written Application

Typically The Application Process Time is

Flexible

South America Inside's Mission Statement

Our programs are addressed to the humanitarian traveler, whether you are a student, professional or retiree. Anyone who wants to explore Latin America not as a mere tourist, but rather as an insider through an experience that goes beyond the ordinary, we invite you into our community! We organize Spanish and Portuguese courses as well as internship and volunteer work positions in nearly all countries of Central and South America. We help in organizing language courses, internships, volunteer work projects as well as in choosing the right country for you. We aim to select partners who are just off the beaten path and/or entail unique and special features to make your experience unforgettable!

Year Founded

2003