How to Volunteer Abroad in Ecuador The large majority, 80% of Ecuadorians, are Roman Catholic. Although there is definitely a lot of American media influence, expect a culture that is relatively socially conservative, when compared to North America. Most Ecuadorians are a mix of European and American Indian descent, with 98% of the population speaking Spanish. There is still a very visible indigenous population, particularly in marketplaces, who speak Quechua and dress in the traditional bright clothing so volunteers won’t have to travel far to see the roots of Ecuador’s people. Depending on when you go, expect to enjoy frequent festivals such as Carnival and Semana Santa, that combine religious tradition with local indigenous customs. Plus, witness an intense passion for their favorite sport, soccer.
Ecuadorian cuisine varies depending on the region, but most meals start off with soup and are followed by pork, chicken, or even cuy, which means Guinea pig and is a local favorite. Expect a lot of rice and bread no matter where you are and seafood is very popular on the coast.
Types of work available
There is a huge variety of volunteer work available, depending on the type of desired experience. International non-governmental organizations, or NGOs, in Quito need support from English speakers, and quiet wildlife reserves in the Amazon need volunteers to feed monkeys and parrots. Volunteers can also choose to live and work at a hacienda, or farm, in the countryside herding llamas.
If it’s your first time volunteering abroad, it might be smart to work through an English-speaking organization with offices around the world that provide support to independent and local projects. This will give you a placement that is accustomed to taking in large numbers of international volunteers, as well as an idea of the scope of opportunities available. Giving basic medical care on the coast, teaching English in the Andes, or working with street kids in the poorest neighborhoods of Quito are just some of the many volunteer opportunities in Ecuador.
Choosing The Right Program
The experience you have as a volunteer will vary greatly depending on where you choose to work and what your interests are. If you are looking for an experience that will surround you with people from all over the globe, look into the volunteer communities that exist in major cities and in the countryside, particularly in fields such as animal care and working with children. Working at a hacienda (typically at a countryside hotel and restaurant) or for an NGO in Quito, will be more of an immersive, solo experience, definitely something best pursued by those who speak at least intermediate Spanish. Locals almost always receive foreigners very well but be prepared for some ogling and the occasional cat-call to females.
On time off, Ecuador provides endless possibilities for travel to varying landscapes. Travel by public transport is very inexpensive and, especially in Quito, relatively well-organized. It is possible to go from the Andes Mountains, to the Amazon Rainforest, to the sunny coast in only a matter of hours. Volunteers in Ecuador spend their free time ziplining through the jungle, hiking around the capital city of Quito, or enjoying themselves in the sand and waves of the Pacific Ocean.
Need For Volunteers
Like any other endeavor, it’s important to have reasonable expectations. Unless you are a trained professional working in your field, your contribution may seem modest but that is not the case. The personal nature of the work and diversity from which you can choose a project are priceless. Many volunteers have undergraduate degrees or are in pursuit of one but spend your days working construction. Don’t underestimate your importance! Volunteerism is needed everywhere for these types of projects.
Many animal reserves are eager for volunteers, and particularly from November-March, when there are fewer travelers. Organizations that work with kids are very understaffed so it easy to find a program in this area. One perk is that positions that involve working with children typically allow a lot of room for creativity to tailor the program to your skills. Most allow volunteers to suggest ideas for improvements and new activities such as martial arts or art classes. NGOs may allow you to undertake your own individual projects for them in your free time.
Opportunity is ample for volunteering in Ecuador. If after starting in one placement you truly feel you are not contributing anything to your project or it just isn’t a good fit, it is typically easy to change to a new area.
Housing
Housing in Ecuador is very inexpensive. Staying in a homestay with a local family is an excellent way to work on your Spanish, have traditional Ecuadorian meals provided, and gain a more immersive cultural experience. The majority of volunteer programs have a homestay option. If you would rather live with other international students, some programs provide housing for volunteers. This allows you to live with your co workers, regardless if you’re living in downtown Quito or a village in the Amazon. If neither of these options sound like what you are looking for, it is possible organize housing separately from your volunteer position. Some volunteers set up accommodations through organizations such as Couch Surfers and the South American Explorer Club. They are straightforward, easy to arrange, and a great way to meet new people.
Language
Spanish is an extremely useful language to learn and lessons are widely available and highly affordable. Ecuadorian Spanish is relatively slow compared to other countries in South America and it has few irregularities, making it a great place to learn (although it does get faster on the coast). If you’re a complete beginner in Spanish, sticking to major cities where most people speak a bit of English can make your stay and transition easier. It is still a good idea to learn a few basic phrases in Spanish before your arrival.
Affordability
Ecuador is very affordable overall, except for major tourism hot-spots like the Galapagos Islands. Public transportation, taxis, and non-American products are all relatively inexpensive, but foreigners are often charged higher rates. Be prepared to ask cabs for the fee before you get in the car, and to bargain down the price for clothes and any souvenirs you want to buy.
Hanging out with Ecuadorians is another great way to avoid paying more than you should. There are bargain options everywhere including islands off the coast which have been dubbed “The Poor Man’s Galapagos.” They have most of the animals that the actual Galapagos Islands have but with a much lower price tag. Rural areas are particularly affordable with many haciendas offering room and board in exchange for work. If you choose to arrange your international volunteer experience through a provider it will make your fees higher but also provides a great support system which can be priceless if you are a first timer.