Internships in Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

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27 Internships in Galapagos Islands, Ecuador


Intercultural Outreach Initiative (IOI)
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Travel to the island that inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, and do more than explore. Help support sea turtle conservation! As a se...
See All 4 ProgramsIntern Abroad HQ
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Launch your career in marine science with a Marine and Coastal Conservation Management Internship in the Galapagos Islands with Intern Abroad HQ. Designed for students and graduates in biology, oceanography, and environmental science, this program offers immersive field experience in one of the worl
See All 2 ProgramsGoEco - Top Volunteer Organization
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The Galapagos Giant Tortoise is an iconic animal, and native to the region. It often grows to over 6 feet long and can weigh up to 800 pounds, and therefore stands as one of the biggest tortoises and reptiles on the planet. This project has been instrumental in the conservation of these ancient
See All 2 ProgramsInstitute for Global Studies
4.5
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Intern abroad with IGS, choosing from placements across diverse areas of technology – processes, computer software, computer hardware, and data constructs. Previous participants have worked with top IT companies around the world. Our last placement was with a robotics firm that needed software suppo
See All 6 ProgramsRoots Interns
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Prepare to go on a once-in-a-lifetime journey that encourages you to become an integral part of the ongoing mission to safeguard the unparalleled ecosystems and rare species on the Isabela Island in the Galapagos. This remarkable opportunity promises to be transformative, not only for you but also f
See All 4 ProgramsInternational Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
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At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservatio
Beyond Travels
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This internship placement is based on Santa Cruz Island in the Galápagos, where a community conservation and advocacy project comes together with an eco-lodge and organic farm to protect the island’s precious biodiversity. This blended community initiative and social enterprise draws on social actio
See All 2 ProgramsELEP Volunteer & Internship Programs
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This is an ideal program for students and recent graduates looking to gain practical experience in social work within an international setting. ELEP welcomes participants who are sensitive to the needs of unfortunate children, women, seniors, and people with mental or physical disabilities. Dependi
See All 6 ProgramsA Guide to Interning Abroad in the Galapagos Islands
Fields
The primary and most obvious types of internships in the Galapagos are placements in wildlife science and environmental studies. All of the Galapagos Islands are both a national park and biological marine reserve, providing a flourishing environment for students or recent graduates who are interested in conservation, sustainability, and animal science. The huge number of endemic species makes the Galapagos Islands a haven for natural scientists of all kinds.
The Galapagos Islands are also host to a population of nearly 30,000 people, making them a great destination for interns who are interested in community development. Ecuador is a developing country, and many locals living in small towns lack access to basic resources and social services, which are otherwise widely available on the mainland. Internships in the Galapagos islands in education, social work, and medicine are all examples of additional placements in the realm of community development that are widely available.
Internships in the Galapagos Islands can last anywhere from two to six months, depending on the time of year and each intern’s availability. Although Spanish is the national language of Ecuador, and therefore the most common language spoken throughout the islands, it is also possible to intern in the Galapagos Islands in English-friendly placements. Not to mention, if you aren’t adept in the Spanish language just yet, the Galapagos Islands can be an exceedingly pleasant destination to learn Spanish.
Travel Tips
The Galapagos Islands were first stumbled upon in the 16th century, and in 1832 became an official province of Ecuador. Beginning in the early 20th century, the islands have gradually become inhabited by humans more and more. Today, the Galapagos Islands are an extremely popular tourist destination, attracting some of the highest numbers of tourists annually in all of South America.
Of the 18 main islands, only five are currently populated by humans: Baltra, Floreana, Santa Cruz, San Cristobal, and Isabela. The two largest towns within these jurisdictions are Puerto Aroya, with a population of roughly 15,000, and Puerto Baquerino Moreno, with a population of roughly 8,000.
Despite a lack of human inhabitants, great care is still taken to retain the local biodiversity; for example, nearly 98 percent of the land is protected as a biosphere reserve. Still, local endemic species remain under constant threat from non-native species and human exploitation. Hence, many interns will find themselves in the field doing research and working to curb the effects of these harmful influences.
The Galapagos region has quite a unique climate, which may shape the experience of internships on the islands. From June to November is the garua, which is marked by a steady cold wind, frequent drizzling, and a dense layer of fog which enshrouds the islands. During the warm season, from December to May, there are no winds and the sun is usually shining, yet there are erratic intense bouts of rain as well.
Cost
Since the Galapagos islands are a very popular tourist destination and most goods have to be imported, life in the Galapagos is markedly more expensive than in mainland Ecuador. Still, it is likely that many internships in Galapagos Islands will include a good portion of the costs of housing and food as payment for your placement work. It is possible to find paid internships in the Galapagos Islands, although not common.
Requirements
Living conditions will vary depending on whether you are stationed in a populated area of the islands or not. In the smaller towns, homestays are most popular form of accommodation provided to interns, and these arrangements can be an incredible way to immerse yourself in the unique local culture. Since the islands are largely isolated from the rest of South America, you may have to deal without certain luxuries, such as hot water and electrical power (in some places). However, do not fear; you’ll still have it easier than Darwin did!
The type of visa you will need to obtain to intern in the Galapagos Islands depends on many factors, such as your home country, duration of stay, and whether or not you will be paid. In many cases, you will be able to obtain the proper visa documentation upon arrival in Ecuador, but it is still important to plan ahead by consulting with your internship program provider. You can check out GoAbroad’s Ecuadorian Embassy Directory to locate a consulate or embassy in your home country so you can begin gathering information as soon as possible.
Inside Tips
Unique Environment. Not many people ever have the privilege to visit the Galapagos Islands in their lifetime, let alone live there for an extended period of time. Internships in the Galapagos Island are your key to immersion and adventure in one of the most distinctive ecosystems on the planet.
Global Work Experience. Whatever your internship in the Galapagos Islands, your international work experience will stand out as a gold star on your resume and provide you with the practical experience to succeed in future jobs. The Galapagos Islands are a challenging environment that will teach you lessons, strategies, and skills that have the ability to promote a very promising global career path.
Great Escape. Life on the Galapagos Islands can feel very far away from the fast paced buzz of life on the mainland. Instead of reacting negatively to this, use it as an opportunity to get to know your surroundings. If you learn to enjoy the escape from modern life, you will return with an invaluable perspective on life.
Popular Providers
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find Galapagos Islands internships?
You can find internships in the Galapagos Islands by browsing trusted program providers like GoAbroad.com for listings in conservation, tourism, and community development programs. Many providers also offer summer internships in Ecuador and specialized internship programs in the Galapagos. Apply early, as spots are limited, especially for paid internships in Ecuador.
What fields offer internships in the Galapagos Islands?
Fields include marine biology, eco-tourism, and community development. Internships in the Galapagos Islands are tailored to conservation and sustainability, offering participants a chance to gain hands-on skills while exploring Ecuador’s unique ecosystems.
Do Galapagos Islands internships require Spanish?
Some internships in the Galapagos Islands require basic Spanish skills, especially when working with local communities. Others are designed for English speakers. Language lessons are often included to help interns adapt while working and living in Ecuador.
Can internships lead to jobs in the Galapagos Islands?
Yes! Some internships often act as stepping stones to jobs in the Galapagos Islands. By working with conservation groups, NGOs, or tourism companies, interns build skills and professional networks. Successful placements may open the door to long-term roles in Ecuador.
Can I combine Galapagos Island tours with internships?
Absolutely. Many organizations create programs that combine Galapagos Island tours with internships to allow participants to explore, gain cultural insights, and enhance their professional development with hands-on field experience in Ecuador. Depending on the organization, some internships include Galapagos Island tours in the program fee, while others offer them as an optional extra.
Latest Program Reviews
Valuable Experience
September 24, 2025by: MCThe experience was extremely valuable to understand the healthcare system in Zambia. However, there was much less public health work than expected--only working with patients in the mornings with not enough focus on most severe cases and no public health education. Recommend if interested in healthcare and community building vs public health.
Law and Economic Development in Ecuador
August 09, 2025by: lmcdermottDuring my internship, I worked on legal and economic development for El Terreno, an NGO in rural Ecuador. This experience gave me hands-on skills in stakeholder analysis, legal writing, and economic development. The environment was wonderfully supportive, fun, and multicultural. Within a couple of hours, you can reach a capital city, beaches, islands, jungles, and more!
Just another Day in Paradise..
April 03, 2025by: travelisaTo be honest, I cannot even put into words what those last 3 months meant to me. They definitively have been the most amazing months of my life and I would give a lot to be able to go back. The island, the people, the NGO, the wildlife.. if there is a paradise, it is on the Galapagos and I am incredibly grateful that I had the chance to be part of such a wonderful organisation and was able to support the conservation of this magical place.
Internship in the Galapagos
June 18, 2024by: SiennaDoing an internship in the Galapagos meant that I could learn lots of new things whilst being in such an incredible location! Staying with a host family meant that I was immersed into the culture of the island and was able to practice my Spanish everyday.
I had an amazing time
January 05, 2023by: Lutty Mgombele - TanzaniaI went to Israel for agriculture internship for 2 years from 2019 to 2021. It was a great opportunity for me to learn more about agriculture and how can be horticultural production can integrate with aquatic or fish farming. Apart from that I learned about Jewish culture and pay visit to different places as written in the Bible about Israel
Wide range of housing options, amenities, good cost of living
January 07, 2021by: Jameson Peters - United StatesI thought that living in Australia for this aquaculture internship would cost me so much. Glad to be proved wrong. I liked that there is a wide range of housing options, provided to me by Dr. Adams. The hotel has so many amenities too. I enjoy that it also has a pool for tenants and that they have nice showers. As to cost of living, it's fantastic. My college savings aren't totally used up. Good internship, over all.
Truly an amazing internship
January 07, 2021by: An Dung - VietnamEver since I was a kid, I really have this burning passion for the environment and marine ecosystem, so when my mom knew about this internship she really took the time to message the IGS staff to accommodate me. luckily I passed the standards and screening of IGS and they assisted me in every way possible. i am grateful because I got to see hawaii in person and got to visit Haleakala National Park and the Waikiki beach. truly an amazing internship for me!
Good time
January 07, 2021by: Robin G - United Statesmy internship in aquaculture is a good way to spare time. i am interested in this field and I took different internships abt it already. good thing that IGS also gives imtermship positions even to those who already graduated, not students anymore, like me. good people and good experience
Perfect IT internship + travelling
November 05, 2020by: Luke Hardman - United StatesAs an IT student, this internship was perfect for me. I get to learn more about computer systems from a different country, and get to travel also! It was hitting two birds with one stone. This was my first time to leave my country; hence, I was nervous to go at first. Yet, IGS assured me that I am well taken care of, and that they will help me attain my fullest potential. IGS fulfilled their promise, and I thank them for that.
My mentor was so sweet and helpful
November 05, 2020by: Krystal Sho - JapanMy IGS mentor was very helpful to me. She always checked up on me and was really concerned about what I could learn in my internship. She was also very cheerful and accommodating. Even though I am introvert in an entirely different country, I never felt like I was alone. Thank you very much, IGS, for providing outstanding mentors. My fellow interns and I did both on-air and behind-the-scene positions that are great additions to our résumés. This is especially helpful to me, as I consider working in the field of Marketing in the near future. They even assured me that I will receive a Letter of Recommendation upon successful program completion. Yay!
Looking forward to another internship
October 29, 2020by: Amjelee Keyser - CanadaWell, I was an intern on the second track, where we worked for smaller professional organizations, and I was assigned to an organization that caters to ecotourism and environmental conservation. We are assigned to their IT department and assisted them in all the functions that allow them to effectually communicate with their clients. My desired country for this internship was Hawaii, and it was fulfilled!!!! I wish I could go on an internship again, but in a different country next time. Looking forward to it! Please accept me again, IGS :)
Prepared us for the real deal
October 29, 2020by: Daniel Bowman - United StatesInformation Systems, Technology, Computer Science, and Business are my main fields of interest. In my recently-concluded internship with IGS, I acquired valuable real-world experiences, not just book theories.. IGS realy prepared us 4 the actual practice of IT, considering that we also received a Letter of Recommendation upon successful program completion. Thank you very much, IGS. I am eternally grateful.
SO HAPPY TO TAKE THIS INTERNSHIP *happy cries
October 29, 2020by: Jem Jacobs - Hawaii (USA)IM SO HAPPY I TOOK THIS INTERNSHIP HUHU As a multimedia intern, I am glad to learn new production techniques using the latest editing softwares and methods. Usually, the latest softwares come at a very expensive price; but here, I learned it FOR FREE! We were also able to work with a team of respected media experts. They gave us career advising, which really inspired me to do better and be just like them in the future :)
Great cointernz
October 29, 2020by: Michelle Nguyen - VietnamMy favourite part of the internship is developing rapport with my co-interns,, I broadened my global network, experienced field filming, and at the same time enjoyed and went on trips in our host city,, I will remember it for the rest of my life, for sure,,
My inner computer nerd was jumping for joy
October 14, 2020by: Jamal Singh - IndiaDuring my IGS internship, we learned about computer softwares and hardwares – my main interests and passions! I also acquired additional knowledge on data constructs and communication strategies - great additions to my stock knowledge. I was under the first track for the interns and we solved the IT needs of large businesses and firms. It was challenging at the start but I liked that we survived it anyway. My inner computer nerd was jumping for joy!
My dream to be an associate of a top robotics firm came true
October 14, 2020by: Jordan Chapman - United KingdomWorking with Mr. Smith was the most remarkable experience for me. I never knew my dream to be an associate of a top robotics firm would come true! The housing, setup, airport pickup, pre-trip reader, and office support are all provided by IGS, which makes our lives hassle-free. All we need to think about is how to enjoy and learn from our internship.
So many multimedia opportunities
October 14, 2020by: Nancy Burton - American SamoaHonestly, I’ve been interested in working closely with leading producers and on-air talents, and this is the best fit for me! My experience in film and editing was helpful, but my other colleagues who were not that experienced still had a great time. There are so many multimedia opportunities provided to us. Thank you, IGS!
Sparks up my creativity!
October 14, 2020by: Donna Angelie Sazs - United StatesI am grateful for IGS that I gained hands-on experience in the news and entertainment industry. I particularly enjoyed doing backstory research – it sparks up my creativity by crafting history for characters and plots!
These guys are real pros
June 17, 2020by: Max L.I compose my own music and really wanted to work in a sound studio to learn more about the craft. IGS helped locate one of the premier sound editing studios in Sydney. Top artists from around the county come here to create musical scores for movies, documentaries, commercials and their own private gigs. They got me my own studio space to work on my sound. And, I am able to assist other producers on some really exciting projects. Learning on the latest equipment and seeing how professionals organize their music will really help me for the future. The director of the studio even had me and my cousin over for dinner. These guys are real pros.
The amount of responsibility I am given
May 23, 2020by: Henry D.The coolest part of working at the Virtual Reality Studio is the amount of responsibility I am given. From Day One they trained me to be a Game Master. I do the same job that the owner of the company does. First I introduce clients to the rules of the game and how the equipment works. Then comes the neat part. I monitor the mainframe computer when the participants are playing. On my screen, I see what the players see. If the players are on Mars and they can’t find a tool they need, I give them a hint. My job is to keep the game moving along and allow the players to feel challenge, but give tips when they are frustrated.
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