GoAbroad

Internships in Ecuador

Ecuador is a country straddling the equator with a geographic diversity ranging from the Amazon rainforest, to the Andes Mountains, to the Galapagos Islands. The people straddle two worlds, the colonial world of Catholic churches and town plazas, and the indigenous culture of the villages and rural Ecuador. Internships in Ecuador range from social welfare projects related to Ecuador’s developing status, to wildlife and natural science internships owed to the country’s location and nature, to international relations and journalism internship placements in the vibrant cities of Ecuador.
Read More

158 Internships in Ecuador

Opera House

Featured Provider of the Month

Adelante Abroad
Adelante Abroad logo

Adelante Abroad

9.1

10

Internships in Ecuador - Adelante Abroad

Ready to gain professional work experience and perfect your skill...

See All 9 Programs
a group photo of international interns in Ecuador
El Terreno logo

El Terreno

9.67

15

Architecture & Sustainable Construction Internship - Ecuador

Join this hands-on internship and help low-income Indigenous comm...

See All 12 Programs

GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

9.7

40

GoEco - Top Rated & Award Winning Volunteer Programs Abroad

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and medical initiatives. GoEco operates in over 50 countries, providing unique cultural immersive experiences that aim to make a positive impact on the environment and society. The organization also offers internships and academic programs for students. GoEco provides safe and meaningful experiences while promoting sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions.

See All 7 Programs

International Medical Aid (IMA)

9.96

168

Global Health & Pre-Medicine Internships Abroad | IMA

IMA offers an opportunity to enhance your medical and healthcare knowledge with International Medical Aid's Pre-Med and Health Fellowships. Crafted for pre-med undergraduates, medical students, and high school students, these fellowships offer a unique chance to engage deeply with global health care in East Africa, South America, and the Caribbean. Shadow doctors in underserved communities, and immerse yourself in diverse healthcare systems through our extensive network of public and private hospitals. IMA, a nonprofit organization, is deeply invested in the communities we serve, focusing on sustainable health solutions and ethical care practices. You'll be involved in community medical clinics, public health education, and first responder training, addressing the root causes of disease and illness alongside local community leaders. Beyond clinical experience, explore the beauty of your host country through cultural excursions and adventure programs during your free time. Join IMA's fellowships developed at Johns Hopkins University and step into a role that transcends traditional healthcare learning, blending clinical excellence with meaningful community service.

See All 12 Programs

Intercultural Outreach Initiative (IOI)

9.41

27

Sea Turtle Nest Monitoring and Conservation in Galapagos

Travel to the island that inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, and do more than explore. Help support sea turtle conservation! As a sea turtle nest monitor, you'll walk the 2-km stretch of coastline on beautiful Isabela Island, collecting data for the Galapagos National Park to support the management plan of the local beach. Join a team collecting data on the nesting patterns of the Green Sea Turtle, the species nesting in Isabela. Some of your responsibilities will include the following: - Observing and taking data on nest sizes - Determining nesting patterns of the Green Sea Turtle, the turtle species nesting on Isabela beaches, and marking laid nests. - Removing rubbish and debris to keep the beach clear. - Dedicating 3 hours weekly to removing "kikuyu" (grass) from the turtle nesting area, an invasive plant growing along the beach, thus blocking turtle nesting. - Measuring erosion to compare changes in the beach profile over time. The work schedule is from 6 am to 8 am and between 8 pm and 1 am (the night walk will vary depending on high tide when you are in Isabela).

See All 4 Programs

Institute for Global Studies

0

0

Animal Shelter and Dog Day Care Internships

If you love animals and are up to the challenge of protecting them, join our internships in animal welfare. IGS students have worked in shelters and dog daycares in Hawaii, Boston, Auckland, Sydney, and other locations worldwide. Shelter work focuses primarily on cats and dogs no longer cared for, have been abandoned, or were born feral. Shelters protect both animals and society from unsafe relationships and interactions. They provide immunizations and create a safe space for the animals to integrate into human society if possible. Our students help the staff check in new animals. They accompany the staff during board meetings. They carry out daily rounds to check in on animal welfare and health. When medical care is needed, they accompany the dogs or cats to the veterinarian.

See All 54 Programs

Roots Interns

0

0

Public Health and WASH Engineering Internship in Ecuador

Join Manna Project International as they work to implement a comprehensive WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) program in the indigenous Kichwa community of Shandia. Situated in the amazonian rainforest region of Ecuador, you’ll work in the early stages of plans to construct a filtration system supplying the community with clean drinking water, providing testing and treatment for water-borne diseases, and implementing education around WASH. This unique opportunity allows you to contribute to a grassroots initiative and also engage in diverse tasks such as fundraising, marketing, and education initiatives. This internship is ideal for individuals passionate about public health, project management, and making a significant impact on the lives of the indigenous community. With Manna Project International, you'll have the chance to serve disadvantaged communities and break the cycle of poverty through their holistic approach to community development. Prepare to embrace the rural Kichwa culture, adapt to new challenges, and build lasting relationships while staying in comfortable accommodations within walking distance of the community and Manna's center.

See All 12 Programs

World Endeavors

9.38

13

Intern in Ecuador with World Endeavors

Join World Endeavors for an affordable and unique internship opportunity in Ecuador. Ecuador is one of those rare destinations in the world that seems to have the right combination of natural beauty, intriguing history, and vibrant culture. Nestled along the Equator in the northwest corner of the South American continent, much of the country remains wild and uncharted. It is home to the highest active volcano in the world, pristine Pacific beaches, and unspoiled tropical rain forests, as well as ancient Incan history now echoed through the lively Ecuadorian culture. Interns must be 18 years or older and have completed high school (or equivalent). World Endeavors’ International Internship program is open to current students, graduates, and mid-career professionals. Internship placement opportunities increase with experience or relevant coursework.

Child Family Health International

9.5

6

Global Health in Quito, Ecuador

Experience the rich culture and history of Ecuador's vibrant capital city while learning about the healthcare challenges facing the region. One of Child Family Health International's longest-running programs, the Andean Health program offers a comprehensive learning experience that encompasses both unique cultural opportunities and the chance to work at a variety of clinical sites. This program is open to those who possess: * Minimal Spanish * Conversant Spanish or * Fluent Spanish This program is open to individuals who are 20 or over at the time of participation. We accept students of all nationalities with interest in international health and relevant educational background. Participants may be any of the following: * Medical Residents, MD & DO * Medical Students, MD & DO 1-2 * Medical Students, MD & DO 3-4 * Pre-Medical Students * Post-bacc pre-medical students * Gap year pre-medical students * Graduate nursing students * Nursing Students * MPH Students * Physicians Assistants Students * Naturopathic students If you do not fit into one of these categories, please contact us to see if you would be eligible to apply.

See All 3 Programs

Beyond Travels

9

4

Amazonian Indigenous Plant Medicine & Herbalism

The Amazon rainforest stands as one of the most biodiverse ecosystems globally, hosting over 40,000 plant species. Numerous Amazonian flora and fauna species possess medicinal properties, contributing to about 25 percent of pharmaceutical drugs derived from the rainforest. The primary indigenous group in the region, the Kichwa nation, is renowned for its use of natural healing and plant medicine, treating a wide array of conditions, from common colds to chronic illnesses and wounds. Despite the coexistence of traditional and Western medicine in the area, this province suffers from disproportionate access to healthcare and lacks educational resources for disease prevention. Interns live with an Indigenous host family and experience how herbs and medicine naturally coexist in daily life through the Kichwa chakra system. Interns help cultivate plants, take part in ceremonies, and assist with preparing simple remedies such as teas, salves, or tinctures. Along the way, you’ll observe how ancestral knowledge and forest-based healing are woven into everyday practices.

See All 8 Programs

IES Abroad

9.27

30

IES Abroad: Study Abroad & Intern

IES Abroad offers 140+ programs in more than 35 locations worldwide for undergraduate students. We're a little obsessed with study abroad, and not at all ashamed to admit it. We are a highly-charged force of study abroad enthusiasts. Every day we have the privilege of witnessing how study abroad changes our students' lives. That's the reason we do what we do: to provide once-in-a-lifetime educational adventures. Everything we do is about the IES Abroad student. Our goal is to provide personal support and guidance throughout your application and enrollment process. Whether it's housing or cultural events or field trips, our job is to make sure you have the most authentic study abroad experience possible. Study with us for a summer, semester, or year. No matter the term, our world-class faculty and courses will engage you as you discover new ways of learning both inside and outside the classroom. How will study abroad redefine you? We can't wait to find out.

Kaya Responsible Travel

10

1

Social Justice Internship in Ecuador

Sign up for this program and contribute to efforts in turning into reality the equal distribution of privileges, opportunities, and wealth within the Ecuadorian society. The Social Justice Internship in Ecuador collaborates with several local organizations based in and around central Quito. They work in certain areas of social and legal rights – gender, LGBTQ+, human, nature, and housing – as well as gender violence. Your placement depends on your experience, interests, and skills. As a social justice intern, contribute to the ultimate goal of equal social, political, and economic opportunities and rights for everyone. You’ll make a lasting impact by helping address relevant issues faced by Ecuadorian NGOs and local communities. You could provide a safe meeting place and help organize social activities for the members of an LGBTQ+ community. Or, you could help give access to clean, drinkable water and sanitation systems. This internship program is available starting Spring, with arrivals throughout the year and a duration of 4-12 weeks. You will go through the interview process to help us determine your eligibility and to place you with a suitable organization.

See All 9 Programs

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

9.56

809

Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!

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 Conservation, Medical Outreach, and Environmental Sustainability. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported over 155,000 volunteers on life-changing journeys. We specialize in fully-hosted volunteer trips that are safe, affordable, and accessible—starting from just $20 per day. Your experience includes airport pick-up, accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock support from our local teams. With flexible booking options and no change fees, planning your volunteer adventure has never been easier. Our programs run year-round and are available for 1 to 24 weeks across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, South and Central America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Volunteering with IVHQ is about more than giving back; it’s about growing, learning, and building genuine global connections.

World Unite!

0

0

Wildlife Rehabilitation Amazon Rainforest in Ecuador

This on-site program provides an opportunity to gain exclusive and specialist knowledge about animal rehabilitation in Ecuador and the Amazon rainforest. You will contribute to animal care and welfare, assisting with tasks such as food preparation, feeding, behavioral observations, and rehabilitation activities. You may also help with facility maintenance, including enclosure repairs and construction. Additionally, you can learn about handling clinical cases, newborns, and animal nutrition. This program is suitable for students of biology, conservation, zoology, and anyone interested in animal welfare and conservation. However, everyone can join without any previous knowledge. The project is located near Arajuno, about an hour's drive northeast of Puyo, in the Ecuadorian Amazon. The program starts every Sunday in Quito, with participants traveling to the project site the following Monday. Accommodation on a full board on weekdays will be provided.

Volunteer World

0

0

Best Psychology Internships Worldwide

Psychology internships abroad are the perfect opportunity for psychology students to gain some work experience while traveling abroad. Mental health is a topic that is often overlooked, especially in developing countries, so the help of skilled and dedicated volunteers is very much needed. Whatever your skills are, plenty of psychology internships are available for graduates and undergraduates. Join a clinical psychology program and shadow doctors in their daily work. If you prefer working with children, join a mental health initiative in schools and daycare centers.

See All 2 Programs

Manna Project International

0

0

Sustainability Internship in the Amazon Rainforest

Learn from and in the Amazon Rainforest—all while helping conserve and teach about sustainability! Join Manna Project International in this opportunity to preserve and grow sustainability and ecotourism in indigenous Kichwa communities in Ecuador's Amazon Rainforest. As an intern, you'll collaborate with local tourism entrepreneurs to grow their businesses, maintain and build trails, learn about local flora and fauna, conduct needs assessments, and develop educational materials for youth with the long-term goal of protecting and preserving the Amazon. This immersive experience enhances your language skills, builds your resume, and develops valuable project management and cross-cultural communication skills. Throughout the internship, you'll gain hands-on experience, make a real impact, and broaden your global perspective in a stunning environment. Example tasks: Collaborate with a Kichwa community to design and implement sustainability projects Conduct needs assessments Develop educational materials and conduct workshops Assist and support local farms, educational projects, trails, and beekeeping Assist in monitoring and evaluating ongoing programs

See All 2 Programs

ELEP Volunteer & Internship Programs

0

0

Finance and Accounting Internship Placements - Ecuador

Are you a college or university student looking for an internship in the accounting or finance industry? ELEP Volunteer & Internship Programs is your premier destination for career advancement, and Ecuador is the best place to get started. If you have an aptitude for mathematics, can interpret financial accounts, and love number-crunching, then our Accounting and Finance Internships in Ecuador, Latin America, are waiting for you! The eligibility for this program includes: * Vested interest in training abroad * Willingness to learn and patience for mastering new skills * Initiative, flexibility, and ability to work independently or in teamwork * Professional demeanor * Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills * Good knowledge of Spanish (Intermediate level) * Good computer skills * Excellent communication skills ELEP Volunteer & Internship Programs works in partnership with well-known and prestigious accounting and finance firms to provide college students and recent graduates with professional internship training opportunities to guarantee a practical formative experience.

See All 20 Programs

A Guide to Interning Abroad in Ecuador

Locations

Quito and Guayaquil are the country’s main urban hubs, and they are also the key centers for internships in Ecuador as well as experiential placement organizations. Cuenca is also a large charming city with intern opportunities. While there are wildlife, biology, and environmental studies internships in both the rainforest and the Galapagos Islands, they are typically short-term internships.

Quito is a colonial city with an ancient Incan history. Cobblestone roads lined with churches built on top of indigenous temples dot the city. Quito offers both modern marketing, advertising, and journalism internships and the indigenous population provides placements in social welfare projects, human rights, and other development agencies. The climate in Quito is also appealing and much milder than Guayaquil in the south.

Guayaquil was once a major port city with little appeal to tourists, and not so pleasant for the natives either. Today, thanks to the Malecón 2000 urban redevelopment project, the downtown area is one of the most beautiful city centers in Latin America. The addition of museums, banks, businesses, urban renewal, and even an eco park on an island have all helped to create some great internships in Guayaquil.

Cuenca is another beautiful destination located in the highlands of Ecuador. The city itself is a UNESCO world heritage site. Cuenca and its surrounding communities afford some professional internships, with meaningful, customized agendas.

Frequently Asked Questions

You may try searching for program providers to recommend the best matches for your preferences and skills or look through your university to find internships in Ecuador. Placements range from business, ecology, social work, health, education, and more!

Ecuador is generally safe for travel, but staying alert in larger cities is advised as incidents of petty crimes may occur. The country is also prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, so it is important to be informed and obey safety protocols.

The majority of communities speak Spanish as an official language, followed by Ecuador's indigenous languages. English is mostly spoken in cities, tourism industries, and schools teaching English as a second language.

Most organizations that provide experiential placements and internships are based in the three biggest cities in Ecuador—Quito, Guayaquil, and Cuenca.

Latest Program Reviews

Clinical Exposure, Mentorship, and Growth Through IMA’s Pre-Medicine Internship

April 04, 2026by: Victoria Slaven - United States

Program: Global Health & Pre-Medicine Internships Abroad | IMA

10

This program allowed me to grow as an ethical leader in my community, a leader who leads by example. My experiences at Coast General will forever shape my perspective on health care and scarce resources in healthcare settings. While in Kenya, I received constant support from the IMA staff. One specific example that stands out to me was when I was left in the lab by one of the CCC doctors. I called Hilda for support, and even though she was not working that day, she immediately sent Dr. Shaziim to support me. In the residences, the mentors would always be looking out for me, making sure I was healthy and happy as I completed the program. One specific moment in Internal Medicine that stood out to me was when I did rounds in the women's ward with Dr. Shaziim and the gastroenterologist. Dr. Shaziim incorporated my previous knowledge of HIV from the CCC into explanations to help me learn and build upon my knowledge. Thanks to their efforts to involve me in their diagnosis process, I now want to pursue gastroenterology.

Apply for Scholarships & Deals

Submit a single application on MyGoAbroad to get exclusive discounts on travel programs!

Apply Now
Three hands holding a passport and visa
2026 GoAbroad Innovation Awards

Recent Intern Abroad Articles

why intern in ecuador
Travel Inspiration
best internship programs in ecuador
Top Picks
woman typing in a laptop
2018 GoAbroad Report
Man sitting on frozen lake in Switzerland
Top Picks
Group of people interning abroad
Before You Go
Guy dressed smart
2018 GoAbroad Report
10 Best Fields for International Internships in 2019
Meaningful Travel Forecast 2019
10 Best Cities for Summer Internships Abroad in 2019
Meaningful Travel Forecast 2019
Woman blowing on dandelion
Health & Safety Tips
Business meeting