Biology & Endemic Ecology
by El Terreno
Program Overview
If you dream of immersing yourself in South America's Andean cultures amid snowcapped volcanoes, while making a real-world impact for rural communities, our International Changemaker Programme is for you.
As part of El Terreno's international community, you'll use your skills on social and environmental projects while discovering your purpose and building skills for a more successful life — no matter your age.
The Ecuadorian Andes are among the most biodiverse regions on Earth, yet expanding agriculture, deforestation and heavy agrochemical use are degrading soils, polluting rivers and driving the loss of pollinators, birds and medicinal plants. As migration rises, ancestral ecological knowledge is fading too.
Through fieldwork, research and conservation activities, you'll document native species, support reforestation and design environmental education projects with local families, combining science with cultural awareness to restore ecosystems and reconnect people with their land. With bilingual coordinators and local mentors, you'll live in community, grow your Spanish, and advance your career.
In your free time, explore Guaranda's markets, hike Chimborazo, or take weekend trips to Quito, Baños, Quilotoa or the coast. Stay in our purpose-built Quilico accommodation, or opt for an immersive family homestay.
Come for the projects. Stay for the community. Leave transformed
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Jump to the full breakdown of dates, costs, eligibility, and more.
Program Highlights
What's Included
Exclusions
Quick Details
- 5-8 Weeks
- 3-6 Months
- 9-12 Weeks
- Animal Sciences
- Biology
- Ecology
- Spanish
- Animal Welfare
- Biological Research
Updated Oct 7, 2026
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- Guaranda, Ecuador
Types & Subjects
- Fields
- Animal Sciences
- Biology
- Ecology
- Spanish
- Causes
- Animal Welfare
- Biological Research
Available Terms / Availability
- Years Offered
- Year Round
Eligible Nationalities
- All Nationalities
- This Program is also open to Couples, Group
Education Levels & Language
- Language
- English
- Spanish
- Education
- University Freshman (1st Year)
- University Sophomore (2nd Year)
- University Junior (3rd Year)
- University Senior (4th Year)
- University 5th Year or More
Accommodation Options
- Dormitory
- Home-stays
Application Procedures
- Phone/Video Interview
- Online Application
Age Requirement
18+
Duration
- 5-8 Weeks
- 3-6 Months
- 9-12 Weeks
- Summer
- Winter
- Spring
- 1-3 Months
- Fall
Starts At
- 1 week: $295
Refund Policy
Other
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FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to all the most common questions about El Terreno.
How much does the Biology & Endemic Ecology program cost?
The programme starts at $295/week (4-10 weeks), with discounts for stays of over 10 weeks and for the first 6 bookings. Exact cost depends on length of stay and any additional services chosen (extra meals, private accommodation, health insurance, classes, etc.)
What is the duration of the Biology & Endemic Ecology placement?
The minimum stay is 4 weeks, with new arrivals welcomed every 2 weeks year-round (with breaks in April, August and December). There's no maximum: stays of 12+ weeks ("Residents") can pioneer their own projects and access additional benefits.
Who can participate n this program?
Anyone 18 or older, of any nationality, with intermediate English or Spanish (B1+ recommended). We look for authentically motivated participants who respect cultural differences, are proactive, and work well both independently and as part of a community.
What kind of attitude do you look for in participants?
We look for genuine motivation and the ability to work independently (punctuality, organisation, deadlines), a positive and proactive attitude despite setbacks, pride in the quality of one's work, and emotional openness and consideration for others.
Is it safe to stay in Guaranda and Atandahua?
Guaranda is one of the safest places in Ecuador, largely due to legally recognised indigenous justice processes. There's a police station in the village, staff on site 24/7, and since 2021 nobody has been robbed or assaulted in the community.
Recognitions & Awards
Awards and accreditations earned by this provider
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