Cooking & Family Nutrition
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.
Nearly half of young children in rural Bolívar suffer from chronic malnutrition. Diets rely heavily on starches, protein is scarce, and Andean superfoods like chocho and mashua are being replaced by cheap processed foods, while unsafe water, poor hygiene and teenage pregnancy add further risks.
Alongside local families, schools and health professionals, you'll co-design practical solutions — from affordable family menus and recipe cards using traditional ingredients, to cooking demonstrations, hygiene workshops and playful nutrition activities for children. 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.
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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
- Summer
- Winter
- Culinary Arts & Cooking
- Food Science & Nutrition
- Spanish
- Cooking
- Nutrition
Updated Oct 2, 2026
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- Guaranda, Ecuador
Types & Subjects
- Fields
- Culinary Arts & Cooking
- Food Science & Nutrition
- Spanish
- Causes
- Cooking
- Nutrition
Available Terms / Availability
- Years Offered
- Year Round
Eligible Nationalities
- All Nationalities
- This Program is also open to Couples, Families, 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
- Online Application
- Phone/Video Interview
Age Requirement
18+
Duration
- 5-8 Weeks
- 3-6 Months
- Summer
- Winter
- Spring
- 1-3 Months
- Fall
Starts At
- 4 weeks: $1,180
Refund Policy
Refund with conditions
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FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to all the most common questions about El Terreno.
How much does the Cooking & Family Nutrition program cost?
The cost of the Cooking & Family Nutrition Internship is only $295/week, less than $45 per day. Stay longer for more impact: 12 weeks for the price of 10. The first 6 deposits of the season choose one: a $25/week discount, Mon-Fri dinners, $250 for project transport & materials, or 50% off additional services (up to $250). As a small independent organisation with no external funds, every dollar goes exclusively to your programme
What is the duration of the program?
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 apply for the Cooking & Family Nutrition 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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