Community & Eco-Tourism Internship in Ecuador

Join a hands-on, personalized internship to help families and indigenous communities develop profitable tourism destinations that preserve local culture and ecosystems. This program is also open to volunteers. The challenge: Guaranda is stunning, both in its landscapes and its culture. However, it's one of Ecuador's least-developed regions; 40% of rural people live in poverty, and many are forced to cut down the last remaining native forest to farm or to leave where they were born to earn income. As a result, the culture begins to deteriorate, and unique ecosystems are lost. Local people lack the education and resources to develop innovative ways to earn a dignified living while preserving their culture and landscapes. The solution: Community and ecotourism have the potential to not only provide income but also to regenerate native landscapes and celebrate indigenous cultures. By supporting communities and local businesses in developing their ideas, improving their spaces, creating sustainable business models, and reaching the right tourists for what they offer, there is huge potential to enrich the lives of people visiting Guaranda while improving the lives of local people.