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Community & Eco-Tourism Internship in Ecuador

El Terreno logo

by El Terreno

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$295Program Costs
VerifiedProvider
4.0 / 5Overall Rating
1Review
2021Year established

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.

Guaranda has stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, yet 40% of rural residents live in poverty. Many turn to deforestation for agriculture or migrate in search of work, eroding local culture and unique ecosystems, while limited access to education and resources holds back innovation.

Community and eco-tourism can generate dignified income while regenerating landscapes and celebrating Indigenous culture. You'll help local families and small businesses develop their ideas, enhance their spaces and build sustainable business models. 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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Program Highlights

HANDS-ON PROJECTS — Use your skills to co-create real-world projects alongside our experienced team, institutional stakeholders and low-income, indigenous communities.
PURPOSE DISCOVERY — Grow personally and professionally through workshops, mentoring and ancestral ceremonies, and leave with a certificate, reference and alumni network.
CULTURAL IMMERSION — Experience authentic rural Ecuadorian life through family homestays, cultural activities, language learning and indigenous worldviews.
GLOBAL COMMUNITY — Live, work and play as part of an international group of like-minded individuals, sharing intimate evenings and unforgettable weekend excursions.
EPIC ADVENTURES — Wake up to Chimborazo volcano, surf the Pacific coast, canoe through the Amazon jungle and summit snow-capped mountains — Ecuador has it all!

What's Included

Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
Wifi Costs
Some Meals / Partial Meal Plan
Group Meals
Some Equipment
On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
Pre-Departure Orientation
In-Country Orientation
Cultural Training / Program / Orientation
Course Materials
Letter of Recommendation
Certificate of Completion
Internship Placement
Emergency Support
Academic Credit
Some Program Activity Costs
Training

Exclusions

Some Accommodation
All Program Activity Costs
Medical / Accident Insurance
Travel Insurance
Weekend Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Welcome Dinner
Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
Airport Transfer (Drop-Off)
In-Country Transportation To & From Project
Public Transportation Pass
Visa Fees
International SIM Card
Domestic Airfare
International Airfare
Assistance Booking Travel
Student Union Fees
Transcript Fees
Language Lessons
Background Check Fees
Vaccination Costs
TEFL Certification
Job Search Support
Teaching Practicum
TEFL Course Tuition
Souvenirs
TESOL Certification
Job Placement

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Guaranda, Ecuador

Types & Subjects

  • Fields
  • Administrative
  • Business
  • Hospitality
  • Interior Design
  • Marketing, Advertising, & PR
  • Parks & Recreation
  • Resort
  • Sales
  • Sustainable Development
  • Tourism
  • Causes
  • Eco-Tourism
  • Tourism

Available Terms / Availability

  • Years Offered
  • Year Round

Eligible Nationalities

  • All Nationalities
  • This Program is also open to Solo, Couples, Group

Education Levels & Language

  • Education
  • Any/All Education Levels Accepted

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
  • Alternative Spring Break
  • Winter
  • Short Term
  • Spring
  • 1-3 Months
  • Fall

Starts At

  • 1 week: $295

Refund Policy

Other

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about El Terreno

4.0
1 review

Rating breakdown

5
0
4
1
3
0
2
0
1
0

Top categories

Program Administration
5.0
Health & Safety
5.0
Internship Placement
4.0
Work Environment
4.0
Social Life
4.0
Living Situation
3.0

Participated in this program? Share your experience now.

Review this Program

Showing 1 of 1 review

Raffael WinklerAustria · December 2023

Remote internship experience in the Ecuadorian Andens

Embarking on a remote internship in the enchanting Ecuadorian Andes at El Terreno was a cultural odyssey worth cherishing. Joshua and his team exuded warmth, offering unwavering support throughout my month-long stay. As a tourism intern, I actively contributed to bolstering local businesses, making my experience both rewarding and impactful. Immersing myself in the December 2022 festivities was a highlight, adding a unique charm to my journey. However, the intermittent water availability for showers posed a challenge, with water accessible only every other day. Additionally, the nocturnal temperatures, plummeting to 1-10 °C, proved demanding. My host family lacked heating, necessitating the use of four blankets and thermals for a cozy night's sleep. Despite these considerations, my overall internship experience was deeply fulfilling. Feel free to reach out if you have any queries — I'm happy to share more insights.

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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to all the most common questions about El Terreno.

How much does the Community & Eco-Tourism Internship 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 internship?

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.

Where will the Internship take place?

The Community & Eco-Tourism Internship will be based in Atandahua, Guaranda, Ecuador.

Who can apply for the internship?

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 are the application requirements?


To enroll in the internship, applicants must:
• be passionate about sustainable development
• show cultural sensitivity
• possess teamwork, adaptability, strong communication, and problem-solving skills
• have physical resilience and the willingness to learn
• practice personal hygiene


A related academic background is beneficial but not mandatory. A Spanish B1 level is preferred.

Recognitions & Awards

Awards and accreditations earned by this provider

Community Choice Awards 2024 Winner
Top Rated Host
Trusted Provider
Community Choice Award

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