NEW PROGRAM! Endemic Plant Species Nursery in Galapagos
Program Overview
IOI plays a strategic role in supporting the conservation efforts of Isabela’s endemic flora. Volunteers on this project will have the opportunity to assist the Galapagos National Park in operating and maintaining its plant nursery in the highlands. You will be involved in ecological restoration projects in rural and urban areas of Isabela, learn about their ecology, and contribute in a tangible way to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs)! Some tasks include: Transplanting seedlings, pruning, and prepping nursery beds Maintaining the irrigation system Assisting in the management of plagues and invasive species Answering questions from tourists or locals visiting the plant nursery This program is an excellent opportunity for participants with ‘green hands,’ experience in landscaping, and an interest in ecological restoration. Support rangers and increase your knowledge of effective ways to cultivate the endemic and threatened Scalesia plant. Learn about Isabela’s endemic flora in an impactful way!
Ready to dive deeper into this program?
Jump to the full breakdown of dates, costs, eligibility, and more.
Program Highlights
What's Included
Quick Details
- 2-4 Weeks
- Agriculture
- Conservation
- Eco-Tourism
- Environment
- Reforestation
- Tree Planting
Updated Dec 31, 2025
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- Ecuador
Available Terms / Availability
- Years Offered: Year Round
- Duration: 2-4 Weeks
Eligible Nationalities
- All Nationalities
- This Program is also open to Solo, Couples
Education Levels & Language
- Language: English
- Education: University Freshman (1st Year)
- Education: University Sophomore (2nd Year)
- Education: University Junior (3rd Year)
- Education: University Senior (4th Year)
- Education: University 5th Year or More
- Education: High School Senior (4th Year)
- Education: High School 5th Year or More
- Education: High school graduate, diploma or the equivalent (for example: GED)
- Education: Some college credit, no degree
- Education: Trade/technical/vocational training
- Education: Associate degree
- Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Education: Master’s degree
- Education: Professional degree
- Education: Doctorate degree
Accommodation Options
- Apartment/Flat
- Home-stays
Application Procedures
- Online Application
Age Requirement
18+
Duration
2-4 Weeks
Starts At
Program Reviews
Hear what past participants have to say about Intercultural Outreach Initiative (IOI)
Be the first to review Intercultural Outreach Initiative (IOI)
If you've participated in this program, your review helps future students decide.
Review this ProgramInquire
Inquire about this program
Have a question? Send us a message and the program team will get back to you.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to all the most common questions about Intercultural Outreach Initiative (IOI).
When can I start this volunteer program in the Galapagos?
We ask our volunteers to arrive on a Monday and depart over the week with a 2-week minimum stay.
What are the accommodation options?
In a homestay, you will have breakfast and dinner with the family and lunch will be in one of the participating restaurants via a charting system. In the volunteer house, you are responsible for your breakfast, while lunch and dinner are in one of the participating restaurants. The homestay option is also really nice if you’re interested in full cultural immersion.
Do I need to speak Spanish?
Galapagos National Park rangers speak little English, thus speaking basic to intermediate Spanish will definitely make your volunteer experience more enjoyable. Plus, you can communicate effectively while around town. IOI staff are English and Spanish speakers.
What fees are not included?
Fee includes food, room and board, permits, transient visa, local coordination and training at respective facility, local transport, full access to our facilities, etc. — everything with the exception of your airfare, personal expenses, travel insurance, the $20 USD Tourist Transit Card fee to Galapagos (cash at Quito/Guayaquil Airports), and the $15 USD visa-holder Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee (cash at the Baltra/San Cristobal Airports).
Recognitions & Awards
Awards and accreditations earned by this provider
Related Programs
Browse programs you might like
Intercultural Outreach Initiative (IOI)
4.67
6 reviews
The farms of Isabela Island are working in greenhouses to optimize production year-round in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way. The h...
Intercultural Outreach Initiative (IOI)
4.9
10 reviews
Established in 1959 and starting operations in 1968, Galápagos National Park is the first of its kind in Ecuador. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, i...
Intercultural Outreach Initiative (IOI)
4.63
27 reviews
Travel to the island that inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, and do more than explore. Help support sea turtle conservation! As a se...
Have more questions?
We're here to help!
The GoAbroad team is here to support you as you choose the best program for you, and Intercultural Outreach Initiative (IOI) is also happy to answer any questions you have.
Trusted by millions of travelers worldwide since 1997