Program Overview

The Galapagos Islands are a world-renowned biodiversity hotspot, famous for the unique wildlife that inspired Darwin’s theory of evolution. Based on the island of San Cristobal, you’ll work in the heart of this "living laboratory" alongside the Galapagos National Park.

Your mission is hands-on and high-impact. You’ll care for legendary Giant Tortoises at a breeding center, monitor sea lions, and conduct surveys on marine iguanas and seabirds. Beyond wildlife, you’ll tackle invasive species, both plant and animals, and support a community dog shelter to protect indigenous fauna. Whether you’re removing alien guava plants or leading beach clean-ups, your data helps the National Park preserve this archipelago for the future.

It’s the ultimate way to boost your CV and discover what’s possible in the world of conservation!

Program Highlights

Care for the iconic Giant Tortoise by feeding them and maintaining their pools at a specialized breeding center

Monitor local wildlife populations, including sea lions and marine iguanas, to provide vital data for the Galapagos National Park

Eradicate invasive plant species and replace them with indigenous saplings grown in our dedicated nursery

Support a community-run shelter by caring for and walking dogs, helping to manage stray populations and protect local wildlife

Connect with a global group of like-minded conservationists while living on one of the most famous and unique islands on Earth

What's Included

On-Site / In-Country Staff Support

Training

Guide / Chaperone

Emergency Support

Required Equipment

In-Country Orientation

Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)

Airport Transfer (Drop-Off)

All Program Activity Costs

Pre-Departure Orientation

Certificate of Completion

In-Country Transportation To & From Project

Weekend Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Cultural Training / Program / Orientation

Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration

Joe PrescotJune 2026

Awesome experience!

I can’t say enough about this experience, from environmental work to helping the community, it taught me a lot about myself. The people were amazing and the trip was really well organized. William Pugh was fantastic in his support of us. This was a truly life changing experience. Thank you!

Carrie NicholsonUnited Kingdom · January 2023

Wonderful wildlife in Galapagos

I had a fantastic time on the Tortoise conservation project in the Galapagos. The project was very well organised. Each week a rota is supplied via WhatsApp group message so everyone knew exactly what was expected that week. William (Director) and José-Luis (primary coordinator) were very welcoming and knowledgeable. Flora and José (host family at the volunteer reserve) are lovely and very helpful. Communication was a little bit of a challenge as neither of them spoke English, but we managed with the help of Google Translate. The food was delicious (I really miss Flora's chilli sauce!)! Seeing all the wonderful wildlife has been amazing! The only downside is that it is very expensive here and it would have been helpful to have more of an idea about budget requirements - especially in relation to the various tour options that are available. Having said that, there are cashpoints available and you can pay via card in the shops, bars and restaurants if necessary. Due to the nature of the conservation you'll be doing, you only really need two outfits here when doing project work - both of them should be quick drying if possible! One pair of long trousers, long sleeved t-shirt (something you don't mind making a mess of as it will get very grubby and stained!), long socks and sturdy waterproof shoes/boots; one pair of shorts/leggings, tank top and beach shoes. Everything else is for free time so lightweight and cool, but that can be layered easily as it can get quite chilly at night up at the reserve. It's surprising how much of an impact 5km and a bit of altitude has on how different the weather is up at the reserve compared with in the main town at sea level!

Photos

Susan KleinUnited States · November 2022

My dream trip come true!

In addition to feeling like I made a difference, I feel like I got to know the Galapagos Islands so much better than I ever would have as a tourist. I saw and did things that could never have happened without the program. As this was the first time I was traveling alone, I was a little nervous. But PA was with me at every step of the way - I never felt like I didn't know what was going on. I made so many new friends - both in the program and on the island. PA was always available to answer any questions and help with anything I needed. Volunteering with Projects Abroad is the only way I will travel anymore!