Study Abroad Programs in Tena, Ecuador

This was my second trip with Loop Abroad, and it did not disappoint. Staying at Runa Wasi and volunteering at AmaZOOnico was a very humbling experience that really makes you appreciate nature and all its creatures, from spiders to birds to monkeys. The best part for me was evaluating and microchipping tortoises which were being prepared for release into the wild. It was rewarding to feel like you were actually making a difference, and we also were able to learn a lot about wildlife medicine and conservation. The lectures were very informative and related really well to the activities we did. There are opportunities to work on veterinary skills like physical exams, vaccinations, and suturing techniques. We also went into Ahuano and put on a two day veterinary clinic for the locals to bring their pets, which let us interact with the community and practice our Spanish. In addition, we had time to do some tourist things like walk around old historic Quito, go white water rafting, and tube down the Amazon. An incredible experience I would do again.

This program was so informative about the Amazon and the problems they’re facing and how we can help. We spent two weeks at Amazoonico assisting the vets there in their daily rounds taking care of all the animals there.

This program was a once in a lifetime experience that I am so grateful for. Not only did I learn so much about the animals of the Amazon, but also about the conservation work that the rescue and government is doing in the area. The vets that we worked with were very knowledgable and were always there to help us with any questions and help we might need. This program isn't as hands on as I was told others were, but we were able to partake in necropsies and physical exams in some of the wildlife. We also got to participate in a turtle release with endangered turtles and do blood labs on birds and turtles. Getting to do the medical clinics were super rewarding because the community was so grateful that we were there. Getting to experience the culture and the community was such a cool experience.

I went on this trip July of 2019, this was my third trip with loop abroad. My first being in 2017. Loop abroad is a great program for making friends! I’m close friends with another girl from my 2017 trips that lives in the states (I’m Canadian) and we’ve stayed in touch and have done all of our loop trips together since! The loop abroad staff is wonderful at making you feel safe during travel, so don’t worry if you’re traveling alone or if this is going to be your first time traveling abroad. The amazon trip was an amazing experience, it was wonderful for learning about amazon animals and they ways we can help them. AmaZOOnico works hard to rehabilitate and release the animals back into the wild, where they can have the best quality of life. It was a pleasure getting to volunteer there throw loop abroad. This trip is great for people who don’t mind getting dirty( bring rubber boots... your gonna get muddy!) and are adventurous!