Volunteer Programs in Banos, Ecuador

I had an amazing time in Peru and Ecuador! I made friends that will last a lifetime and experienced things I will never forget. Seeing one of the seven wonders of the world was surreal. I couldn’t have asked for a better guide either. Colin was attentive and kind to everyone always!

My Gapforce trip to Peru and Ecuador was amazing and full of adventure, culture, and volunteering. I loved exploring Machu Picchu, hiking through the rainforest, and meeting locals in small communities. Our guide was super helpful and made sure everything ran smoothly. I didn’t enjoy the lack of freedom at times, but I understand it was for safety reasons. Overall, it was an unforgettable experience that helped me grow, make friends, and see the world in a completely new way.

A very enjoyable 50 days spent with fun like minded people. Our leader Gaz was very knowledgeable about travel and had plenty of tips. We did a variety of activities with tubing and white water rafting being highlights along side Machu Picchu we also did lots of day hikes to some amazing views! Would recommend as a great confident booster to first time solo travelers. About half the group went home after the trip and half stayed in South America to do further travel. Would recommend bring a waterproof cover for day bag as it can rain a lot on treks and this helps to keep stuff dry.

My South American trip happened as a result of my previous trip being cancelled. This trip was referred to me as it included volunteer work, something I am focusing my gap year around. I’m happy to say that I had the best time ever with the most amazing people and rich experiences. From the Spanish classes to the treks to the volunteer work everything was planned properly and allowed us to properly experience South America to its fullest. My highlights were Punta Hermosa and Yanacocha/Tamandua. The beach was such fun with the surfing and stunning sunsets, the perfect time to relax after Salkantay. The jungle experience and volunteer work was more than I could have imagined, working with animals and becoming our own leaders by the end of it. I learnt so much and had the best time!

Everything on this trip was organised so well that it all fit together without it feeling rushed and giving plenty of free time to explore things individually as well. The homestay experience was a highlight for me as it let me practice my Spanish and meet an amazing family. Although the Salkantay trek was tough at times it was so worth it and everyday you got to see something new and amazing and alongside the jungle experience and working at the animal sanctuary you really feel like you get to grips with the wildlife that Peru and Ecuador have to offer. In addition the adventure activities were definitely adrenaline fuelled and so much fun. I would recommend this trip a million times over to anyone who is looking for adventure and culture combined!

I had a lot of fun Cusco was a good start to the trip. After that the Spanish school was a nice to stay in a house. Salkantay trek was great! Some other highlights was banos and punts hermosa, that’s all.

A lovely varied itinerary meant there was something for everyone to enjoy. The social side was a real bonus with the group gelling well which added a lot to the experience. Trekking to Machu Picchu was a real highlight.

I had an amazing time. Although parts of the Trips itinerary were slightly different in real life than on paper, such as activities in Tamandua the Jungle retreat, it was still a great experience overall. Almost every place we stayed was very safe, and even in places where it was less safe such as Quito, sufficient warnings were given and information was said so we could be as safe as possible! The treks were so beautiful, and they are also very difficult especially the Salkantay Trek at the beginning. I would say both Guides knew loads about everything and both Colin and Raul were extremely fun and knowledgeable, making us feel safe. The best part was the Animal rescue centre, and would even maybe have liked to extend the time we were there by a few days. A trip that is so worth it, and I made lifelong friends and memories!

I had altitude sickness for the all of the trek on Machu Picchu. At one point I thought I wouldn’t get up there but I did. I’m very thankful for Colin for helping me. I was very happy that I was able to do the walk up to Machu Picchu and see it