Volunteer in Ecuador

Experience the sights and sounds of this microcosm of South America – Mountains, jungles, beaches, ancient ruins and the Galapagos Islands are just a few of the most sought-after destinations in Ecuador. Wandering cobblestone streets and exploring 17th-century monasteries can give you some insight into the complex history of this beautiful land. Ecuador’s natural and cultural diversity and ancient Inca heritage appeal to many volunteers.

United Planet is the US and Canadian member of the International Cultural Youth Exchange, or ICYE. As a volunteer in Ecuador, you will be hosted by VASE, ICYE’s Ecuadorian partner organization. VASE is a nonprofit that is committed to promoting global citizenship and fostering social support in Ecuador through volunteerism.

United Planet also offers short-term (1 week to 12 weeks) volunteer abroad programs and virtual volunteering and virtual internships (1 month to 6 months) in Ecuador. Learn more about all of our volunteer abroad programs and virtual volunteering and virtual internship countries and projects in Latin and South America.

What is it like to volunteer with children in Ecuador with  United Planet?

The purpose of our journey had become clear. The interaction between volunteers and students resulted in an exchange of both mind and soul. As the days continued, both parties began to understand what it meant to be a global citizen. The duty is simply to interact with those around you.  To learn about a simple game not necessarily because you were interested in watching tops dance across pavement but because somebody else had grown interested in you and was excited if only for a moment, to bring you into their world.

Read more on United Planet’s blog.

Volunteers assist with the administration duties of local (usually non-profit) institutions. Help promote the organization through social gatherings, cultural activities, or through other communication platforms. Volunteers may be directly assisting executives, working with the ICYE affiliate, or leading a department.

Volunteers work in elementary schools and high schools where they assist in teaching English, Science, Art, Physical Education, and other subjects. Also, schools may offer volunteers the chance to create their own activities for the students such as coaching their soccer team. Many volunteers are needed to assist with homework, and individual tutoring during class.

Conservation and sustainable management of natural resources is an important concept in the rural areas of Ecuador. Support eco-tourism facilities with their daily projects, promote awareness through tours or, delve into animal research and rescue.

Volunteers help children from a variety of disadvantaged backgrounds including street children, disabled children, abused and orphaned children, etc. Support these human rights development programs. Depending on the host organization, volunteers could be assisting in fundraising, supervising, and developing activities and workshops, or supporting families from some of the poorest areas through re-integration and support counseling.

Stare straight into the eyes of a Land Iguana or explore numerous habitats belonging to animals such as giant tortoises, sea lions, and exotic birds. The Galapagos Islands are home to unique species of animals that can be found no where else in the world. Learn more about the natural beauty of Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands when you visit.

The Amazon region contains one of the highest levels of biodiversity on the planet. See a large percentage of this biodiversity by visiting Podocarpus Park. The park is considered to be a large botanical garden that contains about 3,000-4,000 different species of plants. If you visit Ahuano, Napo, you can learn how the Ahuano community has been using a blowgun to hunt for centuries. They also teach visitors how to use the blowgun by practicing on puppets.

Ecuador celebrates its independence on August 10. This is a national holiday that is celebrated in throughout the entire country. This is a perfect opportunity to celebrate a great day in Ecuador’s history and take part in the cultural activities throughout the day like watching the parades as well as the dance and music performances.

Be in two different Hemispheres at once by straddling the Equator while you are visiting Quito. You can also explore the historic Old Town and take a walk around Independence Square. The Old Town is the best way to see the historic colonial architecture of Quito, which has been beautifully restored. There are so many opportunities to learn more about Ecuador’s history while visiting Quito.

• Extensive pre-departure preparation, including a training weekend in New Hampshire with United Planet staff or online
• Food and lodging in your host country
• Airport transfers
• Emergency medical insurance
• In-country orientation upon arrival and ongoing support and supervision throughout your Quest
• Language training
• Mid-year camp (for 1 year volunteers) and final camp
• Monthly stipend for incidental expenses

• 18 – 50 years old
• Citizen or resident of the United States or Canada

• Volunteers are responsible for booking and covering the cost of their own flights (including pre-departure training).
• Volunteers will obtain the necessary visas with support from our Long-Term staff to volunteer in their host country.