Volunteer in Ecuador | The Ultimate Guide

You have been considering for a while if you should visit a country that has awesome nature, great people, and great food. And you also happen to be interested in doing social work. Well, you need to volunteer in Ecuador! Or, as it is officially called: República del Ecuador. The country is located in northwestern South America, and it is bordered by Colombia on the north, Peru on the east and south, and the Pacific Ocean on the west. The Galápagos Islands also are part from Ecuador; they are located at about 1,000 kms. (621miles) West of the mainland.

This guide is meant to help you make and informed decision on what do you need to volunteer in Ecuador. We will provide you with information about the country’s social projects  as well as other helpful details you need to consider before travelling to Ecuador, like costs of transportation, safety precautions, social etiquette you need to take into consideration, etc. Furthermore, we will also suggest you a list of activities you might find interesting, as well as travel tips to have in mind, so you can explore Ecuador on your free time.

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[item title= “Top 6 interesting facts about Ecuador”]

1. Ecuador receives its name, because of the equator line runs across the country.
2. Guinea pig is considered to be a delicacy in Ecuador.
3. Ecuador has many active volcanoes and it is considered to have one of the greatest volcanoes densities in the world!
4. Ecuador was the first nation to include laws protecting nature in its constitution.
5. The UNESCO declared Ecuadorian cities Quito and Cuenca as world heritage sites.
6. The Galápagos Island were visited by Charles Darwin and there is where he noticed the diversity of species and began his studies on evolution.[/item]

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Fields of interest in Ecuador

Like most countries in South America, Ecuador is rich in its biodiversity and the variation in the country’s altitude produces different climates throughout the country. This also makes it possible that a great variety of wildlife species develop and coexist in the area. If you are interested in working as a volunteer in Ecuador, in the areas of environmental preservation or want to cooperate with organisations that protect animals, you should look into the various programmes that Ecuador offers. You can choose the program that better suits your interests!

Ecuador has added the rights of nature to its constitution! It has made an example to other countries about the importance of prioritizing the protection of biodiversity, as it has stated in the National Plan Buen Vivir (“Good Living”). Ecuador’s commitment to the preservation of the country wildlife and biodiversity is such that it counts with 11 national parks, 10 wildlife refuges, 9 ecological reserves, among others.

Fauna

Ecuador is home for approximately 1,600 bird species in the continental area; which constitute 15% of the world’s known bird population. It also hosts 38 more endemic species in the Galápagos Islands.

This wonderful country hosts around 300 species of mammals: from monkeys in the Amazonian, to the rare Andean spectacled bear.

Ecuador is also home for 106 endemic reptiles, as well as for 138 endemic amphibians, and up to 6,000 species of butterfly! In this wonderful country you can also find jaguars, and great green macaw, amongst other incredible wildlife species!

If you want to volunteer in Ecuador, you can also visit a lot of these animals in their natural habitat. Ecuador has many protected reserves such as: Reserva Producción Faunística Cuyabeno, Parque Nacional Yasuní and Reserva Ecológica Cotachachi-Cayapas. The country has made a lot of efforts to protect these habitats and you can help them continue these efforts and creating solutions as well.

Flora

Around 25,ooo species of vascular plants reside in Ecuador. This is more plants species living in a tiny country alone, than in the entire North American continent. Plants in Ecuador are generally unique to their habitat!

For instance, Ecuador has what is known as tropical cloud forests, which are found at higher elevations and earn their name because they trap and also help to create clouds. This weather particularity creates ideal conditions for some delicate forms of plants. It creates dense vegetation at all levels of this forest, which gives them sort of a fairy-tale appearance.

Ecuador is also home of a small part of The Amazon, which is the greatest rain-forest habitat in the world and contains unique vegetation: from lianas that make you want to swing in them like Tarzan, to huge giant leaves, which are thick and waxy, it is an incredible sight! Ecuador’s forest are definitely worth the visit

Health in Ecuador

You might know already that Ecuador contains three climatic regions: tropical, highland (known also as “Sierra”), and Amazon rain forest. And health problems vary according to the conditions of these regions. For example, mosquitoes that carry malaria and dengue fever cannot live at altitudes above 2,300 meters; so cities in the sierras (such as Quito or Cuenca) cannot be affected by it. And concerning this point: if you are planning to volunteer in Ecuador, you should take into consideration that a lot of Ecuador’s regions are very high above sea level, and lower atmospheric pressure of these sierras can cause troubles breathing, nausea and dizziness.

Specific health problems that are common in Ecuador are infant mortality (especially among the poorest segments of society), acute respiratory infections, diarrheic diseases, dengue fever, malaria, tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, etc. Infant malnutrition affects 26% of children under 5 years old, and it is a problem the Ecuadorian government is trying to control.

And even though a lot of things need to change, Ecuador offers free medical care to all citizens, and an extensive system of hospitals and regional health clinics are available to all residents, regardless of their socioeconomic position, and without the need to buy any kind of medical insurance.

Ecuador’s system also serves people in remote rural areas, and it has an extensive program of public health that it is really impressive. To get licensed, physicians, nurses, dentists and other health professionals need to serve one mandatory year at undeserved, isolated rural areas.

Education

The Ecuadorian education system is very strong and extensive. The country counts with over 100 secondary schools, and grades 7 to 9 are free. Basic education is mandatory for all kids, which is more or less 9 years. It is divided into Primary (basic education, 6 years), Secondary (3 years), Post-Secondary (3 years) and Tertiary education (which will be the equivalent to an undergraduate education). Although primary school enrolment rate exceeds 95%, around 25% of the children will have dropped out by the end of the 5th grade. Schools do not usually count with enough staff and children living in remoter areas won’t usually assist to class, because they need to work to sustain their families or aren’t given access to education. As a volunteer in Ecuador, in the area of education, you will give these children better opportunities to improve their quality of life. Situation is particularly bad for the indigenous population

Technology in Ecuador

In recent years, Ecuador has stumbled upon a nontraditional export product: information services, in particular the exportation of software. Software development in Ecuador is growing fast and it should prove to be a valuable investment opportunity.

Ecuador aspires to innovate and an example of this would be the Yachay Tech, Ecuador’s full-fledged research university, which specializes in technical fields like nanothechnology and petrochemistry and staffed with world-class faculty. Its aim is to eventually collaborate with the greatest research universities in the world. Ecuadorian President Rafael Correa called it “the most important project in the history of Ecuador”. Will Ecuador become the next powerhouse of technology and innovation? We believe it could!

Living costs for a volunteer in Ecuador

This is an estimate of the costs of living –in US Dollar- that a single person might face while living in Ecuador. This is information that might give you a general overview of the country’s situation, and will allow you to calculate how much money you might need to eat, for travelling and for leisure.

Hotel $100	Big Mac® $4	Coca-Cola® $0.81	Eating out $6	Rental car $300 /week
Hostel $12	Marlboro™ $4.35	Beer $2.67	Fuel $1.50	Public transport $0.25

Best time to volunteer in Ecuador

Dry season (June-November)

On the coastal region, this season is usually very cool, and muggy. It is not the best time to visit the beaches. This is also the season when European/North American school holidays take place, so if you are planning to visit the Galápagos, make sure to book your trip in advance. Wildlife is visible and active all year long, in the Galápagos.

Rain season (December-May)

It is much warmer and the mornings tend to be sunny. Of course, it will be raining, but this season is particularly soggy and some of the forest experience flooding during this time. So, if you are planning to hike, don’t come during this season, but if you are planning to go to the beach, please do!

What precautions should I consider as a volunteer in Ecuador?

Ecuadorians are hospitable people and they receive visitors warmly! They respect their authority and elders, but like in almost every country in Latin America: they are racially and socially segregated. The lowest strata of society are the native Ecuadorian, this is: the indigenous population. If you are going to volunteer in Ecuador, there is important information you need to know:

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[item title= “Safety”]

Every time you visit a foreign country, you might want to exercise some common sense: muggings and pick pocketing are very common. Don’t risk being robbed. Be careful, and don’t be too flashy. To guarantee a safe travel, you should consider this advise:

• Keep your personal belongings and important travel documents with you at all times! It also makes sense to bring attested photocopies of these documents, in case you lose them!
• Don’t wear expensive jewellery when walking around and watch where you leave your bags on public transportation (Tip for ladies: don’t put your bags on the floor!)
• If you are going out, it does not make sense to take a lot of money with you. Take only the money you will going to need!
• If you are unfortunately robbed, do not resist robbery! Your life is more valuable than any item they can take from you!
• Take care when withdrawing money form a bank or at an ATM!
• Armed robbery is a common occurrence throughout Ecuador, but especially in Quito, Guayaquil and in remote areas. Get informed about the places it is safe for travellers to visit, and travel in a group whenever possible.
• The Ministry of Tourism has a tourist service complaints management system. If you absolutely need it, write them at: denuncias@turismo.gob.ec
• The Ecuador District Attorney’s Office (Fiscalía General) has English online tool, where tourist can report robbery, theft and loss of belongings.
• Do not use unregistered taxis! Doing so increases the risk of becoming a victim of a crime, or being kidnapped.
• Authorised taxis display the following features: a) they are yellow (in Quito and Guayaquil); b) they have the municipality registration number sticker on the windscreen and doors; c) They should also have orange or white license plates with an orange strip; d) they have video cameras inside.
• Don’t put yourself in a position of vulnerability. Drugs like ayahuasca and other traditional hallucinogens are marketed to tourists as “spiritual cleansing” drugs. Consumption isn’t regulated and travellers have been assaulted and robbed, while they were intoxicated!
• No matter how athletic you are, take high altitude precautions seriously!!

The Ecuadorean Ministry of Tourism and the National Telecommunications Corporation (CNT) have issued a Tourist SIM Card, also called Chip Turista. It is available for smartphones or tablets, which provides tourist various services during 30 days.[/item]

[item title= “Law”]

• There is a 20km exclusion zone along the entire northern-border with Colombia that is under army control. We strongly advise against all travel to this area: guerrilla groups, drug traffickers and criminal gangs are really active here, and you risk being kidnapped, and worse.
• Travelers may enter up to 2 units (one new, and one used) of the following articles: photographic camera, video camera, mobile telephone, electronic agenda, portable and non portable video game, electronic calculator, portable computer and its accessories (mouse, headphone, keyboard and other).
• If you bring in merchandise that is not considered to be a personal item and its commercial value exceeds $500 USD, you will need to pay taxes at Customs in the airport.[/item]

[item title=”Social Etiquette”]

• People shake hands when meeting for the first time, but do not be surprised if they kiss you once in the cheek. This is common practice in Latin America.
• Men may embrace each other, if they are good friends.
• If you are already acquainted with some people, expect to be kissed in the cheek once. Don’t be afraid of this: you’ll get used to it!
• Latin Americans are “touchy” people; expect a great deal of touching, and hugging among friends and family.
• It is considered very impolite to point at someone!
• Ecuadorians are generally not punctual; do not get irritated by this. Latin America is a more relaxed culture!
• Guests are not expected to arrive on time. If you are invited to dinner or to a party, arrive 30 minutes to 1 hour late! And there is no party without dancing![/item]

[item title=”Essential Packing”]

• Apart from the essential travel documents, like passport, travel medical insurance information, and visa, you should also keep photocopies or scanned copies of these; in case you lose them.
• Get protected from the sun! Always carry sun cream with you!
• Keep enough cash with you. You cannot use credit cards in a lot of restaurants and stores.
• Carry a money belt with you to keep your money secure.
• Carry appropriate luggage with you: daypacks or backpacks for short excursions and trips around the city; as well as soft shell bags, if you plan on taking bus or train rides in the region.
• Pack appropriate clothing and shoes! This means: moisture wicking clothing, and lightweight clothing. Don’t forget to pack a rain jacket. Also, walking shoes are a MUST, as you may find that you end up walking several kilometres a day.
• Over-the-counter medicines are cheap and available, BUT if you need to take special medication, bring enough with you, as it might be difficult to find it here!
• Locks for hostel lockers and also for your luggage!
• Don’t forget to pack all the essentials for your electronics –like chargers and pre-charged battery packs.
• If you are planning to explore the country, then it is wise to pack for all four seasons, because you will probably experience all of them in a day![/item]

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How to spend your free time as a volunteer in Ecuador

At this point, you have already received an extensive amount of information about what you should expect while travelling to Ecuador. So, it is time that we tell you all about the fun and interesting activities to get to do in this beautiful country.

Sights

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[item title= “Galápagos Islands”]They are an archipelago of volcanic islands, and are located some 1,000 km west of continental Ecuador. It consists of 19 islands and they have a population of slightly over 25, 000 inhabitants. They are known because of the vast number of endemic species that populate the area.

The islands experience ongoing seismic and volcanic activity, which together with the extreme isolation of the islands, led to the development of unusual animal life. It is considered a World heritage site, and it is definitely worth the visit.[/item]

[item title= “Quito”]Quito is known because of its friendly locals, amazing food and interesting colonial architecture. It has a very vibrant nightlife and it is a city that travellers need to visit. It is the capital of Ecuador and it is considered to be the second highest capital city in the world; it is 2,850 meters above sea level! You might need to get adjusted to breathing thin air, when visiting. This city was one the first cities declared as World Cultural Heritage Sites by UNESCO, in 1978. Points of interests include: Historic Centre, Carondelet Palace, Basílica del Voto Nacional, Cathedral of Quito, Church of La Compañía de Jesús, El Panecillo, La Mariscal, and others.[/item]

[item title= “Cuenca”]It is the largest city in Ecuador’s southern highlands and it is also considered a World Heritage Site. If you are a fan of pre-hispanic history, you will be amaze about what you will find in this city. The city hosts a lot of interesting churches, and small museums. But what you definitely need to visit is “Las Casas Colgadas” (overhanging houses), which is a row of 14^th-Century homes that seem like they are about to tip over into the Huécar canyon.[/item]

Festivals

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[item title= “Easter Week or Semana Santa”]This is a significant and important celebration not only in Ecuador, but in all Latin American countries. Quito observes this tradition with a series of ceremonies and rituals that begin on Palm Sunday. Around 90% of the population in Ecuador is Catholic. So, many of the devout people fast during Lent and most towns hold massive Good Friday parades recreating Christ’s journey to the Cross and crucifixion. “Penitents” in Quito dress in purple as they walk barefoot for five hours down the streets, as they pray, whip their backs or wrap chains around their heads or ankles.[/item]

[item title= “Inti Raymi”]It is the Festival of the Sun and has been held in Ecuador and Peru since Incan times. This event takes place in the City of Otavalo, during the Summer solstice (21st-22nd of June). During the festival, indigenous people dress in native costume and, in a symbolic matter, they take over the plaza to represent rebellion against oppression. During this week, people host barbecues, and bonfires; as well as traditional dances, and parades.[/item]

[item title= “Día de los Muertos”]The Ecuadorian Day of the Dead takes place on November 2 and, traditionally, families of deceased people engage in a picnic feast on the graves of their ancestors. In a lot of cities, families lay flowers on graves at cemeteries and then enjoy a meal at home. This is common practice in Latin America, and it is a beautiful tradition preserved.[/item]

Food

Ecuadorian cuisine is diverse, and it varies depending on where you are in the country. Guinea pig, pork chicken and beef are traditionally eaten. And, as it is the case in most parts of Latin America, rice and corn form part of the Ecuadorian cuisine. So, I hope you are not hungry, because we arrived to the delicious part of this guide.

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[item title= “Ceviche”]It is a mix of raw seafood and shellfish “cooked” in lime juice. Common ingredients of it include: white fish (ceviche de pescado), shrimp (ceviche de camarón), tomatoes, cilantro, onions, etc. It is often enjoyed at the beach and accompanied with saltine crackers and cerveza![/item]

[item title= “Cuy”]This is perhaps the best known dish in Ecuador. Ecuadorians often eat it to celebrate special occasions, because it is not the cheapest meat in the market. You can try it in Cuenca, which is the city that commonly serves cuy. It is served with potatoes or rice.[/item]

[item title= “Choclo”]It is street food and one of the best things you can have. It is most certainly not a meal, but you will enjoy every bit of it. They are usually served with cheese sauce and salt. It doesn’t get better than that! [/item]

[item title= “Llapingachos”]It is one of Ecuador’s most beloved dishes. It is basically potato patties combined with cheese, and cooked on a griddle until golden brown. If you buy Llapingachos on the street, they can also be served with chorizo and eggs.[/item]

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Do I need a Visa to volunteer in Ecuador?

Ecuador is a welcoming country and most citizens of North America, Africa, Asia and Europe do not need a visa to visit the country. Nationals of the following countries require a Visa to enter Ecuador (for any reason) and should contact the Consulate of Ecuador in their home country before travelling. This list may change without notice. This list is also available online:

Algeria, Bangladesh, Costa Rica, Cuba, El Salvador, Guatemala, India, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Libia, Nicaragua, Nigeria, North Korea, Pakistan, Palestine Authority, Panama, People’s Republic of China, Sri Lanka, Syria, Tunisia, and Vietnam.

If you are a citizen of one of the countries listed above, you will have to apply for a 12-X Visa. You are going to be allowed to stay in the country up to 90 days. To get a tourist visa, you must present the following documents:

• Passport that’s valid for 6 more months since day of entry to Ecuador.
• Certified criminal background check report from the country of origin of the applicant(s).
• Medical certificate.
• A valid (purchased and confirmed) return air/land/sea ticket.
• Two (2) passport photographs.
• Filled visa application form.
• Proof of economic means that show you can support yourself during your stay in Ecuador.
• Fee: $50USD Visa application + $400USD Visa

For the people who come from a country that is exempt from issuing a visa, you will only need to present: a) passport valid for 6 more months since day of entry to Ecuador; b) proof of economical means; and c) a valid (purchased and confirmed) return air/land/sea ticket.

The Ecuadorian government has consulates and embassies all around the world, if you have any questions concerning your documentation, contact the one nearest to you.

If you want more information about this topic and other topics, consult Ecuador’s tourism site and get all the information that you need!

Volunteer Requirements

-You should be at least 18 years old (although some programs require a minimum of 21 years old).

-You should have an intermediate level of English knowledge; some programs require advanced English-knowledge.

-Some programs require Spanish knowledge.

-For some programs a health declaration, and a criminal background check is required. This is the case of programs where volunteers interact with children.

– You need to be enrolled or have been already finished with High School or University studies; some programs require to have a studies on Social Sciences, Social Work, Community Development, Medicine, Women Studies, etc.

-You need to send a CV and an application form to every program.

-To have strong inter-personal skills, and experiences in working with a wide variety of people is expected from all volunteers. Other skills like dancing, drawing, sports, etc. can favor you as well!

-You need to commit with the program you choose to volunteer with. This means: do respect the schedule given to you!

How to find Volunteer Opportunities in Ecuador

Explore volunteer programs in Ecuador and find your very own volunteer opportunity abroad on Volunteer World. Featuring more than 500 volunteer programs and over 600 social projects in 70+ countries, Volunteer World is a one-stop resource for volunteer abroad opportunities. This platform is all about bringing simplicity and transparency to the international volunteer industry.