Conservation on the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Galapagos Tortoise The native highland forests on the Galapagos Islands have been almost wiped out by farming activities and the introduction of invasive species, such as tropical cedar and cinchona, from the mainland. Conservation efforts to retain and reconstruct this native habitat are critical to preserving the unique Galapagos Islands environment.

Before starting your Galapagos conservation project, you will spend two weeks in Quito learning Spanish and preparing for the volunteer work. After you have completed your language training, you will head off to the Galapagos Islands to begin your conservation project.

You will work with local landowners to develop clean agricultural alternatives for the production of vegetables and fruits to sell to local restaurants, and hotels. In addition, you will explore nearby lagoons, native forests, beaches and the local villages with a guide who will explain the ecological and human dynamic of the Galapagos Islands.

Price: $850.00 USD (minimum time commitment is 6 weeks)

What's included in this package:

Volunteer placement (6 weeks to 6 months)
2 weeks of Spanish lessons (40 hours total) in Quito
14 days of home stay, including a private bedroom, 2 meals per day and laundry once per week while learning Spanish in Quito.
Detailed information about the project and Ecuador
Comprehensive welcome orientation upon arrival
Airport pickup
All materials needed for the Spanish lessons
Free Internet access while learning Spanish
Money exchange in Quito
Cultural activities (dance classes, cooking classes, trips to museums, theaters, movies, etc.) while learning Spanish

What's not included in this package:

Room and board while in the station (cost is $660 per month for volunteers)
Personal items like boots and clothes
Transportation to and from the Galapagos Islands

Destinations in Ecuador to Learn Spanish: