Galapagos Conservation Ecuador

  Ecuador

• All Other Regions of Ecuador: 
San Cristobal

Durations of Program: 5-8 weeks, 9-12 weeks, 3-6 months and 7-12 months
Typical Duration of Program: 5-8 weeks
Dates: Every Monday

Description: Protect the native habitat of the Galapagos Islands and in return you'll receive an unforgettable experience on the islands that inspired Charles Darwin to write the Evolution Theory.

The highland forests of the populated Islands in the Galapagos chain have been greatly altered due to the introduction of exotic and invasive species of animals and plants.

As a result of the lack of fruit and vegetable production on the Galapagos Islands, boats from the Ecuadorian mainland unload fruits and vegetables to hotels, restaurants, and markets on a daily basis. Quarantine regulations are consistently ignored and at least two exotic and / or invasive plant or faunal species enter the islands each day.

This project has been created to develop the technology to reconstruct the native habitat in the highlands on San Cristobal, and to serve as a center for similar projects in the highlands on other populated islands in the Galapagos chain. In addition, it will be working collaboratively with local landowners to develop clean agricultural alternatives for the production of vegetables and fruits to sell to local universities, restaurants, and hotels.

2 weeks Spanish Language Course included!

Highlights: On arrival in Quito, you will be met at the airport and taken to your accommodation. Once you have settled in and unpacked, you will receive a 2 day induction giving you all you need to know about living in Quito and preparing you for your project. To help you ease into your new surroundings, the induction is conducted in English.

Following the induction, you will start your 2-week Spanish course. This is a 20-hour course, which includes 10 group lessons and 10 private lessons. (4 weeks Spanish course if you stay for 24 weeks in total). Following your language course, you'll be ready to start your volunteering.

The work schedule is very flexible and there will be plenty of opportunity for you to work on a variety of projects. You should expect to work approximately 9.00am to 4.00pm, but this might vary depending on which project you are working.

The volunteer activities are organized on a weekly basis, which concentrate on different projects. A typical week for a volunteer may be:

* Day 1 - reforestation (collecting and classifying seeds, out planting within the reserve, helping to maintain reforestation lines, etc.).
* Day 2 - personal project (develop your own project or support different conservation projects that are being developed at the station at the time).
* Day 3 - station maintenance (trail maintenance, sign elaboration for trails, basic construction activities, help in kitchen, etc.
* Day 4 - organic agricultural activities (help maintain and secure food production for the station).
* Day 5 - guided trek throughout reserve or nearby related areas (learn about biodiversity themes, natural history, & ecology.)
* Day 6 & 7 - Occasionally volunteers are expected to work half days Saturdays, but for the rest of the weekend volunteers may dedicate their time to rest, read, wash clothes, and/or travel locally to Puerto Baquerizo and use the internet and phone services.

Qualifications:
* Minimum age 18 yrs
* Being flexible and good team worker
* International volunteers are welcome
* If you wish to experience a fascinating atmosphere, while contributing to the nature's conservation, this is the option for you.

Cost in US$: From 1,810 GBP

Experience Required: no

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Ecuador Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment
• Other
• Phone Interview

Post-Program Services Include:

• Exit Debriefing Abroad
• Alumni Network
• Job and Internship Network

Twin Group - Work and Volunteer Abroad's Mission Statement: To provide the highest quality and the best value services to students, clients, suppliers, agents and partners in the worldwide delivery of language courses, travel, training and employment services.

Year Founded: 1993