Social Projects in the Galapagos
Programs aim to increase gender equality and environmental awar
The project
This program work to improve the environmental and social situation for the Galapagos population, they have some focused project in different areas like:
Agriculture, help on a local farm, learn local techniques for sustainable tropical agriculture, and help provide the population with fresh local organic products, reduce invasive species and carbon footprint and increase food sovereignty.
Ecotourism, work with the Galapagos National Park in tasks related
to the management of nearby visitor sites, such as creating English language visitor information and educational material, monitor visitor sites and run satisfaction questionnaires, as well as generate statistical databases from your surveys. The information collected will be crucial for the wildlife preservation and sustainable eco-tourism.
Trail maintenance, assist Park Rangers out in the feld with maintenance of visitor sites, trails and protected areas, clearing brush and weeds, cutting new trails, as well as replacing and maintaining signage.
Dates/Length
Project available year-round. 1 to 6 months durations available.
Costs
2 weeks – $1460
1 month – $1930
2 months – $2870
3 months – $3810
Each extra week – $235
Location details
Accomodation is at the volunteer house. 2 meals are included: breakfast and lunch.
Requirements
Basic Spanish, must be 18 and over, with valid passport and health insurance
Teaching timetable
The program runs parallel to the school year, which runs from April – January (In much of mainland Ecuador the regular school year runs from approximately late September to the end of June)
Classes are held in three month cycles:
– April – June
– July – September
– October – December
A summer camp program is held for 4-5 weeks, mid-February to mid-March. Adult classes continue in the evenings during the mid-January to March period.
– English classes are held four afternoons a week (Mon – Thurs)
– The children’s classes last for one hour each from 3.00 – 4.00pm, 4.00 – 5.00pm and 5.00 – 6.00pm. On Friday afternoons no regular classes are held, but the children may come to watch films or participate in special activities.
– The adult English classes are also an hour each in two blocks, from 7.00 – 8.00pm and 8.00 – 9.00pm.
Role of the volunteer
Volunteer will be at a teaching center in the main city on the island. They can teach English courses during the afternoons and evenings for children aged 5-17 and adults. There is also a need for assistants to help kindergarten and elementary school teachers in the overcrowded school system. Native English speaker, education background is a plus, IT and computer skills are critically desired.
Skills required
No special experience is required. However, the number one qualification is the willingness to learn and help.
What’s Included?
Accomodation
Available during the length of the project (Either at the project or local homestay families with 2 meals included)
Transfer from Quito to project
Cellphone
Local cell phone is included with a refundable deposit of $50
Aiport pick-up/ drop-off
Ecua Explora staff ready to transport you
Support 24 hours
On the ground Ecua Explora staff available
First weekend accomodation
In a hostal in Quito with breakfast
Orientation
(includes city tour and lunch)
Not Included
Meals not specified
Transportation to/from the homestay to the project each day
Optional extras
Add $70 for day excursion upon arrival.
Add $50 per week for 6h Spanish classes if in Quito.
Flight from Quito to GPS: 550 usd approx.
GPS entrance fee: 100 usd
GPS INGALA transit card: 10 usd
Transfer in/out GPS airport (Puerto Baquerizo Moreno) to the project: 20 usd per way.
