Program Photos
Environmental Conservation on Biological Stations
Location: Ecuador: Galapagos Islands
Program Duration: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks, 3-6 months (includes high school academic semester abroad)
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: 3-26 weeks
The Arches North Campus Incubator Sackville St Manchester, M60 1QD England
Call Us
Phone: 0161 870 6212
Description
Founded in 1985 with its original conservation center in the Ecuadorian Amazon, this premiere biological preservation foundation is committed to research and habitat restoration in natural areas deemed the most at risk by international conservation organizations. Despite its small land mass, Ecuador is renowned for its mega-diversity due to its variety of life zones. And none are so famous as the magnificent Galapagos Islands, where Darwin first developed his theory of evolution.
On the Galapagos, the highland forests have been greatly affected by introduction of non-indigenous plants and animals - but with most of the conservation focus here on the marine life, the effects on the highlands to the local population have been neglected. The bio-station on San Cristobal works to restore native habitat, remove invasive species and is working to implement a biological corridor. The station is also developing alongside the community agricultural initiatives that benefit the land while providing jobs enabling local people to benefit from the tourism on their doorstep which they have been previously denied any income from.
Highlights
In their spare time, volunteers can go to the beach, bushwalking, and hang out with the reserve staff. On weekends you can go and stay in town (Puerto Baquerizo Moreno) at a hostel for around USD10/night. There are plenty of restaurants and good bars to go to at night. You can also take day snorkeling trips and island tours.
Mount Chimborazo
Mount Chimborazo is an inactive volcano and is the highest peak in Ecuador at 20,565 ft. It is also the farthest point on the planet from the Earth's core. It is a day's climb to the summit from base camp and the awesome towering ice-capped peak is a major incentive to reach the summit.
Paragliding in the Andes
View the spectacular views of the Ecuadorian Andes through the thrilling experience of paragliding. Carry out a tandem flight and no experience is required. The best places to paragliding are Crucita Beach, Pichincha Mountains and the cliffs above Canoa.
Andean Biking
Ecuador is a premier mountain biking destination with its diversity of biking terrain and scenery. From Quito there are a number of rides ranging from snow-capped Andean volcanoes, cloud forests and jungle upon hundreds of miles of traffic-free trails.
Qualifications
No specific skills are required to participate, although a knowledge of Spanish would be helpful. There are a wide range of varied tasks on this project therefore flexibility is essential; other than that the main requirements are a positive attitude and willingness to work hard on each project.
Languages
- English
Cost in US$:
Please see website for cost.
Cost Include Description:
* Accommodation: Shared room in a volunteer house
* Food: 3 meals per day - Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
* Airport pick up and drop off at Quito
* Flights from Quito to Galapagos (return) and pick up at San Cristobal Airport
* Training: Pre-departure pack, on-site orientation and project induction included
* Support: 24-hour support
* Excursions planning: Staff will help plan activities and excursions (some activities may cost extra)
Credit Available
no
Volunteer Types
- Agriculture
- Community Development
- Conservation
- Environment
- Gardening
- Global Warming
- Ground Patrol
- Natural Resources
- Planting
- Reforestation
- Restoration
- Tree Planting
- Water
Typical Volunteer
A Kaya volunteer shows enthusiasm, spirit and life to stimulate and bring something new to the local residents; love, patience and a listening ear for the people; and a good motivator with a positive and optimistic attitude.Age Range
Must be at least 18 yeears old.This Program is open to
Worldwide Participant. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals.
Typical Living Arrangements
- Group living
- Guest House
Participants Travel to Ecuador
Independently or in Groups
Application Process Involves
- Online Application plus Application Assessment
- Resume
Kaya Responsible Travel's Mission Statement
Kaya's mission is to promote sustainable social, environmental and economic development, empower communities and cultivate educated, compassionate global citizens through responsible travel.
Year Founded
2008
