Encounter Ecuador - Spanish, Volunteering, Adventure and The Galapagos

Below is the itinerary for Spanish, Volunteering and Adventure.

Upon arriving in Quito, you will be greeted and transferred to your hostel. After checking in, you’ll meet your Fellow travelers before enjoying a welcome dinner in Ecuador’s vibrant capital. Quito’s high altitude of 2800 meters means you should take it easy on your first night to avoid any signs of altitude sickness. This evening marks the start of an unforgettable journey through Ecuador’s diverse landscapes.

Included: Transfer from Quito Airport to your hostel, welcome dinner, overnight in dorm, guide.

Today, you’ll dive into Quito’s rich colonial history with a local guide. Quito, one of the oldest capitals in South America, is renowned for its well-preserved buildings that earned it the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you walk through the cobbled streets, you’ll hear stories of its past, from spooky legends to tales of conquest. Later, unwind in La Carolina Park, Quito’s answer to Central Park, where locals gather for leisure and sport. The park offers a vibrant contrast to
the historical side of the city.

Included: Breakfast, city tour in private service with guide and public transportation, overnight in dorm, guide.

The adventure continues as you leave behind Quito’s bustling city life and journey into the breathtaking Andean mountains. After breakfast, you’ll head to Lasso, a small town nestled in the highlands that serves as a gateway to Cotopaxi National Park. In the afternoon, prepare to explore the base of Cotopaxi, one of the world’s highest active volcanoes, where the landscapes will leave you in awe. Your day will conclude with an exhilarating bike ride back Down the slopes of Cotopaxi, offering both
adventure and incredible views.

Included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, private transportation to Cotopaxi, bike rental, overnight in dorm, guide.

Today, you’ll visit the stunning Quilotoa crater lake, a breathtaking turquoise body of water formed inside a volcanic crater. The lake’s color and the surrounding Andean scenery provide perfect photo opportunities. Afterward, you’ll head to Baños, a town known for its hot springs and as the entrance to the Amazon. Baños is famous for its adventure sports and lively atmosphere, so expect excitement as you settle into your new surroundings.

Included: Breakfast, private transportation to Baños with a visit to Quilotoa crater lake, overnight in dorm, guide.

Immerse yourself in local culture today with four hours of Spanish lessons, giving you a solid foundation in the language. Afterward, step onto the dance floor for an intense salsa class where you’ll pick up the moves to dance like a local. As evening falls, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Baños' nightlife, hitting up local bars and clubs where you can put your new salsa skills to the test.

Included: Breakfast, 4 hours of Spanish classes, 1 hour of salsa lessons, overnight in dorm, guide.

Adventure awaits as you wrap up your morning Spanish lessons and head out for an exhilarating mountain bikingexcursion. You’ll ride through lush landscapes to the iconic Pailon del Diablo waterfall, one of Ecuador’s most dramatic and beautiful cascades. The path also takes you to Rio Verde, offering another chance to explore the natural beauty surrounding Baños. Prepare to get soaked and experience the thrill of the ride.

Included: Breakfast, 4 hours of Spanishclasses, bike rental, overnight in dorm, guide.

After a morning of Spanish classes, the afternoon is yours to explore Baños at your leisure. You could continue your adrenaline-filled adventures with activities like zip-lining or canyoning, or simply relax and soak in the local culture by visiting cozy cafes or thermal baths. The relaxed vibe of Baños makes it the perfect spot for unwinding or continuing your explorations.

Included: Breakfast, 4 hours of Spanish classes, overnight in dorm, guide.

The thrill continues with a canopy bridge excursion today, where you’ll test your courage as you traverse the treetop bridges suspended over the lush jungle. The adrenaline rush will be matched by the stunning views of Baños from high up. Since it’s your last night in Baños, you’ll have one more chance to enjoy the town’s lively nightlife, perhaps trying some local drinks or dancing into the night.

Included: Breakfast, canopy excursion, overnight in dorm, guide.

In the afternoon, you’ll leave Baños and embark on a scenic journey to Puyo, located on the edge of the Amazon rainforest. As you travel, the landscapes will shift dramatically from mountains to dense jungle, and the air will become warmer and more humid. Upon arriving at the Amazon Rescue Center, you’ll be introduced to the staff and the animals, marking the beginning of a deeply immersive experience in wildlife conservation.

Included: Breakfast, private transportation to the Amazon Rescue Center, overnight in dorm, guide till arrival.

Your first day of volunteering at the Amazon Rescue Center kicks off with an introduction to your tasks and the animals you'll care for. You’ll assist in feeding and looking after the rescued wildlife, learning about the center’s important mission to rehabilitate animals. The setting is peaceful, and your Work here will make a direct impact. Meals will be provided to keep you fueled throughout your hands-on work.

Included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, welcome meeting and introduction for the volunteering work, overnight in dorm, project coordinator.

For the next few days, you’ll fully immerse yourself in the daily routine of the rescue center. From cleaning cages to assisting in rehabilitation tasks, you’ll work closely with the animals and the center's dedicated team. This experience will deepen your understanding of conservation efforts in the Amazon while giving you the chance to form strong bonds with fellow volunteers.

Included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, volunteering work, overnight in dorm, project coordinator.

Enjoy a well-deserved break over the weekend. You can relax at the rescue center or take time to explore the nearby town of Puyo, where you can visit local markets or enjoy Amazonian cuisine. These two days offer you the chance to recharge before diving back into your volunteer work.

Included: Overnight in dorm

Your volunteer work continues this week as you contribute to the center’s operations, from animal care to Facility maintenance. Each day brings new experiences and opportunities to learn more about the wildlife and the efforts to protect them. By now, you’ll have a routine in place and feel more connected to the animals and your surroundings.

Included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, volunteering work, overnight in dorm, project coordinator.

You must be eager for some downtime at the beach after these past two weeks of rigorous work. After breakfast, we will travel to yet another very different area of Ecuador, the coast, and more specifically, to Montañita, the most well-known and enjoyable surfing location in the country. Prepare yourself for a long travel day today (around 9 hours) in which you will witness a fast and astonishing change in vegetation and temperature.

Included: Breakfast, private transportation to Montañita, overnight in dorm, guide.

Enjoy your first free day in this charming seaside town and take some time to unwind.

In the coming days you will have a program, but today it's just time to get to know the new place and locals.

Included: Breakfast, overnight in dorm, guide.

Your rejuvenating beach experience begins today with a morning yoga session followed by a two-hour surf lesson. Montañita is one of Ecuador’s best surf spots, so even beginners will find the conditions ideal to learn. Whether you catch your first wave or simply enjoy the experience, the combination of yoga and surfing will leave you feeling relaxed and accomplished.

Included: Breakfast, 1 hour of yoga lesson, 2 hours of surf lessons, overnight in dorm, guide.

Continue your yoga and surf routine today with another morning yoga session and two more hours of surf lessons. The relaxed pace of Montañita allows you to fully enjoy the simple pleasures of Beach life, whether you’re out on the waves or practicing mindfulness on the shore.

Included: Breakfast, 1 hour of yoga lesson, 2 hours of surf lessons, overnight in dorm, guide.

On your final day of surf lessons, you’ll hone the skills you’ve developed over the past few days. After another two hours in the water, take time to relax on the beach or explore more of Montañita’s eclectic shops and cafes. It’s the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Included: Breakfast, 2 hours of surf lessons, overnight in dorm, guide.

Today is dedicated to giving back to nature at the nearby Las Tunas community. You’ll participate in beachcleaning activities, monitor turtle nests, and possibly join a special mission to protect the environment. This rewarding day of volunteering offers a chance to make a meaningful impact on Ecuador’s coastal ecosystem.

Included: Breakfast, lunch, public transportation to and from Las Tunas, volunteering activities, overnight in dorm, guide.

Embark on an unforgettable day trip to Isla de la Plata, an island famous for its striking resemblance to the Galapagos in terms of biodiversity. Known as the “Poor Man’s Galapagos,” the island is a haven for wildlife lovers, home to species like blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, and even albatrosses. As you hike along its trails, you’ll be treated to stunning views and up-close encounters with the island's inhabitants. If you’re lucky, between June and October, you might even witness the majestic humpback whales that pass through these waters. Finish the day snorkeling in the surrounding crystal-clear waters, teeming with colorful fish and possibly even sea turtles.

Included: Breakfast, lunch, public transportation to and from Isla de la Plata, entrance fee, guided tour, snorkeling gear, overnight in dorm, guide.

Your final full day in Montañita can be spent however you choose. Whether You want to catch a final wave, practice some more yoga, or just relax with your new friends on the beach, the day is yours to enjoy. As the sun sets over the Pacific, celebrate the conclusion of your Ecuador adventure with a farewell dinner. This is a chance to share memories and highlights of your trip with fellow travelers, marking the end of an incredible month in Ecuador.

Included: Breakfast, farewell dinner, overnight in dorm, guide.

You will have a transfer to the airport of Guayaquil in the morning after breakfast in order to catch your flight to San Cristobal airport in the Galapagos. Our local agent will be waiting for you at the airport when you arrive in San Cristobal, and we’ll take a greener option of transportation which will be by walking to our hotel. Here, you will receive a warm meet and greet welcome. Later on, enjoy a walking tour of Baquerizo Moreno to get to know the island a little bit closer. After lunch, at the beach between sea lions, a welcome activity awaits You which includes intention setting & a relaxing meditation session. Yoga by sunset is an amazing way to round off your first day in paradise.

Included: Breakfast, transfer to airport Quito, welcome lunch, yoga intention setting and meditation session, accommodation in a triple room with breakfast.

Begin your day with a refreshing yoga session to embrace the island's peaceful vibes. In the afternoon, take to the waves with an exciting surf lesson, learning how to ride them like a local. As the sun sets, your local guide will give you a glimpse into the quieter side of island life. Monday nights may be calmer, but you'll still get a sense of the local culture and its connection to the stunning surroundings.

Included: Yoga session, surf lesson, and accommodation with breakfast.

The morning brings another thrilling surf lesson, as you build on your skills and deepen your connection with the ocean. After a leisurely afternoon of free time, unwind with a peaceful evening yoga session, helping you center your body and mind before another night on this remarkable island.

Included: Yoga session, surf lesson, and accommodation with breakfast.

After breakfast, you’ll embark on an adventurous day trip to Kicker Rock, a magnificent lava formation rising from the ocean. A boat tour around the rock will give you a chance to spot diverse bird species before jumping into the waters for a snorkeling experience like no other. As you swim through the channel between the rocks, be prepared to encounter sharks, sea turtles, rays, and possibly even hammerhead sharks. Afterward, relax at Manglecito Beach before returning to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno for the evening.

Included: Full-day Kicker Rock snorkeling tour with lunch and accommodation with breakfast.

Today is all about personal growth as you start the day with an empowerment workshop designed to inspire and uplift you. In the afternoon, enjoy another surf session and ride the waves with the confidence gained throughout your journey.

Included: Empowerment workshop, surf lesson, and accommodation with breakfast.

As your time in paradise continues, immerse yourself in a morning yoga session followed by surf lessons in the afternoon. Experience the joy of living in tune with nature as you reflect on the wonders of the Galapagos, where Darwin’s theory of evolution comes to life before your eyes.

Included: Yoga session, surf lesson, and accommodation with breakfast.

With your final full day in San Cristobal, enjoy free time to explore at your own pace or relax on the island’s stunning beaches. In the evening, you’ll be treated to a farewell dinner and a closing ceremony that will leave you with lasting memories of your time in the Galapagos.

Included: Closing ceremony, farewell dinner, and accommodation with breakfast.

It’s time to say farewell to the Galapagos. After breakfast, you’ll be transferred from your hotel to the San Cristobal airport, where you’ll board your flight home, taking with you unforgettable memories of this extraordinary adventure.

Included: Empowerment workshop, surf lesson, and accommodation with breakfast.

Minimum age of 18
All foreigners entering Ecuador are obliged to have a valid health insurance
Basic English
Basic Spanish is an advantage, but not required

Volunteers need to be flexible and keep an open mind concerning their placements as situations can arise beyond our control which could require you to be placed at a different project than the one you have initially chosen. We will of course always do our utmost to fulfill your initial wishes but do remember that where you are going is quite different from where you are coming and as such one should be prepared for things not always going according to plan.

Volunteering and intercultural travel share a common trait: the more you put into it, the more you get out of it. This program is designed for proactive individuals and groups that are prepared to adapt to the local environment and its current needs. Naturally, the scheduling and activities of our program are subject to change. Alterations in activities are mainly due to changes in local conditions, which we believe is part of what makes overseas programs the interesting adventure and incredible learning experience that they are.

Our projects range from 1 week up to approx. 30 weeks. Projects have a specified minimum stay, then it’s up to you how long you can commit. In our experience the longer you stay the more you will gain, as your understanding of the project broadens and you take on more responsibilities. Every volunteer will be given a certificate of appreciation at the end of their stay as a symbol of volunteering stay.