Tell me more about Ecuador?
Ecuador is bordered by Colombia, Peru, and the Pacific Ocean. There are three distinct zones: the Sierra or uplands of the Andes, the Costa, a coastal plain between the Andes and the Pacific with plantations of bananas, cacao, coffee and sugar; and the Oriente, the upper Amazon basin to the east, consisting of tropical jungles threaded by rivers. Quito, the capital city is in a setting of great natural beauty, overshadowed by the volcano Pichinca with its twin peaks of Ruca and Guagua. For more information I suggest you purchase the Lonely Planet's guide to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands.
What is the climate like in Ecuador?
The Ecuadorian climate is extremely diverse and because each reserve is located in varying altitudes and geographic zones, they each have different climatic factors to be considered. The temperature in Quito averages 14 degrees celsius throughout the year; June through to September is the driest period, while April often has torrential downpours during the afternoon.
What kinds of volunteer work are available?
Volunteer can participate in research assistance, education, community service, station maintenance, plant conservation and agro-forestry activities carried out by the Amazon, Bilsa, Congal, La Hesperia, Lalo Loor, and San Cristobal biological stations.
You can be involved in:
Plant Conservation: collecting seeds, reforestation, medicinal plant garden development, nursery work, and clearing areas of invasive species.
Community Work: teaching English in local schools, environmental education and community visits.
Sustainable Income Generation: implementation of sustainable agriculture and aquaculture projects, crafts and agro-forestry.
Supporting Local Research: assisting in collecting data for local research.
Wildlife: monitoring projects with birds and bears.
Is the program available year round?
Over the Christmas and New Year period some of the smaller reserves do close down. The dates vary from year to year, but in 2007 Bilsa and Lalo Loor are closed from December 17th 2007 to January 2nd 2008. La Hesperia and Congal will be open throughout the period but the staff at the reserves will be on vacation on December 24th, 25th and 31st 2007, and January 1st 2008. The Amazon and San Cristobal reserves will be open and staffed throughout this period.
When will I know specific details about my placement?
Once you have secured your placement by paying your application fee you will be put in touch with our partner who will provide you with more specific details.
Where will I be located?
There are six different reserves located around Ecuador. You may choose which reserve you would like to volunteer at. Please see the project pages for more detailed descriptions of the specific reserves.
Tell me more about the research projects
It is possible to take part in research projects, although these will often require specialist knowledge. The reserves with ongoing research projects that volunteers may be able to assist with are at Bilsa and Congal. If you have the relevant background and experience it may also be possible to design your own research project and work on it while at a reserve, but this will require you to work independently and you may need to bring your own equipment. For an independent project, ideally you would submit a proposal beforehand so that it can be approved by the reserve.
When can I teach?
Teaching programs in the La Hesperia and Amazon reserves run between September and June. Teaching in the reserves on the coast, Congal and Lalo Loor, runs between May and January. Teaching may not be available if there are other volunteers already at the reserve already doing this, or due to other unforeseen circumstances.
What languages do I need to be able to speak to become a volunteer?
Spanish is the predominant language, and basic Spanish is a requirement for volunteering on this program. If you have no Spanish we will provide you with links to several Spanish schools in Quito, should you wish to arrange lessons before you begin the program.
How safe is it to volunteer in Ecuador?
As in many countries, foreigners are perceived as wealthy in Ecuador. Although the people are generally warm and friendly towards foreigners, as well as appreciative of the work done by volunteers, not every individual is the same. We work extremely hard to ensure you are placed in safe environments while volunteering and security policies are in place to achieve this. However, as in any situation at home or abroad, there is no way to erase all potential threats.
There is lower risk of crime at the volunteer placements in Ecuador, due to their remote locations. It is still important, however, to be wary of thieves and pick pocketing, especially in cities and crowded areas. You should also avoid extremely remote areas where you will be alone. Furthermore, you should be aware that there are active volcanoes in Ecuador and minor earthquakes are relatively common. Volunteers will be given further safety advice, including for the case of natural disasters, in their orientation session.
Tell me more about flying into Ecuador.
For all the Ecuador programs, you need to fly into Mariscal Sucre International airport in Quito. While in Quito, you need to attend an orientation session, which take place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, before heading out to your reserve. You will need to make your own way to our partner's office, details for which will be supplied after you have signed up for the program. You will therefore have to arrange for a couple of nights accommodation while in Quito. After you have signed up for the program we will provide you with some recommended options for accommodation in Quito.
Are there any specific starting dates for each project?
Most reserves have two or three days of each week where volunteers may travel out to the reserve. This means that it is possible to start at any time during the month. We will send you details of the starting days for your reserve when you pay your application fee.
What happens once I arrive in Quito?
When volunteers arrive in Quito, they will need to spend at least two nights in a hostel - GVN will provide names of suitable hostels in the resource guide. The area of New Quito is very safe. The hostel can arrange a taxi to meet you at the airport, and to take you to your accommodation. While you are in Quito, you will need to attend an orientation session - during this session you are given detailed instructions on how to travel to the reserve.
May I choose which reserve to volunteer in?
Yes; we're happy to place you in the reserve of your choice as long as there is space available. Some of the major differences between the reserves are outlined here.
May I volunteer in a combination of reserves?
You're welcome to volunteer in a combination of reserves, although you should bear in mind that it's more valuable to the reserve if you stay in one place and gather expertise. However, volunteering in different reserves is a great way to experience Ecuador's diverse range of habitats.
How do I get to the project?
You will take a bus from Quito (no more than US $10). Directions are given during the orientation session.
What immunisations/vaccines will I need?
Diphtheria and tetanus
Polio
Hepatitis A & B
Typhoid
Rabies
These are rare but do affect people in poorer communities that you may not even come into contact with:
Yellow fever - you will need a certificate to say you have had this vaccination to be presented on arrival if you are from Africa or South America. In addition, the vaccination is highly recommended if you are travelling to the Amazon reserve.
Malaria (needs to be closely discussed with doctor) Quito itself is free of Malaria. Bilsa reserve highly recommends immunisation as Malaria is present in some of the towns you may visit, even though it's not on the reserve itself.
Cholera outbreaks can occur in poorer areas of Ecuador; however vaccinations can become resistant to the disease so your doctor may say it is not needed. If you show any signs of violent vomiting and extremely watery diarrhoea see a doctor straight away for medication that can help treat you.
Some of these can be taken in oral form so please do discuss all options with your doctor to see what is best for you. Some people can be affected quite differently than others by medication.
What are the living arrangements when volunteering?
When you first arrive in Quito, where your international flight will land, you should plan to spend at least one night in a hostel before travelling to the reserve. During placement lodging is provided in cabins, which are shared with other volunteers and reserve staff.
Can I bring my family/children to this program with me?
It would be possible to bring your family to some of the larger and more accessible reserves, such as Amazon or Congal, as long as there is space available. If you have young children we would strongly recommend that two adults travel with the family, so that they are adequately supervised.
Can you accommodate specific dietary requirements?
Please indicate any dietary restrictions on your application form. Vegetarians can be catered for but you need to let us know beforehand.
What age do you have to be to volunteer?
You must be 18 years or older to volunteer. There is no upper limit for volunteers; we only require that volunteers are in good health.
What is the criterion for volunteers to be accepted into the program?
Each applicant is considered by the information they provide on the application. If further information is required applicants will be emailed to request this. Please refer to the program requirements listed on the program page, which outlines the minimum expectations of what is required for volunteering in this specific program. We also look further at your application as to skills and experience specifically related to the program you have applied to. We look at volunteer experiences, travel experience and also your particular interest in the program to make our decision.
What hours am I expected to take part in the program?
Typically, volunteers are expected to work 22 days per month. Eight vacation days per month can be used upon approval by project coordinator. Volunteers are expected to work an average of 6 to 8 hours per day, depending on the activities they carry out. Volunteers work from 7:30 to 12:30, and from 14:00 to 17:00 from Monday to Friday. There are occasions when volunteers do work half days on Saturdays.
Are there holidays or festivals I should be aware of when traveling?
During Semana Santa (Holy Week/Easter) the whole of the country shuts down for 5 days. This takes place in late March and you should take this into account when traveling.
Is there opportunity to take classes such as language or cultural activities while on the program?
You can arrange this for before or after the program, but not during, due to the isolated nature of some of the reserves.
Are we able to do any sightseeing while volunteering?
Yes; you get six days off each month. You are free to do as you please during this time. There are often other volunteers who want to go trekking or see the local sights. You will, however, need to have money for this time according to what you plan to do. You may want to spend some time in Ecuador before or after volunteering to see more of the country. You can survive on as little as $7 (U.S) a day in Ecuador. You can also spend much more if you want a bit of luxury.
What clothing is appropriate for the program?
Light, cotton clothing that covers most of the body helps to protect against sun and being bitten by insects. You should also bring work clothes that can get dirty: at least two long-sleeved and two short-sleeved light shirts that are easy to dry. Make sure you have a supply of both warm and cool outfits as the climate can change quickly within a day.
Are there more expenses once I arrive?
The program costs cover accommodation and all meals. If you plan on arriving early or staying on, then you will need to have spare money for this time. Also some money may be required for your days off depending on what you intend on doing. Other costs include buying bottled water, visa (only required in staying longer than 90 days), departure tax, and any shopping you will do personally. All visitors to Ecuador are required to pay a US $25 departure fee in cash at Quito airport when they leave. There are also additional costs for the San Cristobal project - volunteers on this project will need to pay for the flight to the islands and a US $100 park fee upon arrival.
What happens if I get sick or have an accident while I'm at one of the reserves?
Each reserve has its own emergency plan. If the ailment or injury can not be treated locally, for example in a clinic, the volunteer will be taken to the nearest hospital. If the accident or illness is serious, the family members of the volunteer will be contacted.
How many volunteers are there on site at any one time?
This can vary between 2 and 45 each month on any one reserve. Amazon and Bilsa are able to take the most volunteers. The reserves are busiest between June and August.
Can you tell me more about your partner in Ecuador?
Our partner was established in July 1989, by the government of Ecuador. It is private, non-profit Ecuadorian foundation. Besides protecting ecologically important forest habitats, the foundation's biological stations are nationally and internationally recognized as leaders in the development of innovative and concrete programs in community agro-forestry and environmental education.
What is the course content of the training?
While you are in Quito (where your international flight will land) you are required to present yourself to the volunteer offices for an orientation session. These take place on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 3pm. It is a short session, no more than half an hour, on the rules of the reserve. You will also be given more detailed directions on how to get to the reserve and you should use this opportunity to ask any questions you may have. Once you arrive at the reserve you will be given a more detailed orientation on the work required, safety procedures, and work schedules.
Who organizes my visa for my volunteer placement?
If you need one, you will need to organize your Visa through your travel agent before you leave for Ecuador. The information pack includes links to Ecuadorian Embassies through out the world.
Do I need travel insurance?
As with any overseas travelling, insurance is recommended. The Global Volunteer Network has arranged a comprehensive travel insurance package specially designed for volunteering. It includes excellent medical and accident coverage as well as a 'loss of deposits' cover which covers fees paid to GVN, airlines etc (up to US$8,000). If you would like to learn more just follow this link: http://www.volunteer.org.nz/insurance/.
How do I pay my fees?
Your application fee secures your place on the program (remember this is fully refundable if you decide not to take part in the program). Your program fee is payable to Global Volunteer Network 8 weeks prior to the 1st of the month you wish to volunteer. Please note that all charges incurred by the payment of the program fee are at the volunteer's expense, e.g. if a bank transfer incurs a bank fee at the point of origin, that is at the expense of the volunteer. Eighty percent (80%) of your program fee is refundable until one calendar month before the 1st of the month you are due to begin your program.
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