Guandera Biological Reserve

Habitat and Location

Guandera is in the midst of the last remaining extensive stretch of high altitude cloud forest, an area in which less than 4% of the original forests were left intact. This forest is found only on the inter-Andean slopes and the reserve draws its name from the large Guandera plant (Clusia flaviflora) which dominates this unusual and threatened forest. This forest, between 3100 meters and 3600 metres of altitude, is unique on a world scale because of the remarkable biodiversity and immense trees found at such extreme altitudes. Per area diversity exceeds 40 species per 1/10 hectare, a world record for altitudes over 3000 metres. The wildlife at Guandera is also extremely diverse and abundant; over 160 bird species have been identified, and over 75% of the birds are Andean endemics. A number of large mammals reside in the reserve, including the threatened Andean Spectacled Bear and the Northern Pudu Deer, and amphibians and reptiles, although not particularly diverse, are abundant.

Accommodation

The reserve has hot water, flushing toilets and electricity. The house is simple but comfortable. There are six beds in the rooms where the volunteers sleep. During quiet times of the year, couples may be able to get their own room.

Volunteer Activities

Volunteer activities that volunteers in mid 2005 took part in include:

• Education: English lessons and Environmental education (Educacion Ambiental) for the kids in two schools near Guandera.
• Potato project: Taking care of a "gene bank" of 86 types of potatoes, and studying which is most resistant to diseases and the altitude.
• Agriculture: Helping farmers to plant organic vegetables, and to earn money from something other than potatoes without using cemics.
• Reforestation: Collecting seeds and planting trees. Constructing tree nurseries and take care of the trees.
• Animals: Projects with bears and birds.
• Maintenance: Clear the trekking routes, fix bridges, fix the house, and take care of the reserve's llama, guinea pigs and chickens.

Free Time

There are opportunities to walk in the mountains or read a book on the observation platform in the forest amongst fantastic animal life. Horse riding can be arranged. It's possible to visit different cities on the weekends and climb mountains.

Number of Volunteers

The Guandera reserve can accommodate up to 20 volunteers.

Spanish Requirements

Spanish isn't essential, but it makes the work easier and more fun as well. Guandera is a great place to learn Spanish because you can speak with the staff and have a lot of spare time in the evenings for your own studies. We recommend that you obtain a basic knowledge back home (or in Quito) and then focus on speaking and improving your vocabulary while you're at Guandera.

To apply for this program, click here.

To return to the reserves page, click here.