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  Ecuador

• All Other Regions of Ecuador: 
Guayaquil

Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks, 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks and 9-12 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks

Description: Ecuador, despite its small size, is one of the most biologically diverse places on earth. Yet environmental degradation is a major threat to this unique and fragile place. Problems such as loss of bio-diversity, deforestation, desertification, soil erosion, over-fishing, and pollution are significant. Environmental conservation projects address these issues directly through community education and collaboration as well as hands-on conservation work such as planting and research.

Volunteer with World Endeavors near the beautiful southern Pacific coast of Ecuador. Ecuador's vibrant culture, dense rainforests, breathtaking Andean landscapes, and picturesque beaches make it the premier destination in South America. Despite the universal appeal of the country, most citizens live below the poverty level. While significant improvements have been made in recent years to improve living conditions, social services, education, and environmental protection efforts there is still a great deal to be done.

Highlights: Before participants embark, they will be provided a pre-departure guide that includes important details about their experience abroad. In addition to the guide, participants may contact World Endeavors any time prior to departure with questions.

Upon arrival in Ecuador, volunteers receive an orientation that will familiarize them with the city and the surrounding area, the Ecuadorian culture, and the volunteer program. All volunteer placements of one month or longer include 2 weeks of Spanish language classes. Class sizes are typically very small giving students a personalized learning experience.

In their free-time, volunteers can spend time in downtown Guayaquil, visit the waterfront area, visit the one of the many museums of Guayaquil, check their e-mail at the Internet Cafe, or explore nearby towns along the Pacific coast.

Qualifications / Skills Needed: Volunteers must have: English language fluency, a desire to help the people of Costa Rica, flexibility, self-motivation, openness to a new culture and a willingness to learn. Spanish language skills are helpful but not required.

Language: English

Cost in US$: Please visit our website.

Cost Includes: -Pre-departure packet to prepare you for your placement -World Endeavors support for any of your pre-trip questions -Airport pick-up and drop-off -In-country travel advice and coordination -Home stay accommodations (breakfast included) -Support from local World Endeavors representatives -Volunteer placement 24X7 Emergency phone support

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer Projects: biological research, conservation, environment, natural resources, planting and reforestation

Typical Volunteer: World Endeavors volunteers are people from all backgrounds who are looking for a life-changing experience abroad. Our participants are of all ages and come from countries around the world. We seek to match volunteer to projects that best suit their interests and abilities in order to maximize their experience and their impact on their project.

Age Range: 18 and older. Younger volunteers accepted by application.

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangement: Home-stays

World Endeavors's Mission Statement: World Endeavors is a provider of unique international volunteer, internship, and study programs. Our mission is to become a catalyst for positive change in our community and the world through quality international programs.