Gain valuable conservation experience while working in this biodiversity hot spot
Program Overview
Collaborate with local community members on this environmentally diverse archipelago located in the Pacific Ocean to protect invaluable forest habitats.
You will be based on this archipelago which features some of the most vibrant bio-diversity, with certain species being endemic to the country. To protect this environment oasis you will focus on forestry conservation and reserve maintenance as you identify and control the invasive species population.
The Jatun Sacaha Foundation is the operator of this reserve, a well-known non-profit organization in the area that runs many biological stations in Ecuador to address threats to natural ecosystems.
Life on the Program
Stationed in the biological reserve on San Cristobal Island you will lend a hand in native plant conservation, regular maintenance activities as well as nurturing and planting species endemic to the area.
The work week runs from Monday-Thursday with early mornings and days lasting into the late afternoon. The work you do can demand a great deal of physical activity so it is important to expect tiring days as a result of taking part in amazing work. On days off you are welcome to spend your time getting to know your fellow volunteers and relaxing on base.
The first week of your journey will start in the beautiful capital of Quito where you can take advantage of Spanish lessons as well as getting a taste of the local culture by living with a home-stay family. The accommodation here will be basic but comfortable, and once you get to the project you’ll be sharing dormitory-style living space with other volunteers.
Project Details
This project has been running for nearly 10 years, focusing its efforts on reducing the number of invasive species by replacing them with native plants.
You will collaborate with GVI partners to construct a native plant corridor that will ultimately develop into an organic process for plants that are on the approved growing database for the region to develop.
The overall impact of invasive species is leading to a severe degradation of our natural ecosystem. The problems occurring in the Galapagos are critical, and so the ultimate aim is to reestablish this fragile environment by replanting native species that can reproduce and thus create a sustainable system for our future.
How this program makes a difference:
The Galapagos is one of the natural wonders of our world and your efforts and the efforts of this project will help to ensure that the relevant people have the information required to make the correct decisions to secure the long-term survival of the islands.
Volunteer Testimonials
Latest from the Base...
Wherever you travel, our bases are places of profound discovery, awe-inspiring observations, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Find yourself at home in some of the most remote and pristine environments in the world.
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Program Details
Build Your Program
What's Included
- Pre-departure support and discounted services
- 24-hour emergency phone
- Airport pick-up (unless otherwise stated)
- Arrival orientation
- Long term experienced staff
- Safe and basic accommodations (usually shared)
- All meals (unless otherwise stated in field manuals)
- Welcome meeting
- Location orientation
- All necessary project training by experienced staff
- All necessary project equipment and materials
- 24-hour in-country support
- Eight nights home-stay accommodation and food in Quito
- Studying and conserving a biodiversity hotspot
- - One week of Spanish lessons to help you develop or expand you Spanish language skills
What's Not Included
- Flights
- Medical and travel insurance
- Visa costs
- Personal kit
- Additional drinks and gratuities
- Extra local excursions
- International and domestic airport taxes
