Ecuador – Community Development and Education We are actively involved in community infrastructure projects, including the maintenance and enhancement of local schools, the construction of a new classroom and the development of communal spaces. Additionally, we support the growth of local tourism by providing training for residents on how to manage community-based tourism effectively. UN Sustainable Development Goals No poverty End poverty in all its forms everywhere Quality education Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all Gender equality Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls Decent work and economic growth Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all
Ecuador – Community Improvement and Regeneration Support school and community maintenance, help with the regeneration of local areas, and improve water access by building channels to support the community during droughts. UN Sustainable Development Goals Quality education Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all Clean water and sanitation Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all Sustainable cities and communities Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable Climate action Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts Life on land Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss
What is the accommodation like in Ecuador camps? Our camps are rustic, built in the traditional local style. Rooms are dormitory-style with bunk beds, and hammocks in the jungle. Bathrooms have sit-down toilets, and bucket showers with hot water in the community camps and cold water in the jungle.
What is the accommodation like in Ecuador hotels? Students stay in shared hotel rooms with either private or shared bathrooms that include hot water and sit-down toilets.
What kind of service work in Ecuador do students participate in? Students take part in sustainable, community-driven projects focused on: Infrastructure: Building schools, sanitation facilities and water systems Conservation: Forestry regeneration and preservation, and wildlife protection Livelihoods: Supporting sustainable farming and small businesses
How long is a typical service day for projects in Ecuador? Students work for around six hours per day, split into: Morning: 3 hours of service Lunch break: 1 to 2 hours Afternoon: 3 more hours of service
How physically demanding is the program in Ecuador? The program involves both service work and adventure activities, requiring students to be physically active throughout the trip.
What currency is used in Ecuador, and how should students handle money? The official currency of Ecuador US dollars. There are ATMs in the cities and towns and occasionally at some gas stations. If you do need to stop to get cash then always arrange with your expedition leader. Any leftover foreign currency should be exchanged at the airport before returning home.
What expenses should students budget for in Ecuador? Students should budget around $150 for personal gifts, snacks, phone calls, and internet access.
Will there be access to drinking water in Ecuador? Yes! Unlimited drinking water refills are available throughout the trip. Students must bring a refillable water bottle.
Can students do laundry during the trip in Ecuador? There are facilities for hand washing clothes in camp. You are unlikely to be able to get clothes laundered during your trip.