Ecuador – Amazon rainforest regeneration As the communities in the Amazon develop, deforestation of this important rainforest is increasing at an alarming rate. You’ll work alongside local people to understand the complex relationship between the environment and community development and you’ll assist with important environmental projects, collecting saplings and replanting trees in the jungle. There are also some community infrastructure projects building toilets and sanitation for local houses in the village and a community centre as well as keeping up the maintenance of the local school. UN Sustainable Development Goals 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 Clean water and sanitation Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all 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
Ecuador – Food security In the rural highlands of Ecuador, food security is a key focus. One of the biggest sources of income for the community at Kuri Kucho is the sale of milk from their cows. During the dry season, the milk truck can get around collecting produce with ease, but in the rainy season some of the dirt roads become impassable and many people can’t sell their milk as a result. You’ll get involved in projects such as improving road infrastructure to connect communities, creating organic gardens to increase local food production and constructing wood ovens for the community. UN Sustainable Development Goals No poverty End poverty in all its forms everywhere Zero hunger End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture Industry, innovation and infrastructure Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation
How long has Camps International been running expeditions to Ecuador? Camps International was founded in 2002 and opened Camp Ecuador in 2011. We have been delivering school expeditions there for over a decade, building long-term partnerships with local community organisations and conservation groups who share our commitment to sustainable impactful expedition work.
How challenging is the Ecuador Trek Expedition? The Ecuador Trek is a genuine physical challenge. Ecuador’s dramatic Andean landscape means students may trek at altitude through cloud forest and highland terrain. No technical mountaineering experience is required, but a good level of cardiovascular fitness is important particularly for trekking at elevation. All routes are led by experienced local guides and our teams have been managing altitude trekking from Camp Ecuador since 2011.
What kind of trekking will students experience in Ecuador? Students take on a structured trekking challenge through Ecuador’s spectacular Andean scenery, which may include cloud forest, volcanic landscapes and highland communities. Routes are led by experienced local guides and are designed to be both a rewarding personal challenge and a meaningful way to experience Ecuador’s extraordinary natural and cultural environment.
What project work is included alongside the Ecuador trek? Alongside the trekking element, students contribute to community development and environmental conservation projects. Activities may include construction of educational or community buildings, conservation work and supporting local infrastructure. All projects are planned alongside our long-term Ecuadorian partner communities to ensure they address genuine community needs and create sustainable measurable impact.
Is the Ecuador Trek Expedition safe for school students? Yes. Camps International has operated at Camp Ecuador since 2011 and our Ecuador programme benefits from experienced local teams, structured risk assessments and 24/7 in-country emergency support. Trekking at altitude involves specific risk management considerations, which our teams are experienced in handling safely. We follow UK FCDO travel advice and have comprehensive safeguarding procedures in place for all school groups.
What’s included in the Ecuador Trek Expedition cost? The cost includes international flights, accommodation, all meals, in-country transport, project materials, leadership and staff costs, travel insurance, orientation and language lessons and 24-hour emergency support. Personal spending money, visas, vaccinations, kit and travel to a UK airport are not included.
Where do students stay during the Ecuador Trek Expedition? Accommodation during the expedition includes community-based facilities at and around Camp Ecuador that place students close to the communities and landscapes they are working within. All accommodation is arranged through our trusted in-country network with welfare, safety and community immersion as the primary considerations.
