Ecuador
Andean Service and Galapagos Conservation
About the Program
Explore the magic of Ecuador with a unique school service program combining community service in the Andes and conservation efforts in the world-famous Galapagos Islands. Students will engage in meaningful service projects that support local communities and protect the Galapagos’ extraordinary biodiversity, home to species found nowhere else on Earth. This immersive experience allows students to deepen their understanding of conservation, culture, and the vital importance of preserving these iconic ecosystems.
Itinerary
Discover the exciting adventures and impactful moments that await each day on this itinerary!
- Arrive at Quito airport and meet the Global Works leader
- Transfer via private bus to the selected accommodation in Quito
- Safety briefing, snacks, and settle into bed
- Start with group orientation and language activities
- Visit Plaza de Independencia and El Panecillo for breathtaking views
- Enjoy a traditional lunch
- Explore the Quito Teleferico
- Return to the hotel for dinner and continue orientation activities
- Transfer to Lago Cuicocha for a scenic crater lake hike
- Learn about the area’s geological and cultural history
- Settle into accommodations in Cotacachi (homestays optional)
- Engage in community service projects with local schools and nonprofits
- Participate in a Pambamesa Lunch to celebrate with the community
- Adventure activities include visiting Lake Quilotoa and exploring Otavalo’s artisan market
- Transfer back to Quito for a flight to the Galápagos Islands
- Travel from Isla Baltra to Isla Santa Cruz
- Overview of the archipelago’s history and marine ecosystem by a local guide
- Snorkel in Concha Perla, with chances to see turtles, manta rays, sharks, and sea lions
- Visit a non-populated island by boat tour
- Explore Tortuga Bay, known for its nesting black sea turtles
- Take a boat ride to Isla Isabela
- Partner with a local tortoise breeding program for service projects, including maintenance and fence repair
- Learn about Galápagos conservation efforts and coastal ecosystems from an expert
- Explore the Sierra Negra Volcano, the world’s second-largest volcanic crater
- Visit the Wall of Tears and learn its complex history
- Snorkel at Los Tuneles, a prime spot for viewing sea life like penguins, turtles, and sea lions
- Participate in group reflections and a final celebratory dinner
- Catch connecting flight in Quito for the journey home
- Reflect on the experiences and prepare to share stories with family and friends
- Say goodbye to Ecuador – ¡Adios, Ecuador!
Educational Focus & Highlights
Serve in Cotacachi
Work alongside local communities in Cotacachi, engaging in service projects with schools and nonprofits. Participate in cultural exchanges like the Pambamesa lunch, fostering meaningful connections.
Protect the Islands
Partner with local conservation efforts on Isla Isabela, assisting in tortoise breeding programs and learning about the Galápagos’ unique ecosystems.
Discover Quito’s History
Explore the rich cultural and historical sites of Quito, from the Plaza de Independencia to the stunning views at El Panecillo, immersing students in the heart of Ecuador’s capital.
Explore the Galápagos
Snorkel in Concha Perla, explore volcanic craters, and visit Tortuga Bay, experiencing the incredible biodiversity and stunning landscapes of the Galápagos Islands.
Gallery
Lodging
Participants
Participants stay in comfortable, dorm-style rooms that typically accommodate 4-6 students per room. These accommodations are carefully selected and often include locally run hotels or eco-lodges that reflect the culture of the area. Each location is selected to have private meeting spaces for group activities, ensuring both a supportive and appropriate environment for our programs.
Chaperones
Chaperones can expect to stay in private rooms, unless otherwise noted by the Global Works operations team. These rooms are located in the same facility as the student accommodations, allowing for a peaceful environment to relax and recharge without compromising proximity to the group. During homestays, chaperones typically have a choice to either stay with a homestay family or in a nearby hotel (location dependent).
Bring Your Classroom to the World
Collaborate with Global Works on an impactful service-learning travel program for your students.
