Ecuador
Andean Community Service and Cultural Exchange
About the Program
This school group travel program offers students the chance to engage in community service projects in the heart of Ecuador’s Andean region while immersing themselves in local culture through meaningful exchanges. Participants work alongside local communities, gaining insights into traditional customs and daily life. Through hands-on service and cultural interaction, students develop a deeper understanding of the Andean way of life while contributing to impactful community initiatives.
Itinerary
Discover the exciting adventures and impactful moments that await each day on this itinerary!
- Arrive at the Quito airport and meet the Global Works Leader
- Transfer via private bus to Quito accommodation, selected specifically for its comfort and group-coherent space
- Safety briefing, snacks, and settle into bed!
- Continue orientation to Ecuador
- Practice Spanish with fun language activities!
- Visit important historical sites throughout Quito: Plaza de Independencia, El Panecillo, the Quito Teleferico, and more
- Eat a local lunch while we continue to explore the vibrant culture of this city
- Return to group lodging for community service orientation
- Rise early to transfer via private bus to Lago Cuicocha (2.5 hrs) for a hike around the spectacular crater lake
- Learn about the geological and cultural histories of the area, while taking in amazing views
- Lunch at a local spot
- Spend the afternoon settling into a new hotel in Cotacachi
- Learn about the small bustling town of Cotacachi and meet with some of our service partners!
- Spend each day engaging in community service and exchange
- Meet with local school-aged children and their families to discuss projects and practice Spanish. Past projects have included general maintenance around the school, painting, and teaching lessons to students
- Visit a local tannery and try a hand at shoe or wallet making!
- Organic jam and jewelry making workshops to learn about small business in this Ecuadorian community
- Take a break from work to visit the world-famous Otavalo artisan market!
- Pambamesa Lunch and final celebratory dinner with new friends and service partners
- Morning visit to worksite to see results, play some fútbol, and say goodbye to new friends
- Transfer back to Quito for one night
- Hold service learning reflection activities as a group to consider the days spent in Cotacachi
- Drive east for a visit to the mystical Papallacta Hot Springs
- Take in the gorgeous views as we transfer into a misty, green highlands setting
- Enjoy a local lunch to try a local delicacy- trout!
- Transfer back to Quito for final reflections, trip closure, and a celebratory dinner out in the city
- Transfer via private bus to the Quito airport in accordance with flight schedules
- ¡Adios, Ecuador!
Educational Focus & Highlights
Serve & Share
Collaborate with local schools and families on impactful service projects, such as school maintenance and teaching lessons. Participate in hands-on workshops like shoe-making and organic jam creation.
Discover Quito’s Heritage
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Quito by visiting landmarks like Plaza de Independencia and El Panecillo. Experience the vibrant culture of Ecuador’s capital through language practice and local cuisine.
Explore Otavalo’s Craftsmanship
Take a break from service to visit the renowned Otavalo artisan market. Discover beautiful handcrafted goods and support local artisans.
Lago Cuicocha & Papallacta Hot Springs
Start with a scenic hike around the breathtaking crater lake of Lago Cuicocha, learning about its geological and cultural significance. Unwind at the mystical Papallacta Hot Springs, soaking in thermal waters and reflecting on your journey through Ecuador’s highlands.
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.
