6 Best Internships in Ecuador
With a choice of academic focuses, truly worthwhile projects to get involved with, and a collection of amazing destinations, our internship programs in Ecuador are fast becoming some of our…
Amazon Wildlife Rehabilitation Internship in Ecuador
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PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Support the rehabilitation of rescued wildlife in Ecuador’s Amazon rainforest
Get hands-on experience in wildlife conservation through this internship with an Amazonian rescue and rehabilitation center in Ecuador. You’ll help care for animals rescued from illegal trafficking and support efforts to return them to the wild. The center houses over 40 species and plays a vital role in preserving Ecuador’s unique biodiversity.
This is a unique opportunity to actively contribute to animal welfare, environmental education, and conservation. From assisting in veterinary tasks to preparing food and maintaining enclosures, you’ll gain practical experience while living in the heart of the Amazon. It’s an ideal placement for students of biology, veterinary science, or environmental science.
Learning Objectives
- Develop practical skills in wildlife care, handling, and rehabilitation
- Gain insight into illegal wildlife trade and conservation strategies
- Understand veterinary protocols for rescued animals
- Learn about tropical ecosystems and environmental education
ORGANIZATION
Based in Quito, Ecuador, this organization offers immersive internships around Ecuador that blend academic learning with hands-on experience. Through partnerships with local businesses and industry experts, interns gain practical skills in their chosen focus area. These programs provide a structured yet dynamic environment where participants can work on real-world projects while expanding their global perspective. Beyond professional growth, interns have the opportunity to engage with Ecuadorian culture, creating a well-rounded and enriching experience.
TASKS & REQUIreMENTS
This is a tailored internship that adapts to your skills, interests, and academic background. Interns will be integrated into the day-to-day operations of the center and may take on tasks aligned with research, veterinary work, or animal care.
Responsibilities
- Clean and maintain animal enclosures
- Prepare and distribute food to various species
- Assist with cognitive enrichment activities
- Support veterinary staff in animal care
- Monitor animal behavior and health
- Help with environmental education programs
- Maintain trails and help with basic construction
- Assist with ecological reserve activities, including releases
Requirements
- Studying or interested in biology, veterinary science, or conservation
- Comfortable working with animals in a rural, outdoor setting
- Flexible and open to variable daily routines
- Willingness to get hands-on and sometimes dirty
- Basic Spanish is helpful but not required
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
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WHERE YOU’LL STAY
Upon arrival on Friday, you will explore Quito for the weekend with accommodation in a hostel including breakfast. On Sunday, you’ll travel with the team to the project site in the Amazon region of Ecuador. Intern stay in shared cabins with shared bathrooms, managed by the organization. The project site has a variety of cabins and serves as a central hub, where interns and volunteers gather for meals, presentations, and shared activities, creating a social and collaborative environment.
Safety & Support
Safety & Support
Make sure to visit your doctor and dentist for a check-up before your internship and to get all the recommended vaccines and/or medications necessary to stay healthy.
Communication
Communication
Internet is available in the main house at the project, though it may be limited. Mobile service is spotty in the reserve. We recommend ensuring your phone is unlocked and purchasing a local SIM or international eSIM upon arrival for better connectivity.
Meals
Meals
Meals are provided from Monday to Saturday morning and are prepared on-site using local ingredients. As the project is in a remote area, food is limited to preserved and seasonal produce. Let us know in advance about any dietary needs or allergies.
Location details
Location details
Located in the Amazon region near Puyo in the province of Pastaza, the area is humid and lush, with year-round rainfall and temperatures between 18–33°C. Puyo offers access to natural attractions like waterfalls, viewpoints, and indigenous cultural sites.
DATES & RATES
FEE BREAKDOWN
Arrivals are typically the first Friday of each month. You must arrive on the specified Friday as you will spend the weekend in Quito and travel to the project on Sunday with the team. You will end your internship on a Thursday with transport back to Quito on Friday where you’ll have an exit interview. Flights home or to onward travel can be booked from the Saturday your placement is over.
2025 Start Dates: 4 July // 1 August // 5 September // 3 October // 31 October
What you’ll pay (2025 rates)
4 weeks USD 2,539
8 weeks USD 3,601
12 weeks USD 4,664
16 weeks USD 5,728
20 weeks USD 6,792
Inclusions
- Careful matchmaking. It takes time to find the right internship for each person, and we take this process very seriously.
- Initial interview with one of our team to gauge your skills, interests, and desired learning outcomes.
- An academic internship eligible for university credit. Check with your university to confirm if this internship qualifies for credit or alternatively we can assist you with purchasing transfer credits.
- Accommodation in a shared cabin (4 pax). If you prefer a single room, please contact us for availability and prices.
- Airport transfers upon arrival and departure
- Weekend accommodation in Quito upon arrival
- One night accommodation in Quito prior to departure
- Transport from/to Quito upon arrival & departure
- Meals from Monday to Saturday morning
- Wifi is available, but the connection can be inconsistent
- Guidance with your visa arrangement and other preparations
- Development of an Internship Work Plan to help you reach your learning goals
- Onboarding with your supervisor
- Regular check-ins
- Support from the Roots team remotely
- A certificate of completion at the end of your internship
- A reference letter upon request
Exclusions
- Flights to/from Mariscal Sucre Quito International Airport
- Visa and medical/travel insurance costs for the duration of your placement – must include cover for repatriation
- Certain meals while in Quito
- Meals on the weekend
- Drinks, snacks, and items of personal nature (f.e. curios, gifts, clothing)
- Costs for additional excursions or activities
FAQs
Some of our most commonly asked questions for programs in Ecuador.
What can I expect from an internship in Ecuador?
You can expect to work on your Spanish language skills while gaining hands-on experience in your preferred field. From exploring diverse ecosystems to engaging with local communities, your stay in Ecuador will provide you with insights into the country’s rich biodiversity, while the challenges and accomplishments that you experience will foster your adaptability and global perspective.
Will I have time to explore the country during my internship?
Yes! There is always time to explore the surrounding area. Our nonprofit partners are based around the country (and on the Galapagos Islands) and they can offer recommendations about which places are the best to visit! When you are based on the mainland, some of the highlights of Ecuador are, for example, the city of Cuenca or the Cotopaxi National Park. If you are based on the Galapagos Islands, there are great excursion options on the island(s) including fantastic diving. If you are keen to also explore the mainland of Ecuador, you will need to do so before or after your Galapagos internship because of the distance (and costs of the flight).
Does an internship in Ecuador qualify for university credit?
Yes, but you must ensure with your university that your supervisor approves this. It is also possible to purchase transfer credits that can be added to your internship.
Will I be paid during my internship?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to receive any kind of stipend while interning. As your internship with the nonprofit organization will be unpaid, you can check out ways to fund your internship here. The wealth of knowledge and opportunities for both professional and personal growth throughout your experience are invaluable!
QUICK FACTS
LOCATION: Puyo, Ecuador
PROGRAM FOCUS: Wildlife Conservation
TASK FOCUS: Animal Welfare, Conservation, Wildlife Husbandry
LENGTH: Min. 4 weeks
COST: From USD 2,539
FEATURED REVIEW
HIGHLIGHTS
- Rescue and rehabilitate animals impacted by illegal wildlife trade
- Work alongside passionate conservation professionals
- Gain veterinary and animal care experience in the Amazon
- Contribute to biodiversity protection in a unique ecosystem
- Live in a remote rainforest region near an indigenous community
ENQUIREAPPLY NOW
HOW TO APPLY
If you’re ready to apply for this internship, here’s what to do:
APPLY
Fill in the application form (it will show in a new screen) which includes sharing your CV to us.
SPEAK WITH AN ADVISOR
We’ll set up a call with you to go through your application.
INTERNSHIP MATCHING
If we feel it’s a good match, we’ll set up a call between you and the supervisor for this internship.
PAYMENT
If everyone’s happy, we’ll provisionally confirm your placement! We’ll then send you the invoice for the deposit, getting started with the booking process and all the info you need.
CONFIRMATION
Only once we receive payment of the deposit your placement will be confirmed.
NEED TO MAKE AN ENQUIRY FIRST?
Or if you’d just like to ask us some questions about this internship first, just fill in the contact form below. We’ll be happy to assist!
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