Immerse yourself in the cloud forest and support environmental restoration, sustainable farming, and education initiatives that protect biodiversity in Ecuador
This hands-on internship invites you to live and learn in Ecuador’s spectacular Andean Chocó cloud forest, one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on the planet. Once used for livestock and agriculture, the reserve has been transformed by a local family into a hub for conservation and sustainability. Through reforestation efforts, agroecology, and the study of native and non-conventional food plants, the project is restoring balance to the forest and promoting biodiversity for future generations.
As a conservation intern, you’ll contribute to a variety of meaningful initiatives while gaining practical conservation and community engagement experience. From assisting in ecological research and sustainable farming to developing workshops for local schools, your role will connect you with both the land and its people. This is a unique opportunity to broaden your environmental knowledge, explore innovative solutions to global challenges, and experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of rural Ecuador.
Learning Objectives
Based in Ecuador, this organization offers immersive internships around the country 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.
During this Cloud Forest Conservation Internship you will join an organization that is dedicated to protecting the Andean Chocó cloud forest in Ecuador through sustainable land management, ecosystem restoration, and environmental education. By combining hands-on conservation with community-based initiatives, it works to preserve biodiversity while promoting harmony between people and nature.
This Conservation Internship is adaptable and will be tailored to your background, skills, and learning goals. Depending on your interests, you may focus more on conservation fieldwork, agroecology, or education. As the project takes place in a rural cloud forest setting, a flexible and proactive mindset will help you get the most out of the experience.
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 Andean Chocó cloud forest of Pichincha Province, Ecuador. During your internship, you’ll stay in shared bedrooms at the project house. The accommodation is simple but comfortable, with communal living spaces, basic amenities, and a shared kitchen. Shops and small town markets are just a 15-minute trip away, and many interns enjoy cooking meals together and exploring the surrounding forest trails.
Prior to your internship, be sure to visit your doctor and dentist for a check-up and obtain any recommended vaccines and/or medications necessary to stay healthy. Intern must be in a strong and healthy physical condition, as most activities take place outdoors in the cloud forest and involve working with soil and plants under varying weather conditions such as rain, sun, and mud. Mosquitoes are common in the area, so precautions like insect repellent and protective clothing are strongly recommended.
Being based on a rural project site, you will have 24/7 access to the team on the ground in case of any emergency. The team will inform you of any safety guidelines regarding the area and any wildlife/insects to be mindful of.
While interning, it’s important to remain aware of your surroundings and practice common-sense safety precautions. As a foreigner, it’s important to be respectful of all cultures and local customs, avoid weary flashy clothing or jewelry, and never walk alone at night. Public transport is available but limited in rural areas, so be prepared to coordinate your travel plans in advance with your host or local contacts.
The project site has Wifi and cellphone service is available in the area, however connection can be spotty. When joining this internship, it’s important to be aware that Internet and cell connection may not always be available. We recommend ensuring your mobile phone is unlocked and purchasing a local SIM card or using a global e-SIM.
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.
Please inform us of any dietary restrictions or allergies in advance so we can accommodate your needs during your time in Ecuador.
This internship takes place in Pichincha Province’s Andean Chocó cloud forest, a lush, biodiverse region home to over 250 bird species and countless unique plants. The reserve is surrounded by vibrant greenery, cascading waterfalls, and nearby towns to explore, making it a perfect place to experience both Ecuador’s natural beauty and rich culture. In your free time, you can explore the nearby town of Mashpi, where a crystal-clear river offers a perfect spot for swimming and relaxation. A few hours away, you’ll also find popular destinations such as Mindo, known for its waterfall hikes, adventure sports, chocolate-making experiences, butterfly and hummingbird gardens, and vibrant local cuisine.
Arrivals are typically the first Friday of each month. Exact arrival date options will be discussed with you upon application. 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.
What you’ll pay (2026 rates)
4 weeks USD 2,507
6 weeks USD 3,054
8 weeks USD 3,601
10 weeks USD 4,179
12 weeks USD 4,758
Internships longer than 12 weeks are possible - please get in touch for rates.
Some of our most commonly asked questions for programs 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.
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).
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.
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!
If you’re ready to apply for this internship, here’s what to do:
Fill in the application form (it will show in a new screen) which includes sharing your CV to us.
We’ll set up a call with you to go through your application.
If we feel it’s a good match, we’ll set up a call between you and the supervisor for this internship.
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.
Only once we receive payment of the deposit your placement will be confirmed.
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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ABOUT US
At Roots, we create the perfect balance between meaningful work and valuable learning through internships with nonprofits & social enterprises in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.TEST
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ABOUT US
At Roots, we create the perfect balance between meaningful work and valuable learning through internships with nonprofits & social enterprises in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
CONTACT
UK: +44 139 269 0255
US: +1 617 500 6179
internship@rootsinterns.com
OFFICE: Cape Town, South Africa
SOCIAL
SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER
ABOUT US
At Roots, we create the perfect balance between meaningful work and valuable learning through internships with nonprofits & social enterprises in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
CONTACT
UK: +44 139 269 0255
US: +1 617 500 6179
internship@rootsinterns.com
OFFICE: Cape Town, South Africa
SOCIAL
SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER
