What to Expect from a Conservation Internship in the Galapagos
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Community Development and Anthropology Internship in Ecuador
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PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Gain field-based experience in cultural preservation and sustainable development in the Andes of Ecuador
This Community Development and Anthropology Internship offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of globalization, migration, and cultural resilience in a rural Ecuadorian context. Based in the Andean highlands, this program invites interns to work alongside local communities to identify sociocultural challenges and co-develop meaningful, community-led solutions.
Under the guidance of a sustainable development mentor, interns engage in research, documentation, and pilot initiatives aimed at strengthening cultural identity and promoting equitable development. Through direct immersion in community life, you’ll build strong cross-cultural skills while learning to approach development work with empathy, insight, and collaboration.
Learning Objectives
- Learn to conduct qualitative field research and stakeholder interviews
- Explore the impact of migration and globalization on cultural preservation
- Co-design solutions and pilot initiatives with community input
- Understand Ecuador’s sociopolitical and historical landscape through theoretical workshops
- Build practical skills in cross-cultural communication and sustainable development
ORGANIZATION
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 Community Development & Anthropology Internship you will join a forward-thinking organization in the Central Highlands of Ecuador that works to preserve cultural heritage while addressing the social and economic challenges brought on by migration and globalization. By collaborating with local communities, they foster sustainable development initiatives that honor tradition while creating pathways out of poverty.
TASKS & REQUIreMENTS
Interns will take part in diverse, hands-on cultural engagement and development work, guided by experienced mentors and community leaders. Activities are adapted based on your background, interests, and Spanish proficiency.
Responsibilities
- Participate in site visits to cultural projects, events, and local organizations
- Spend time shadowing and assisting families in daily life, including farming
- Conduct interviews with community leaders and residents
- Attend theoretical workshops on Ecuador’s cultural history and development context
- Collaborate on designing and piloting community-based development solutions
Requirements
- Background in anthropology, sociology, international development, or similar is beneficial
- Open-minded, flexible, and respectful of cultural differences
- Willingness to live and work in a rural setting
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Spanish not required, but a willingness to learn is encouraged
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 Central Highlands region of Ecuador. During your internship, you’ll stay in a shared room at the Casa Comunal, with up to four people per room and access to communal living spaces and a shared kitchen. The house offers a basic but comfortable setup, with reliable electricity and Wifi, although heating is not available—so pack warm clothing for the cool mountain climate. A family homestay option is available for those seeking more privacy and cultural immersion, at an additional cost. Whether at the volunteer house or with a host family, your accommodation offers a unique opportunity to live within a welcoming rural Andean community and engage deeply with local life.
Safety & Support
Safety & Support
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. Be mindful of potential altitude sickness due to elevation in the Central Highlands (over 9,000 feet / 2,750 meters), so allow time to acclimatize upon arrival and stay hydrated.
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 in this quiet and welcoming Andean town, 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.
Communication
Communication
Wifi is available at the volunteer house and easily accessible in the closest town, although connection strength can vary. For consistent Internet access, you can also use roaming on your current data plan (which can be costly) or ensure your phone is unlocked for international use to purchase a local SIM or a global e-SIM.
Meals
Meals
Lunch is provided from Monday to Friday, giving you a chance to enjoy freshly prepared local dishes. For breakfast, dinner, and weekend meals, you’ll have access to a shared kitchen at the Casa Comunal, where you can store groceries and cook your own food. Many also choose to travel and eat out on weekends.
Please inform us of any dietary restrictions or allergies in advance so we can accommodate your needs during your time in Ecuador.
Location details
Location details
The internship project site is located 20 minutes from Guaranda, in central Ecuador. Sitting at over 9,000 feet in altitude, this remote rural community in the Andes mountains boasts unbeatable daily views. Surrounded by mountains and indigenous culture, the area offers natural beauty, strong community spirit, and nearby excursions to places like Chimborazo volcano, Salinas de Guaranda, and the Andean Cloud Forest. Most of the community identify as indigenous, however, their language is endangered, as many young people leave their culture behind and move to the cities in search of new opportunities.
DATES & RATES
FEE BREAKDOWN
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 2,561
6 weeks USD 3,134
8 weeks USD 3,708
10 weeks USD 4,313
12 weeks USD 4,918
Internships longer than 12 weeks are possible - please get in touch for rates.
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 shared wooden cabins (4 pax, single gender)
- Airport transfers upon arrival and departure
- Transfer from Quito to Central Highlands upon arrival
- Wifi access
- Lunch on Monday-Friday
- Guidance, if needed, 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
- Transfer back to Quito from Central Highlands at the end of the internship
- Visa and medical/travel insurance costs for the duration of your placement – must include cover for repatriation
- Meals, excluding lunch on weekdays
- 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!
REVIEWS
My internship focused on community-based economic development, where I researched Ecuadorian social and popular law to support the creation of small agricultural developments. I worked alongside the dedicated team and the local community. This experience gave me hands-on insight into how law and policy can empower grassroot initiatives, and how collaboration lies at the heart of sustainable development.
Luke, American – University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Community Development and Anthropology Internship, Ecuador
I was able to have hands-on interactions with many incredible animals, learn about how to care for them, and feed them. I also had the opportunity to choose one of animals at the center and spend time training it one-on-one. I worked with Yalla, an Andean mountain fox, training her to sit, stay, lay down, paw, and many more tricks. I was able to go in her enclosure and really interact with her, which was incredible; I truly bonded with her. This internship helped me confirm that working with animals is what I want to do in the future, and it provided me with invaluable work experience for my resume.
Della, American – Yale University
Amazon Wildlife Rehabilitation Internship, Ecuador
QUICK FACTS
LOCATION: Central Highlands, Ecuador
PROGRAM FOCUS: Community Development
TASK FOCUS: Education, Community development, Cultural immersion
LENGTH: Min. 4 weeks
COST: From USD 2,561
FEATURED REVIEW
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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