What to Expect from a Conservation Internship in the Galapagos
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Community Development Internship in Ecuador
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PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Gain hands-on experience supporting education, health, and sustainable livelihood programs in the Ecuadorian Amazon
Join this Community Development Internship in Ecuador and make a meaningful contribution to local communities in the area of your choice. This immersive internship provides opportunities to support initiatives in education, health, women’s empowerment, and sustainable livelihoods, all while developing leadership, intercultural, and professional skills.
Interns work alongside a diverse team, gaining exposure to multiple programs while also having the chance to focus on areas that align with their interests and passions. You may assist with school programs, workshops, community empowerment initiatives, environmental or agricultural projects, and local events.
Living and working within this local community offers firsthand experience of everyday life, cross-cultural engagement, and personal growth. This internship combines professional development with meaningful community impact, helping interns contribute to the grassroots’ mission to empower communities and support long-term development.Â
Learning Objectives
- Develop practical skills in community development program design and implementation
- Strengthen intercultural communication and cross-cultural leadership abilities
- Gain hands-on experience across education, health, and sustainable livelihood initiatives
- Build professional and personal skills in project management, teamwork, and problem-solving
ORGANIZATION
You’ll be working with a nonprofit that connects passionate young changemakers with community-led projects in Latin America. Their mission is to support sustainable social impact by empowering communities to identify and address their own priorities. The organization’s Ecuador project in the Amazon Rainforest launched in May 2023, when they began working directly in the Kichwa community of Shandia and surrounding areas.
Projects take a holistic approach – focusing on areas like education, health, and economic development, as well as other locally identified needs. Since 2004, the organization has partnered with communities to reach thousands of individuals each year, fostering meaningful and lasting impact.
TASKS & REQUIreMENTS
Internship tasks are tailored to your skills and the community’s needs. While you’ll gain exposure to a variety of ongoing programs, you can also focus on specific areas of interest, contributing meaningfully to projects in your chosen field: Public Health, Education & Youth Empowerment, Sustainability, and International Development.
Responsibilities
- Assist in school programs, afterschool activities, or workshops
- Support arts, computer, or educational initiatives
- Help facilitate community empowerment or women’s group activities
- Participate in environmental, agricultural, or sustainable livelihood projects
- Assist with local events, cultural activities, or sports programs
- Contribute to program development, research, and reporting
- Support social media, marketing, or fundraising efforts
- Reflect on your experience through blogs or program evaluations
Requirements
- Interest or academic background in community development, business, public health, education, or a related field
- Willingness to live and work in a culturally diverse, rural setting
- Open-mindedness, adaptability, and strong interpersonal skills
- Spanish is not essential, but it is requested that an effort is made to learn basics before arrival to help build trust with the community
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
Interns stay in one of two shared houses within walking distance of the school and project center. Both homes are well-equipped with Wifi, full kitchens, interior bathrooms, and communal spaces including a dining area and lounge with a projector. Dorms are shared and gender-separated, accommodating up to four people per room, with mosquito nets provided. The accommodation is located on a bus route for easy access to a variety of nearby locations.
Shandia is a quiet, remote village surrounded by the Amazon Rainforest, with hot and humid weather year-round, abundant rivers, waterfalls, and outdoor activities. While the town itself is peaceful, the nearby city of Tena offers more lively shops, restaurants, and attractions. Bicycles are available for exploring the area, and interns should be prepared for typical rainforest insects.
Safety & Support
Safety & Support
Before your internship, make sure to visit your doctor and dentist for a check-up and to receive any recommended vaccines or medications to stay healthy.
Safety in the Napo province of Ecuador is generally very good, and crime rates are lower than in much of country. While serious incidents are rare, it’s important to practice standard precautions such as staying aware of your surroundings, avoiding flashy jewelry, keeping valuables secure, and never wandering alone at night.
The houses where interns stay have secure entrances and communal living spaces. Living in the Amazon means you’ll encounter insects, so mosquito nets are provided and insect repellent is recommended. Being prepared for the rainforest environment will help you enjoy your experience fully while staying safe and comfortable.
Communication
Communication
Wifi access is available at the accommodation and the organization’s center. You will be provided with a local SIM card upon arrival, so be sure your phone is unlocked for international carriers. You can then purchase data bundles and text/call time to ensure consistent connection.
Meals
Meals
Bottled water jugs are provided at both the accommodation and community center. Food is bought communally on a weekly basis and specific items can be requested. You will assist with the shopping and cooking yourself and it is easy to accommodate food allergies or dietary restrictions. Larger supermarkets can be found in Tena City, while Shandia offers a few small shops that sell snacks, drinks, and fresh local produce.
Location details
Location details
Shandia is a small, remote village of around 300 people nestled in the heart of Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest. The community is predominantly Indigenous Kichwa, speaking both Spanish and their traditional language, Kichwa, with only a few residents speaking English.
As an intern, Shandia offers a unique opportunity to fully immerse yourself in a close-knit, nature-focused community while gaining hands-on experience in education and youth development. The village is a remote setting, so interns should be prepared for limited amenities and a slower pace of life. Shandia is also a community-based tourism hub for hikers and nature enthusiasts, with guided rainforest treks, wildlife spotting, and nearby Laguna Azul—a stunning set of turquoise, natural swimming pools perfect for day trips. The lively town of Tena is approx. 6 kms away and easily accessible by bus for shops, restaurants, night life, and local attractions.
DATES & RATES
Fee Breakdown
Internship start dates are flexible and will be discussed during the application process.
What you’ll pay (2026 rates)
4 weeks USD 2,673
6 weeks USD 3,599
8 weeks USD 4,486
10 weeks USD 5,165
Internships longer than 10 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 room (up to 4 pax). If you are interested in a single room, please contact us for availability and prices.
- Airport transfers upon arrival and departure
- Three meals a day
- Wifi access and a local SIM card
- Project transport
- Spanish classes
- Professional development training
- 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 Quito, Ecuador
- Visa and medical/travel insurance costs for the duration of your placement – must include cover for repatriation
- 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: Shandia, Ecuador
PROGRAM FOCUS: Community Development NGO
TASK FOCUS: Education, Public Health, Workshops, Sustainability
LENGTH: Min. 4 weeks
COST: From USD 2,673
FEATURED REVIEW
HIGHLIGHTS
- Develop leadership and project management skills in a real-world setting
- Gain exposure to a variety of community programs while focusing on your interests
- Support education, health, and sustainable livelihood initiatives
- Explore local environments and community activities
- Experience immersive cultural exchange while exploring Ecuador
ENQUIREAPPLY NOW
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 and share your CV with us.
CONNECT
We’ll set up a call to get to know a bit more about you and your internship goals.
MATCH
Your placement manager will confirm with the host organization that you are qualified for their current projects.
CONFIRM
When your host site confirms that your application is being given strong consideration, verify your interest with a USD $250 deposit.
ENROLL
Meet with your host organization and move forward with your new role. We’re excited to help you plan your international internship!
NEED TO MAKE AN ENQUIRY FIRST?
If you’d like to ask us some questions about our internships, fill in the contact form below. We’ll be happy to assist!
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