What to Expect from a Conservation Internship in the Galapagos
“I wanted to work with an NGO where I could actually make an impact and help preserve one of the most amazing ecosystems in the world. I love being outdoors…
Ecological Wastewater Treatment & Sustainable Design Internship in Ecuador
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PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Help create sustainable solutions for clean water and conservation in Ecuador’s rainforest while learning about bioremediation, permaculture, and eco-friendly design
This Sustainable Design Internship in Ecuador takes place in the Mashpi forests, a stunning area where the Andean cloud forest meets the tropical Chocó bioregion. It’s one of the most biodiverse regions in the world, and also a place where communities face challenges with water pollution and land use. Surrounded by lush landscapes, this Sustainable Design Internship gives participants the chance to experience conservation and sustainable living in one of the planet’s most unique ecosystems.
To address these environmental challenges, a local project has developed natural systems that use plants, microorganisms, and eco-friendly construction to treat wastewater and restore the environment. By joining the Sustainable Design Internship in Ecuador, participants contribute to ecosystem protection while gaining hands-on skills in sustainable design, ecological engineering, and community development. It’s an opportunity to learn directly from professionals in bioremediation and permaculture while actively supporting long-term conservation goals in the Mashpi cloud forest.
Learning Objectives
- Learn how natural wastewater treatment systems are built and maintained
- Explore bioremediation techniques to clean and restore soil and water
- Practice permaculture and agroecology for sustainable food production
- Gain experience in eco-building and landscape design
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 Ecological Wastewater Treatment & Sustainable Design Internship you will join an organization that leads innovative projects that combine technology and community action to address urban waste challenges. With a focus on sustainability and social impact, they create solutions that benefit both people and the environment.
TASKS & REQUIreMENTS
This Ecological Wastewater Treatment and Sustainable Design Internship in Ecuador is highly adaptable and can be tailored to your background, skills, and learning goals. Depending on your interests, you may focus more on conservation fieldwork, agroecology, or education. Since 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
Responsibilities
- Help design and build natural wastewater treatment systems
- Take part in reforestation, soil restoration, and organic farming activities
- Support eco-building projects with local materials
- Join workshops on sustainable water use and permaculture
- Contribute to education and awareness projects for local communities
Requirements
- Interest in conservation, sustainability, or environmental studies
- Willingness to live and work in a rural forest setting
- Flexibility and openness to different tasks and daily routines
- Basic level of Spanish (A1) is helpful, but not required
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 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.
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. 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.
Communication
Communication
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
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.
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
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.
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: 3 October // 31 October
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.
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 (2-4 pax) with access to shared bathroom
- Airport transfers upon arrival and departure
- Weekend accommodation in Quito upon arrival
- One night accommodation in Quito prior to departure
- Transport from Quito to project location upon arrival
- Meals from Monday to Saturday morning
- Wifi is available, but the connection can be inconsistent
- 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
- Visa and medical/travel insurance costs for the duration of your placement – must include cover for repatriation
- Transport back to Quito from the project location upon departure
- 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!
REVIEWS
My internship with Roots was wonderfully supportive, fun and inspiring. I learned so much from living communally and from other interns who were also contributing to community projects. The Roots team provided clear communication and guidance throughout, helping me navigate both the professional and cultural sides of the placement. It encouraged me to embrace the unfamiliar and develop confidence in my abilities, all while exploring Ecuador!
Luke, American – University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Community Development and Anthropology Internship, Ecuador
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: Pichincha Province, Ecuador
PROGRAM FOCUS: Community Development & Conservation
Water Management, Sustainable Design, Ecological Restoration
LENGTH: Min. 4 weeks
COST: From USD 2,561
FEATURED REVIEW
HIGHLIGHTS
- Live and work in Ecuador’s biodiverse Mashpi forest
- Gain practical skills in ecological water treatment and permaculture
- Contribute to a project with proven positive impact on the environment
- Learn from experienced professionals passionate about conservation
- Explore Ecuador’s culture and nature during your free time
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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