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.
This organization 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 and encouraged, 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.
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 2,730
6 weeks USD 3,563
8 weeks USD 4,396
10 weeks USD 5,260
12 weeks USD 6,125
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 bedroom at the project house (up to 8 pax)
- Airport transfers upon arrival and departure (to/from Quito – not the project site)
- Friday & Saturday accommodation in Quito upon arrival
- Transport from Quito to project location upon arrival (transfer back to Quito at the end of your placement is not included; the on-site team can help you arrange shared or private transport from the project to Quito for your departure)
- One night accommodation in Quito prior to departure
- Meals from Monday to Saturday morning
- Wifi is available, but the connection can be inconsistent
- Orientation & city tour of Quito
- 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
- Certain meals while in Quito
- Transport back to Quito from project location upon departure
- 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 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 NGO
Water Management, Sustainable Design, Ecological Restoration
LENGTH: Min. 4 weeks
COST: From USD 2,730
FEATURED REVIEW
HIGHLIGHTS
- Build hands-on skills in ecological water treatment and bioremediation
- Contribute to real conservation efforts in one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems
- Learn permaculture and sustainable design from experienced professionals
- Apply eco-building skills to live environmental challenges
- Live and work in Ecuador’s stunning Mashpi cloud forest
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 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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