Galapagos Conservation Internship in Ecuador

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Undertake a unique journey of conservation and transformation, working closely with experts to maintain Galapagos’ ecosystem.

Prepare to go on a once-in-a-lifetime journey that encourages you to become an integral part of the ongoing mission to safeguard the unparalleled ecosystems and rare species on the Isabela Island in the Galapagos. This remarkable opportunity promises to be transformative, not only for you but also for the natural world itself, setting the stage for a profound impact that will resonate for many years.

At the heart of your internship lies the organization that you will be working for, which is deeply committed to the conservation of the Galapagos Islands. By joining this organization, you are
entering into a dynamic network of passionate individuals, including local stakeholders, renowned experts, governmental authorities, and people with a passion for making a positive impact on the Galapagos.

The specific tasks you’ll undertake during your placement may vary depending on your role and personal preferences. However, the main focus of the tasks mainly revolve around environmental conservation and wildlife preservation. You’ll actively engage in activities designed to nurture and protect the island’s unique ecosystems and the rare species that call it home. Whether it’s caring for the Giant Tortoises, monitoring nesting patterns of Green Sea Turtles, or creating educational material to enlighten visitors about the island’s delicate balance, your efforts will collectively contribute to Isabela’s sustainability.

Furthermore, you will also actively participate in diverse initiatives aimed at the care and protection of the island’s natural wonders, ensuring that they continue to shine. This might include beach care, assisting the park rangers in zoo-keeping activities, and educating visitors about the rules and regulations vital for the safety of the tortoises and the preservation of their habitats.

Highlights

• Engage directly in conservation activities such as habitat restoration and wildlife monitoring.
• Join forces to ensure the preservation of the Galapagos Islands.
• Acquire practical skills and experiences that will set you on a path for a successful career in conservation, environmental science, or related fields.
• Share your passion for nature and conservation with the local community.
• Embrace the rich culture and traditions of the Galapagos Islands.

ORGANIZATION

Intercultural Outreach Initiative (IOI) works with local authorities in the Galapagos National Park, schools, universities, and other international nonprofits to ensure that all its efforts are consistent with the needs of the local habitats and community. Collaboration and contribution are built into the ethos of the organization and by working together, they are ensuring that the wild and beautiful landscape of the Galapagos remains protected and thriving for centuries to come.

One of the many avenues through which they nurture ecological sustainability and social stability is by offering volunteer opportunities in various fields, offering study abroad programs in which students spend up to three months studying the local environment and learning the local culture, and by developing and implementing outreach projects with local institutions that address pressing conservation, education, and social development needs via fundraising and grants.

TASKS & REQUIreMENTS

Your internship will start with a six week period with a focus on onboarding and skill development (such as management, leadership, operations, first response, safety) while working on the projects at the same time. During this period you will be introduced to the organization, their long term sustainability strategy, and projects. After the initial six weeks period you will work more independently with the host organization and/or one of their project partners on one of the projects depending on your interests and skills, and the needs of the projects or within the community at the time.

Interns with IOI are required to complete First Aid, Leadership, and Off-Site Safety Management courses within the first 6 weeks of their programs. These courses are essential due to the nature of IOI’s work, and ensures that interns are well-prepared to contribute effectively to IOI’s mission.