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…
PUBLIC HEALTH INTERNSHIP IN ECUADOR
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PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Step into the Ecuadorian Amazon and support impactful community-led health initiatives that improve well-being
This Public Health Internship places you in a Kichwa community where you will support a range of grassroots health programs designed to improve well-being across all age groups. Interns choose a focus area aligned with their interests and career goals, such as maternal & child health, supporting local healthcare providers, or youth mental health & development, while building practical experience through workshops, outreach, and community engagement.
Working closely with local partners, you will contribute to both preventative health education and direct support programs while gaining insight into healthcare delivery in a remote setting. Life outside the healthcare internship offers full cultural immersion, with opportunities to practice Spanish daily, engage with Indigenous traditions, and experience the rhythms of rural Amazonian life. This Public Health Internship offers a dynamic environment where you are encouraged to take initiative, adapt to community needs, and build practical skills in public health, program development, and community-based impact.
Learning Objectives
- Develop practical public health skills through community based programs and outreach
- Gain hands on experience in maternal and child health and rural healthcare delivery
- Strengthen cross cultural communication and Spanish language skills
- Build experience in program planning, implementation, and community engagement
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
Public Health interns should expect to engage in a range of activities and contribute to projects beyond their primary focus area, as this program takes a holistic approach to community health and development. Interns can choose to focus on one of current key initiatives, while still gaining exposure to wider health and community programs.
This hands-on involvement provides a well-rounded experience, allowing interns to see how different initiatives work together to improve well-being and strengthen the community.
Placements of 12+ weeks are strongly encouraged, offering greater responsibility, skill-building, and deeper connection with the organization.
Responsibilities
- Support the logistical planning and problem solving for community health and infrastructure initiatives
- Research and help develop effective public health education programs tailored to local community needs
- Conduct needs assessments and contribute to impact reports measuring community health outcomes and development
- Assist in delivering and supporting community programs such as youth development, education, and wellbeing activities
- Contribute to NGO operations including fundraising, communications, marketing, and program support
- Build strong relationships with community members through regular engagement and participation in local life
Requirements
- Ideally have a relevant academic background or experience in public health or related fields
- Demonstrate adaptability in a remote rural environment with limited infrastructure
- Show interest in community health, prevention, and grassroots public health work
- Be comfortable working cross culturally with rural Kichwa communities
- Work independently and take initiative in a small team setting
- 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)
1 month USD 2,673
2 months USD 4,486
3 months USD 4,501
4 months USD 5,768
5 months USD 7,035
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
GALLERY
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
PROJECT FOCUS: Community Development NGO
TASK FOCUS: Education, Workshops, Community Outreach
LENGTH: Min. 4 weeks
COST: From USD 2,673
FEATURED REVIEW
HIGHLIGHTS
- Support community-led public health initiatives in maternal care, clinics, and youth well-being
- Collaborate with local healthcare workers and community partners
- Design and facilitate health education workshops
- Contribute to outreach, program development, and impact tracking
- Experience living and working in the Ecuadorian Amazon in a remote Indigenous community
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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