6 Best Internships in Ecuador
With a choice of academic focuses, truly worthwhile projects to get involved with, and a collection of amazing destinations, our internship programs in Ecuador are fast becoming some of our…
Sustainable Architecture Internship in Ecuador
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PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Use sustainable architecture to restore traditional buildings and support community development in rural Ecuador
The Sustainable Building Internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in sustainable design and traditional construction in Ecuador. You’ll join a community-led project focused on restoring a century-old adobe farmhouse using eco-friendly, low-impact building techniques. Working alongside professional architects and local builders, you’ll learn to apply structural assessments, 3D modeling, interior design, and adobe construction in a real-world setting.
Beyond technical experience, you’ll play a part in a broader initiative that supports marginalized communities through sustainable infrastructure, cultural preservation, and economic development. The restored building will serve as a future visitor accommodation, helping generate local income and celebrate ancestral architectural knowledge. This Sustainable Architecture Internship is ideal for students or recent graduates in architecture, civil engineering, or sustainable design who want to make a tangible impact through purpose-driven work.
Learning Objectives
- Learn adobe and traditional construction techniques
- Apply sustainable architecture in low-resource settings
- Collaborate on real restoration and design projects
- Contribute to long-term community development goals
ORGANIZATION
Based in Quito, Ecuador, this organization offers immersive internships around Ecuador 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.
TASKS & REQUIreMENTS
This is a tailored architecture internship that will be aligned to your skills, interests, and academic background. You’ll be integrated into daily construction & design activities and supported by professionals throughout the process.
Responsibilities
- Participate in adobe and clay construction
- Assist in 3D modeling and architectural design
- Conduct structural assessments of heritage buildings
- Help design eco-friendly interiors and furniture
- Work with local builders on renovation tasks
- Join regional site visits to sustainable projects
- Support planning and documentation for training
- Collaborate with the team to meet design goals
Requirements
- Interest or background in architecture, civil engineering, or design
- Comfortable with hands-on construction work
- Open-minded and respectful of indigenous culture
- Team player with a flexible attitude
- No Spanish required, but willingness to learn is a plus
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
You’ll stay in shared wooden cabins (up to 4 people, same gender) located on-site at the center in a lush Central Highland setting. Facilities are basic but comfortable, with access to showers and communal spaces. It’s an immersive experience, ideal for those looking to disconnect and engage fully with nature.
Safety & Support
Safety & Support
Being based on a rural project site, you will have 24/7 support from 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. 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.
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.
Communication
Communication
Internet is available in the main house at the project, though it may be limited. Mobile service is spotty in the reserve. We recommend ensuring your phone is unlocked and purchasing a local SIM or international eSIM upon arrival for better connectivity.
Meals
Meals
Lunch is provided daily from Monday to Friday and is prepared on-site using local, seasonal ingredients. Interns and volunteers cook their own meals in a shared kitchen and can easily purchase groceries, with shops just 15 minutes away. Many also choose to travel and eat out on weekends. Please inform us in advance of any dietary needs or allergies.
Location details
Location details
This internship takes place in a remote rural community in central Ecuador. Surrounded by mountains and indigenous culture, the area offers natural beauty, strong community spirit, and nearby excursions to places like Chimborazo, Salinas de Guaranda, and the Andean cloud forest.
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: 1 August // 5 September // 3 October // 31 October
What you’ll pay (2025 rates)
4 weeks USD 2,539
8 weeks USD 3,601
12 weeks USD 4,664
16 weeks USD 5,728
20 weeks USD 6,792
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 wooden cabins (4 pax, single gender)
- Airport transfers upon arrival and departure
- Wifi access
- Lunch on Monday-Friday
- 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
- Meals, excluding lunch on weekdays
- 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: Central Highlands, Ecuador
PROGRAM FOCUS: Community Development
TASK FOCUS: Ancestral Construction, Building, Planning, Engineering
LENGTH: Min. 4 weeks
COST: From USD 2,539
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 (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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