Become an essential part of the host organization’s farm workforce, using eco-friendly practices, and contributing to food sovereignty.
Are you intrigued by the idea of getting involved in the thriving agricultural scene on the picturesque Isabela Island? If so, this opportunity is made for you! By joining the host organization’s farm workforce, you’ll play a vital role in enhancing year-round production while championing eco-friendly practices.
As an intern, you’ll gain invaluable insights into the intricacies of sustainable tropical agriculture and contribute to the noble cause of establishing food sovereignty on the island. Your work as an intern will ripple through the community and will spark a large amount of positive changes.
Your work during this internship will contribute to the island’s overall health and well-being. By participating in sustainable agricultural practices, you will contribute to increasing the nutritional content of the food available on Isabela Island, ensuring that residents have access to healthier and more diverse food options, whilst contributing to the mitigation of carbon emissions.
Learning Objectives
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.
During this Sustainable Agriculture Internship you will work on a program that aims to create food sovereignty, lower the carbon footprint of island life, lower waste from shipping materials, lower cost to local consumers, increase local income, and increase the nutritional content of the food available in Isabela.
You will start with a six weeks period where you will be introduced to the organization, their long term sustainability strategy, and projects. You will develop skills in leadership, management, operations, safety and first response while working on the project. After the initial six weeks period you will work more independently on the side of Volcano Sierra Negra where the highlands are fertile and the lands are lush with rich volcanic soil, which makes it perfect for agriculture.
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.
Your tasks and responsibilities depend on the time of the year and need on the farm at the time. Besides your daily work on the farm tilling the land, planting, cultivating, etc. some of your other responsibilities may include:
Your accommodation in Isabela Island has been thoughtfully arranged with one of the organization’s carefully selected host families. You will share breakfast and dinner with your host family, while lunch will be provided by the organization’s partner restaurants. Also, at your host family’s house you will be provided with a private bedroom and bathroom with a fan, hot water, dresser or closet, and potable water.
Your host family’s warmth and hospitality will be the cornerstone of your experience as they share their traditions, stories, and a genuine connection that bridges cultures. Their insights into the island’s history, customs, and local stories will undoubtedly be one of the best parts of your internship experience!
The Galapagos islands are a safe destination, but as always look after your valuables and belongings.
Make sure to visit your doctor and dentist for a check-up before your internship and to get all the recommended vaccines and/or medications necessary to stay healthy. There are no reports of Malaria at Galapagos.
There is a reliable Wifi connect at the project where you can do video calls. It’s recommended to also buy a local SIM card.
Meals are included in the fee. You will have breakfast and dinner with your family. For lunch you are able to choose from a list of 10+ restaurants in town offering meals in partnership with the host organization. You sign for your meal and your host organization will pay for the bill.
During your stay, you will find yourself on Isabela Island, the largest of the Galapagos Islands, where every day promises you a new and exciting adventure. This island is located in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Ecuador and is known for its stunning volcanic landscapes, including the Sierra Negra volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in the archipelago. The island’s diverse wildlife, including Galapagos penguins, giant tortoises, and marine iguanas, make it a popular destination for everyone who truly enjoys and values nature.
You can start this internship every first Monday of the month.
What you’ll pay (2026 rates)
8 weeks USD 5,289
9 weeks USD 5,577
10 weeks USD 5,902
11 weeks USD 6,226
12 weeks USD 6,551
Some of our most commonly asked questions for programs 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.
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).
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.
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!
If you’re ready to apply for this internship, here’s what to do:
Fill in the application form and share your CV with us.
We’ll set up a call to get to know a bit more about you and your internship goals.
Your placement manager will confirm with the host organization that you are qualified for their current projects.
When your host site confirms that your application is being given strong consideration, verify your interest with a USD $250 deposit.
Meet with your host organization and move forward with your new role. We’re excited to help you plan your international internship!
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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ABOUT US
At Roots, we create the perfect balance between meaningful work and valuable learning through internships with nonprofits & social enterprises in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
CONTACT
US: +1 617 500 6179
UK registered office:
Raleigh Expeditions Ltd, Unit 10 Kingfisher Park, Headlands Business Park, Ringwood, Hampshire, BH24 3NX, UK
US registered office:
ITG US LLC, 3015 E Franklin Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55406 USA
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ABOUT US
At Roots, we create the perfect balance between meaningful work and valuable learning through internships with nonprofits & social enterprises in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
CONTACT
UK: +44 139 269 0255
US: +1 617 500 6179
internship@rootsinterns.com
OFFICE: Cape Town, South Africa
SOCIAL
SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER
ABOUT US
At Roots, we create the perfect balance between meaningful work and valuable learning through internships with nonprofits & social enterprises in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
CONTACT
UK: +44 139 269 0255
US: +1 617 500 6179
internship@rootsinterns.com
OFFICE: Cape Town, South Africa
SOCIAL
SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER
