volunteers looking to support the conservation of a unique enviroment

Introduction:
Protect the native habitat of the Galapagos Islands and in return you’ll receive an unforgettable experience on the islands that inspired Charles Darwin to write the Evolution Theory.

Location:
The highland forests of the populated Islands in the Galapagos chain have been greatly altered due to the introduction of exotic and invasive species of animals and plants. As a result of the lack of fruit and vegetable production on the Galapagos Islands, boats from the Ecuadorian mainland unload fruits and vegetables to hotels, restaurants, and markets on a daily basis. Quarantine regulations are consistently ignored and at least two exotic and / or invasive plant or faunal species enter the islands each day.
This project has been created to develop the technology to reconstruct the native habitat in the highlands on San Cristobal, and to serve as a center for similar projects in the highlands on other populated islands in the Galapagos chain. In addition, it will be working collaboratively with local landowners to develop clean agricultural alternatives for the production of vegetables and fruits to sell to local universities, restaurants, and hotels.

Project Life:
On arrival in Quito, you will be met at the airport and taken to your accommodation. Once you have settled in and unpacked, you will receive a 2 day induction giving you all you need to know about living in Quito and preparing you for your project. To help you ease into your new surroundings, the induction is conducted in English.
Following the induction, you will start your 2-week Spanish course. This is a 20-hour course, which includes 10 group lessons and 10 private lessons. (4 weeks Spanish course if you stay for 24 weeks in total). Following your language course, you’ll be ready to start your volunteering.
The work schedule is very flexible and there will be plenty of opportunity for you to work on a variety of projects. You should expect to work approximately 9.00am to 4.00pm, but this might vary depending on which project you are working.
The volunteer activities are organized on a weekly basis, which concentrate on different projects. A typical week for a volunteer may be:

• Day 1 - reforestation (collecting and classifying seeds, out planting within the reserve, helping to maintain reforestation lines, etc.).


• Day 2 - personal project (develop your own project or support different conservation projects that are being developed at the station at the time).


• Day 3 - station maintenance (trail maintenance, sign elaboration for trails, basic construction activities, help in kitchen, etc.


• Day 4 - organic agricultural activities (help maintain and secure food production for the station).


• Day 5 - guided trek throughout reserve or nearby related areas (learn about biodiversity themes, natural history, & ecology.)


• Day 6 & 7 - Occasionally volunteers are expected to work half days Saturdays, but for the rest of the weekend volunteers may dedicate their time to rest, read, wash clothes, and/or travel locally to Puerto Baquerizo and use the internet and phone services.

Accommodation & Food:

During your 2-week Spanish course in Quito, you have an option of accommodation. You can either stay in a Student residence / hostel on a self catering basis, or you can stay with a host family where you will be provided with breakfast and evening meal.
During your time in the Galapagos, shared accommodation is provided in basic wooden cabins and 3 meals a day are also provided. Please be prepared to play an active role in the camp, as you will be expected to assist with meal preparation and general duties.

Dates & Duration:
You have the option of joining the programme for:

• 2 months (8 weeks) includes 2 weeks Spanish lessons


• You may extend your stay by multiples of 1 month (4 weeks)

Inductions start every Monday so we recommend that you arrive in Quito on the weekend before.

Flights & Transportation:

• Flights are not included


• You will be met at Quito airport and taken to your accommodation


• A full orientation and introduction on the public transport system will be given in Quito after your arrival


• Internal flights to the Galapagos Islands are best arranged by our partners in Quito. A return flight is approximately US$400 and is paid to the host organisation in Quito. The cost may vary but this only reflects changes in the airline price. There is no obligation to book through your NGO host but they prefer to do so in order to coordinate pickup and accommodation on the island

Visas:

• If your stay is less than 180 days, you can get a 90 day tourist visa at the port of entrance, then extend your visa for another 90 days (for US$ 3) when you are Ecuador.


• If you are staying longer than 180 days, you will need to get a student or volunteer visa before you depart (costs US$ 150)

Safety & Insurance:

• All of Twin’s volunteer placements are in partnership with recognised Charities, Non Governmental Organisations (NGO’s), government ministries or registered agents, giving you the confidence to work with reputable organisations.


• 24 hour support is provided by our local partner


• Comprehensive insurance is available for each of the volunteer placements.

Eligibility & Skills:

• Minimum age 18 yrs


• For whom: If you wish to experience a fascinating atmosphere, while contributing to the nature’s conservation, this is the option for you....


• Being flexible and good team worker

0845 344 7569

Whether you are taking time out from study, gap year, a career break  from your busy job. You can volunteer with kids in South Africa, or take your chance and Live with Lions or go to Canada to do an internership; we have a vast range of programmes for you!