Enjoy an extraordinary experience in the cloud forest of the Andes in Ecuador. Sign up as an eco-volunteer working to protect biodiversity in a stunning nature reserve. See all our volunteering programmes in Ecuador here
An 800-hectare nature reserve in Ecuador
To the west of Quito, in the magnificent cloud forest of the Andean foothills, lies a private nature reserve that hosts our partner’s eco-volunteering programme. Across 800 hectares, organic farming and sustainable tourism projects are being developed. Of these 800 hectares, around 700 are designated as protected forest. The owner welcomes visitors to the remaining 100 hectares, offering holiday cottages and a small campsite. He sees this as a way of raising public awareness of conservation and involving visitors in the development of sustainable agriculture.
Protecting the forest and raising public awareness
One of the project’s main objectives is to preserve existing forests and raise public awareness of the importance of protecting these areas rich in biodiversity. Reforestation efforts are being carried out on former sugarcane plantations.
An incredible diversity of life
This cloud forest is home to an incredible array of biodiversity. In this region alone, there are hundreds of species of birds, as well as numerous butterflies and amphibians. Many mammals also inhabit this forest, including monkeys, deer, weasels, wildcats, ocelots, agoutis, squirrels, peccaries, armadillos, skunks, sloths, spectacled bears and bats… The variety of plant species is also wonderful. A nursery is used as part of the project to propagate local endangered species.
This project is ideal for you if you enjoy working with your hands in a beautiful natural setting, if you love forests and if you enjoy being active.
The eco-volunteer’s work in the Cloud Forest
The roles on offer are varied, and you can choose to focus on one or two areas depending on your preferences:
- Reforestation: planting of native species, seed collection, maintenance
- Regenerative agriculture: compost, permaculture, medicinal gardens
- Wildlife monitoring: setting up camera traps, observing biodiversity
- Sustainable building: maintenance, minor repairs, infrastructure improvements
- Handcrafted products: local cooking workshops, soap-making and jam-making
- Education: awareness-raising in village schools (sport, the environment, languages)
Example of a timetable
- Monday: agriculture
- Tuesday: site maintenance
- Wednesday: cooking session
- Thursday: school activities (depending on your language level)
- Friday: a walk or the start of the weekend
- Saturday/Sunday: free time or excursions
All activities are conducted in Spanish, but a beginner’s level is sufficient. The team is always on hand to assist you and translate if necessary.
Dates
- Minimum duration: 2 weeks
- Maximum duration: 6 months
- Arrivals: every Monday morning
- Annual closure: 24 December to 2 January
Prices
- 2 weeks: US$323
- 3 weeks: US$455
- 4 weeks: US$600
- 5 weeks: US$720
- 6 weeks: US$869
- 8 weeks: US$1,080
- 12 weeks: US$1,570
Registration fee: US$55. This covers online support, logistical assistance and preparations for your arrival.
The price includes:
- Accommodation in the volunteers’ house
- Three meals a day (using local produce; special dietary requirements can be catered for)
- Supervision and equipment
The price does not include:
- The plane ticket
- Health and travel insurance (compulsory)
- The transfer from Quito (arranged by the team, but at your own expense)
- Minimum age: 18
- Good physical fitness is required (outdoor work, terrain may be steep)
- Basic Spanish recommended
- Compulsory health and travel insurance
- Mandatory online preliminary interview
- Medical information to be provided to assess suitability for a hot and humid climate
Tangaré can also offer tailor-made programmes for organised groups (minimum 8 people) and a 5-day family programme, with activities suitable for children.
Arrival and transfer
The transfer is arranged from Quito Airport, involving a journey by public bus followed by a private taxi (not included). The team will help you with the arrangements.
Accommodation
Volunteers are accommodated in a large shared house on the reserve, which includes:
- Comfortable dormitories
- Dining room, fitted kitchen
- Wi-Fi and electricity (110V)
- Capacity: 16 to 20 peopleMeals
Three meals a day are prepared using local produce (vegetables, grains, fruit and eggs). Vegetarian options and dietary requirements can be accommodated.
- A protected cloud forest, just two hours from the capital
- An ethical and safe working environment, with experienced local supervision
- Practical assignments that can be tailored to each individual’s profile
- A wide range of activities, from nature to education
- We can accommodate groups, courses and families (by prior arrangement)
- A programme recognised and recommended by former volunteers
Outside of work, you can enjoy:
- Hiking trails in the reserve
- Scenic viewpoints and wildlife-watching spots
- From relaxing in a hammock to spending time in the kitchen
- Organised weekend excursions to Andean villages, local markets or other natural sites
Friday afternoons are often kept light to allow for two- or three-day trips with the other volunteers.
About the partner
The Tangaré Foundation is an Ecuadorian NGO founded in 2009, with over 25 years’ experience in conservation and environmental education. It works in partnership with the La Hesperia Reserve, a pioneering project in reforestation and the sustainable management of Andean ecosystems. Every year, the foundation welcomes international volunteers into a safe, caring and committed environment. Each participant has an online interview before departure to help them prepare for their stay.
