Experience life in the cloud forest of Ecuador's Andes. Volunteer for biodiversity in a magnificent nature reserve. All volunteer programs in Ecuador here
An 800-hectare nature reserve in Ecuador
To the west of Quito, in the magnificent cloud forest in the foothills of the Andes, lies a private nature reserve hosting our partner's ecovolunteering program. Ecological agriculture and sustainable tourism projects are developed on 800 hectares. And of these 800 hectares, around 700 are designated as protected forest. On the remaining 100 hectares, the owner welcomes visitors to vacation homes 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.
Save the forest and raise public awareness
One of the main aims of the project is to safeguard existing forests and raise public awareness of the importance of protecting these biodiversity-rich areas. Reforestation efforts are underway in former sugarcane plantations.
Incredible biodiversity
This cloud forest boasts incredible biodiversity. In this region alone, there are hundreds of species of birds, as well as numerous butterflies and amphibians. Numerous mammals also inhabit this forest, including monkeys, deer, weasels, wildcats, ocelots, agoutis, squirrels, peccaries, armadillos, skunks, sloths, spectacled bears, bats... The variety of flora species is also marvellous. A nursery is used as part of the project to propagate endangered local species.
This project is ideal for you if you like to work with your hands in a beautiful natural setting, if you love forests and if you like to be active.
Eco-volunteer action in the Cloud Forest
The missions on offer are varied, and you can choose to focus on one or two areas, depending on your preferences:
- Reforestation: planting local species, collecting seeds, maintenance
- Regenerative agriculture: compost, permaculture, medicinal garden
- Wildlife monitoring: installation of photo traps, biodiversity observation
- Eco-construction: maintenance, minor works, infrastructure improvements
- Artisanal processing: local cooking workshops, soap and jam making
- Education: raising awareness in village schools (sports, environment, languages)
Example of a timetable
- Monday: agriculture
- Tuesday: site maintenance
- Wednesday: cooking session
- Thursday: school activities (depending on your language level)
- Friday: hiking or 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 available to accompany you and translate if necessary.
Dates
- Minimum duration: 2 weeks
- Maximum duration: 6 months
- Arrivals: every Monday morning
- Annual closure: December 24 to January 2
Rates
- 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 the online interview, logistical assistance and preparation for your arrival.
Price includes :
- Accommodation in the volunteer house
- Three meals a day (local produce, special diets possible)
- Supervision and equipment
The price does not include :
- Air ticket
- Health and travel insurance (mandatory)
- Transfer from Quito (organized with the team, but at your expense)
- Minimum age: 18
- Good physical condition required (outdoor work, sometimes steep terrain)
- Basic Spanish recommended
- Mandatory health/travel insurance
- Mandatory online preliminary interview
- Medical information to verify adaptation to humid tropical climate
Tangaré is also able to offer customized programs for groups (minimum 8 people) and a 5-day family program, with activities adapted to children.
Arrival and transfer
Transfer from Quito airport by public bus + private cab (not included). The team will help you plan your trip.
Hosting
Volunteers are accommodated in a large shared house on the reserve site, with :
- 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, cereals, fruit, eggs). Vegetarian alternatives and dietary restrictions can be accommodated.
- A protected cloud forest, just two hours from the capital
- An ethical and secure working environment, with experienced local management
- Concrete assignments to suit every profile
- A wide variety of activities, from nature to education
- Groups, internships and families welcome (by prior arrangement).
- Program recognized and recommended by former volunteers
In addition to the missions, you can enjoy :
- Hiking trails in the reserve
- Natural viewpoints and wildlife observation areas
- Relax in a hammock or in the kitchen
- Organized weekend excursions to Andean villages, local markets or other natural sites
Friday afternoons are often shortened to allow two or three-day excursions with 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 with the La Hesperia reserve, a pioneering project for reforestation and sustainable management of Andean ecosystems. Every year, the foundation welcomes international volunteers in a safe, humane and committed environment. Each participant benefits from an online pre-departure interview, to prepare his or her stay in the best possible way.
