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Join an eco-volunteering project based at a lodge dedicated to ecotourism and biodiversity conservation. See all biodiversity conservation projects here.
A lodge designed for ecotourism
This volunteering project takes place at a lodge dedicated to ecotourism and conservation. The lodge is situated in the Choco-Andean region, in north-western Ecuador, a mountainous area covered in mist-shrouded rainforests. With over 1,500 species of tropical plants, including orchids, bromeliads and other epiphytes, this region is a global biodiversity ‘hotspot’. The region’s characteristic wildlife includes more than 390 species of birds as well as many other exotic animals, such as the Andean spectacled bear, which is currently threatened with extinction.
The lodge is committed to protecting biodiversity
Originally established as an agricultural co-operative over 40 years ago, the lodge’s main aim was to provide land to families who could not afford to keep livestock or grow crops. Over time, it became clear that the remote mountains of the cloud forests were unsuitable for agriculture and would be of greater value if left undisturbed. The lodge therefore committed itself to the protection and wise use of these natural resources. The development of ecotourism aims to provide local people with a sustainable source of income so that they can contribute to the preservation of the forest.
The role of the ecotourism volunteer
The work of eco-volunteers is essential to the growth of this ecotourism organisation, as well as to other environmental and community projects. It plays a crucial role in the development of sustainable ecotourism and the ongoing conservation and community awareness projects. Ecotourism is indeed a source of income for the community, making this project vital for the protection and conservation of the Cloud Forest Lodge. The hard work, support and enthusiasm of many eco-volunteers have helped to highlight the value of the cloud forest and the importance of its preservation.
Working alongside the local community
One of the highlights of this volunteering programme is that eco-volunteers work alongside members of the local community and gain a real insight into the daily lives of the locals. The locals enjoy sharing the beauty of their cloud forest and the variety of wildlife that lives there. They also love introducing visitors from other countries to their folk music and their positive outlook on life.
In the heart of the cloud forest
As well as exploring the region’s cloud forest and helping to preserve it, working alongside the local people offers volunteers plenty of opportunities to make new friends, learn about Ecuadorian culture and improve their Spanish. This volunteering project in Ecuador has been welcoming volunteers since 2000, whether in groups or individually.
Examples of tasks assigned to eco-volunteers
- Trail maintenance: several trails require ongoing maintenance to prevent erosion and ensure that visitors can access them easily.
- Maintenance of the lodge and cabins: general maintenance, cleaning the cabins and helping out in the kitchen.
- Work on agroforestry projects: coffee and sugarcane plantations, including the traditional production of panela (sugar).
- General maintenance: other tasks relating to the construction and upkeep of the lodge, as there is always something that needs repairing or replacing.
- You will work from Monday to Friday for 5 to 8 hours, starting at 8 am, after breakfast (subject to change). Working hours may vary depending on the workload, weather conditions and unforeseen circumstances. As an eco-volunteer, you will have the opportunity to work in different areas and gain a wide range of experiences.
Please note: tasks may vary. They depend on factors such as the number of volunteers, weather conditions, the season, the project’s current needs, and personal motivation. Not all volunteers will be able to be fully involved in all of these tasks.
Dates
- From 2 weeks, all year round
Prices
Registration fee: €150
Programme fee: €625 (for a minimum stay of 2 weeks)
Additional week: €175
Included in the price
- Shared room in the volunteers’ house
- Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Professional advice in English
- Translation of your application documents
- Volunteering placement in Ecuador
- English-speaking support within the country
- Ecuador Manual
- Intercultural Guide
- 24/7 emergency number
- Information on suitable travel insurance
- Certificate of attendance
Not included in the price
- Flight tickets and insurance
Accommodation
You will stay either at the volunteers’ house in the valley or at the lodge, depending on the project you are actively involved in. The lodge is situated in the heart of the cloud forest at an altitude of 6,200 feet (1,800 metres). It offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding cloud forest. Further down, the volunteers’ house is also situated in a charming location.
Bed linen is provided. You’ll have access to hot showers and full board at both accommodation options. The lodge’s rooms are cosy and comfortable. If you’re working at the lodge, you’ll stay there on weekdays, from Monday to Friday. At weekends, you’ll stay at the volunteers’ house in the Nanegal Valley. After a 90-minute hike, it takes 40 minutes by truck to get to the lodge from the volunteers’ house. It’s also possible to walk the entire distance, but this would take several hours.
Location
About two hours north-west of Quito, the country’s capital, Nanegal is situated in the province of Pichincha, in the heart of a stunning cloud forest. The village is easily accessible by public transport, and the picturesque journey takes you through an incredible cloud forest with countless waterfalls and breathtaking wildlife.
The cloud forest captivates tourists with its lush, verdant surroundings, diverse wildlife, picture-perfect waterfalls and exotic animal life. Nanegal’s subtropical climate is characterised by an average annual temperature of 15 to 25 °C and frequent rainfall.
Once the work is done and at the weekend, you can spend your free time hiking, birdwatching, swimming, visiting waterfalls and enjoying the festivals in neighbouring villages. You can also take part in community events or help with sugar and chocolate production. The province of Pichincha is known as a tourist destination in Ecuador, notably for the famous markets in Otavalo. You can go rock climbing or simply set off to explore snow-capped volcanoes such as Cotopaxi or breathtaking crater lakes such as Quilotoa.
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The partner agency
The partner is an intercultural agency founded in 2003 by Marion, a German national living in Chile. Marion specialises in organising solidarity-based and participatory trips, eco-volunteering placements, as well as language courses and educational programmes throughout Latin America. This agency offers placements in Chile, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Ecuador and more. Whether you are a student, a professional or a retiree, these trips are designed for those who want to experience Latin America in a way that goes beyond simply being a tourist.
