Anglia Ruskin University - Ecuador
Grant-Assisted Programmes for Summer 2026Welcome to ARU’s Programmes, in collaboration with Kaya Responsible Travel.
Looking for more options beyond the below 3 featured programmes? Scroll down to explore a wide range of additional Kaya programmes designed to suit diverse interests! From Cambodia to Ecuador and anywhere in between….
FEATURED PROGRAMME OPTIONS
Amazonian Wildlife Rescue & Conservation
Join a wildlife rescue sanctuary in the Amazon Rainforest, where you’ll care for animals rescued from trafficking and domestic situations while supporting vital habitat conservation efforts.
Amazonian Ancestral Medicine & Midwifery
Live with the members of an indigenous women’s group in the Amazon, and support their initiatives to preserve and strengthen their cultural heritage, focusing on ancestral medicine, nutrition and midwifery.
Permaculture, Edible Forests & Eco-Restoration
Join a Cloud Forest reserve dedicated to land restoration through sustainable farming practices. Contribute to efforts that address climate change, enhance food security, protect biodiversity and promote responsible agricultural methods.
Ecuador Programme Dates
Many of Kaya’s programmes have flexible start dates.
If you choose to embark on a programme in Ecuador, your can choose from the following start dates:
- 08 May 2026
- 05 June 2026
- 03 July 2026
- 31 July 2026
About Kaya Responsible Travel
ARU is working in partnership with Kaya Responsible Travel.
Kaya is a responsible educational travel organisation that specialise in providing meaningful and ethical international experiences for individuals and groups.
Kaya’s mission is to promote sustainable social, environmental and economic development, empower communities and cultivate educated, compassionate global citizens through responsible travel. We do this by offering a wide range of academic and community engagement programs in varying environments across 20+ countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America, and are proud winners of multiple awards for ethical community engagement practices.
Hear from previous ARU students:
“My experience in Ecuador was genuinely transformative. Personally, it pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me develop greater independence, cultural awareness, and resilience.”
~Mia, Amazonian Wildlife Rescue & Conservation
“It was a once in a lifetime experience that I would recommend to every person.”
~Nick, Amazonian Ancestral Medicine & Midwifery
“My advice would be to take the plunge. The advantage… is that the program is tried and tested and designed for your benefit.”
~Tom, Permaculture, Edible Forests & Eco-Restoration
“Being immersed in the Amazon has helped me grow personally by further deepening my sense of empathy and connection to nature, and professionally by sharpening my observation, handling, and training skills in a real-world, dynamic environment.”
~Melina, Amazonian Wildlife Rescue & Conservation
Ecuador Programme Costs
Ecuador Wildlife: 2 weeks GBP 1,398 per person / Extra week GBP 201
Ecuador Ancestral Medicine: 2 weeks GBP 1,453 per person / Extra week GBP 228
Ecuador Permaculture: 2 weeks GBP 1,398 per person / Extra week GBP 201
For all other destinations – costs can be found on each individual program listing found below.
Inclusions:
- Accommodation for the duration of your stay
- Meals vary – see your desired programme page for more details
- Local on-site project supervisor
- On-site support available 24/7 in case of emergency
- Transfers from/to the airport
- Transport from Quito to the project site
- Welcome Orientation
- Excursion and entrance fees for Quito’s historical centre tour
Not included:
- Flights
- Travel medical insurance (provided through ARU)
- Transport from the project site to Quito upon departure
- Visas (not required for UK Citizens staying less than 180 days)
- Police background check (for medical programme only)
- Personal expenses, such as snacks, souvenirs, meals outside of itinerary, laundry, free time activities/fees, transportation outside of itinerary, or baggage fees
- Any recommended and/or required vaccinations and medicines.
- Kaya requires/recommends the below vaccinations for Ecuador. These recommendations are based on recent regional health developments and aim to ensure participants’ well-being during their stay:
- Mandatory Vaccination:
As of May 12, 2025, the yellow fever vaccine is required for travellers who have spent 10 days or more in Peru, Colombia, Brazil, or Bolivia before entering Ecuador. It is not required for travellers transiting through these countries (e.g., during a layover). This is a regulation of Ecuador’s Ministry of Public Health. - Recommended Vaccinations (not mandatory but strongly advised):
- Yellow Fever – for all participants visiting the Amazon region, regardless of travel itinerary
- Hepatitis A and B – recommended given the nature of the activities and the rural locations involved
- Pertussis (Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis booster) – due to a significant increase in cases in Latin America, and given the nature of the activities and the rural locations involved.
- Mandatory Vaccination:
- Kaya requires/recommends the below vaccinations for Ecuador. These recommendations are based on recent regional health developments and aim to ensure participants’ well-being during their stay:
MORE PROGRAMMES
Looking for a different kind of programme? Take a look at some of Kaya’s other volunteer & internship options in breathtaking destinations!
Home to 150 species of mammals, 540 species of birds, and 600 species of freshwater and marine fish, Belize is a nature lover’s paradise. Take advantage of it by exploring the breathtaking Glovers Reef on a scuba diving course, tracking jaguars in the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, or kayaking down the exhilarating Macal River. Take in one of the most picturesque locations in Central America.
Available program areas:
- Agriculture
- Health Sciences
- Social Work
- Teaching & Community Development
See All Programmes in Belize
Our programmes in Cambodia help the local community in Siem Reap and our volunteer efforts make a sustainable difference for the local people. Whenever you have some free time, consider taking local excursions to see the night markets, try horse riding at sunset through the rice paddies, or ride the bamboo train in Battambang!
Available program areas:
- Construction
- Health Sciences
- Social Work
- Teaching & Community Development
See All Programmes in Cambodia
Share your skills and experiences with Costa Rican communities and NGOs to carry out rewarding work on projects while being able to live in a biodiverse paradise.
Available program areas:
- Environmental and Wildlife Conservation
- Health Sciences
- Teaching & Community Development
See All Programmes in Costa Rica
Home to the Andean mountains and part of the Amazon, Ecuador is a perfect place to learn and grow your skills! Experience the rich heritage sites that boast this country’s old-world charm.
Available program areas:
- Business and Management
- Environmental and Wildlife Conservation
- Health Sciences
- International Studies and Social Justice
- Social Work
See All Programmes in Ecuador
Known for its architecture, history and culture, India is a lively, colorful country. Enjoy historic architecture, local bazaars, and one-of-a-kind restaurants to experience a destination that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Available program areas:
- Teaching & Community Development
- Women Empowerment
See All Programmes in India
Join us on a project in Namibia to get involved with initiatives that improve the lives of local people and animals alike, and make the most of this enchanting country.
Available program areas:
- Teaching & Community Development
- Wildlife Conservation
See All Programmes in Namibia
Peru boasts incredible natural landscapes, in addition to the iconic Machu Picchu. The Manu Biosphere Nature Reserve is one of the largest natural, protected areas in the world, boasting more than 1,000 species of birds. Work together with local communities to build sustainable practices in both urban and rural environments.
Available program areas:
- Environmental Conservation
- Finance
- Health Sciences
- Social Work
- Teaching & Community Development
See All Programmes in Peru
If you like adventure, take a trip to South Africa, where the scenery is beyond breathtaking. Contribute to a project that amplifies your work and lets you make a difference in the lives of South Africa’s wonderful communities and wildlife.
Available program areas:
- Business & Management
- Environmental and Wildlife Conservation
- Health Sciences
- Photography
- Social Work
See All Programmes in South Africa
Thailand is home to breathtaking island landscapes, beaches and some of the friendliest people in the world. Visit the vibrant capital city of Bangkok, explore the highland jungles of the north, or investigate more traditional Thai cooking and culture in Chiang Mai. There’s something for everyone!
Available program areas:
- Business & Management
- Environmental and Wildlife Conservation
- Health Sciences
See All Programmes in Thailand
Vietnam has breathtaking landscapes, architecture and archaeology hidden in the everyday. Home to multiple World Heritage Sites, Vietnam is increasingly becoming a popular destination for tourists and volunteers!
Available program areas:
- Business & Management
- Health Sciences
- Teaching & Community Development
See All Programmes in Vietnam
Application Criteria
ARU aims to offer this opportunity to a broad range of students and especially those from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in international mobility such as students from widening participation backgrounds. We encourage students studying related subjects, however, this is not a requirement and application evaluation is not based on your grades or background experience! We are looking for enthusiastic individuals to take part in this exciting programme.
To find out how much funding ARU can provide you to participate in this programme, visit Global Opportunities (GO) on MyARU or contact the team on go@aru.ac.uk.
Application process
- Complete the Application Form below – A Kaya advisor will be in touch to arrange a call to discuss the programme you have applied for before your application is submitted for approval with ARU.
- Once you have confirmed your desired location and duraiton, apply to ARU’s grant programme which provides financial support for students traveling abroad. Find out in approx. one month how much money you can claim to support your journey.
- ARU administrators will evaluate all applications to select successful applicants on a rolling basis, so we encourage early application.
- Once successful candidates have been notified, a £250 confirmation fee will be required within the following 2 weeks to confirm the placement with Kaya.
- As part of this programme, you will be expected to complete exercises with Kaya and GO, including pre-departure assignments such as an online pre-departure workshop, signing documents, and other preparation items.
- You will be required to book your own flights in line with each programme’s arrival dates.
- You will be required to sign up for ARU’s travel insurance for your experience abroad.
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