LATEST NEWS Special offer alert! Escape the cold and travel to the beautiful Zanzibar Island this January or February and receive a £100/$160 discount on your booking!If you are thinking of a last-minute getaway, we have a great offer for you! We are offering a special discount of £75/$100 on ANY Kaya program.If you are looking for an exciting opportunity to work in international development and experiential education, we are recruiting for a new Programmes Manager to be based in the UK. Looking to support international development projects across Asia, Africa and Latin America? This could be the job for you! Join us!

  • CONTACT
  • 0161 870 6212
  • 1.413.517.0266

CONNECT

kaya logo

Responsible Travel

  REQUEST A CALLBACK CALLBACK   REQUEST MORE INFO MORE INFO
  • Responsible Travel
  • Destinations
    • A WORLD OF CHOICE

      Destinations Map

      We offer over 150 exciting projects across 4 continents and 32 countries. If you aren’t sure where you would like to have an experience of a lifetime then please use the program finder below.

      • Latin America
      • Belize
      • Bolivia
      • Brazil
      • Cayman Islands
      • Costa Rica
      • Ecuador
      • Jamaica
      • Peru
      • USA
      • Africa
      • Botswana
      • Eswatini
      • Ghana
      • Kenya
      • Morocco
      • Mozambique
      • Namibia
      • South Africa
      • Tanzania
      • Uganda
      • Zambia
      • Zimbabwe
      • Asia-Pacific
      • Australia
      • Borneo
      • Cambodia
      • China
      • India
      • Indonesia
      • Nepal
      • New Zealand
      • Philippines
      • Sri Lanka
      • Thailand
      • Vietnam
  • Volunteer Abroad
    • PICK OF THE MONTH

      Teaching in Ghana

      Kaya Teaching in Ghana placement provides participants with the opportunity to learn about the local ...
      FIND OUT MORE
      • Project Types
      • Arts
      • Business
      • Community
      • Conservation
      • Education
      • Healthcare & Medical
      • Volunteer Types
      • Career Break
      • Family
      • Honeymoon
      • Individual
      • Over 50’s
      • Under 18’s
  • INTERN ABROAD
  • Program Types
    • Online Programs
    • Volunteer Abroad
    • Intern Abroad
    • Gap Year
    • Study Abroad
    • Group Programs
    • Language Courses
    • Earn Credit
  • Group Programs
    • Group Programs
    • University Group
    • Under 18 Group
    • Special Interest
    • CSR Group
  • Kaya Community
    • About us
    • Blog
    • Edu Resource
    • Reviews
    • Videos
    • Special Offers
    • Contact us
    • Portal Login
 
 
 
 

Ecuador Study Abroad and Intern – Environmental Science and Conservation Track

  • Conservation
  • Ecuador
  • Spring 2023: January 13th 2023 arrival date in country (apply by December 1st)
  • Select 18 weeks

  • Home
  • Destinations
  • Latin America
  • Ecuador
  • Ecuador Study Abroad and Intern - Environmental Science and Conservation Track
Project Summary

What is the Ecuador Study Abroad and Intern – Environmental Science and Conservation Track all about?

Spend a semester studying abroad and interning through the Universidad de Cuenca in Ecuador. Improve your Spanish by living with a homestay family and taking a language course based on your current skill level. In addition to that, take 3 classes taught in English so you can earn credits towards your degree and progress your education, all while exploring and enriching your knowledge of another culture.

Combine study abroad with real-world experience by spending two immersive weeks interning at an Amazon wildlife center or at a marine conservation foundation on the Pacific coast!

If your degree is focused on Latin American Studies, please check out our Latin American Studies track here!


Why Choose This Ecuador Study Abroad and Intern Program?

By studying abroad through Kaya, you can earn credits towards your degree, progress your studies, and immerse yourself in a new culture. The Study and Intern Abroad program in Ecuador will take you further in your language-learning journey and add another dimension to your resume. This experience combines living and studying abroad with an internship abroad, allowing you to grow both as a student and a global citizen. Plus, why not explore and enrich your knowledge in your own way, rather than following your home university curriculum!


Study Abroad Details

While you take 4 courses and earn up to 12 credits at Universidad de Cuenca, you will live in the beautiful city of Cuenca. You will arrive in Quito and stay at a hostel for 4 days attending orientations and excursions, before taking a flight to Cuenca the following week. 

What classes can you take? 1 Spanish Class (based on your language level)., plus the following 3 classes;  – Natural Heritage of Ecuador – World Agriculture and Food Problems – Structure and Functions of Plants, Forestry and Society.


Intern Abroad Details

Complement your studies by completing a two-week internship either on the Pacific Coast or in the Amazon. 

Wildlife Internship

Spend two weeks at a Wildlife Rescue Center near Puyo, Ecuador. There you will have the opportunity to intern and interact with amazing and diverse species rescued from animal trafficking or abuse cases. Whenever possible, the center works on rehabilitating the animals rescued and releasing them back into the wild. You will have the opportunity to learn about Ecuador’s biodiversity and help care for the animals at the center. You will be on the front lines at the wildlife center, feeding, cleaning, repairing enclosures, or creating enrichment activities. If you are interested in veterinary science, let us know, because you may be able to learn from the resident veterinarian on-site as well.

Marine Internship (*only available in the fall)

For those interested in marine science and conservation, spend two weeks in Puerto Lopez; a small fishing town on the central coast of Ecuador. You will work with a foundation carrying out research and conservation work in Machalilla National Park. The foundation is carrying out a number of research projects focused on the status, threats and conservation of dolphins and whales. You will assist with the collection of images for monitoring and identification purposes, input data and deliver outreach activities. Note that this internship is only available with the fall start date, and you will complete your internship prior to commencing your studies in Cuenca.

REQUEST MORE INFO   RESERVE YOUR PLACE

WHY JOIN THE PROJECT

To improve your language skills

To earn credits towards your degree while immersing yourself in a new culture

To learn about the environmental science and conservation in Ecuador

REQUIREMENTS

The requirements to join the Ecuador Study Abroad and Intern program are:

• Minimum GPA: 2.5
• Academic Reference
• Personal Statement
• Transcript

A Kaya representative will contact you upon application to get these materials. In order to establish your level of Spanish, you will be required to take a Spanish placement test to be evaluated and placed accordingly.

FEATURED VIDEO

The Location

Where will I study while in Ecuador?

About the Location
Ecuador has an amazing mega-biodiversity with 4 regions including the Amazon basin, the high Andes, the Coast plan and the Galapagos Islands. You’ll study abroad in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cuenca, located in the highlands of Ecuador. Cuenca is the third-largest city of Ecuador and the economic center of the southern sierra region. Located at about 2,560 metres (8,400 feet) above sea level, it is known for rich colonial architecture as well as a wealthy intellectual, philosophical and art culture. Cuenca is also famous for its breathtaking scenery, colorful festivals and distinct food. During your time there, you will enjoy spring-like weather as temperatures never go beyond highs of 70s F and lows of 50s F. The views from the city are astonishing as it is surrounded by mountains.

Accommodation
While studying in Cuenca, you will be able to experience Ecuadorian lifestyle to its fullest by living with a homestay family. During your extended stay on the conservation placement, you will stay at the rescue center sharing a dorm room style with other participants on-site.

What to do in your spare time
During your time in Cuenca, you will have the chance to attend local concerts, cooking and salsa classes. We will also organize two excursions including the Parque Nacional El Cajas and the thermal waters from Baños de Cuenca.

Details & Costs

  • Duration: Study Abroad 18 weeks
  • Cost: $13120 for a total of 18 weeks abroad
    *payments in USD
  • Requirements: Minimum GPA: 2.5 - Academic Reference - Personal Statement - Transcript
  • Location: Quito, Cuenca, Ecuador
  • Working hours: Depends on class schedule
  • Project availability: Fall and Spring Semesters
  • Arrival day: Spring 2023: January 13th arrival date in country (Apply by December 1) Fall 2023: August 25th arrival date in country (Apply by July 1st)

What is included

Study abroad

  • Accommodation: Host family during your study abroad experience. For your internship placement, you will either stay at the rescue center for the last two weeks, or a local hostel in Puerto Lopez for first two weeks. 
  • Meals: 2 meals daily (breakfast and dinner)
  • Airport: pick-up in Quito
  • Courses: 4 courses at Universidad de Cuenca. One is a language course
  • Excursions and activities
  • Internet access
  • Official transcript and grade report
  • Support: 24-hour support
  • Excursion Planning: staff helps organize weekend activities (extra fees may apply)
  • Training: Pre-departure pack, on-site orientation, project induction provided, Fundraising Guide

Extension for Internship Component

  • Transfer to the rescue center/Puerto Lopez
  • Accommodation: Shared room at the rescue center/shared dorm in hostel
  • Meals: 3 meals per day/stipend for 2 meals (breakfast and dinner)
  • Training: Pre-departure pack, on-site orientation, project induction provided
  • Support: 24-hour support
  • Airport: Drop-off at Quito Airport

 

What is not included

  • Flights
  • Insurance
  • Visas
  • Vaccinations
  • Any costs for COVID-19 PCR tests required pre-departure, in-country and upon re-entry
Gallery

Pictures from Ecuador Study Abroad and Intern – Environment and Conservation

Hammocks at Rescue Center
Intern to learn about Flowers Ecuador Environment
Conservation - Flower in Ecuador
Feeding instructions for Monkey
Intern feeding a toucan
Environment and Lake
Intern cleaning at rescue center
Amazon wildlife conservation
Plants area at conservation center
Intern Abroad - Interns at Rescue Center
Study Abroad - View over a town - Ecuador
Universidad de Cuenca for Study Abroad and Intern
Environment - River at Puyo Placement
Puyo sign
Plants Ecuador - Intern on conservation
Intern to learn about about macaws
Interns at Market in Ecuador
Conservation - Intern doing a marsh inspection
Intern feeding a monkey
Intern to learn about monkeys
Intern to learn about Parakeet
Interns in Ecuador - Culture and Heritage
Cuenca Cathedral
Studying - Study Abroad in Ecuador
Market Ecuador
Hat weaving - Ecuador Heritage
Ecuadorian Fruit
Study Abroad and Intern - Cuenca View
Study Abroad and Intern - Cuenca street
University - Ecuador - Study and Intern Abroad
Ecuador University - Study and Intern

Easy 4-step application process

APPLY ONLINE

Click here to apply online and pay your application fee to apply for your space on your chosen project. Our advisors will then contact you to guide you through the next steps.

TELEPHONE INTERVIEW

Once we’ve received your application, we’ll review your details and be in touch to arrange your informal telephone interview with your Kaya Placement Advisor.

CONFIRMATION

Following your interview, we will provide you a placement offer. Once you are ready to confirm your placement and dates, you can pay your confirmation fee to book and secure your space.

GET PREPARED

When you have confirmed your project dates we'll send you your Welcome Pack and lots of other helpful information to assist you with preparing for your placement.

Similar ProjectsOther Projects in Ecuador
Photography Internship in South Africa

Refine your photography skills, enhance your CV and help create impactful images for a local NGO in Cape Town

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Whale and Dolphin Conservation Internship in Ecuador

Join Kaya's whale and dolphin conservation internship on the Pacific Coast of Ecuador to protect habitats and species.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Marine Science Education Internship in the Cayman Islands

Join this fantastic Marine Science Education Internship in Little Cayman and experience life on a tropical island whilst contributing to meaningful conservation work!

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Marine Science Research Internship in the Cayman Islands

Join this amazing Marine Science Research Internship in Little Cayman and get some real insight into marine conservation in the Caribbeans!

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Whale and Dolphin Conservation Internship in Ecuador

Join Kaya's whale and dolphin conservation internship on the Pacific Coast of Ecuador to protect habitats and species.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Summer Ecuador Study Abroad and Intern – Environmental Science and Conservation Track

Combine study abroad and intern this fall or spring in Ecuador

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Summer Ecuador Study and Intern – Spanish & Latin American Studies Track

Combine study abroad and service-learning this fall or spring in Ecuador

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Ecuador Study and Intern Semester- Latin American Studies Track

Combine study abroad and service-learning this fall or spring in Ecuador

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist

Experience new cultures whilst making a real difference. Choose from over 150 volunteer and internship placements across Asia, Africa and Latin America. Travel to the real world.

BOOK NOW

ABOUT KAYA

Kaya Responsible Travel offer volunteer and internship placements on over 150 sustainable community development and environmental initiatives in Asia, Africa and Latin America.

CONTACT US

Our experienced placement advisors are here to help. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions. Visit Contact Page

  • 0161 870 6212
  • 1.413.517.0266

info@kayavolunteer.com

BOOK NOW PAY NOW

DESTINATIONS

With projects in 33 countries across 4 continents we have something for everyone.

AMERICAS

  • Belize
  • Bolivia
  • Brazil
  • Cayman Islands
  • Costa Rica
  • Ecuador
  • Jamaica
  • Peru
  • USA

AFRICA

  • Botswana
  • Eswatini
  • Ghana
  • Kenya
  • Morocco
  • Mozambique
  • Namibia
  • South Africa
  • Tanzania
  • Uganda
  • Zambia
  • Zimbabwe

ASIA-PACIFIC

  • Australia
  • Borneo
  • Cambodia
  • China
  • India
  • Indonesia
  • Nepal
  • New Zealand
  • Philippines
  • Sri Lanka
  • Thailand
  • Vietnam

PROJECT TYPES

  • Arts
  • Business
  • Community
  • Conservation
  • Education
  • Healthcare & Medical

VOLUNTEER TYPE

  • Career Break
  • Family
  • Honeymoon
  • Individual
  • Over 50’s
  • Under 18’s

OTHER

  • Scholarships
  • Kaya Job Vacancies

RESOURCES

  • About
  • FAQs
  • Educational Resources
  • Resources for Parents
  • Where Does My Money Go
  • Fundraising
  • Flights and insurance
  • How can I manage my money abroad
  • General Safety
  • Gender Relationships
  • LGBTQ+ Travel Resources
  • Culture Shock
  • Related links
  • Privacy Policy
  • Online program Agreement Terms and Conditions
  • Terms of Use
© Copyright 2023 Kaya Responsible Travel | All rights reserved | Designed by Tripsixdesign
  • 0161 870 6212
  • 1.413.517.0266
CONNECT
By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our privacy policy.