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Excellent 4.89rating (60)
  • Life Below Water

Giant Tortoise & Sea Lion Conservation for Teens

location
2 - 2 weeks  ·  Age 15 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Live on the Galapagos Islands as a conservation volunteer. Care for Giant Tortoises and plant tree saplings.
  • Gain exclusive access to the Galapagos National Park, working with conservationists to help protect animals like giant tortoises and sea lions!
  • Run educational activities and help spread environmental awareness throughout the community.

Highlights

  • Live on the Galapagos Islands as a conservation volunteer. Care for Giant Tortoises and plant tree saplings.
  • Gain exclusive access to the Galapagos National Park, working with conservationists to help protect animals like giant tortoises and sea lions!
  • Run educational activities and help spread environmental awareness throughout the community.
  • Survey sea lions, marine iguanas and sea birds during coastal walks.
  • Facilitate the restoration of natural habitats and protect local wildlife.
    • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 15+
    Singles

    About the program

    Spend your summer living on a picturesque island, helping people and the environment.

    You’ll spend two weeks working alongside National Park rangers and community leaders, learning how to do a variety of hands-on conservation activities.

    You will:
    • work with conservationists at the Galapagos National Park
    • expand your own horizons by being immersed in a unique island culture
    • explore ...

    About the program

    You’ll spend two weeks working alongside National Park rangers and community leaders, learning how to do a variety of hands-on conservation activities.

    You will:
    • work with conservationists at the Galapagos National Park
    • expand your own horizons by being immersed in a unique island culture
    • explore multiple island ecosystems
    • snorkel with marine life
    • teach local children about the importance of the environment

    The Galapagos is home to a unique population of bird and animal life. It’s also considered a research hotspot for scientists from around the world. During your time there, you’ll work with conservationists on various research projects in the Galapagos National Park.

    The park is understaffed because of a lack of funding. Because of this, it’s difficult for staff to do a lot of the research needed by themselves. As an extra pair of helping hands, you’ll help collect data during surveys. This is important work, as the results are used to advise the Ministry of Environment for policy-making.

    This involves feeding and caring for giant tortoises at a breeding center. You'll collect data, clear paths, and fix enclosures at the center. Take this chance to monitor and support these amazing animals until they can be released into the wild.

    You’ll also get involved in the removal of alien plants. These plants are a threat to local species that are only found in the Galapagos. You'll help plant endemic plants to restore the local ecosystem.

    By leading workshops in the local community, you also raise awareness about the importance of protecting the Galapagos’ unique ecosystem.

    As a volunteer, you'll spend your days immersed in the laid-back island culture of the Galapagos while leaving a positive impact. Since you will be living with a host family, you'll interact with local people on a daily basis, discovering a different way of life.

    This is also an excellent way to improve your Spanish or learn a new language.

    As part of the itinerary, we'll take you on a weekend trip to one of San Cristobal’s neighboring islands. This will show you more of the Galapagos Islands, offering a deeper understanding of local life.

    Dates available:

    21 June 2026 to 04 July 2026 - 2 Weeks
    12 July 2026 to 25 July 2026 - 2 Weeks
    26 July 2026 to 8 August 2026 - 2 Weeks

    Typical day

    Each day begins with breakfast at the accommodation followed by hands-on conservation work. In the mornings, students might help care for giant tortoises, support reforestation projects, or assist with beach clean-ups, all under the guidance of experienced staff.

    Afternoons are a mix of learning and ...

    Typical day

    Each day begins with breakfast at the accommodation followed by hands-on conservation work. In the mornings, students might help care for giant tortoises, support reforestation projects, or assist with beach clean-ups, all under the guidance of experienced staff.

    Afternoons are a mix of learning and exploration. Activities include nature walks, environmental workshops, creative community projects, and visits to local conservation sites.

    Evenings are relaxed and social, with group dinners, cultural activities, and time to unwind. Throughout the program, students also enjoy weekend trips to places like Tortuga Bay, lava tunnels, and the Charles Darwin Research Station.

    This is a unique opportunity to contribute to real conservation efforts while experiencing the natural and cultural beauty of the Galapagos Islands.

    Free-time activities

    During free time, students have the chance to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings of the Galapagos Islands. Afternoons and evenings may include walking through town to see sea lions, enjoying ice cream, or spending time at the beach.

    Some evenings feature cultural activities such as a ...

    Free-time activities

    During free time, students have the chance to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings of the Galapagos Islands. Afternoons and evenings may include walking through town to see sea lions, enjoying ice cream, or spending time at the beach.

    Some evenings feature cultural activities such as a traditional dance lesson or a group dinner at a local restaurant. On designated afternoons, students have time to rest, reflect, or join group activities by the shore.

    Weekend trips include visits to Tortuga Bay, where students can swim and snorkel, and guided excursions to Santa Cruz Island, where the group explores lava tunnels, visits El Chato Tortoise Reserve, and tours the Charles Darwin Research Station.

    All activities are supervised by staff, providing a safe and enriching experience throughout the program.

    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 15 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 15 years old on the program start date.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level)

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    Included: 

    Certification
    Certified record of service hours, workshops, and activities for your CV.

    Activities, Training & Equipment
    All programme activities and equipment, including training and workshops from experienced professionals.

    Pre-departure Support
    Everything you need to prepare for your trip, including visa advice, cultural awareness training, access to your dedicated pre-departure portal, and more.

    Excursions, Socials & Fun
    Excursions to famous sights and cultural exploration throughout the programme.

    24/7 Support
    Full supervision from arrival to departure, and 24/7 back up from our global teams.

    Meals
    All breakfast, lunch, and dinners, and always fresh drinking water.

    Accommodation & Amenities
    Clean, safe, and welcoming accommodation. A home away from home with comfortable amenities.

    Transportation
    To and from the airport, plus everything in between. Daily transport to your placement and back.

    Exclusions
    • Flights
    • Travel & Medical Insurance
    • Visa costs

    Airport Pickup at San Cristobal Airport

    Airport pick up and drop off in the San Cristobal airport is included in the fee.

    Accommodation

    Despite living in the heart of the restricted Galapagos National Park, you will have everything you need to enjoy an incredible island expedition. With us, you’ll get a clean bed, fresh drinking water, three home-cooked meals a day, and even high-speed Wi-Fi!

    You’ll stay in a comfortable, safe, and secure house with other Projects Abroad participants, where we will try to put you in a room with someone of the same gender and age. There is a large common area with dining space and a pool table, and a large outdoor space with hammocks and sports in the sun.

    Food & Beverages

    There is a couple who live on the conservation camp and will cook your meals while you are there. Get stuck in, learn some Spanish, and make friends with like-minded travellers from around the world. Can cater for vegans, vegetarians, and people with allergies.


    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is San Cristobal Airport (SCY) in San Cristobal. We assist you to find cheap flights to Ecuador. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Ecuador provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Ecuador you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Ecuador. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    21 June 2026 to 04 July 2026 - 2 Weeks
    12 July 2026 to 25 July 2026 - 2 Weeks
    26 July 2026 to 8 August 2026 - 2 Weeks

    You’ll arrive at San Cristobal Island Airport (SCY), and a friendly Projects Abroad staff member will be there to pick you up. The airport is very close to the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, where our projects are based. It’s only about a five minute drive from the airport to our local office. The cost of the airport transfer is covered by us, as part of your placement fee.

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program Fees

    $1,571 per week 2 - 2 weeks Age 15 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES

    Duration

    2 - 2 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.

    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet
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    Location

    Americas > South America > Ecuador > San Cristobal

    Meet your project coordinator

    Bethany
    60
    reviews
    4.89
    Excellent
    1992
    Founded

    Verified

      Good response rate
    Spoken languages: English
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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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