Island Conservation & Development Internship

location
6 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+

rating  Brilliant 4.7  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Very high response rate

Highlights

  • Make a difference in preserving unique species working with world-recognized conservation authorities.
  • Join an effort to keep the Galapagos wild and beautiful; Strengthen your conservation understanding and skills.
  • Develop key professional and personal skills, interact with local institutions and get first-hand experience working in the sustainability field.

Highlights

  • Make a difference in preserving unique species working with world-recognized conservation authorities.
  • Join an effort to keep the Galapagos wild and beautiful; Strengthen your conservation understanding and skills.
  • Develop key professional and personal skills, interact with local institutions and get first-hand experience working in the sustainability field.
  • Develop key skills while contributing to the sustainable development of Galapagos and helping IOI work towards achieving the global UN SDGs.
  • Develop global competence and awareness and enhance your Spanish competency.


  • Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    50+

    About the program

    Interns play a crucial role supporting the conservation of unique ecosystems and species, as well as improve local conditions for our host community in Galapagos.

    INTERNSHIPS IN GALAPAGOS

    As part of your internship with IOI you can learn with us, develop key professional skills, and help us implement sustainable development programs in one of the most unique places of the planet. We're always looking for talented, skilled interns to join our team here on ...

    About the program

    INTERNSHIPS IN GALAPAGOS

    As part of your internship with IOI you can learn with us, develop key professional skills, and help us implement sustainable development programs in one of the most unique places of the planet. We're always looking for talented, skilled interns to join our team here on Isabela. If you're passionate, articulate, quick, driven, enthusiastic, and want to make a real difference in an innovative and flexible environment, why not join us on our mission?

    What does an IOI internship entail?

    Our impactful internships are the perfect way for you to develop key professional and personal skills, interact with local institutions and get first-hand experience in working in the sustainability field. With your IOI internship you will develop key skills while contributing to the sustainable development of Galapagos and helping us to work towards achieving the global UN SDGs. Personal and professional development AND sustainable impact- the perfect combo!

    Our interns play a crucial role in providing much needed help to the conservation of unique ecosystems and species here on Isabela, Galapagos. As an IOI Island Conservation Intern, you’ll be working directly with local stakeholders and authorities to provide a powerful and meaningful hands-on contribution in environmental conservation on Isabela Island.

    Starting at a minimum of 6 weeks duration, our internships are organized as follows:

    • Onboarding and skill development, your initial 6 weeks

      • During these 6 weeks of your internship you will be introduced to IOI, our long term sustainability strategy, and projects. You will gain valuable and needed skills during this portion of your internship from leadership and management skills, to volunteering and learning how our projects operate and how we manage logistics. Our experienced staff will monitor your progress and provide on-going feedback, including weekly meetings with your allocated mentor. You will also earn the Emergency First Response certificate during this initial phase, as well as receive Leadership Course and Off-Site Safety Management Training.

    • Work Placement, 2-6 weeks

      • If you have chosen this opportunity, following the initial training period described above and depending on your interest, skills, and also the project needs on the ground, you will be assigned to your placement. This placement can last from 2 to 6 weeks in duration and will allow you to develop your skills while placed within the IOI team and our projects or placed with one of our local partners. As mentioned, your skills* and local needs at the time will define where you are best placed.

    Requirements:

    • Conversational+ level of Spanish is ideal.
    • Ability to work independently as well as in a team.
    • Flexible schedule that accounts for the day to day needs of working with a local institution.
    • Physical ability to work outdoors with potentially high sun, element, and temperature exposure.
    • Inters will be provided with materials they need.
    Accommodations 

    Accommodation is provided by one of our carefully selected host families. Interns have their own room, a fan, bed, desk, dresser, and bathroom, as well as warm water and drinking water. 

    Our host families have experience with outside culture and international living and provide an amazing immersion experience. All host family houses are nearby the IOI offices and the local schools in the beach town of Puerto Villamil. Homes are fairly simple, clean, and welcoming. You will have breakfast and dinner with your family. Lunch is at participating restaurants in town.

    We at IOI pair you with your host family and we are available at any time to help if any issues arise with the restaurants, your host family, the volunteer site, if you get sick and need to visit the doctor, etc.

    Participation Fee

    The program fee is necessary to cover your cost of living and logistics. Our overhead is covered by other means so 100% of any funds that exceed your direct cost will go towards the project you participated in.

    To book you need to pay a Reservation Deposit.
    That deposit WILL BE DEDUCTED from your program fee.

    What’s Included          

    Cost includes food, full room and board, permits, Transient visa, local coordination and training at respective facility, local transport, full access to our facilities, etc.—everything minus personal expenses, travel insurance, the $20 USD Tourist Transit Card and your airfare to Galápagos.


    Typical day

    The initial 6 weeks of all internships will comprise of the following:

    • Weekly mentorship: our staff is here to support your development and contribution to our conservation efforts. Every week you will sit down with your assigned mentor to evaluate your development, set weekly objectives, and reflect ...

    Typical day

    The initial 6 weeks of all internships will comprise of the following:

    • Weekly mentorship: our staff is here to support your development and contribution to our conservation efforts. Every week you will sit down with your assigned mentor to evaluate your development, set weekly objectives, and reflect on your progress.
    • Leadership training: we want you to be as autonomous and skilled as possible. Leadership is one of the most sought-after skills for potential employers. You will receive our leadership training course and have ample opportunities to put these skills into practice.
    • Develop your soft skills: we know that it’s not all about your academic and technical skills. Employers and educational institutions are looking for well-rounded, adaptable, and resourceful individuals. Our internships will help you gain and develop skills that will enhance your future employability and continuing education opportunities.
    • Knowledge transfer: Your internship will be led by our experienced professionals, directly communicating their real world experience to you.
    • Emergency first-aid training: you will complete an internationally recognized 1st aid course. Another certification to add to your CV or resume!

    The Work Placement includes:

    • Variety of placements: we have a wide range of placements available to fit your needs and interest. Once trained you will be placed in one of our placements to begin to make an impact. Not only will you receive a weekly mentorship follow-up, we will also keep a constant open line of communication with your placement organization to ensure that you are making the most of this opportunity while contributing to their objectives.

    • Reference: at the end of your internship you will receive a LinkedIn reference for your professional use.

    A Typical Day will look different for each intern depending on the projects that you choose in your initial 6-week period, as well as depending on the placement that you choose for the placement phase.

    In general, your day will begin with breakfast at 7am at your homestay.
    8am you will begin your volunteer work at your specific project.
    12-12:30pm you will finish volunteering
    1pm Lunch in town
    Afternoon tasks will be with the IOI team in the IOI office and will range from administrative tasks to courses and course work, to leading volunteer activities.
    *Count on 8-hour days.

    Placements will vary greatly depending on your experience, your Spanish level, and the needs on the ground but you may work with the IOI team, the Galapagos National Park, the Ministry of Agriculture, the local schools, or other partners depending on the abovementioned factors. The opportunities will be discussed in detail with your internship mentor.


    Free-time activities

    In Galapagos you can live a Pacific Island life. This means you can choose between a lot of free time activities including surfing, soccer, beach volley, etc.

    Free-time activities

    In Galapagos you can live a Pacific Island life. This means you can choose between a lot of free time activities including surfing, soccer, beach volley, etc.


    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (fluently) or Spanish (basic level)

    Nationality Restrictions

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

    Other Skills

    - Good health and fitness - Health insurance covering all activities and locations for the program - Ability to work independently as well as in a team - Flexibility of schedules

    Time Commitment

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

    What's Included

    What's Included

    Services by IOI - Empowering Galapagos

    Starting at a minimum of 6 weeks duration, our internships are organized as follows:

    Onboarding and skill development, your initial 6 weeks

    During these 6 weeks of your internship you will be introduced to IOI, our long term sustainability strategy, and projects. You will gain valuable and needed skills during this portion of your internship from leadership and management skills, to volunteering and learning how our projects operate and how we manage logistics. Our experienced staff will monitor your progress and provide on-going feedback, including weekly meetings with your allocated mentor. You will also earn the Emergency First Response certificate during this initial phase, as well as receive Leadership Course and Off-Site Safety Management Training.

    Included: food, accommodation, ferry tickets to/from Isabela Island, pre-arrival support, in-country support, all necessary project training, equipment and courses, meetings with mentor, and Galapagos visa.


    Work Placement, 2-6 weeks

    If you have chosen this opportunity, following the initial training period described above and depending on your interest, skills, and also the project needs on the ground, you will be assigned to your placement. This placement can last from 2 to 6 weeks in duration and will allow you to develop your skills while placed within the IOI team and our projects or placed with one of our local partners. As mentioned, your skills and local needs at the time will define where you are best placed.

    Included: food, accommodation, in-country support, all necessary placement training and equipment, meetings with mentor, final LinkedIn reference.

    Accommodation

    You will stay in a private bedroom with private bathroom in a local family homestay.

    Food & Beverages

    Breakfast and dinner will be provided by your homestay family.


    Lunch will be in participating restaurants in town using a charting system.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Airport Pickup at Baltra Airport

    An airport pickup isn't included within the program fees either.

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Baltra Airport (GPS) in Galapagos Islands. 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

    Arrivals are on the first Monday of the month year round and departures are on Saturdays or Sundays. Project staff will pick you up and drop you off on these days. Please ensure this works with your travel plans.

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

    Program fees

    6 weeks (min. stay) 4,489€
    7 weeks 4,988€
    8 weeks 5,486€
    9 weeks 5,985€
    10 weeks 6,484€
    11 weeks 6,983€
    12 weeks (max. stay) 7,481€
    Average fees 685€/week

    Program fees

    685€ per week 6 - 12 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    6 - 12 weeks

    Deposit

    The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.


    Final Payment

    Your final payment will be agreed with IOI - Empowering Galapagos during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


    Meet your organization

    IOI - Empowering Galapagos

    Brilliant 4.7 rating (37 reviews)

    Non-profit - founded in 2006

    Verified by Volunteer World

      Very high response rate

    Coordinated by

    Monique

    Spoken languages: English, Spanish

    About the project

    We empower isolated communities to grow in a sustainable way. To that end, we run projects in Conservation, Education, and Social Development.

    Meet your organization

    Who we are
    IOI is a non-profit organization that designs educational adventures to empower isolated communities to grow in a sustainable way. We strive to help establish ecological sustainability and social stability in our host communities. As such, our mission is to provide international education programs that support the education, conservation, and social development of isolated communities by assisting local institutions in sustainably handling the human-environmental intersection. 


    What we do

    • We develop and implement our outreach projects with local institutions to ensure their sustainable implementation. Our projects address pressing conservation, education, and social development needs. Our partners include the Galapagos National Park, the Biodiversity Protection Agency, the local school system, and the provincial government.
    • We provide volunteer opportunities in conservation, education, and social development, providing our participants with life changing experiences, and our local partners with funding, expertise, and (wo)man power on site.
    • We immersive study abroad programs in which students spend up to 3 months studying the local environment and learn the local culture. All our programs are based on cultural integration and service learning.

    Where we work
    We work in the community of Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island in
    the Galapagos, Ecuador. Our 5k beach is right across the street and the Volcano Sierra Negra is basically in our backyard. From Marine to Mountain, snorkeling to camping, nature is at our doorstep!

    Our history
    Since embarking on our journey in 2006, IOI has evolved into a mature and recognized organization with an innovative design of merging educational travel with conservation and community development. We began in Galapagos and, after 10 years of experience, have expanded to Cuba and Costa Rica.

    Vision and Mission
    We Empower Isolated Communities to Grow in a Sustainable Way. It is our Vision to help establish ecological sustainability and social stability in our host communities.  Our mission is to provide international education programs that support the education, conservation, and social development of isolated communities by assisting local institutions in sustainably handling the human-environmental intersection.

    Who are we looking for
    We are looking for adventurous volunteers ready to travel to remote parts of the world to make an impact on conservation and education projects. Our volunteers should be flexible, understanding, and respectful of the local cultural context. Depending on the position, we ask that our volunteers are physically able to work outside, sometimes in extreme weather conditions (think the tropics!) and be able to work on a team and individually.

    Why choose us..

    • It's a unique opportunity to gain insight and firsthand experience in the the world of hands-on conservation and environmental management
    • All of our locations are unique and have exceptional beauty and biodiversity.
    • Our sites are slow lane kinds of places. If you need a break, this is your ideal escape.
    • You will learn Spanish and immerse yourself in the community--you'll finish your time volunteering feeling like a local!

    37 reviews · rating4.7

    Anouk Kaminske rating5

    2024 at Social Media Supporter

    The four weeks I spent with IOI on the Isabela island were the most enriching 4 weeks I have ever spent travelling. I gained on so many levels. Starting with the incredible place (nature, animals, community) which is really unique and magic. Living with a family gave so much more insight into how ...
    I volunteered at the tortoise centre for 3 weeks in August and really enjoyed it. I stayed with a lovely local family who gave me an insight into life on Isabela island. The work at the tortoise centre was interesting but sometimes also exhausting like distributing the food in wheelbarrows or ...
    I'd never recommend IOI to anyone. The host family were wonderful. Unless your in the university of Miami it's quite obvious all IOI only care about taking your money -------------- organization's reply------------------------ Hi Dennis, We are happy to hear that you enjoyed your stay with ...
    I would recommend this volunteer experience because this place is like anything else. Not that I've seen the whole world but from me and everyone else I've met here has said this is one of the favorite places that I've ever ...
    I would recommend this volunteer experience because it is a great way to see this amazing island. This experience allowed me to stay for 6 weeks on Isabela where I met people I will never forget and had a once in a lifetime ...
    Lily rating5

    2023 at Social Media Supporter

    I would recommend this volunteer experience to others because the staff and volunteers are lovely. I really got to know and love the community and the island is just such a perfect place. I am so happy that I took this leap of faith and joined the IOI team. I went in solo and came out with so many ...

    Location

    Americas > South America > Ecuador > Isabela Island

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    Contact Monique
      Very high response rate
    English, Spanish

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