

ECUADOR & GALAPAGOS
ISLAND & VILLAGE IMPACT
A 21-Day Service Learning Program






Ecuador & Galapagos

Program Details
Dates: | July 6 – 26 |
Duration: | 21 days |
Tuition: | $6,495* |
Arrive: | Miami |
Depart: | Miami |
Grade | 9th, 10th, 11th & 12th |
*Airfare for group flight from Miami additional
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Program Highlights
- Explore the Galápagos by Kayak and Boat
- Snorkel Alongside Sea Lions in the Galápagos Islands’ Crystal Clear Waters
- Whitewater Raft Through the Lush Amazon Rainforest
- Partner with Andean Locals on a Vital Community Improvement Project
- Zipline Through the Misty Mindo Cloud Forest
- Lend a Hand on an Amazonian Forest Rehabilitation Initiative
- 35 Hours Community Service
Spotlight Project
Community Infrastructure Repair
In some rural communities in the Andean highlands of Ecuador, a paradox exists in which the will for improving infrastructure is strong but is often hindered by a lack of resources. ARCC has paired with a local organization to work directly with the communities in efforts to lend a helping hand in whatever way possible. The specific projects are decided based on the current needs of the community and are, thus, a moving target, but can include basic construction such as road repair, painting projects, or installing concrete floors.
Program Overview
Experience one of the world’s most remarkable destinations, complete with towering mountain ranges, lush rainforests, and tropical isles on this unique service program to South America. Live and work alongside Andean villagers to help rebuild their homes and improve their living environment. Navigate the thrilling rapids of the Upper Napo River, one of the tributaries of the mighty Amazon. Immerse yourself in an Amazon village as you partner with locals on reforestation initiatives. Visit the famous Otavalo market filled with native handicrafts and sample delicious Ecuadorian treats like potato llapingachos. Explore the incomparable Galápagos Islands, kayak through mysterious caves and canyons, and snorkel alongside playful sea lions. Appreciate the beauty of Ecuador through the eyes of those who call it home!
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Program Details
Quito and The Napo River
Leaving from Miami, we arrive in beautiful Quito, the highest constitutional capital city in the world. In the heart of the ancient Incan Empire, we explore the historic cobblestone streets and bustling markets of the “Florence of the Americas”. Next, we straddle two hemispheres with a visit to the World Equator Line. Our journey continues on the Upper Napo River, which offers exhilarating rapids through a picturesque rainforest environment.
Andes Mountains
We set out for Imbabura, known as the “Province of the Lakes.” During our drive, we may catch a glimpse of Cayambe or Cotopaxi, two of Ecuador’s picturesque, snow capped volcanoes. In search of bright colors and hand-made textiles, we visit the famous native market of Otavalo, one of the largest and most important markets in South America. The stalls teem with vibrant colors and handicrafts, including weavings, paintings, jewelry, and traditional Ecuadorian clothing. The majority of the items are made locally and we have the opportunity to try our hand at bargaining with the merchants.
It is here that we will partake in our spotlight service projects, lending a hand with the needs of the community at that time. Through working together, afternoon activities, and shared meals, we will walk away happy to have been welcomed in by our new friends.
Amazon Rainforest
We work alongside residents of a small Amazonian village in efforts to return the Amazon to its native inhabitants, the animals. Exact needs vary year to year based on time of year and current initiatives, but it the past we have worked with planting saplings, setting feeding stations, and collecting data. In the afternoon we will enjoy a relaxing dip in nearby natural mineral hot springs, heated by a nearby active volcano.
Galápagos Islands
The Galápagos Islands guarantee an adventure of a lifetime. Swim, snorkel, and mingle with prehistoric lava lizards, flamingos, blue-footed boobies, baby sea lion pups, dolphins, and playful penguins. Our evenings are spent exploring the local island communities, including a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Center to learn about the historical importance of the islands and their unique wildlife. Other highlights include kayaking the rocky coastline, seeing the iconic Galápagos giant tortoises, swimming with sea lions at San Cristobal, and snorkeling in the beautiful Tortuga Bay.
Program Reviews
“It was a great experience that changed my perception of the rest of the world.”
— Matt L., ARCC Student“This trip helped me learn more about who I am through the activities I took part in, the new experiences that I learned from and the friends that I will never forget. Thanks for a great summer!”
— Zoe T., ARCC Student“This trip honestly made such a positive impact on my life through service, risk-taking, and exploring one of the most unique places on Earth.”
— Anonymous“Daniel seemed to mature and become more independent as a result of the trip. He seems more sure of himself.”
— Parent of Daniel C., Bethesda, MD“There is nothing cooler than exploring a country and then giving back to the land and people there to thank them for the adventure.”
— Jessica W., Vernon Hills, IL, ARCC Student“Besides experiencing the beautiful scenery and touring the cities of Ecuador and the Galapagos, I had the opportunity to make a change and live in a community where I could see the impact that my work was making…ARCC gave me a new perspective on what’s important in life.”
— Mina B., San Francisco, CA, ARCC Student“One of the greatest trips I have ever taken. I will never forget the people and good times.”
— George S., ARCC Student
Group Journal Excerpts
Below you will find several Group Journal excerpts, written by ARCC students during the Ecuador & Galapagos summer service adventure.
Galapagos Service & Wildlife!
So far, our experiences in the Galapagos have been incredible. On Saturday, we embarked on a beautiful snorkeling adventure. During a brief boat ride, we saw diverse wildlife like playful sea lions, large crabs, and blue-footed boobies. We arrived at our first snorkeling area and were amazed at the reefs and tropical fish. We even…Read more
Quitugo Village Service!
Today we woke up early so that we could maximize our community service hours. We started off the day by breaking into two groups: one group of four and another group of eight. The small group helped a family by replacing their decrepit concrete floors with new ones. The larger group started making the foundation…Read more
Whitewater Rafting!
Today is the best holiday in existence: Canada Day! To celebrate Canada Day, we went whitewater rafting in the Napo River. Today was filled with adventure and it took us about 4 hours to go down the river. Between the game on the raft and chocolate cake at lunch, today was pretty successful. Many people…Read more
Common Questions
What is the packing list for this program?
Each program has a specific packing list that has been designed to fit the program’s activities, length, climate and cultural differences. A thorough explanation will be made available in the Pre-Trip Welcome Packet.
What is the weather like in Ecuador?
In Ecuador the weather is a lot like Florida in the summer time. During the day it can be hot, sunny and humid (80’s-90’s) and late afternoons often bring showers, which will cool us off. You will often go to bed with only a simple cover as it is warm enough to sleep without your sleeping bag. While at a higher altitude (Quito) the temperature is a bit cooler (60’s). In the Galápagos, the weather will be quite warm and tropical.
What are the service projects like?
ARCC has been operating programs in Ecuador for several years, and we have built relationships with a variety of individuals and small communities who enjoy hosting ARCC student groups. The specific service projects that each group will work on depend on what is most needed in these communities at the time. Often times there is a light construction or building aspect as well as partnering with a local tree nursery to assist on a reforestation project.
What kind of health precautions should I take before traveling to Ecuador?
Ecuador is a relatively clean and safe place to travel. However, ARCC does recommend that you take some health precautions before your trip to Ecuador. When you enroll in the program, you will receive more complete information on pertinent travel vaccinations and immunizations. Please also refer to the Traveler’s Health section of the CDC website. Our leaders carry a full first aid kit, and are all certified Wilderness First Responders (WFR).
Where do we sleep?
During this program we sleep in a variety of accommodations: hostels, small simple hotels, an eco lodge, and rustic community buildings.
What is the transportation like once we are in Ecuador?
While in Ecuador, we will be travel by private bus with a professional driver and by boat. We will also travel to and from the Galápagos on a commercial airliner.
What is the food like?
We will have the opportunity to sample traditional Ecuadorian cuisine such as chicken, fish, rice, plantains, soups and fresh fruit. We will also be cooking our own meals while we are staying in the rural communities. ARCC works with our local partners and restaurants to accommodate dietary restrictions.
How much spending money should I bring?
For Ecuador/Galápagos, ARCC recommends that you bring an additional $75 of spending money for each week of travel. Most cash should come home, but you will want some personal money to pay for airline baggage fees at the airport, souvenirs/gifts, laundry, extra snacks, and emergencies (lost items, clinic visit, etc.). Most students opt to bring small amount of cash, as well as personal debit or credit cards.
As with any international program, we strongly recommend talking to your bank about its international withdrawal policies to avoid any surprise fees or card freezes.
Do I need a passport?
Yes, all students traveling to Ecuador need to have a valid passport. Please make sure the passport expiration date is at least six months after you travel. Passport applications are available at the post office. If you do not already have a passport, you should apply for one as soon as you enroll in this program.
Do I need a visa?
No. US Citizens do not need a visa for this program.
What is the time difference between Ecuador and the Galápagos and the USA?
During the summer, mainland Ecuador is 1 hour earlier than New York and 2 hours later than San Francisco while the Galápagos islands are 2 hours earlier than New York and 1 hour later than San Francisco.
Do I really need to bring a backpack, or can I bring a rolling suitcase on this program?
Although you will not be doing traditional backpacking on this program, it is important that you bring a backpack as your main piece of luggage. During the program the group will be navigating through airports, on and off buses, up and down stairways, and taking short hikes on unpaved paths. Everyone must be able to carry all of their own belongings which is more comfortable and efficient with a backpack.
Do I need to speak Spanish to join this program?
No. You will be able to participate in all the activities even if you do not speak any Spanish. However, if you study Spanish in school, you will have many opportunities to practice your language skills with the locals you encounter during your program. Having some basic conversational skills will enable you to form stronger bonds with the local people you will be meeting and helping.
What kinds of goods and supplies can we bring to donate for the people we meet?
We have the chance to live amongst some people who have the very basics for survival. With education being a tool to better their lives, basic school supplies are welcomed with open arms. Pens, pencils, notepads, and books are widely accepted. Soccer balls are also an incredible way to cross the cultural border and share smiles. Because of limited space on our vehicles, ARCC would ask that every person bring no more than a gym bag of goods to donate.
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19800 Village Office Ct.
Suite 200
Bend, OR 97702
(415) 332-5075
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19800 Village Office Ct.
Suite 200
Bend, Oregon 97702
(415) 332-5075
Email ARCC