This was my first time traveling solo internationally. I felt safe the entire time supported by the confidence in having specific people I could call or reach out to at any time, though I never needed to. I was extremely nervous about taking this plunge and am so incredibly happy I did. The local people and fellow volunteers are now some of my closest friends. If you are hesitant, DON'T BE! We never regret the things we try; only the ones we don't. It was an absolutely amazing experience and I am grateful I actually did it - instead of continuing to say "one day".
Volunteer in the Galapagos Islands
Volunteer in the Galapagos Islands with International Volunteer HQ on a unique range of volunteer abroad projects. This program is an eco volunteers dream, with options to volunteer in Giant Tortoise Conservation, Environmental Conservation, Sea Turtle Nest Monitoring, Sustainable Agriculture, Ecological Conservation and Restoration, Conservation Marketing & Social Media, and Teaching English. Galapagos volunteers are based in Puerto Villamil, on the southeastern edge of Isabela Island. With affordable Program Fees and top rated volunteer projects trusted by over 137,000 travelers, IVHQ is the best volunteer organization in the Galapagos Islands.
Highlights:
- 7 meaningful project options available year-round
- Program Fees from $1420 for 2 weeks
- Includes orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support
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Accommodation in a homestay with a local family
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Volunteer program is based in Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island
Key information
Volunteer opportunities in the Galapagos Islands
Conserves the environment
4-6 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $1420
- Duration: 2 - 12 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Based on Isabela Island
- Volunteers aged 18+
This is a unique project that enables volunteers to gain digital marketing and social media experience within the conservation field. You'll help raise awareness of the sustainable development activities taking place in the Galapagos National Park, while contributing towards the protection of this incredible place.
Conserves the environment
5-6 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $1420
- Duration: 2 - 12 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Based in the Highlands on Isabela Island
- Volunteers aged 18+
Join forces with National Park Rangers of the Galapagos Islands to preserve and revive the precious, one-of-a-kind plant species indigenous to Isabela Island.
Conserves the environment
4-6 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $1420
- Duration: 2 - 12 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Based on Isabela Island
- Volunteers aged 18+
Help to conserve one of the world's most biodiverse National Parks! Help protect the Galapagos Island's unique and fragile ecosystems through a variety of conservation, sustainable tourism, and community development initiatives.
Protects animals
4-6 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $1420
- Duration: 2 - 12 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Based on Isabela Island
- Volunteers aged 18+
Help conserve the famous and sadly endangered Galapagos Giant Tortoise. You'll care for these magnificent creatures at a breeding center in the Galapagos National Park and raise awareness of important conservation activities that helps protect these tortoises in the Galapagos.
Protects animals
4 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $1420
- Duration: 2 - 12 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Based on Isabela Island
- Volunteers aged 18+ and families
Help conserve endangered sea turtles in the Galapagos National Park. Support nesting and hatching activities by collecting data, patrolling beaches, monitoring nests, identifying species, and more! This project is only available from January to the end of May.
Conserves the environment
4-6 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $1420
- Duration: 2 - 12 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Based in the Tomás de Berlanga highlands
- Volunteers aged 18+ and families
Learn local agriculture techniques and work towards a more sustainable future for the Galapagos Islands and its inhabitants. You'll be based in the lush tropical highlands of Isabela Island.
Increases access to education
3-5 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $1940
- Duration: 3 - 12 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Based on Isabela Island
- Volunteers aged 18+ and families
Help local people improve their English language skills by teaching in the Galapagos Islands. In a place that relies heavily on tourism, you’ll be helping local children progress at school and supporting local adults to secure long term employment.
What recent volunteers said about their IVHQ experience
I had the most memorable time. The best way to get to know the Galapagos is through volunteering - I feel that volunteers really make a difference on this program.
I was nervous about going to a new isolated place, with limited language skills. The IVHQ and local team made it easy, and I made so many new friends while making a positive impact on an endangered species.
My hosts were exceptional, and the location to my worksite was close. Meals were tasteful with lots of variety. The fresh fruit was delicious!
I absolutely love wildlife and believe in the conservation of nature. I believe mankind has played a big part in its destruction and decline of wildlife species and should do everything possible to help stop this. The Giant Tortoise Conservation project has made a huge difference and I am thankful for my experience.
I loved that the team set up a WhatsApp group for volunteers right before we arrived to receive information and connect with each other. It was clear that they all cared and tried to support us in every way they could. The meals were good and I loved having the opportunity to eat lunch in the different restaurants each day - that was brilliant!
To read all reviews, visit our reviews page.
Webinar: Volunteering abroad in the Galapagos Islands with IVHQ
Considering volunteering abroad in the Galapagos Islands? Watch the replay of our webinar where our experts will answer all your questions, give their top program recommendations, and give you tips and tricks to make the most of your volunteer abroad program.