Be prepared to join in and be sociable. The work is very hard especially in the heat, but so rewarding!
Ecological Conservation and Restoration Volunteer Program in the Galapagos Islands
Purpose
Conserve unique & fragile ecosystems
Start dates
Programs start every Monday
Duration
Choose from 2-12 weeks
Volunteer hours
5 - 6 hours a day
Age
Volunteers aged 18+
Accommodation
Homestay
Who is going?
Group video calls
Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.
This program is ideal for:
Volunteers who have a keen interest in horticulture and restoration within a fragile ecosystem.
Project details
Support the Galapagos National Park in the operation and maintenance of plant nurseries that are located in the Highlands of Isabela Island. Volunteers play a key role in the conservation of Isabela Island’s endemic plant species, threatened by invasive plant species, pollution, and climate change, with key focuses being on research, restoration, and education.
What to expect and how you'll make an impact
You will have the unique opportunity to assist in horticulture restoration projects within the purpose built nursery, where you can expect to assist National Park Rangers with tasks including, but not limited to:
- Transplanting of seedlings, pruning, and prepping of nursery beds
- Maintenance of the irrigation system
- Assist in the management of plagues and invasive species
- Answer questions that tourists or locals may have when visiting the plant nursery
Volunteers gain experience in landscaping and ecological restoration through their support of the National Park Rangers through the cultivation of the endemic and threatened Scalesia plant. Additional species you’ll work with include the giant daisy tree (Scalesia pedunculata), rodilla de caballo (Volkmeria mollis), the button mangrove (Conocarpus erectus), and the cats claw (Zanthoxylum fagara).
This project requires a high level of physical fitness and comfort working outdoors with sun and warm temperature exposure.
While Spanish is not required to join this project, you are encouraged to come with a basic to intermediate level to aid in the placement work.
Why do Ecological Conservation and Restoration volunteering in the Galapagos Islands with IVHQ?
As an Ecological Conservation and Restoration volunteer in Galapagos, you’ll be adding value to the environment and local community, while also developing personally and professionally by:
- Helping protect the Galapagos National Park
- Gaining conservation and horticulture experience
- Practicing your Spanish
- Immersing yourself fully in the local culture
- Discovering the natural wonders of the Galapagos Islands
Volunteer requirements
Volunteers on this project must be 18+ and must speak fluent English. It is recommended that volunteers have a basic to intermediate level of Spanish in order to communicate with fellow workers, the local community and homestay families.
Are you eligible to volunteer?
Submit a free application so we can confirm your eligibility and check availability for your preferred dates.
Not sure which program to join?
Get personalized recommendations >
Who is going?
Group video calls
Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.
Galapagos Islands photo gallery
IVHQ Ecological Conservation and Restoration project
IVHQ Giant Tortoise Conservation project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Sustainable Agriculture project
IVHQ Sea Turtle Nest Monitoring project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Digital Marketing volunteer project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Giant Tortoise Conservation project
IVHQ Ecological Conservation and Restoration project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Sustainable Agriculture project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Ecological Conservation and Restoration project
IVHQ Sustainable Agriculture project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Digital Marketing volunteer project
IVHQ Sustainable Agriculture project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Giant Tortoise Conservation project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Giant Tortoise Conservation project
IVHQ Sustainable Agriculture project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Ecological Conservation and Restoration project
IVHQ Giant Tortoise Conservation project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Giant Tortoise Conservation project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Sustainable Agriculture project
IVHQ Giant Tortoise Conservation project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Sea Turtle Nest Monitoring project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Sea Turtle Nest Monitoring project
IVHQ Giant Tortoise Conservation project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Sustainable Agriculture project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Giant Tortoise Conservation project
Exploring during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring during an IVHQ weekend
What recent volunteers said about their IVHQ experience
NS
Nicola Skipper
04 Feb 2025
...
CS
Cathy Striegel
04 Feb 2025
I felt very comfortable and felt IVHQ provided what I needed pre-departure. I recommend others just do it! You will learn so much and your help is needed. The people are kind and helpful.
...
SB
Samuel Bundy
03 Feb 2025
I learned so much from the culture and the other volunteers from around the world. I recommend giving it a try. It will change your life.
...
AJ
Abby Jones
27 Jan 2025
This experience afforded me priceless knowledge about tortoises, nature and sustainability, and how incredibly important all of it is. Meeting new people was incredible. It was amazing and I would definitely recommend it!
...
SG
Susi Garvin
27 Jan 2025
I would highly recommend staying with a host family. It's a way to understand more about the local culture and customs and a great way to practice Spanish.
...
DG
David Gurr
14 Oct 2024
This was one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. To be so close to some of the world's most amazing creatures, and in particular getting behind the scenes access to help the incredible Giant Tortoises was something I'll never forget. My overall experience was unbelievable and only enhanced by the people I met and interacted with during my time on Isabela.
My host family was amazing! Despite the obvious language barrier, they were very patient with me as I tried to fast track my Spanish language. They couldn't do enough for me and I felt like one of the family. The local staff were always there to help and very approachable. The other volunteers (both at the Breeding Centre and on other programs) were fantastic and we created a strong bond despite various ages and backgrounds.
It has to come back to the people and community of Isabela, from the rangers to the locals and the family that I met during my time on the program. This was the most enriching part of the program and has given me so many positives to take back to my everyday life in the UK. THANK YOU!
...
To read all reviews, visit our reviews page.
Academic course credit
Academic course credit
Gain course credit from your college or university and meet your academic requirements when completing a volunteer abroad program with International Volunteer HQ!
Learn about course creditLocation
Location
The IVHQ Galapagos volunteer program is based in Puerto Villamil, a small port village located on the southeastern edge of Isabela Island in the Galapagos Islands. This is where orientation and general administration is carried out by our local team. Volunteer placements are located within walking distance around Puerto Villamil with the exception of the Sustainable Agriculture project, which is a 30 minute bus ride outside the village to the highlands.
Arrival and orientation
The Galapagos volunteer program begins every Monday and you need to arrive on Isabela Island on your Monday chosen start date.
After you have registered for the program, please book your travel into Seymour Galapagos Ecological Airport (GPS) on Baltra Island. From here you can either catch a ferry boat to Isabela Island (this ferry trip is included in your program fee) or take an island hopper plane from Baltra Island to Isabela Island with EMETEBE airlines (this flight is not included in your program fee).
Most volunteers arrive in mainland Ecuador on Sunday and spend this night in either Quito or Guayaquil. On Monday they then travel from mainland to Baltra Island, and then onward to Isabela Island. When you arrive on Isabela Island you will need to walk a few minutes up from the pier to the ABG (Biosecurity Agency) office where you will be met by a member of the local team who will transfer you to your accommodation (also included in your program fee) and then have a small town tour. Your accommodation is covered by your Program Fee and begins from your Monday arrival through the morning of your last Sunday.
On Tuesday, orientation is hosted by our local team in Galapagos and runs for half a day, after which you will be taken to your placement. Orientation covers everything you need to know for your volunteer program in Galapagos – Introduction to Galapagos, Galapagos Customs, Rules and Expectations, Safety, Travel Opportunities in Galapagos, Introduction to your Project and Placement. The orientation will also give you a chance to meet other volunteers and swap contact details for weekend travel and socializing.
Volunteer schedule example
Weekdays
A volunteer day is subject to change depending on your specific placement and the current needs of your project. A typical daily schedule might be as follows:
| 6:30 AM | Breakfast at the volunteer accommodation and walk to the bus stop. |
| 7:00 AM | Bus to placement site where volunteers join a local farmer and begin work on your project. |
| 12:00 PM | Lunch provided by your host at your placement site. |
| 2:00 PM | Return to town via bus, then volunteers have the afternoon free to explore the island, do some local snorkeling or take a surf lesson. |
| 7:30 - 9:00 PM | Dinner with your homestay family or at one of the restaurants in town. After dinner you will have the remainder of the evening free to relax and use as you wish. |
Weekends
During the weekends, volunteers have spare time and usually just relax or take the opportunity to explore other parts of Isabela Island and other Galapagos islands such as the nearby Santa Cruz.
There is a dive site with great diving from Isabela, hike active Volcano Sierra Negra, snorkel site Tuneles and see the lava tunnels, visit islet Tintoreras, snorkel local dive spot Concha de Perla with turtles, seals, rays, etc., kayak the bay, rent a bike and visit the ‘Wall of Tears’ along the stunning coastal route passing lagoons, mangroves, and giant tortoises in the wild.
Accommodation and WiFi
Volunteers are accommodated in a homestay with a local family, which is an incredible and unique cultural immersion experience. Volunteers can expect to share a twin room with one other volunteer or have their own private room if there is capacity; each bedroom has its own bathroom.
Isabela Island is very remote and it is important that volunteers are aware that internet reception is very spotty. There is WiFi in the office and in a few restaurants/cafes in town. Visitors cannot purchase a SIM card in Galapagos, only residents. Volunteers can purchase a SIM card on the mainland before traveling to the island, or use an international phone plan that covers them abroad. The Internet is too poor to expect to watch Netflix or have video calls while on the island.
Meals
Volunteers are provided with three meals per day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). Breakfast and dinner are provided at the homestay and volunteers can expect fresh fruit, fried eggs, bread and cooked green plantains. Lunch is provided at local associated restaurants and volunteers will have a variety of menu items to choose from. Lunch and dinner meals will include protein (meat, fish), rice and some veggies (varied depending on the season) and meals often start with a soup and include a natural drink.
There is filtered water available in the local teams office and in homestays, and volunteers are requested to bring a reusable water bottle with them.
If you have any special dietary requirements, please let us know so we can make arrangements for you. However, we need to stress the point that you should not expect to eat as you normally do at home. We will do our best to see that you are well taken care of, but as a volunteer, there is a need to be flexible.
Volunteer accomodation
Volunteer accomodation
Volunteer accomodation
IVHQ volunteers homestay bedroom
IVHQ volunteers homestay bedroom
IVHQ volunteers homestay bedroom
IVHQ volunteers homestay bedroom
IVHQ volunteers homestay bedroom
IVHQ volunteers homestay bathroom
Typical volunteer lounge
Typical volunteer kitchen
Typical volunteer bathroom
Volunteer dinner with homestay
Typical volunteer lunch
Typical volunteer dinner
Typical volunteer dinner
Typical volunteer dinner
Typical volunteer dinner
Typical volunteer dinner
Typical volunteer dinner
Pricing
Secure your place for just US$299 (approximately $299), pay your Program Fee later.
Spots are limited. For a Registration Fee of just US$299 (approximately $299) you secure your spot and unlock all our preparation and training tools.
You don't need to worry about paying your Program Fee until you get closer to your start date.
Duration |
Program FeeDue 30 days before you start, or within 48 hours if you register inside of 30 days. Covers the cost of hosting you.
|
|---|---|
| 2 weeks | $1,430 Equivalent to $102/day |
| 3 weeks | $1,950 Equivalent to $93/day |
| 4 weeks | $2,470 Equivalent to $88/day |
| 5 weeks | $2,990 Equivalent to $85/day |
| 6 weeks | $3,510 Equivalent to $84/day |
| 8 weeks | $4,550 Equivalent to $81/day |
| 10 weeks | $5,590 Equivalent to $80/day |
| 12 weeks | $6,630 Equivalent to $79/day |
- All programs attract a Registration Fee of US$299 (approximately $299) in addition to the Program Fee. This covers all pre-departure support services.
- A 5% international banking fee is added at point of payment.
- Program Fees for the Galapagos Islands program are non-refundable once inside 30 days of the program start date. Any changes or cancellations within 30 days of the program start date are subject to a US$500 late change/cancellation fee.
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Transient visa (for all volunteers aged 18+ - this visa is specific to Galapagos National Park only)
- Local pickup
- Return ferry from Santa Cruz to Isabela island
- Accommodation
- 24/7 in-country emergency support
- In-country program orientation
- Pre-departure support from your Program Manager
- Personalized preparation tools, guides and check lists
- Access to IVHQ’s preferred insurance and flights partners
- Comprehensive in-country day to day support and guidance
- Certificate of International Volunteer Service
Learn more about what's included in your IVHQ Registration Fee and Program Fee.
- Transit Control Card
- Water taxis
- Bus transfer from airport to ferry dock
- Return bus from ferry to the airport when your program finishes
- National Park Entry Fee (only required for volunteers under the age of 18)
- Flights
- Visa (if required), travel insurance (mandatory), vaccinations, criminal background check.
- Personal spending money for snacks, laundry, public transportation, drinks and leisure activities during your free time.
Check what's required to visit the Galapagos Islands
Safety and support
Safety and support
IVHQ follows best practice and industry-leading health and safety procedures, which are regularly reviewed and optimized as part of the B Corporation recertification.
- All volunteers encouraged to complete our interactive pre-departure training.
- All local teams trained on best practice volunteer management & First Aid.
- All IVHQ programs are required to adhere to IVHQ's Risk Management Policy.
- All volunteers have access to 24/7 in-country support from our local team.
Essential country information
Essential country information
| Capital | Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristóbal |
| Population | 2,500 on Isabela Island and 33,042 across the Galapagos Islands |
| Languages | Spanish |
| Currency | US Dollar (USD) |
| Time zone | UTC-06:00 |
Weather and climate: Galapagos can be divided into three Climatic regions. The Pannonian Plains in the north have a continental climate of cold winters and hot summers, the mountainous Dinara Region in Central Galapagos has an alpine climate and the Adriatic coast, where our volunteer program is based, enjoys a Mediterranean climate of cool, rainy winters and hot, dry summers.
Apply to check if you're eligible!
Latest blog posts
Other projects you may be interested in
Rainforest and Coastal Conservation in Jozani, Zanzibar
Marine Conservation in Belize
Sustainable Farming in Rome, Italy
Forest Conservation in Lisbon, Portugal
Marine Conservation in Australia
Coastline Conservation and Education in Auckland, New Zealand
Ecological Surf in Lisbon, Portugal
Climate Action in Rome, Italy
Marine Conservation in Omiš, Croatia
Archaeology in Cusco, Peru
Environmental Conservation in Palawan, Philippines
Marine Conservation in Nosy Komba, Madagascar
Forest Conservation in Nosy Komba, Madagascar
Environmental Sustainability in San Juan, Puerto Rico
Amazon Jungle Conservation in Cusco, Peru
Sustainable Agriculture & Community Development in St Mary, Jamaica
Marine Conservation in Barcelona, Spain
Eco-Agriculture Conservation in Guatemala
Environmental Conservation in Hua Hin, Thailand
Mayan Cultural Immersion in Guatemala
Eco-Agriculture Conservation in San Jose, Costa Rica
Environmental Education in Ubud, Bali
Sustainable Agriculture in Arusha, Tanzania
Sustainable Agriculture in Nepal
Environmental Conservation in Malawi
Environmental Conservation in Medellín, Colombia
Rural Community Development in Sri Lanka
Ecological Park Rehabilitation in South Korea
Therapeutic Horse Care in Porto, Portugal
Agriculture in Ghana
Conservation Marketing & Social Media in Galapagos Islands
Marine Conservation in Alonissos, Greece
Outdoor Volunteer Work in Chiang Rai, Thailand
Community Gardening in Miercurea Ciuc, Romania
Sustainable Agriculture & Gardening in Galapagos Islands
Environmental Conservation in Galapagos Islands
Eco-Agriculture Conservation in Cusco, Peru
Marine Conservation in Crown Point, Trinidad and Tobago
Environmental Sustainability in New Orleans, United States
Sustainable Agriculture in Merida, Mexico
