Join our transformative conservation project in Ecuador! Help us restore vital ecosystems and protect biodiverse habitats while immersing yourself in local culture and breathtaking landscapes. Together, we’ll achieve significant milestones that create a real legacy: from strengthening environmental education in local communities to reforesting critical corridors and planting native trees that will breathe life into the forest for generations. Your passion and support make our restoration efforts possible. Let’s make a lasting impact on our planet's future!
Dates to book this experience for 2026 and 2027 will be available soon, stay tuned!
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Your journey begins where the emerald jungle meets the Pacific. Settle in with a warm welcome, meet our expert team, and tour our facilities. Breathe in the salt air and tropical scents as you transition into the rhythmic pulse of the Ecuadorian coast.
End your first day with a curated dinner featuring the fresh, bold flavors of the Ecuadorian coast.
Start your day with local flavors.
Join a vital conservation mission at the Galera San Francisco Marine Reserve, one of mainland Ecuador’s most biodiverse sanctuaries. You’ll work alongside experts to monitor and clear pristine beaches, directly ensuring safe nesting grounds for endangered sea turtles. It’s a profound opportunity to protect a delicate ecosystem where the tropical forest meets the deep blue, leaving a positive footprint on the shores you’ve come to explore.
Roll up your sleeves and connect with the earth in a hands-on restoration of the coastal woodland. By planting native species, you’ll help strengthen the vital ecosystem that buffers the land from the sea.
Relax and recharge with a meal inspired by the Ecuadorian coast.
Relax after a productive day with a meal featuring the best of local Ecuadorian cuisine.
Wake up to a fresh breakfast.
Return to the shoreline for a deeper look into the ecosystem's health. Today’s session focuses on tracking environmental changes and maintaining the pristine state of the beach.
Take a well-deserved break and enjoy a fresh and local lunch.
Connect with the heart of the community through an environmental education session at a local school. You’ll share conservation values and the importance of protecting their unique ecosystem with the next generation.
Unwind with a delicious evening meal featuring fresh local ingredients
Step into a different world as the sun dips below the horizon and the forest comes alive. Guided by the sounds of the night, you’ll explore the trails to discover the fascinating nocturnal creatures that remain hidden by day.
Set out in the early light to witness the vibrant birdlife that calls this coastal forest home. Whether you're a seasoned birder or a curious observer, it’s a peaceful way to connect with the incredible biodiversity of the Ecuadorian coast as the forest wakes up around you.
Enjoy the calm morning atmosphere as you fuel up for another day.
Head back to the shore for a hands-on session dedicated to keeping our beaches pristine. By removing debris and microplastics, you directly protect the marine life and birds you observed earlier this morning.
Relax with a fresh, locally-sourced meal prepared with the best ingredients the region has to offer.
Get your hands in the earth at our sustainable nursery, the heart of our reforestation efforts. You’ll work with native seeds and saplings, learning the principles of agroforestry and permaculture.
End your day with a meal that celebrates the land.
Start your day with a nourishing breakfast.
Dedicate your morning to preserving the beauty of the Galera San Francisco Marine Reserve. By collecting debris and plastic along the shore, you directly improve the habitat for marine wildlife and nesting species.
Recharge with a wholesome meal that highlights the best of the local harvest.
As you hike through the lush trails, you’ll deepen your connection with the land before rolling up your sleeves to plant native species. This hands-on effort helps restore the natural canopy and supports local biodiversity.
Gather for a relaxing evening meal as the forest transitions into night.
Explore the shoreline under the stars to discover the fascinating creatures that emerge as the tide recedes. This monitoring walk allows you to observe unique intertidal species that are only active in the cool night air.
Start your day with a wholesome and nourishing meal.
oin a dedicated effort that combines habitat preservation with vital scientific research. While clearing debris to keep the shoreline pristine, you will assist in the systematic tracking of biodiversity within the protected borders of the Galera San Francisco Marine Reserve.
Pause for a balanced meal that celebrates the regional bounty.
Experience the abundance of a productive forest by participating in the full cycle of an agroforestry system. You will collect young seedlings and plant them to expand the canopy, while also harvesting ripe, organic fruits directly from the trees.
Relax and enjoy a meal that honors the day’s work in the agroforestry system.
Gather one last time to enjoy a quiet, nourishing breakfast in the heart of the forest.
After a final effort to keep the local beaches pristine, you’ll head to nearby schools to share the importance of ecological preservation with the next generation.
A final meal to celebrate your hard work.
Dedicate your time to the vital task of expanding the forest canopy. By planting native saplings in degraded areas, you are directly helping to restore soil health, manage water cycles, and create new corridors for local wildlife.
End your journey on a high note with a vibrant salsa lesson, embracing the rhythm and energy of the local culture. After finding your groove on the dance floor, gather for a heartfelt farewell ceremony. It is a time to celebrate the friendships made, the trees planted, and the positive impact left on the coast and the community.
See the activities that will make your trip into an epic adventure.
Contribute to your project and make a positive impact while developing new skills.
Share vital conservation values with the next generation of our local community.
Get your hands in the earth while learning permaculture at our sustainable nursery.
Gather organic fruits and collect native seeds from our productive agroforestry system.
Get to know the local culture and have an authentic travel experience with activities included in your itinerary.
Protect Ecuador’s biodiversity by cleaning shores and monitoring vital marine species.
Hands-on restoration of coastal woodlands to strengthen and expand the local ecosystem.
Protect one of Ecuador's most biodiverse areas by maintaining a clean marine habitat.
Explore the vibrant forest sounds and sights while hiking under the stars.
Identify exotic tropical species as the coastal forest wakes up at sunrise.
Ensure a pristine environment for the local ecosystem through active cleaning.
Explore the tropical forest while physically rebuilding the local ecosystem.
Experience the fascinating nocturnal life of the shoreline after the sun sets.
Celebrate our conservation impact with a final planting and a vibrant salsa class.
Additional activities for you to enjoy this adventure even more in your free time.
¡Hablemos español! Learn from native speakers
For jus $15/hour
Gear and a 2 hour session.
Surfing lessons for $25
United States
My experience at the reserve was incredible. I learned so much about agroforestry and the local culture and enjoyed every activity we did. They were very informative and welcomed us in with open arms. I loved the space, the activities, and the people we met. Going to the school meant a lot to me and also to the students. We were well taken care of and loved our hosts!
3 months ago
United States
It was the experience of a lifetime! Diego and Andrea were very flexible with the schedule. They were incredible hosts and they taught us so much about the marine life on the reserve.
3 months ago
Cayman Islands
I had such a great stay at the reserve! The hosts were incredibly kind, welcoming, and accommodating, and they went out of their way to make sure I was comfortable. Diego speaks English, which made communication easy, but I'd also encourage future guests to learn a few basic Spanish phrases. It really enhances the experience and helps you immerse yourself in the local culture and way of life. One tip for future visitors: if you're not used to the heat and humidity, bring a small handheld rechargeable fan. Overall, this was a wonderful experience and I'd recommend staying here!
4 months ago
United States
Diego and Adriana were the most wonderful hosts. I really enjoyed my week here and fel very safe here as woman. I really encourage you to get to know the hosts and their backstory. Invite them to join you for dinner! I'll never forget watching a turtle lay her eggs on the beach from inches away. Advice: Pack x3 the amount of bug spray that you think you'll need. You will need it 24/7. I recommend ordering a high concentration of deet such as 50%. I would also recommend bringing an extensive medical kit with you for different minor ailments. There is not a pharmacy nearby.
4 months ago
United States
My experience at the reserve was so special! The team is small, but the work they do is huge! Diego and Andrea are wonderful hosts! They make sure your days are full of unique experiences while they are also willing to meet you where you and take things at your pace. I highly recommend for open-minded individuals, ready to experience something that you have never before! Prepare yourselves to be FULLY immersed in nature, learning the ins and out of Ecuadorian biodiversity and sustainability, while experiencing raw moments of pure awe and wonder.
4 months ago
United States
I had so much fun during my time! I always felt seen and cared for and the hosts really put time into educating us and helping us through our work. Some of the kindest people I've ever met I would 100% recommend this to anyone interested in trying something new whether you're just getting into environmental volunteering or are a seasoned pro!
4 months ago
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Exchange ideas with other confirmed worldpackers before your trip.
Four same-gender dorms are available to be shared between no more than three other travelers or project staff. Each traveler has their individual spaces for clothes and belongings, electricity sockets, plus a toilet and separate shower in each room. Comfortable beds and bed clothes are available, and you don’t have to worry about mosquitoes: all the beds have mosquito nets to ensure a good night of sleep. We care about nature even when nature calls, so our toilets are ecological - composting, dry toilet.
Healthy and organic local food cooked by a local with lots of experience. Breakfast includes organic fruits harvested by travelers at the agroforestry system, homemade bread, happy chicken eggs, homemade yogurt, and homemade marmalade. Lunch and dinner can include vegetable soup, salad, fish and vegetables baked with coconut milk, rice, pasta, meat and cheese.
Arrive at Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) in Quito and connect with your driver for a direct group transfer to the project site. A direct group return transfer back to Quito Airport is also included at departure. Full details are in your program guide once your spot is confirmed!
Our mission is to conserve threatened ecosystems like the Galera - San Francisco coastal landscapes and the Ecuadorian Chocó rainforest by collaborating with local communities and international travelers. Through organized activities, the project aims to restore habitats and protect the region's unique biodiversity, addressing challenges exacerbated by local economic constraints. With the support of travelers, significant achievements include intensified environmental education, the restoration of native flora, and substantial disposed plastic collection from critical areas.
Travelers are essential to the project's success, providing a helping hand in reforestation initiatives and habitat monitoring. They acquire essential skills, contribute to real conservation efforts, and gain cultural experiences by living in the jungle and engaging with local communities. Through their involvement, travelers help spread the importance of ecological actions for conservation and inspire future generations to combat climate change.
Top host
The Muisne region is a hidden gem where local culture and raw biodiversity thrive. Because it remains off the beaten path, our area is exceptionally well-preserved and authentic.
It is the only place in Ecuador where you can stand on the beach and witness a breathtaking sunset while simultaneously spotting humpback whales breaching near the coast and hearing the distinct call of the Chocó Toucan flying overhead. Guests are surrounded by the last remnants of the Ecuadorian coastal Chocó rainforest and the Galera-San Francisco Marine Reserve—a place scientific researchers compare to the Galápagos in terms of biological richness.
During your free time, you can visit the nearby beach, waterfalls, hiking trails, surf spots, and participate in workshops and in movie + pizza nights.
Every traveler who joins this journey helps protect endangered ecosystems and leaves a lasting positive impact on nature and the local community.
This is the impact you'll be helping to grow:
- 8,394 trees planted
- 714 sea turtle nests protected
- 68,427 hatchlings safely reached the ocean
- 22,378 kg of plastic waste collected from rivers, estuaries, and beaches
You will protect sea turtles. How? Travelers like you have already helped safeguard 714 sea turtle nests and 68,427 hatchlings, supporting the seagrass ecosystems and coral reefs. Countless species depend on you!! If you want to join the trip, you will also help tackle plastic pollution — 22,378 kg removed and counting from travelers!
You will help fight deforestation. How? By planting native and endangered species during your stay. 8,394 trees planted by travelers like you. Through ecological design and regenerative agriculture, you'll help restore degraded land into thriving habitat, creating a lasting impact long after you leave.
Travelers will support the conservation of species that play an important role for the sustainability of fisheries and will help design agroforestry systems to produce local and ecological food. Travelers will also help collect plastic waste and classify it in unique and threatened ecosystems.
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Pay your Program fee to confirm your trip and submit the required documents.
Be a part of a life-changing group trip. Make new friends, learn, and make an impact.
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Worldpackers Group Trips offer a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful projects like eco-agriculture, wildlife conservation, and social activities, all while exploring new cultures. Upon successful sign-up, travelers secure their spot instantly - no waiting around for approvals to have their dream experience. To keep things smooth, they get a direct line to a support team and a complete program guide, all set for travelers to immerse themselves in service projects while also having the best time for personal and cultural exploration with like-minded travelers.
Worldpackers Group Trips have some special benefits that are not offered in any other Worldpackers’ plans:
Each of the Worldpackers Group Trips plans offer different cancelation & modification conditions, which are presented on the payment check-out page and on the Worldpackers Group Trips Terms and Conditions.
Each of the Worldpackers Group Trips experiences offer different benefits, which may include volunteer certificates. All benefits are stated on the openings’ pages, and you can check what type of certificates are available in each of them.
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