Development and Conservation in Ecuador
This 11-day experience in Ecuador offers students the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture while gaining insight into how Ecuadorians understand and overcome social and environmental challenges. Throughout the trip, we will explore the dynamic between development and conservation from multiple perspectives, including that of the indigenous community.
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Program Itinerary
La Basilica church is one of the highlights of Old Town, Quito
Day 1
Presentation: Introduction to Ecuador
Welcome dinner at a traditional Ecuadorian restaurant
Day 2
Tour of Quito’s Old Town
Day 3
Visit with sustainable development non-profit
Visit with LBGTIQ+ rights organization
Day 4
Travel to the town of Otavalo
Visit Otavalo market (one of the largest artisan markets in South America)
Visit with a local traditional health clinic
Traditional dinner with the student’s homestay host family
The Andean Condor is the world’s largest flying bird
Day 5
Waterfall hike
Visit with condor conservation nonprofit
Day 6
Participate in a service-learning activity
Spend the evening with host families
Day 7
Community visit with Tsa’chila indigenous group
Witness a traditional healing ceremony
Day 8
Hike a protected forest reserve with an expert guide
Day 9
Visit the cloud forest town of Mindo, one of the most biologically diverse regions in the world
Tour a sustainable coffee farm with an expert guide
The Papallacta Hot Springs, in the mountains near quito. Photo by Don Henise.
Day 10
Take a cable car to a waterfall sanctuary above the cloud forest
Lunch in a butterfly garden and conversation with local expert
Day 11
Visit Mitad del Mundo, to stand on the equator
Papallacta Hot Springs, to rejuvenate after a long excursion
Farewell dinner at the hot springs
