Ecuador: Wild Galápagos Eco-Service Teen Travel

Ecuador: Wild Galápagos Eco-Service Teen Travel

Questions? Call (440) 975-9691 for an admissions counselor

2025 Travel Dates

June 19 – July 1, 2025 Available Enroll Now
July 10 – July 22, 2025 – 17 years old & up Available Enroll Now
July 24 – August 5, 2025 Available Enroll Now

From the colonial streets of Quito to the biodiversity of the Galápagos Islands, this program is the perfect combination of Ecuadorian culture, tradition, and nature. You begin by heading to a remote, off-the-beaten-path location to live with and work alongside a rural Ecuadorian community, contributing to sustainability efforts through reforestation, gardening, and local food production. After saying goodbye to the community, you’ll explore Quito’s city streets and major landmarks. The second part of your program will be spent exploring the world-famous Galápagos archipelago. Spanning 19 islands and home to marine iguanas, turtles, penguins, and sea lions, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This program is filled with experiences unequaled anywhere else on the planet that you’ll be sure to remember fondly forever.

Highlights:

  • Explore the Galápagos, and spot its famous wildlife
  • Participate in service with local communities
  • Earn 12 community service hours

Program Profile
Program Profile
Ecuador is a place where you can connect directly with nature and the people who live in it. By working on service projects in the Galápagos and the Amazon, you’ll get hands-on experience while supporting local communities and conservation efforts. It’s a chance to learn from the people who call these places home and make a real impact along the way.

Quote by: Alex Ball Country Director, Ecuador

Service Projects


Rustic Pathways works with local community leaders and organizations to identify and prioritize the needs of each community. Please note that while we try our best to ensure we provide our advertised projects, some changes may occur due to the communities and project partners we work with.

Typically, our service work will take place in the mainland village of Yunguilla. This mountain village is known for its jam and cheese making. Locals here are engaged in efforts to manage their natural resources and ensure sustainable development, including efforts to sustainably produce their jams and cheese.

While there, students may work on reforestation efforts, learn to milk cows, or participate in various sustainable gardening projects.

Previous traveler Taya Puner says learning about the local way of life and doing projects was a highlight of the program for her.

“I really love traveling but it gives me more of a sense of purpose when I’m doing service,” Taya said. “I like working with the environment because I feel like I’m doing something productive.”

Accommodations


The students will stay in several different types of accommodations during their program. Here’s what to expect:

Hotel in Quito (2 nights)

Begin your journey at a peaceful ranch-style hotel in a quiet village near the airport. Students will share gender-separated rooms with hot-water bathrooms and enjoy relaxing on the hotel’s scenic grounds.

Homestay in Yunguilla (2 nights) 

Experience rural Andean life by staying with local families in the Yunguilla community. Students will be placed in same-gender groups of two to three Rustic Pathways students per home. Accommodations are cozy and welcoming, offering an immersive cultural experience.

Hotel on Santa Cruz Island (2 nights)

Unwind at a cozy hotel in the heart of Galápagos, Santa Cruz Island. This relaxing stop in the Galápagos offers beautiful views and a comfortable base between island adventures.

Eco-Lodge Stay on Isabela Island (1 night)

Discover the magic of glamping at an eco-lodge in the volcanic landscape of Isabela Island. This one-of-a-kind stay allows students to connect with nature while enjoying comfortable accommodations, plus they might even spot giant tortoises nearby!

Beachside Hotel on Isabela Island (2 nights)

Wrap up your Galápagos experience at a laid-back hotel just minutes from the beach. Students will share rooms (2–3 per group, same gender) and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere near the Galápagos shore.

Food


Students will enjoy a diverse and delicious culinary experience while in Ecuador, with all dietary requirements, preferences and allergies carefully accommodated. They will savor authentic local dishes at community restaurants and homestays as well as enjoy high-quality meals at hotels. Many meals will be buffet-style self-service, featuring fresh ingredients and a mix of Ecuadorian, Galapagos, and Western cuisine, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable dining experience for all.

Water from the tap is safe to use for brushing teeth etc, but students will be provided as much bottled water as they can drink. Don’t forget to bring along your own reusable water bottle, so we can minimize our plastic usage.

What’s Included in Your Program

Program Leaders & Guides

English Speaking Rustic Pathways international and local leaders

Airport Transportation

Meet and greet with private transportation to and from the airport

Comfortable Accommodations

All nights of accommodation

All Meals Included

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout your stay

Ground Transportation

All transportation between program locations and activities

All Activities

Every activity, entrance fee, and experience in your itinerary

24/7 Support

On-call support throughout the program for peace of mind

Emergency Coverage

Included emergency evacuation assurance plan

All Fees & Tips

Airport taxes, departure fees, donations, and guide tips

What’s Not Included in Your Program

International Flights

Souvenirs

Additional Snacks

Visa Expenses

Passport Fees

A Past Adventure in the Wild Galápagos

Program Leader David Jackson shared a captivating story from a previous trip to the Galápagos Islands, where his favorite spot was underwater at Kicker Rock near San Cristóbal Island. Under the water at Kicker Rock there are reams of sea animals that are friendly, curious and relatively unaccustomed to humans. The opportunity to see marine life in this environment has made this deep water location one of the best snorkeling spots on the planet.

The water near Kicker Rock is one of the most popular snorkeling sites in the world. Photo: David Stanley from Nanaimo, Canada

“It’s incredible to snorkel side by side with marine turtles that don’t have a care in the world. You get close enough to these prehistoric animals to see barnacles on their shells. It feels like you’ve gone back two hundred million years in time. It’s so majestic. It gives you a Finding Nemo vibe,” Jackson said.

In addition to the turtles, there are also playful sea lions that pirouette in the water beneath snorkelers, colorful angelfish that swim in schools, and hammerhead sharks that harmlessly swim below in deeper waters. Jackson says snorkeling in this area is an experience he wishes everyone had.

This program gives them the chance to see animals that they can’t see anywhere else on the planet.

Marine iguanas hang out on a beach on Santa Cruz Island. Photo: Diego Delso, Delso Photos, License CC-BY-SA

Jackson will be leading the way both as an expert on educational travel and as a wildlife biologist. He has lived in Ecuador for about 19 years and leads the Andean Bear Foundation and the Wild Mountain Tapir Research Program, which aim to protect these animals. He also has been to the Galápagos Islands a number of times leading programs for students, including those in veterinary programs.

He uses his knowledge to teach students about animal welfare and biodiversity, while also helping students overcome any challenges they have during the journey.

“We had one kid who refused to snorkel because he was afraid,” Jackson said. “I had a one-to-one private chat, and all of the sudden he tried it. By the end of the program, he was going home in tears and thanking us for the experience.”

Seeing Another World That’s Teeming with Life

That unique snorkeling experience isn’t the only highlight with a destination as interesting as the Galápagos Islands. The students will visit several of the islands, including three major ones – San Cristóbal, Santa Cruz and Isabela Island.

The archipelago has 13 major islands total, along with a few smaller islands. Isabela is the largest. On this island, students will visit the Sierra Negra Volcano, which has the second largest volcanic crater in the world measuring six miles in diameter.

Jackson says this is one of the more strenuous days since the students spend about five to six hours hiking to see the rocky volcanic terrain. If they are lucky, the weather will be nice so they can enjoy fantastic views of the volcano and its surroundings. Even if it’s cloudy though, the students are sure to encounter many reptiles and birds that live in the area.

The islands were formed from volcanic eruptions and the wildlife that made it to the region by wave or wind are models for evolution because of the isolated nature of the archipelago. The animals could not travel elsewhere if survival became difficult, so they instead evolved to adapt to their environment. This, of course, caught the attention of Charles Darwin, who introduced the Theory of Evolution, along with other biologists from around the world.

A Galapagos sea lion enjoys the beach on San Cristobal Island. Photo: Diego Delso, Delso Photos, License CC-BY-SA

The islands have about 2,900 known species of fish, invertebrates, and marine mammals, including nearly 60 that are considered threatened species. Within these species there are many subspecies that have adapted to the islands. Jackson says the finches are an example of this.

“The 14 finch subspecies that live on the islands all have the same bodies but different bills,” Jackson said. “One finch has a crossed-over bill to get inside logs and branches to eat grubs and insects. A vampire finch has a scalpel-like bill to pierce flesh and drink the blood of larger birds and iguanas. Each subspecies has a different bill because of evolution.”

Students will see examples of this as they visit a tortoise breeding center and travel around the islands by kayak, on other boats, and on foot. They can witness how the land animals differ in their behavior since they have few natural predators.

Students can keep their eyes out for Galápagos penguins, which are the only penguins that live this far north, along with the blue-footed boobies, flamingos and the world’s only marine iguanas.

These animals and others have faced threats from invasive species that were introduced in the islands, including domestic animals like dogs and pigs. However, the local government has strengthened policies to avoid human-created damage to the ecosystem. This is keeping the islands pristine, making them a perfect spot for scientists and nature lovers.

During their time on the islands, the students will have plenty of time for snorkeling, hiking, boating, and soaking up the beach while enjoying views of nature and local wildlife.

Exploring the Mainland

The islands aren’t the only place where students will take in all Ecuador has to offer. They will begin and end their journey in the capital city of Quito, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The capital sits high in the foothills of the Andean mountains and was built on the ruins of an Inca city.

Mt. Chimborazo can be viewed in the distance from Quito, Ecuador.

It has some well-preserved colonial treasures and buildings with interesting architecture. Students will be able to see the city from the church towers and the famous Panecillo Hill, which provides excellent views of the city.

After touring the capital, the students will head north to the Yunguilla community, where they will do two days of service. This mountain village is known for its jam and cheese making. While there, students may work on reforestation efforts, learn to milk a cow, or try various gardening projects.

Such hands-on experiences and cultural insights give students plenty to reflect on as they gather for the Rustic Ties discussion on the final evening.

When Jackson talks about the program, it’s clear that students will have much to share when they return home. There is one word Jackson uses repeatedly when describing the trip, which really sums it up — and that word is “incredible.”

Packing the right gear (and the right amounts) is the first step to an incredible travel experience. Follow these tips to pack like a pro:

Travel light. Pack only the essentials. You’ll need less than you think!
Consider no checked bag. We strongly recommend that you consider packing only a carry-on size bag. This prevents your luggage getting lost or separated from you, keeps your bag manageable, and helps you be more mobile on your travel day.
Bring the right clothes. Pack clothes that are culturally appropriate for your destination and acceptable for service projects. This means bringing long shorts (think Bermuda and basketball shorts), t-shirts with sleeves to cover shoulders, and appropriate footwear.
Leave your valuables behind. While traveling, it’s easier for things to get lost, stolen, or damaged. Keep any prized possessions safe at home.
Check with TSA. Make sure your luggage complies with TSA regulations, especially your carry-on. Useful tip: Pack an empty water bottle and fill it up after security.
Extra paperwork? If you need additional forms filled out to get credit for your service hours, no problem! Bring these forms with you so they can be completed in-country.

Daypack

A school backpack is ideal as it will be used for daily activities and outings.

  • Passport
  • Photocopy of passport
  • Wallet/money
  • Book and/or journal
  • Pen
  • Phone
  • Camera
  • Chargers
  • Ear buds
  • Change of clothes
  • Water bottle
  • Medication
  • Additional community service forms
  • Consent to Travel Letter (for students under 19, recommended by the US State Dept but not required)
  • Travel Documentation
Main Luggage

A 40-50 liter duffel bag or backpack is ideal.

Clothes

  • Socks (13)
  • Underwear (13)
  • Thermal base layer (1 set)
  • Pants/capris/leggings (2)
  • Athletic shorts (2-3, one pair of longer shorts down to the knee for protection during service work)
  • Jeans (1)
  • T-shirt (3-5)
  • Long-sleeved shirt (5-7) – for sun protection, so lightweight is key
  • Pajamas
  • Swimsuit (2)
  • Soft shell jacket
  • Micro puff jacket (evenings can be very cool at higher altitudes)
  • Fleece/hoodie
  • Strappy sandals (like Tevas or Chacos)
  • Sneakers
  • Hiking boots
  • Sunglasses
  • Hat – ideally with sun protection for the neck
  • Work gloves
  • Quick dry towel

 

Toiletries

(travel sized in ziplock bags)

  • Shampoo (biodegradable, like this)
  • Conditioner
  • Body wash (biodegradable, like this)
  • Face wash
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Oxybenzone-free sunscreen (reef-safe)
  • Bug spray
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Contacts
  • Contact solution
  • Foam earplugs
  • Personal med kit
  • Deodorant
  • Wet Wipes
  • Razor/shaving cream
  • Headlamp/flashlight

Optional Extras

  • Your own snorkeling gear
  • Sleeping bag (15 degree)
Important Reminders
  • *Community Service Appropriate Attire includes T-shirts and tank tops with no visible undergarments and shorts with a 3” or more inseam.
  • Don’t forget the Big Five: Water Bottle, Sunscreen, Bug spray, Rain jacket, Closed-toe shoes.