We offer eco tours in Ecuador focused on conservation and animal welfare. Each program offers hands-on volunteer experiences that support local communities and the environment.
Some eco programs are managed by Lead Adventures. Others are operated by trusted local partners. All have on-site coordinators who guide your work.
No experience is required for most programs. Some may need special skills. Check the individual program page for details.
Project coordinators provide daily guidance and safety instructions. You are expected to follow all rules for a safe and meaningful adventure.
You'll help with daily tasks like caring for animals, reforestation, trail work, and more. We welcome new ideas from volunteers too!
Most programs require a 2-week minimum. For Galapagos eco tours, the minimum is 10 days.
You can stay up to 12 weeks depending on availability.
Email us at info@lead-adventures.com and we’ll send you an application and help you through every step.
Apply 3–4 months in advance to secure your preferred dates and flights.
Applications are usually processed in 1–3 weeks.
Yes! Most eco tours and volunteer programs in Ecuador are available year-round.
Most programs host up to 20 people at a time.
Arrive in Quito on a Sunday. Orientation is Monday. Programs start Tuesday.
Yes! A Lead Adventures team member will greet you at Quito Airport.
Call us using the number in your welcome packet. We’ll adjust your pickup time.
Yes, but any extra nights before your program begin are at your own expense. We can help you arrange them.
You need a valid passport. A tourist card will be provided by your airline.
Citizens from the U.S., Canada, and UK do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. For longer stays, contact us or your local Ecuadorian Embassy.
Spanish is the national language of Ecuador.
Yes! Spanish lessons are available at our partner school in Quito, just blocks from our office.
Yes. You’ll find Wi-Fi in Quito and internet cafés near project sites.
Yes, phone cabins and internet cafés offer international calling at low rates.
You may stay in a homestay, volunteer house, hostel, or shared residence. Private rooms are available for an added fee.
Yes. Shared rooms with 3–5 volunteers are common. Most include hot showers and modern bathrooms.
Yes. Depending on your location, you’ll have access to laundry services or facilities.
Ecuador uses 120V / 60Hz, like the U.S. Most plugs are Type A and B.
Meals are homemade and include rice, vegetables, potatoes, meat, and fresh fruit. Vegetarian meals are available.
We recommend bottled water throughout your stay.
Yes, especially when you follow local safety tips—just like when traveling anywhere abroad.
Our eco tours in Ecuador are safe. Volunteers are briefed on all safety rules. There have been no serious incidents.
No vaccines are required for our program regions, which are free of malaria and yellow fever risks.
Yes. All volunteers must have active travel insurance.
Yes. The Galapagos National Park entrance fee is USD200
$20 (INGALA card in Quito / Guayaquil airport) (paid upon arrival in the Galapagos)
Yes, your return airport transfer is included in your program fee.
Highlands: 13–25°C
Coast: 23–36°C
Amazon: 23–32°C
Plan around national holidays, which may affect travel and project schedules:
Dec 25: Christmas Day
(Full list available on request.)
Still have eco tour or adventure travel questions?
Email us anytime at info@lead-adventures.com — we’re happy to help!
Let me know if you’d like this exported in a web-friendly format or turned into a downloadable info sheet.