Ecuador Marine Conservation and Investigation

Machalilla National Park has a number of exceptional features that makes it one of the most significant marine environments in Ecuador. It is the only protected coastal region in the country, but lack of resources and knowledge has prevented the creation of a sustainable management scheme. The scheme would ensure the protection of this marine environment.

Volunteer Role

Volunteers on the project will spend a great deal of their time in the field. Here they will be working with both English and Ecuadorian research scientists, ecologists and other volunteers each day. All the information you record is essential and will be entered into the database. Some of our current conservation and research projects include:

Use and distribution of habitat of the Giant Manta Ray
Monitoring Shark species in the Puerto Lopez fishing ports
Recording Water temperatures in the Isla de la Plata
Coral recording in the Machalilla National Park
Maintenance and installation of mooring buoys at the Isla de la Plata
Working on the Artificial Reef Balls project at the Isla de la Plata
Students can get involved in more than one project

Programme Location

Based in Ecuador at Machalilla National Park and Isla del Plata, educational projects also located in Quito.

Accommodation and Meals

Volunteers stay in comfortable accommodation with a maximum of four people in dorm-bedrooms. Three meals per day are included and made by a local cook.

Programme Overview

Durations and Prices: 2 weeks £849, 4 weeks £1099
2 weeks language followed by 4 weeks volunteering £1349
2 weeks language followed by 4 weeks volunteering £1649

Extras
PADI Open Water £499, Advanced Open Water £399
PADI and Advanced Open Water £699

How to book & pay:
£195 deposit to secure place and balance due 12 wks before departure.

What is included?
Accommodation and meals
Scuba gear
Orientation
Airport transfers
24 hour support
Full support
Detailed information pack

What is not included?
Flights
Traveller’s insurance
Necessary Visas
Personal items
Any additional activities
Transport from Quito to project
(approximately $65)
Diver’s courses
Masks, fins and snorkels

Summary:
This project has a great emphasis on diving, and volunteers will be, haelping with marine conservation and underwater research.
Other voluntary work in Ecuador

Programme dates: The 1st Monday of every month

Ask us a question

If there's anything you'd like to know, call on 01892 701 881
or complete the form below and we'll be able to help.