volunteer in ecuador

Learn Spanish in Ecuador

Learning Spanish abroad is a great way to experience real cultural immersion. Spirit offers a variety of options in Ecuador with the chance to live with a friendly, knowledgeable host family who will help you learn about the local culture and practice your Spanish skills. You will learn side by side with other students from around the world. If you dream of experiencing the world more deeply than as just a tourist, Spirit’s Learn Spanish in Ecuador program might be right for you!

Program Details

Our partner organization in Ecuador, Fundación Bolivar Education, are experts in organizing Spanish immersion programs that meet the needs of each student.  Options available include homestay with a local host family, salsa lessons, cooking classes and more!

Qualifications

volunteer-in-ecuador-qualifications

The program is available to adults 18+ years of age with any level of Spanish language skills. Keep in mind that Ecuadorians will only speak in Spanish, so even a basic level of Spanish will be helpful in acclimating to your new environment.

Fundacion Bolivar Education has all the details on the options available to you!

How to Apply

volunteer-in-ecuador-how-to-apply

Contact our partner Fundacion Bolivar Education directly for more information on the programs available in Ecuador.

Scholarships

Spirit offers annual merit-based scholarships for US citizens 18 years and up. Applications are not currently being accepted for our scholarship program. Check back for more information on future scholarship opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I start?

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis, which means you can start whenever you want!

Do I need to speak Spanish to participate?

While Spanish language skills are not required, even a basic level of elementary Spanish will help you acclimate to your new host community.

Are there any travel advisories for Ecuador?

Information on United States Department of State Travel Advisories can be found at: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/ecuador-travel-advisory.html

Cultural Activities

During your stay in Ecuador, you will have the chance to immerse yourself in the local culture by living with a host family who will share mealtime with you and get you acquainted with the community. Spanish lessons, fun social events, dancing and cooking lessons as well as monthly meetings with other volunteers in the area will allow you to soak up the local culture.

Get Started on Your Spanish Adventure

Get Started

What our volunteers say…

“I loved and enjoyed my host family a lot! My host mother and I would sit down in front of the house and just talk. She also taught me a lot about indigenous culture. I feel like my trip here helped widen my mind on what it means to want a successful and happy life.”- Salvador M.
“Quito has been an unforgettable experience. I have learned about the Ecuadorian people and their culture. I know I will forever hold all of these memories close to me.”- Samantha B.
“This opportunity has truly changed my life. I discovered more about myself, exchanged my culture with a completely different one, learned so much about Ecuador and the Spanish language, gained a unique hospital experience, formed friendships that will last a lifetime, and so many more things that cannot be put into words. I am so grateful and lucky to have had this enriching experience.”- Monika S.