Learn Spanish in Ecuador

Learning Spanish while volunteering abroad is a great way to experience real cultural immersion.

Are you interested in improving your Spanish while immersing yourself in a new culture? Spirit Cultural Exchange 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 while you give back to the local community. If you dream of experiencing the world more deeply than as just a tourist, Spirit Cultural Exchange’s Ecuador program might be right for you!

Program details

Spirit Cultural Exchange partners with Fundación Bolivar Education, who are experts in organizing Spanish immersion and volunteer programs that meet your individual needs.

Options available include a homestay with a local host family, salsa lessons, cooking classes and more!

Contact Fundación Bolivar Education directly for more information on their available programs and how to apply.

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.

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

Scholarships

Spirit Cultural Exchange offers annual merit-based scholarships for US citizens 18 years and up to participate in cultural exchange programs abroad.

Applications are not currently being accepted for our scholarship program. Check back for more information on future scholarship opportunities.

What Our Participants Are Saying

"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.

"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.

"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.

What's Happening at Spirit Cultural Exchange:

Spirit Announces its Spirit Scholar Award Winner 2024

Spirit Cultural Exchange proudly announces Daniela Ugalde as the recipient of its 2024 Spirit Scholar Award. The Spirit Scholar Award […]

...

Tina in Ecuador: Last Week in Ecuador

The week of volunteering FLEW by. Both Michael and I wish we could have stayed longer. The kids were phenomenal, […]

...

Tina in Ecuador: First Day of Volunteering

I have so much to share! Today was so interesting, and fun, and eye-opening, and so many things all at […]

...

Tina in Ecuador: Exploring Isabel Island

Since we have Friday through Sunday off, we have a lot of time to explore the Island Isabela. Everyone we […]

...

Tina in Ecuador: Orientation

On Thursday morning we went to school for the first time for our orientation. Since the director was still in […]

...

Tina in Ecuador: The First Day and a Half in the Galapagos

Because we left for the airport so early, we were able to get there by 6am with no problem! Our […]

...