Located 5 hours from Quito, the region of Intag is home to one of the last cloud forest areas in Ecuador. The various communities of Intag have created eco-friendly economic alternatives, such as organic coffee and other agricultural products, handicrafts, alternative energy, and eco-tourism in order to preserve their pristine environment. These projects have become eco-friendly alternatives to an internationally financed mining project in the region, which has yet to complete the exploration phase.

The rolling hills, lush vegetation, and friendly people provide an incredible setting for volunteers. Intag offers a variety of opportunities in human rights observation, organic agriculture, women’s and youth organizations, and locally made handicraft organizations. For those who wish to experience community-initiated, grassroots development, a placement in the rural region of Intag will not disappoint.

The program is one month with two weeks being spent in Quito where students will be taught Spanish and be given a history of Intag in order to have a better understanding of the region during their placement.

Below is a list of various opportunities throughout Intag:

AACRI (Organic Coffee Growers Association of Intag)

The locally owned organic coffee association offers volunteers an opportunity to experience the route of organic, fair-trade coffee from tree to cup. Students have the opportunity to live on and work at an organic coffee farm for a period of their time in Ecuador. Also, they will be able to assist in the production and marketing (national and international) of this delicious coffee.

Manduriacos Solidario

This Intag organization specializes in the production of hand-made products, such as soaps, shampoos, and accessories made of natural fibers and seeds. Students who are studying or interested in local development initiatives will be able to exchange valuable knowledge with the community.

Eco-tourism

Intag offers eco-tourism volunteer opportunities in both Mandariacus and Junín. Those students studying tourism or interested in conservation and natural resource use will find this placement an enriching experience.

Human Rights Observers

Due to an ongoing conflict between the communities and a Canadian mining company, Ascendant Copper, there is a need for people to stay in the communities and observe and document any confrontations or human rights abuses they see. This placement is ideal for students involved in international relations, development, or corporate social responsibility.

*contact us for detailed information about each volunteer placement, as well as information about shorter or extended stays.*

*Intag is a rural area in Ecuador and, therefore, lacks some of the luxuries of the city. Most homestays will not have warm water, but students will have a private room.*

Program Costs

The cost per month is $1,500.00 (USD).  Please see our Program Fees page for a list of what this price includes.