PRE-DEPARTURE TIMELINE

1. Review your “Ecuador Volunteer” materials

You'll receive a welcome packet with a Program Handbook, Volunteer Handbook, and other important information. The handbooks provide more information about Ecuador and project you will be working in, as well as useful resources for preparing for your project.

2. Communicate with the Volunteer Coordinator

Your Volunteer Coordinator works in Ecuador and knows first-hand what it's like to volunteer in Ecuador. Together you'll review important logistical details and expectations of the program.

3. Confirm your passport and visa

Contact the closest Consulate or Embassy of Ecuador to get more detailed information about getting a visa. You must have a valid passport to travel abroad. Your passport will also need to be valid for at least six months after your project participation ends. If you are considering extending your participation while in Ecuador, or planning traveling afterward, please make sure that your passport is valid for longer than six months after your program is originally set to end.

If you need to renew or obtain a Passport, the process of applying for and receiving one may take up to six weeks, even if you’re renewing. However, for an extra fee you can receive your passport in approximately two weeks with an expedited service.

4. Join the Ecuador Volunteer Communication Tower

The Communication Tower is intended to give new volunteers the opportunity to communicate with past volunteers and with other volunteers with similar interests. On our site on Facebook “Ecuador Volunteer Foundation” you can share information and ask questions about volunteer work in your specific project.

5. Purchase your plane ticket

Review flights on search engines like www.bookingbuddy.com, www.expedia.com for more information on purchasing a plane ticket. The main Ecuador airport is called Mariscal Sucre with airport code UIO. Contact us for information about recommended arrival and departure days.

6. Review recommended immunizations

To find the most current travel health information, we recommend your contact your primary healthcare physician. As a reference, you can also view the information that we will send you by e-mail.

7. Pay the Application Fee

Your application fee must be paid in full at least 30 days before you leave to come to Ecuador.