FAQs about Ecuador
FAQs
What age must I be to apply for the programs?
We can accommodate volunteers aged 18 and older, and in some cases, we have special programs for students over 14 years old.
What is the duration of your programs?
You can apply to our short-term programs, which can last from 2 to 16 weeks. You can also apply for long-term volunteering or student programs, where the program duration can range from 6 to 12 months, with the possibility of extending your stay for up to 1 year.
How much does the program cost and what are the payment methods?
What type of projects do you have?
We have a wide variety of social projects, such as education, music, environmental issues, eradication of child labor, work with animals, gender-based violence prevention, among others. These projects can be located in both rural and urban areas. Contact us, and we will gladly provide you with more details.
We have programs starting from USD 600 onwards. You can contact us for specific information regarding the investment based on your choice of program. All payments are made either through bank transfer or deposit.
Will I work on the project I choose?
In general, all volunteers work on one of the 3 options they choose. In the event that it is not feasible, they are notified in advance to find a joint solution.
What are the accommodation options?
We have built over the years a reliable network of host families that have gone through our safety filters. Another option is to get accommodation directly through our approved project. In both cases, it is always guaranteed that they will provide you with lodging and meals.
What if I have an emergency, who will help me?
We have an emergency phone number available 24 hours a day and an established security protocol. In the event of a crisis or emergency, you can call that number and the FIIDES staff will guide and assist you with the situation. In case of hospitalization, FIIDES will accompany you throughout the process.
Will there be more volunteers in my project or in the city where I will live?
We receive a large number of volunteers each year, and we also hold monthly events for them to get to know each other.
What is included in the cost I have paid for my program?
We include supporting documents for applying for a volunteer visa. Also, the airport pick-up and drop-off service. Three preparation and evaluation camps. Spanish classes (if you are a short-term volunteer, this has a small additional cost).
Cash for small expenses and money to travel from your home to the project and from the project back to your home. Additionally, a host family or project that will also provide you with food and accommodation. An Ecuadorian mentor to guide you on cultural matters and a contact in case of emergencies.
Do I need a visa to volunteer?
If you are a long-term volunteer, yes, you will need a visa. We will sponsor you and provide the necessary documents for you to apply in your country of residence. We will also guide you through the process if you have any questions.
What are the arrival dates?
We are open to receive you at any time of the year. If you are a short-term volunteer, you just need to send us your documents one month before starting your program. If you are interested in a long-term program, the arrival dates are in January and August.
What vaccines do I need for Ecuador?
Actually, there is no mandatory vaccination requirement to enter the country, but we recommend the following, in addition to a prior check-up with your trusted doctor: Hepatitis A, typhoid, and rabies.
Who purchases the plane tickets?
The program price does not include airfare, so you are responsible for arranging it on your own.
¿Es obligatorio el seguro de salud?
Sí, no puedes ser parte del programa si no tienes un seguro médico antes de ingresar al país. Este costo no está incluido en el costo del programa que te ofrecemos.
¿Can I apply to the program with my friend or my brother?
Yes, we have families that would be open to host two people, as well as projects open to receive more than one volunteer.
¿Do I need any preparation or have studied something to be a volunteer?
No, the main requirement is to be motivated and willing to help and learn.
¿Qué sucede si no tengo conocimiento del idioma español?
No importa, eres bienvenido igualmente. Los voluntarios a largo plazo tienen clases incluidas, pero si eres un voluntario a corto plazo, ofrecemos clases por un pequeño costo adicional. Debes saber que muchos de los voluntarios aprenden el idioma durante el proceso de convivencia diaria.
¿Cuánto tiempo debo trabajar, tendré tiempo para viajar y conocer el país?
Si eres un voluntario a largo plazo, tienes derecho a dos días de vacaciones por cada mes trabajado, además de los fines de semana y días festivos nacionales. Si eres un voluntario a corto plazo, tienes la opción de viajar una vez que termines tu programa o durante tu voluntariado los fines de semana y días festivos nacionales.
¿Tendré acceso a internet?
Casi todas las áreas en las que trabajamos tienen acceso a internet (excepto en proyectos en áreas rurales), aunque no es un requisito para nuestras familias anfitrionas, es muy fácil encontrar una forma de tener acceso a internet.
¿Tendré algún tipo de preparación antes de comenzar?
Sí, te prepararemos para tu trabajo como voluntario, pero también en temas culturales y de seguridad en el país.
¿Cuánto dinero necesito para vivir en Ecuador durante mi programa?
Recuerda que el programa cubre tu alojamiento, comida y transporte. Sin embargo, entendemos que querrás conocer lugares, viajar y conocer gente, por lo que te dejamos la siguiente lista de precios como referencia:
- Una Coca-Cola de 500 ml: $0.60
- Pasaje de autobús a la playa más cercana desde Quito (7 horas): $10
- Un almuerzo (sopa, plato principal, postre y jugo): $3.50
- Un cappuccino: $3
- Entrada de cine: $6
- Pasaje de autobús: $0.25-$0.35
¿Cómo son las telecomunicaciones en Ecuador, puedo llevar el celular que uso actualmente en mi país?
Si no tienes un celular que puedas traer, no te preocupes, te asesoraremos sobre cómo comprar uno a bajo costo y cómo activarlo para el sistema ecuatoriano.