Our Spanish students will receive a certificate for the Spanish level that they reach after studying with our school.  

Volunteer certifications

We give all our volunteers a certificate in English where we specify the duration of their volunteer work, the project, and the activities carried out in the project.  The project also grants a certificate from the institution where the volunteering was carried out. We are also glad to be listed as a reference on any future application our volunteers make.

Why is there a cost for volunteering?

It may seem counterintuitive to pay in order to work for free. However, it is necessary to charge a small amount to defray costs of the workplaces and the families where the volunteers live. We are aware of the fact that many volunteers do not have a lot of money and we therefore seek to offer the minimum price.

The Simón Bolívar Foundation is a non-profit and therefore we only charge for administrative costs.

Ecuador is a very friendly and welcoming country for visitors. An international citizen can stay in the country for 90 days from their first entry into Ecuadorian territory, extendable for an additional ninety days after a payment of a third of the unified basic salary – it changes every year so ask us about the current value. It is important to remember that the minimum passport validity required by Ecuador to enter the country is six months prior to the passport’s expiration. If you want to stay in Ecuador longer than 6 months, we will help you with all the necessary support to complete the process

Safety concerns

Latin American countries do not always get good press regarding personal safety, however most international tourists travel to Ecuador without incidents each year. When people take basic safety measures, most issues can be avoided.

One of the most common issues in Ecuador is pickpocketing in crowded places. This risk is likely to be higher in bigger cities such as Quito or Guayaquil, or on busy public transportation. Taking care of your personal belongings can help to minimize risk.  Ecuador is most likely a less expensive place than your home country, so do not carry unnecessary money. Keep expensive items tucked away, and in crowded areas such as markets, make sure that any bags you are carrying are held on your front rather than your back.

Another aspect of safety in Ecuador includes security when carrying out activities. Ecuador is a wonderful place for outdoor adventure activities including hiking, rafting, climbing, mountain biking, rappelling, snorkeling, ziplining, surfing, and more. While all these activities are inherently risky, it is important to select a reputable provider to minimize risk.

For further information visit Ecuador and Galápagos Insider (add link to the following page https://galapagosinsiders.com/travel-blog/safety-ecuador-for-travelers)

Can I change programs?

You can change projects if there is a reasonable explanation. The idea is to find the project where you feel the most comfortable in order to help in the best way possible.

What support is there?

Fundación Bolivar Education Spanish lessons and Volunteer Program will be your best choice if you are interested in receiving the following:

• Realistic guidance and useful information for your stay.
• A personal advisor who will follow your progress throughout the entire process.
• Fast and punctual feedback.
• Orientation tour within the first 48 hours of your arrival
• Project induction
• A workplace that fits your education, interests, and desires where you will be actively contributing.
• A professional workplace that will receive you in the best way.
• Someone who will greet you at the airport.
• A place to live that makes you feel at home, (family, hotel, or within certain projects).
• The best Spanish lessons in Quito, with personalized and tailored schedules.
• Optional social events and excursions.
• Monthly meetings with other volunteers (if you live close to Quito and depending on other volunteers’ availability)
• Bilingual support 24/7
• Transfers from and to the airport
• Help and support if you want to extend your visa
• Support in case of sickness

Transportation options

In Ecuador transportation is very organized and frequent, for transportation within the city there is a whole network of buses and trolley buses that cost US$0.35 for each way. Quito will soon have a modern subway to connect the city from end to end rapidly.

Using a taxi is safe in Ecuador. When taking yellow registered taxis in the major cities make sure the taxi meter is reset. The minimum fee in Quito is US$ 1.50 during the day and US$ 1.75 at night, even if the meter registers less for your journey. Ride-hailing apps are also available in urban areas, Uber and Cabify are the most used ones.

For interprovincial trips there is a whole network of buses at very low prices. There is a land terminal in each city. In Quito there is one at each city end, Terminal Carcelén in the north and Terminal Quitumbe in the south. Departure times are every 30 minutes or every hour depending on your destination. The buses are safe and controlled.

There are also air connections between the main Ecuadorian cities (Quito, Guayaquil, Manta, Cuenca, Loja, Esmeraldas, and more). The main airlines are LATAM, Avianca, and Aeroregional.