Eco
Surf Volunteers combines hands-on humanitarian, medical and environmental
international volunteer projects with the tropical wonder of South
America's finest untouched beaches, year-round surfing for any
level and incredible Galapagos Adventures.
Please ask about our newest medical and pre-med volunteer programs!
Eco Surf Volunteers is committed to encouraging the continuation of local traditions while stimulating the local
economy. We have selected Canoa, Ecuador and Tomas de Berlanga on Isla Isabela of the Galapagos Islands, both exotic destinations
unknown to the majority of international travelers, as our volunteer
project destinations. Both possess the
natural beauty and outdoor adventure opportunities that will without a
doubt make them major tourist destinations for North American tourists
in the years to come.
Eco Surf Volunteers aims to cultivate the adventure-tourism industries of Canoa and Tomas de Berlanga to be owned primarily by native Ecuadorians. Our
volunteers teach local youth the English language, arguably the single
most important skill needed in a tourism industry catering to North
American clientele. Additionally, being some of the first North
American group-travelers to Canoa and Tomas de Berlanga, we offer constructive feedback to
the native-owned businesses we support.
Future developments of Eco Surf Volunteers are aimed at increasing exposure to high school-aged kids. Eco Surf is working closely with native community leaders to create a local foundation organized and operated entirely by native born residents. One of the fundamental ideas being discussed is the creation of a 4-year Work-Study Program in which high school students learn the nuances of operating a hostel, restaurant, local tour shop, surf shop, etc. The program will also naturally create opportunities for the kids to take ownership in developing innovative sustainable tourism projects within their community. And then, upon completion of the program, it is Eco Surf's goal to award each student a full scholarship to an Ecuadorian university.
While in Canoa and the Galapagos Islands, Eco Surf Volunteers group accommodations,
transportation, meals, activities and excursions are entirely operated
by native business owners (with the exception of one meal).
Click on the link to learn about Eco Surf Volunteers founder, Sam Bailey.