Who will be in charge of this trip?
Our founder, Sam Bailey, is the trip director. His teaching experience at the high school and collegiate levels, extensive travel experience to more than 30 countries, hospitality experience, and vast understanding of study abroad and cultural immersion programs is instrumental in the execution of each Eco Surf international volunteer adventure. He is a native of San Clemente, CA and a graduate of UCLA, class of 2000, where graduated with a BA in Geography.
Click on the link to learn more about Sam.
Does the trip include airfare?
Costs listed on our website do not include international airfare, as airfare prices may vary because participants come from all over the globe.
What do I do about the surfboard?
A surfboard will be provided to you free of cost in Canoa, Ecuador. Participants interested in bringing their own surf board should know that airlines typically charge more than $100 (each way) for every surfboard bag that is checked in.
What if my family needs to get in touch with me?
Eco Surf Volunteers will have a cell phone with us at all times that is capable of receiving and making international calls. Additionally, opportunities will be available everyday for students to check email and call home.
Is Ecuador safe?
Absolutely! In fact, according to Vision of Humanity and the 2007 Global Peace Index, Ecuador ranked above the US as a safer place to live!
What if I get hurt?
Injuries in the water are highly unlikely, but in the rare event that something does happen to you, Eco Surf Volunteer staff are EMT, First Aid and CPR certified. Additionally, ESV’s local bi-lingual advisers are prepared with the quickest routes to emergency centers in the area.
How far away is the nearest Medical Center?
There is a medical clinic in the town of Canoa. Additionally, the town of Bahia de Caraquez, only 20 minutes south of Canoa, has a hospital.
In the Galapagos Islands, both Isla Isabela and Isla Santa Cruz have emergency care medical centers.
What about traveler's insurance?
Traveler's Insurance and International Medical Insurance are mandatory for everyone. If your current plan does not cover you, try Access America or Aero Care who both offer Limited and Comprehensive Policies at competitive prices.
What do I tell my Dad if he wants to come?
Eco Surf Volunteer surf-volunteer projects are designed to accommodate surfers and volunteers of all ages. We completely understand the jealously that Dad may feel when you take off on your deluxe surf-volunteer adventure without him! We suggest you tell your Dad to contact us so that we can help him and his friends instead!
Will I need extra spending money?
You should definitely bring some extra cash. Typically, $200usd is MORE than enough. Ecuador uses the US Dollar, however ATM's will NOT be available to you except in Quito and Guayaquil.
The Galapagos Islands are expensive and volunteers traveling here will have at least one free-day to arrange for their own independent adventures. It is important to plan accordingly. (The most expensive additional tour is likely a day of SCUBA diving -- two dives in one day will cost approximately $140.)
Eco Surf Volunteer friends and sponsors can be found on our Sponsors page. Follow the link to have a look!