EcoSwell
EcoSwell
EcoSwell is a multi-award-winning sustainability non-profit located in Lobitos, a surfing paradise of Northern Peru, whose mission is to support the sustainable development of vulnerable communities and transform students into agents of change through hands-on impactful projects across Peru.
Type of experience: Volunteer internships
Study level: Undergraduate and Postgraduate
Duration: 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 weeks
Format: In-person
Where: Peru (Lobitos and Magdalena de Cao)
Cost
Ecoswell is a non-profit organisation, meaning student financial contributions go towards community projects and running costs of the programmes. The cost includes accommodation and food (all meals - weekdays & weekends, with breakfast and lunch being made by a local chef in the week!) amongst other aspects.
Programme options
Based in Lobitos:
- Renewable energy
- NGO/social enterprise management
- Research and monitoring
- Medical & Dentistry electives
- Water and sanitation
- Marketing and communications
- Reforestation & ecosystem restoration
Based in Magdelena de Cao, Trujillo:
- Archaeology and cultural heritage
Accommodation
EcoSwell's beach-house offers shared bedrooms and bathrooms (depending on how many volunteers are on the programme). Access to laundry, a fully equipped kitchen and outdoor garden areas to socialise and relax. Projects may be in rural areas, but accommodation offers clean water, electricity & internet.
Accommodation for the Archaeology and Cultural Heritage programme is in the Wiese Foundation House, with shared dorm rooms and bathrooms, access to a shared living room, office space, kitchen, internet, clean water and a garden.
Experience overview
Days in Lobitos start with an optional morning swim, surf or walk before breakfast! Volunteer interns work on their projects until 5pm, after which there is free time for exploring and socialising with other participants. You can view an example of an itinerary here. Additional activities in Lobitos include yoga, pilates, art workshops, artisanal fishing, cave exploring as well as surfing one of the best surf-breaks of Northern Peru.
For the Archaeology & Cultural Heritage programme volunteer interns will live alongside professional staff dedicated to archaeology and research at the Wiese Foundation. You will work until 5pm during the week and have evenings and the weekend to immerse yourself in Peruvian culture and community life. This setting offers an un-paralleled experience for those who are passionate about archaeology and cultural heritage - sharing daily life with passionate experts at a world-class archaeological site and participating in a rich exchange of knowledge and culture. You can read more about the projects here.
Find out more on their instagram (@ecoswell)