Cost: $1,350 double occupancy, $150 additional for single occupancy. The trip fee covers all the basic expenses (food, lodging, transportation, activities) from when you land at the Quito airport until we drop you off there. (We provide one airport pickup on the first evening, and one bus back to the airport, on the last night. If your plans require different pickups or drop-offs, you will need to cover those on your own). Airfare is not included, and you'll want to bring extra money for personal expenses.
Arrive in the evening and settle in. We provide one bus to pick up the group from the airport and bring you to Otavalo.
Have orientation and visit the world-famous Otavalo market.
Work at the tree nursery most of the day, and then visit Cuicocha volcanic lake.
Work with students in their school garden. In the afternoon, visit a master weaver.
Spend the morning at the school, planting more vegetables in the school garden. In the afternoon, have a picnic under Otavalo's sacred tree.
traditional cooking class and learn about the plants cultivated by local families.
The CDC recommends vaccinations against Hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus-diphtheria and measles. Yellow fever is recommended for other parts of Ecuador but not necessary in the mountains where we work. Vaccinations are up to your own discretion.Do I need vaccinations to go on this trip?
The Zika virus is carried by mosquitoes that generally live below 1200 meters, but Tandana works at much higher elevations--typically above 2000 meters. So the chances of encountering a Zika-carrying mosquito while with Tandana is quite low. Moreover, the main concern for Zika is the damage it can do to fetuses if the mother contracts the virus; for others, the clinical symptoms are mild. Nevertheless, if you plan to travel in lower elevations before or after your time with us, you might want to take precautions with an insect repellant approved by the EPA.
I've heard about the Zika virus. Should I be concerned for my health?
What are the accommodations like?
Casa Latitud. Rooms all have private baths, comfortable beds, and outlets with the same electricity as the U.S. Wi-fi is available in the common area. Breakfast each day is a treat that offers fresh local fruits and juices, excellent coffee and a selection of hot breakfast items to start your day off right. The garden and patio area are an oasis with a view of 2 inactive volcanos. And the location is perfect for market shopping just 4 blocks away.
Will my electronic devices work in Ecuador?
Yes, Ecuador uses the same electrical currents and plugs as the United States does, so you don't need a special adapter.
What kind of clothing, etc. should I pack?
We will send you a "welcome" packet about a month before your departure, which includes a suggested packing list.
You might want to bring personal hand tools, garden gloves, and boots or shoes that can take the mud. If you forget something, we do have an assortment of gloves and tools left behind by others. Just remember that some things are tricky for taking on planes. If you bring a soil knife, for example, you'll need to wrap it in a cardboard sheath and pack it in your checked luggage.
Should I bring my gardening tools?
It's not necessary to speak Spanish in order to do good work and have a good time on this trip. You'll learn the important basics during orientation, and Tandana staff will be able to translate for you.What if I don't speak Spanish?
All of Tandana's volunteer programs are led by a team of Program Coordinators who have first-hand knowledge of the region, speak both Spanish and English, have expertise in experiential education and group leadership, hold WFA (Wilderness First Aid) or other certifications that have prepared them to handle emergencies, and are caring and capable individuals. Our permanent local staff is always on hand to help with translation, activities, logistics, and anything else to make sure the volunteers' experience is the best it can possibly be. See here for bios of some Program Coordinators.Who leads the groups of volunteers? Who do I turn to when I need help?
Please email your question to us at info@tandanafoundation.org, and we'll answer it as quickly as we can.What if I can't find the answer to my question on the FAQ page?
Copyright 2006-2020, tous droits réservés, La Fondation Tandana * 2933 Lower Bellbrook Rd., Spring Valley, OH 45370 USA * (937) 862-0202
