Overview
Our program brings you the best of both worlds: the consistency you rely on and the flexibility your group needs.
Immerse your students in the authentic culture, language, and community of Ecuador when you join ongoing community projects in rural communities across Ecuador. Students can look forward to activities like organic gardening, spinning locally collected llama, alpaca, and sheep fiber, or weaving wool hats. When not working on their projects, your class will also enjoy visiting Iglesia San Francisco and visiting La Mariscal artisanal craft market.
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive in Quito
Meet your Tour Director
Your 24-hour Tour Director will meet you at the airport and remain with your group until your final airport departure.
Day 2
Quito guided sightseeing tour
Independence Plaza, Palacio de Carondelet, San Francisco Church visit, Mitad del Mundo visit
Day 3
Yunguilla community project
The rural community of Yunguilla is located just an hour northwest of Quito. Over the past 20 years, local residents have developed sustainable alternatives to improve their quality of life. Discover their inspiring journey from forest exploitation to a deep commitment to the responsible use of natural resources. Yunguilla is a collaborative project where everyone participates in initiatives such as reforestation, organic gardening, jam and cheese-making, handicrafts, and community tourism. During your time in Ecuador, join forces with the Yunguilla community and be part of their mission.
Day 4
Yunguilla community project
The rural community of Yunguilla is located just an hour northwest of Quito. Over the past 20 years, local residents have developed sustainable alternatives to improve their quality of life. Discover their inspiring journey from forest exploitation to a deep commitment to the responsible use of natural resources. Yunguilla is a collaborative project where everyone participates in initiatives such as reforestation, organic gardening, jam and cheese-making, handicrafts, and community tourism. During your time in Ecuador, join forces with the Yunguilla community and be part of their mission.
Day 5
Travel to Chimborazo
Sumak Kawsay community project
Travel to the parish of Calpi in Ecuador’s Chimborazo province to visit the indigenous Quechua community of the Royal Palace. Partner with this group of 80 families on their Sumak Kawsay project, which includes a variety of initiatives such as the Flame Museum, fiber spinning with llama, alpaca, and sheep wool, and more. Spend time at their sustainable restaurant, The Palace of the Flame, which welcomes both locals and visitors with delicious dishes made from nutritious, locally sourced ingredients.
Day 6
Casa Condor community project
Perched high on Ecuador’s tallest mountain, Casa Condor is a natural heritage center managed by the Pulinguí San Pablo community. Engage with locals and enjoy breathtaking views from natural lookouts overlooking the surrounding mountains and volcanoes. At an altitude of 3,800 meters, be sure to dress warmly—a sweater is a must.
Chimborazo volcano visit
Forest hike
Day 7
Shobol Pamba community project
Quilla Pacari community project
Ever wonder what it’s like to make jam from carrots, weave a wool hat, or bake bread like the locals? Now is your chance. Quilla Pacari is a regional cooperative located in the San Francisco de Cunuguachay community. Here, you will collaborate with your new neighbors and learn about community life, traditional Andean medicine, and the rhythms of daily living in the Andes.
Day 8
Balda Lupaxi community project
Balbanera church visit
Located near Colta Lake, La Balbanera is Ecuador’s oldest Catholic church, built in 1534 by Spanish conquistadors. It features early colonial architecture and is still an active place of worship today.”
Colta Lake visit
Set in Ecuador’s Chimborazo province, Colta Lake is a high-altitude gem with calm waters, wetlands, and diverse birdlife.
Travel to Quito
Day 9
La Mariscal artisanal craft market visit
A visit to La Mariscal market is a must for anyone looking for a souvenir or a gift to bring home. Filled with crafts and specialties from across Ecuador, the market dazzles with displays of blankets, paintings, jewelry, bags, flutes, chocolate, and more.
Return home
Day 10
Return home
Optional Extension
Add 5 Days in the Galápagos Islands
Fly to San Cristóbal Island and visit the Interpretation Center to learn about the Galápagos’ unique ecosystems. Hike to Tijeretas Bay to spot frigatebirds, rays, and sea lions, followed by a snorkeling adventure. Relax at Playa Mann, then visit La Galapaguera to see giant tortoises and hike to scenic El Junco Lake, the islands’ only freshwater lagoon. Continue with a snorkeling excursion at La Lobería Beach, known for its vibrant marine life. Travel by boat to Santa Cruz Island for a guided visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station, home to vital conservation efforts. Conclude your extension with a trip to Baltra Island to explore the dramatic Twin Craters before flying back to Quito to begin your journey home.
TourFlex: Your Experience, Your Way
Explore Your Way
- Add experiences like theater tickets or unique excursions
- Swap activities for ones that better serve your group
- Extend the learning through go-aheads or stay-behinds
Go Your Way
- Choose the most accessible departure airport for your group
- Opt for 2-, 3-, or 4-star hotels that are centrally located or a convenient ride to major itinerary attractions
Dine Your Way
- Opt for pre-selected meals or encourage exploration by dining on your own
- Enjoy 2-3 course, culturally representative meals or opt for 3-course, authentic dinners at local restaurants
Already Included
WorldStrides Tour Director: A dynamic destination expert who makes learning come to life by leading your group's activities and discussions
Transportation to & from your destination
Hotel accommodations
Meals (unless otherwise noted on your itinerary)
Community-based projects
Admissions to top attractions (details in itinerary)
Guided sightseeing tours & city walks (details in itinerary)
Tips for local guides and drivers
WorldAssist staff members available 24/7/365 should your group need extra help
Free high school credit for students who choose to complete WorldStrides free online coursework post-program
Scenes from Ecuador
Health & Safety
Additional health and safety measures may be available within your respective destination. Refer to your program-specific materials for complete details.
Financial Assistance
Financial Assistance
WorldStrides provides over $2.5 million in financial assistance each year to thousands of families. Families with annual adjusted gross incomes of less than $85,000 may qualify. One simple call to Customer Service and you’ll know how much may be available for your trip even before signing up. Please note: financial assistance is given on a first-come, first-served basis.
Payment Plans
Advantage Payment Plan
At program sign-up you can opt to pay in full, or break up the cost of your trip with the Advantage Payment Plan. This plan allows you to pay a small initial deposit, then have your remaining payments spread out into affordable monthly amounts.
EZPay
We offer an EZPay option, which is a simple way to pay for your WorldStrides program by scheduling hassle-free, automatic drafts from your checking account. With EZPay, you'll never be late or miss an installment.
Fundraising Tools
Our easy-to-use tools put students in the driver's seat of their own fundraising efforts. Students can send e-cards, share links on social media, and even send out printed letters through WorldStrides' Gift of Education program. In one click friends and family members can make a direct donation to the trip - with 100% of the money raised going to offset their trip price. Thousands of students pay for their entire trip each year through the Gift of Education.
Also, WorldStrides makes program-specific scholarships available as well as other scholarship resources. Ask your Account Manager for more information about scholarships and fundraising tools.