Focus on Ecuador

  Ecuador

• Quito: 
Quito
• All Other Regions of Ecuador: 
Guayaquil

Durations of Program: 5-8 weeks, 3-6 months and 7-12 months
Dates: inquire for specific dates

Description: Ecuador is one of the most fascinating destinations in South America with its array of vibrant cultures, historical colonial architecture, volcanic landscapes, and dense rainforest - all in a nation no bigger than Nevada! The country's ethnic diversity extends from the Andes Mountains to the Amazon. Traditional arts, textiles, and ceramics tell the story of an Ecuadorian culture that dates from around 3200 B.C. and still holds on to its traditions. Four distinct regions - the highlands, coastal areas, rainforest, and the famous Galápagos Islands (where Darwin studied and wrote about evolution) - all make Ecuador an exciting country for you to discover while perfecting your Spanish and making friends.

Highlights: You'll probably attend a single-gender school where you may study up to 13 subjects from a standard curriculum. Ecuadorian society values family and friendship, so your host family will welcome your participation in daily activities. Hanging out with friends and family is also a great way to further perfect your Spanish language skills. You'll meet other AFS Participants at orientations, and possibly take part in an optional trip to the Galápagos Islands at an additional cost.

Cost in US$: $5,900 - $8,900

Application Process Involves:

• In-Person Interview Required
• Written Application

Post Services Include:

• Exit DebriefingAbroad
• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home
• Alumni Network
• Job and Internship Network

AFS Intercultural Programs's Mission Statement: AFS Intercultural Programs is an international, voluntary, non-governmental, non-profit organization that provides intercultural learning opportunities to help people develop the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to create a more just and peaceful world. AFS Intercultural Programs is a leader in intercultural learning and offers international exchange programs in over 50 countries around the world through independent, not-for-profit AFS organizations, each with a network of volunteers, a professionally staffed office, and headed up by a volunteer board.

Year Founded: 1947