EcoSwell
EcoSwell
Co-founded by a Newcastle University alumnus, EcoSwell is a multi-award-winning sustainability non-profit headquartered in Lobitos, a surfing paradise in Northern Peru, with additional projects based in Cusco and Trujillo. It's mission is to advance the sustainable development of vulnerable communities while empowering students to become agents of change through meaningful, hands-on projects across Peru.
Type of experience: Volunteer internships
Duration: 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 weeks
Format: In person
Where: Peru
Areas of interest
Most of EcoSwell's projects are open to all students, but some projects will be better suited to students with knowledge in the field:
History Classics and Archaeology / Architecture, Planning and Landscape
Project: Archaeology and Cultural Heritage (based in El Brujo in Trujillo)
Faculty of Medical Sciences
Project: Medical and Dentistry (based in Lobitos and/or Talara)
School of Natural and Environmental Sciences / Engineering
Project: Water & Sanitation (based in Lobitos)
Business School / School of Arts and Cultures
Project: Marketing and Communications (based in Lobitos)
School of Natural and Environmental Sciences / Geography, Politics & Sociology
Project: Reforestation and EcoSystem Restoration (based in Lobitos and/or Piedritas)
What to expect
EcoSwell have a strong work ethic which involves professionalism, working as a team, but also having fun whilst caring for the environment as well as yourself.
You will likely be working 9am-5pm during weekdays (this can vary depending on project and location). You can use your spare time as you wish (there are lots of attractions and activities to enjoy depending on location including surfing, swimming, yoga, fishing, historical sight-seeing and generally immersing yourself into Peruvian culture!)
Consistent in-country support will be available.
Things to consider
Some projects may be based in more rural locations, and working conditions may not be the same as you would expect in the UK. Some projects may be more physically demanding than others.
You will be living and working in local communities and you should always respect local traditions and cultural norms. Be aware of street crime/petty theft when travelling throughout Peru. The codes of conduct of EcoSwell and it's partner organisations must be followed at all times.
Fees and funding
Fees start at around £967 and vary depending on your chosen project. All of your meals are provided by EcoSwell (included in your fee), unless you would prefer to eat out somewhere. Transport and other aspects are also included in your fee - further details are provided by EcoSwell during your application stage.
Applicants who meet the GO Global Scholarship eligibility criteria can apply for £2000 for a 2 week+ project.
Accommodation
Accommodation is included in the project fee. You'll live with other volunteer interns or in homestays with local families, and although some accommodation will be based in rural areas you will have access to shared kitchen, work space and resources, laundry, clean water, electricity and internet.
Further information
You can follow EcoSwell on instagram (@ecoswell) or tiktok (@ecoswell)