YFU’s short-term, adult-centered program in Ecuador allows you to explore both the urban and the wild! We invite participants from 18 to 118 to experience a Taste of Ecuador! Departing October/November 2025 and February 2026, this trip is open only to YFU alumni, host families, volunteers, staff, and parents of alumni.
As a YFU participant in Ecuador, you will taste a bit of what YFU students traveling to this beautiful country get to experience. All participants will begin the adventure in Quito, experiencing unique points of interest and traditions. Over the first five days with your group, visit Quito, Cuicocha Lake, Otaval, and Condor Park, among other points of interest.
The second week offers a unique exploration of the Galapagos Islands, where you’ll swim with sea turtles, sea lions, and reef sharks and walk alongside giant tortoises. You’ll visit key spots in the Galapagos National Park, stay on two different islands, and enjoy top snorkeling sites and short hikes while encountering endemic species like marine iguanas and blue-footed boobies.
Please check out the itinerary for the dates you are interested in for complete program descriptions, detailed daily agendas, meals, and hotel accommodations.
Physical fitness and experience with outdoor or adventure travel are advantages. Please consider the altitude of Quito (2,850m or 9,350 ft) and other regions visited. There will be a lot of walking, some on uneven terrain.
Please note that travel insurance is mandatory for participation in this program. The cost of insurance is not included and will be determined and communicated at a later date. For reference, travel insurance for a 2-3 week program to Ecuador typically ranges from $75 to $175 per person, depending on a number of factors.
We highly recommend worldtrips.com for your travel insurance. Please note that insurance works differently in Ecuador. In emergencies, you must pay with a credit card and wait to be reimbursed by insurance.
In addition, the willingness to be adaptable is a plus to enjoy the accommodation with host families.
14 Day Program Tuition: $3,800
$150 private double room for 2 nights in Cotopaxi Mountain Lodge
Participants may choose to be placed with carefully selected Ecuadorian host families upon request in Quito in place of hotel accommodations.
Please check out the itinerary for the dates you are interested in for complete program descriptions, detailed daily agendas, meals, and hotel accommodations.
Physical fitness and experience with outdoor or adventure travel are advantages. Please consider the altitude of Quito (2,850m or 9,350 ft) and other regions visited. There will be a lot of walking, some on uneven terrain.
Please note that travel insurance is mandatory for participation in this program. The cost of insurance is not included and will be determined and communicated at a later date. For reference, travel insurance for a 2-3 week program to Ecuador typically ranges from $75 to $175 per person, depending on a number of factors.
We highly recommend worldtrips.com for your travel insurance. Please note that insurance works differently in Ecuador. In emergencies, you must pay with a credit card and wait to be reimbursed by insurance.
In addition, the willingness to be adaptable is a plus to enjoy the accommodation with host families.
Andes, Amazon & Galapagos 3-Week Program Tuition: $4400
$150 private double room for 2 nights in Cotopaxi Mountain Lodge
Participants may choose to be placed with carefully selected Ecuadorian host families upon request in Quito in place of hotel accommodations.
As a YFU exchange visitor in Ecuador, you will discover the rich heritage of a country home to the descendants of the great Inca Empire! Among a population of 15 million, Ecuador’s indigenous peoples have maintained a strong cultural identity and are known for beautiful textiles and ceramics. You’ll notice the Spanish influence in Quito’s beautiful colonial churches, which have been well-preserved. Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands provide unique wildlife (including the infamous giant tortoise!)
With its beautiful weather, gorgeous scenery, amazing wildlife, and rich culture, Ecuador will undoubtedly leave you with a journey you will never forget!
Due to the low pricing of this program, scholarships are NOT available for this YFU Adult Program.
14 Day Program: $3,800
Participants may choose from the November 4th, 2025 or February 24th, 2026
18 Day Program: $4400
Participants may choose from the October 31, 2025 or February 20th, 2026 departure programs.
Visa Information
Participants will not need a visa for the short-term adult Ecuador programs. However, you will need a valid US passport with an expiration date greater than six months at the time of your reentry into the United States.
Additional Costs
