Galápagos Agroecology Regenerative Farming Internship

Internship Description
The Galápagos Islands are one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, famously inspiring Charles Darwin’s Theory of Evolution. From giant tortoises and Galápagos penguins to marine iguanas, the islands are home to an incredible diversity of species found nowhere else in the world. This unique environment has made the Galápagos a must see destination for international scientists, conservationists, and travelers alike. This growing visitor population, while crucial to the islands’ local economy and conservation efforts, puts pressure on local infrastructure and creates a reliance on food imported from the mainland, which can increase the risk of introducing pests and diseases. The Ecuadorian government has put strong protections in place to help preserve the islands’ unique ecosystems and incredible marine life, but there is still work to be done. This internship offers an opportunity to explore the delicate balance between living, farming, and conserving the biodiversity within this extraordinary protected area.
The Galápagos Agroecology & Regenerative Farming Internship offers hands-on experience with sustainable agriculture, innovative food production, and conservation on Santa Cruz Island in the Galápagos. Participants intern across two complementary agricultural projects, providing a unique opportunity to explore different approaches to sustainable food production within one of the world's most environmentally diverse island ecosystems.
One part of the internship is with a pioneering hydroponic farm - the first of its kind in the Galápagos. This farm is focused on increasing local food production and reducing dependence on imported produce through coexisting with the local environment and experimenting with innovative growing systems.
The second part of the internship is with a sustainable agricultural and conservation property that combines specialty coffee production, agroforestry, organic and biodynamic food gardens, habitat restoration, and ecotourism. Here, participants learn how agriculture, conservation, and sustainable livelihoods can work together to support both local communities and environmental stewardship.The program offers an opportunity to engage daily with the local community including a leading environmental education nonprofit that organizes community initiatives such as beach cleanups, documentary screenings, and kayak exploration activities. You will stay with a local host family and experience day-to-day life like the Galapagueños do, gaining a perspective of the islands that goes beyond what most visitors ever see.
Please note: This is a participant-funded international internship and experiential learning program, not a paid employment position. Beyond Travels facilitates the program and works with a network of hand-picked, local partners.
What You'll Do
Depending on the season and the needs of each placement, activities may include:
Supporting day-to-day activities at both agricultural placementsLearning about hydroponic food production and innovative growing systemsAssisting with coffee cultivation and agroforestry practicesExploring organic and biodynamic approaches to agricultureLearning about sustainable land management and resource useParticipating in environmental education and community conservation activitiesSupporting beach cleanups and other environmental initiativesObserving how agriculture, tourism, conservation, and local livelihoods intersect in the GalápagosEngaging with local practitioners working to create more sustainable food systems on the islands
What You'll Learn
Participants gain practical experience and a deeper understanding of:
Agroecology and regenerative agricultureHydroponic food production systemsSpecialty coffee cultivation and agroforestrySustainable food systems and island food securityConservation and habitat restorationCommunity environmental initiativesSustainable tourism and local livelihoodsThe unique environmental and social challenges facing the Galápagos
Who This Program Is For
This internship is ideal for students, recent graduates, or anyone seeking to build professional experience in:
AgroecologyRegenerative agricultureSustainable agricultureFood systemsEnvironmental scienceConservationEcologySustainable developmentSustainable tourismSpanish language skills
We welcome applicants who are curious, adaptable, and eager to learn through hands-on experience. Previous experience in farming, gardening, conservation, or environmental work is helpful but not required.
Prior Spanish language skills are beneficial but not necessary as long as participants are eager to learn.
Program Details
Location: Santa Cruz Island, Galápagos, EcuadorFormat: On-site experiential internshipAccommodation: Local host familyMeals: Three meals per day includedDuration: Flexible placements based on academic and professional goals
Please note: This is a participant-funded internship program, not a paid position. Program fees cover accommodation, meals, local coordination, mentorship, and emergency response.
About Beyond Travels
Beyond Travels is on a mission to create positive change through the joy of travel. We are a mission-driven company that specializes in immersive, experiential travel and learning internships abroad. We move with purpose and work with participants who want to learn, transform, and positively impact the places where we go. In our case, we focus on collaborating with rural farming and forest communities in support of their wellbeing, their livelihoods, and the forests and environments they depend on. We believe travel can be much more than sightseeing - it’s a way to learn, connect, grow, and contribute. Join us!
How to Apply
Interested in joining the Galápagos Agroecology & Regenerative Farming Internship?You can apply directly through LinkedIn or our website: www.beyondtravels.org
We encourage all applicants to visit Beyond Travels website to learn more about the program, our mission, and review program fees and details.
To apply on Linkedin, please submit:
A current CV or résuméA brief statement of interest outlining your academic, professional, or personal goalsYour preferred program dates - programs are rolling and can start any time.
We review applications on a rolling basis. After reviewing your application, we'll be in touch to discuss your goals, experience, and whether the program is a good fit.