Yunguilla is located in the heart of Ecuador’s Chocó Andino Biosphere Reserve. This reserve holds some of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world and is home to thousands of species that are endemic to this region. It is an incredibly important area for conservation efforts, and Yunguilla is playing a key role in preserving it.

Deforestation is an enormous problem in Ecuador. Areas of pristine rainforest are rapidly being cleared to make way for cattle pasture, mono-crop plantations, and oil exploration projects. This has had devastating effects on the environment and local communities who depend on the forest for their livelihoods. Yunguilla’s commitment to sustainability serves as a model for other efforts around the country to curb deforestation and increase community-based sustainable development.

Yunguilla has invested heavily in forest regeneration projects that have successfully reforested degraded and deforested areas. The community also runs a number of initiatives to raise awareness about the importance of the Chocó Andino Biosphere Reserve, and they partner with organizations committed to environmental protection to ensure that their efforts are effective.

Yunguilla is committed to providing educational opportunities for its people. The community has invested in creating a high school and primary school, so that everyone has access to quality education. In addition, Yunguilla is working with local universities and organizations to provide job training programs and other educational initiatives.

Yunguilla also engages in community outreach activities like workshops on environmental topics, tree-planting, and water conservation. These activities help the local population gain awareness and understanding of the importance of sustainability. Additionally, Yunguilla has organized events to bring people together and celebrate their cultural heritage.

Visitors to Yunguilla can enjoy a wonderful homestay experience where you get a comfortable guest room in one of the families’ houses. My time there was so enriched by the warm hospitality of the local families, who welcomed me into their comfortable homestays and shared their stories.

Yunguilla Cultural Tours

Visitors can also choose to take part in a cultural tour organized by Yunguilla that takes you to visit some of the historical sites in the area. Learn about traditional medicine practices, agricutural knowledge, and the unique way of life within this rural community.

Hiking & Bird watching

Yunguilla is an absolute paradise for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts alike, offering an authentic and immersive experience of rural life in the Ecuadorian highlands. On my visit, I had the chance to explore the community’s fascinating trails. The forest walks were nothing short of magical, immersing me in the enchanting sounds and sights of nature. From the cloud forests, one can observe many species of hummingbirds and other birds, as well as breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

As a volunteer, you’ll be assigned activities based on your interests and abilities, as well as the needs of the community. You may explore environmental education by conducting forest research or helping with the organic garden. If you enjoy hands-on tasks, you can assist with the construction and maintenance of trails, camping areas, and recreational areas, as well as composting systems and other infrastructure projects. In addition, you have the opportunity to participate in agricultural and forestry tasks, such as reforestation, alongside the community organization’s family members. Another way to immerse yourself in the community is by participating in mingas, which are communal gatherings to work towards common goals. Finally, you can try your hand at dairy and jam processing, which combines food science with sustainability. Overall, the volunteer opportunities presented here are a great way to both benefit the community and learn new skills