:: Additional information for volunteers ::

Things to bring

Clothing - suitable for working outdoors in warm weather with full sun/cool rainy conditions:  

  • Light-weight trousers,
  • Lots of pairs of socks - light wool are preferable to cotton
  • T-shirts dark colors are preferable (for birding)
  • Jacket or polar fleece pullover (it can get chilly in the lodge at night)
  • Waterproof jacket or rain poncho

Footwear - due to the mountainous and muddy terrain at Santa Lucia, most volunteers wear rubber boots (wellies.) These can be provided when you get here.

Other

  • Torch or head-lamp,
  • Towel
  • Water bottle
  • Small backpack for shorter trips to and from the lodge
  • Sandals or flip-flops
  • Hat
  • Insect repellant
  • Sun screen
  • Basic personal first aid kit
  • Pictures of your home to share with the local people.
  • Books - Santa Lucia has a small collection of books for exchange
  • Binoculars (optional) - magnification is not very important, but binoculars that work well in low light and that focus well to under ten feet are key. Basic 7 x 35s are fine.
  • Single dollar bills (everything is very inexpensive and it is not possible to purchase things with large bills as stores, taxi drivers, etc do not have change)

 

Health and Safety and Emergency Plan

The lodge is fully equipped with first aid kits and fire extinguishers, and the staff has full training in these areas. As a contingency, there is radio communication between Santa Lucia and the office in La Delicia (Nanegal). Transport to a nearby hospital can be provided in an emergency.  

There is no malaria or other endemic tropical disease in this area, though you should consult with your physician about recommended shots or preventative medicines especially if you plan to travel to other areas of Ecuador . Insect repellant is recommended.  

Volunteers should be in reasonably good physical condition as many hikes and some of the work is physically challenging. By the same token this is an ideal opportunity to become fitter.  

Code of Conduct

Volunteers are expected to respect the local culture and people and act in a responsible manner, i.e. no drugs, no drunken or overtly sexual behavior etc. Please remember that in many ways Ecuador is still a conservative country and act accordingly.  

Communications and other facilities

The telephone number for Santa Lucia is 2-157-242 (locally or from Quito .) From some telephones, you need to dial an additional 0 at the beginning of the number. From outside Ecuador : + (593)-2-2-157-242.

International calls can be made from Nanegal, which is within walking distance from our volunteer house. Volunteers can access the internet from Santa Lucia's office for $2 per hour. Nanegal does not have a bank or ATM, the nearest are in Quito.
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