Sustainable Farming & Permaculture

Detailed Description

Discover sustainable living on an organic permaculture farm near Manta, where volunteers learn by doing, reconnect with nature, and contribute to meaningful community initiatives. This project is ideal for anyone seeking a grounded, hands-on experience in rural Ecuador — no previous farming experience needed.

Daily Routine

Your day begins with a shared breakfast and a moment to enjoy the quiet of the countryside.
From 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., you join the farm team in essential agricultural tasks. Every activity follows organic and permaculture principles, allowing you to understand the full cycle of sustainable food production.

Morning tasks may include:

- Planting and transplanting

- Weeding and organic weed control

- Compost-making and fertilizing

- Irrigation during the dry season

- Harvesting seasonal produce

- Caring for animals

- Recycling organic waste

After lunch and a short break, the afternoon focuses on longer-term projects that match your interests and skills. These activities give you the chance to dive deeper into sustainability, creativity, or community work.

Afternoon projects may include:

- Construction and carpentry

- Maintaining gardens, paths, and trails

- Community outreach and support

- Creating murals, signs, or artistic elements

- Processing food (jams, pickles, sauces)

- Translating, organizing information, or simple computer tasks

- Designing new garden or functional areas

Staying with the same project throughout your placement allows you to see real progress and feel the satisfaction of building something lasting.

Life on the Farm

Life at the farm follows a simple and communal rhythm: shared meals, time to relax in nature, cultural evenings, and occasional workshops or environmental films. You can join a “cultural afternoon” to learn local traditions such as shrimp fishing or preparing regional dishes. Evenings are peaceful moments to enjoy stars, fireflies, and good conversations with volunteers from around the world.

Weekends are free, and many volunteers choose between relaxing at the farm, exploring Manta, or visiting beaches, eco-projects, mangroves, or nearby hiking routes.

Why Join This Project?

This project is perfect for anyone seeking deep cultural immersion, practical learning, and the joy of living more sustainably. No previous experience is needed, only openness, curiosity, and a willingness to help.