Immerse yourself in the diverse world of traditional medicine and discover how your efforts can create lasting impacts within indigenous communities
The practice of medicine is a dynamic field that continually pushes boundaries, transforming the way we approach healthcare. Yet, amidst these advancements, traditional medicine retains its significance, deeply rooted in centuries-old practices and cultural traditions. This Traditional Medicine Internship in the Amazon bridges the gap between modern healthcare and traditional wisdom, offering a unique opportunity to engage with both.
Interns will immerse themselves in Ecuador’s Quichua Indigenous Community, gaining practical experience in maternal and neonatal care while learning about ancestral health practices. This program combines cultural immersion with hands-on activities, such as prenatal care, traditional childbirth techniques, and postpartum support. Interns will also participate in conversation circles to exchange experiences, explore natural gynecology through the use of medicinal plants, and assist in community visits to promote holistic health care.
In addition to health-related tasks, participants will engage in cultural activities and traditions within the community, offering a deeper understanding of their way of life and fostering meaningful connections. Interns will collaborate closely with the “mamás sabias” (wise mothers) from the community, whose ancestral knowledge and practices have been passed down through generations. Their work will contribute to preserving this invaluable cultural heritage while supporting sustainable community health initiatives.
This transformative internship is not only a journey of professional and personal growth but also an opportunity to contribute to the preservation of the Amazon’s rich cultural and medical heritage.
Learning Objectives
Picture a country where lush rainforests, mountains, and cities intertwine to create a mosaic of culture and opportunities. This organization opens the door to a world of possibilities for international students eager to immerse themselves in Ecuador’s rich heritage and educational landscape. It offers interns the chance to engage in meaningful internships and collaborative projects that blend academic growth with real-world impact. Whether it’s working on environmental initiatives or supporting community-driven development programs, every experience is tailored to leave a lasting impression on both participants and the communities they serve. Beyond the academic and professional aspects, this organization provides a gateway to personal discovery and cultural exchange.
This Traditional Medicine Internship is designed to align with your unique learning objectives and the organization’s ongoing mission, ensuring a meaningful and personalized experience. Interns should be able to work under pressure and have at least a basic understanding of Spanish – although it is recommended to have intermediate Spanish proficiency (at least be willing to improve skills).
Upon arrival on Friday, you will explore Quito for the weekend with accommodation in a hostel including breakfast. On Sunday, you’ll travel with the team to the project site in the Amazon region of Ecuador. Intern stay in shared cabins, each housing two people with a private bathroom, managed by the organization. The project site has a variety of cabins and serves as a central hub, where interns and volunteers gather for meals, presentations, and shared activities, creating a social and collaborative environment.
Make sure to visit your doctor and dentist for a check-up before your internship and to get all the recommended vaccines and/or medications necessary to stay healthy. During your placement, you’ll have access to the Roots team remotely, support staff on the ground, along with an internship supervisor and program coordinator.
You will be learning from the Kichwa Indigenous community and as an intern, it is important to respect the culture, customs, and traditions of the Quichua people. As with any location, always be aware of your surroundings, keep your belongings close, don’t wear flashy items/jewelery, and never walk alone at night.
Although Wifi is available, it is not always reliable, so consider your options for staying connected. You can use roaming on your current data plan (which can be costly) or ensure your phone is unlocked to purchase a local SIM or a global e-SIM for more affordable and consistent Internet access.
Interns will enjoy three meals daily from Monday to Saturday, with a variety of local options available. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions or allergies in advance so we can accommodate your needs during your time in Ecuador.
Located in the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazon, this region is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions. It is home to the Kichwa Indigenous community, a group deeply committed to preserving their ancestral knowledge and keeping their traditions alive for future generations. You’ll have the opportunity to explore, relax, and soak in the breathtaking natural environment.
Arrivals are typically the first Friday of each month. You must arrive on the specified Friday as you will spend the weekend in Quito and travel to the project on Sunday with the team. You will end your internship on a Thursday with transport back to Quito on Friday where you’ll have an exit interview. Flights home or to onward travel can be booked from the Saturday your placement is over.
2025 Start Dates: 7 March // 4 April // 9 May // 6 June // 4 July // 1 August // 5 September // 3 October // 31 October
What you’ll pay (2025 rates)
4 weeks USD 2,300
6 weeks USD 2,850
8 weeks USD 3,400
10 weeks USD 3,950
12 weeks USD 4,500
Some of our most commonly asked questions for programs in Ecuador.
You can expect to work on your Spanish language skills while gaining hands-on experience in your preferred field. From exploring diverse ecosystems to engaging with local communities, your stay in Ecuador will provide you with insights into the country’s rich biodiversity, while the challenges and accomplishments that you experience will foster your adaptability and global perspective.
Yes! There is always time to explore the surrounding area. Our nonprofit partners are based around the country (and on the Galapagos Islands) and they can offer recommendations about which places are the best to visit! When you are based on the mainland, some of the highlights of Ecuador are, for example, the city of Cuenca or the Cotopaxi National Park. If you are based on the Galapagos Islands, there are great excursion options on the island(s) including fantastic diving. If you are keen to also explore the mainland of Ecuador, you will need to do so before or after your Galapagos internship because of the distance (and costs of the flight).
Yes, but you must ensure with your university that your supervisor approves this. It is also possible to purchase transfer credits that can be added to your internship.
Unfortunately, it is not possible to receive any kind of stipend while interning. As your internship with the nonprofit organization will be unpaid, you can check out ways to fund your internship here. The wealth of knowledge and opportunities for both professional and personal growth throughout your experience are invaluable!
If you’re ready to apply for this internship, here’s what to do:
Fill in the application form (it will show in a new screen) which includes sharing your CV to us.
We’ll set up a call with you to go through your application.
If we feel it’s a good match, we’ll set up a call between you and the supervisor for this internship.
If everyone’s happy, we’ll provisionally confirm your placement! We’ll then send you the invoice for the deposit, getting started with the booking process and all the info you need.
Only once we receive payment of the deposit your placement will be confirmed.
Or if you’d just like to ask us some questions about this internship first, just fill in the contact form below. We’ll be happy to assist!
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ABOUT US
At Roots, we create the perfect balance between meaningful work and valuable learning through internships with nonprofits & social enterprises in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.TEST
CONTACT
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ABOUT US
At Roots, we create the perfect balance between meaningful work and valuable learning through internships with nonprofits & social enterprises in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
CONTACT
UK: +44 139 269 0255
US: +1 617 500 6179
internship@rootsinterns.com
OFFICE: Cape Town, South Africa
SOCIAL
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ABOUT US
At Roots, we create the perfect balance between meaningful work and valuable learning through internships with nonprofits & social enterprises in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
CONTACT
UK: +44 139 269 0255
US: +1 617 500 6179
internship@rootsinterns.com
OFFICE: Cape Town, South Africa
SOCIAL
SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER
