“Do it. Stop overthinking it. You’ll be proud you went.”
We recently caught up with Kayleigh, an inspiring solo female volunteer who joined our wildlife center program in the Ecuadorian Amazon for 12 weeks straight—her first big solo travel experience after high school.
Her story is a powerful example of what happens when you step far outside your comfort zone… and stay long enough to truly grow.
Watch the full interview here:
Why Ecuador & Why Volunteering?
We recently caught up with Kayleigh, an inspiring solo female volunteer who joined our wildlife center program in the Ecuadorian Amazon for 12 weeks straight—her first big solo travel experience after high school.
Her story is a powerful example of what happens when you step far outside your comfort zone… and stay long enough to truly grow.
Why Ecuador & Why Volunteering?
With a lifelong love for animals and a deep desire to do something meaningful, Kayleigh spent months researching ethical programs before finding GoEco.
“I wanted to make sure I was actually helping animals—not harming them.”
Ecuador felt like a natural choice after previous family travels in Central America, and the Amazon wildlife experience felt like a dream she couldn’t pass up.
12 Weeks Solo in the Amazon
Arriving alone, Kayleigh spent her first week as the only volunteer on site—an experience she describes as intimidating, but empowering.
“It was scary at first… but also kind of incredible to realise I could do it.”
With guidance from local coordinators, navigating buses, transfers, and remote travel became part of her growth journey.
Life at the Wildlife Center
No two weeks were ever the same. Volunteers rotated frequently, meaning constant change in groups, workload, and rhythm.
Highlights included:
- Hands-on animal rehabilitation work
- Training rescued wildlife (from birds of prey to macaws)
- Preparing food, feeding routines, and habitat care
- Learning patience, trust, and animal behaviour
One unforgettable bond was with a rescued bird she helped train over weeks of consistent care.
“It started by trying to bite me… and ended by trusting me completely.”
Why Staying Longer Matters
After 12 weeks, Kayleigh saw a full rehabilitation journey unfold—something shorter stays rarely allow.
“Two weeks is too short. You just start connecting… and then it’s time to leave.”
Her advice? Around 5–6 weeks gives a meaningful balance—but longer stays create deeper impact and connection.
Solo Female Travel Experience
As a petite solo traveller, safety was a key concern—but one she quickly put to rest.
“I never felt unsafe. Honestly, I felt more comfortable there than in big cities back home.”
Support from GoEco’s coordinators helped with arrivals, transfers, and confidence-building from day one.
Why She’d Do It Again
Kayleigh left Ecuador with new confidence, lifelong friendships, and a stronger sense of direction—even if she’s still figuring out the exact path ahead.
“It changed how I see everything… and made me want to keep helping.”
She’s now preparing for her next adventure: volunteering in Africa.
