Salinas Youth Group Foundation
Entrepreneurs by Nature
Our success is based on the enthusiasm with which the young people of the Salinas de Guaranda community approach the projects that the foundation undertakes: it is about them being able to maintain that responsible connection with the activities that are carried out for the common good.
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The Refuge Hotel
history of the Organization
In 1976, Patricia Sánchez gathered young people from Salinas with the main aim of sitting down with friends and creating jobs for the new generations. This is how the first bakery, jams, fish farming, mushroom afforestation and other projects were born. Over time, some of the projects were consolidated and other initiatives took a different form, such as the construction of a hotel to promote tourism or the construction of a mill.
Welcome to Hotel El Refugio – Salinas de Guaranda
Discover a cozy corner in the heart of the Ecuadorian Andes, where tranquility, nature, and the warmth of our people combine to offer you an unforgettable experience.
Here you can relax, enjoy the local cuisine, explore unique landscapes, and experience the caring spirit of our community firsthand.
🌿 “More than a hotel, we are a space to reconnect with yourself and with nature.”
🤝 About Us
Hotel El Refugio is part of the Salinas Youth Group Foundation, a community organization that promotes responsible tourism and local development.
We were born with the purpose of offering our visitors an authentic experience, where each stay contributes to the well-being of the salt-producing families.
- Andean hospitality: We welcome every visitor as part of our family.
- Sustainability: We promote the responsible use of natural resources.
- Community: Your visits contribute to local social and productive projects.
🛏️ Rooms
- Single and double rooms with private or shared bathroom.
- Family rooms for up to 5 people.
- Double suite with private bathroom, hot water and television.
All include:
- ✅ Hot water
- ✅ Complete bedding
- ✅ Daily cleaning
- ✅ Panoramic view of the mountains
🍽️ Services
- Restaurant with typical dishes and local products.
- Breakfast included with community products.
- Free Wi-Fi in common areas.
- Private parking.
- Local tour guide and excursions.
- Green areas and rest areas.
- Community store with products from Salinas.
🏔️ Things to Do in Salinas
- Visits to community factories (cheeses, chocolates, textiles).
- Ecological hikes through Peña Blanca and Mashashingo.
- Excursions to Chimborazo.
- Bicycle or horseback riding routes.
- Cultural exchange with local communities.
- Solidarity tourism and agricultural activities.
📞 Contact
📍 Address: Salinas de Guaranda, Bolívar – Ecuador
📱 Phone / WhatsApp: +593 98 299 1552
✉️ Email: hotelelrefugio@salinerito.com
We look forward to seeing you in Salinas!
Come, disconnect from the noise, and feel part of our community.
Salinerito Mushroom and Fruit Dehydrator Salinas de Guaranda
92 supplier families are part of this production chain:
Productores del subtrópico de Salinas de Guaranda aportan frutas seleccionadas.Productores de las comunidades andinas de Salinas de Guaranda y vecinas provincias de Cotopaxi y Tungurahua nos abastecen hongos de alta calidad.
Producers from the subtropical region of Salinas de Guaranda contribute selected fruits.
Thanks to this joint effort, we offer reliable, responsible and locally sourced products, ideal for a market that values natural and local products.
Rooms
Enjoy our comfortable facilities designed for your relaxation:
Habitaciones individuales y dobles: acogedoras, con baño privado o compartido.
Habitaciones familiares: perfectas para grupos o familias, con capacidad hasta 5 personas.
Suite matrimonial: amplia, con baño privado, agua caliente y televisión.
All our rooms have:
- Hot water
- Ropa de cama completa
- Daily cleaning
- Panoramic view of the mountains
We look forward to seeing you in Salinas!
Come, disconnect from the noise, and feel part of our community.
Join the social impact Your volunteering starts here
Fábrica deshidratadora
The El Salinerito Corporation has been a cornerstone of the community, contributing to the social, economic, and cultural well-being of various populations. As part of our mission to transform lives and promote the comprehensive development of our community, we have designed an inclusive volunteer program that seeks to engage citizens in building a more just, equitable, and compassionate society.
This program offers various opportunities for those who wish to make a meaningful contribution to improving the quality of life for those in need, focusing on key areas such as medicine, education, art, dance, and the empowerment of women and youth. Through active and selfless participation, volunteers will have the chance to make a real impact on the lives of others while enriching their own personal and professional growth.
Below, we outline the different areas of the volunteer program and the opportunities available for those who wish to join this cause.
Volunteers are provided accommodation with a host family or in a hotel. Staying with a local family you will experience the local culture, Salinas customs and the Ecuadorian way of life. Volunteers stay in shared rooms with other volunteers. The accommodations are clean and comfortable, access to WiFi, hot shower.
What are you paying for?
- Comprehensive pre-daparture guide.
- Assistance from support staff and incountry program coordination.
- Airport pickup from Guayaquil's airport.
- Orientation and walking city tour.
- Accommodation a homestay private bedroom or in a share bedroom in a hotel.
- Placement Project in Salinas de Guaranda.
- Meals at the accomodation from Monday to Friday.
- Transportation and tour guide.
- Entrance ticket and workshop cost (afternoon activities from Monday to Friday).
What is NOT included?
- International Airfare.
- Travel Insurance.
- Vaccinations.
- Any other ersonal expenses.
- Meals on Saturday and Sundays.
Living room
When you choose to volunteer with us, just pack your bags, arrive and let us take everything, airport transfers, stay, meals, and tours. All you have to do is being there.
Orientation
A half day orientation will be provided by our local coordinators. Areas like culture, locations, transportation, safety and volunteer placements are given during the orientation.
Meals
Volunteers are provided with three cooked meals a day from (Monday-Friday). Meals vary from day to day and generally include soups, vegetable salad, rice, potatoes, juice, etc.
During your free time
Volunteers are free to visit and see places or do shopping during their free time.
Medical Volunteer Program
The main goal of the medical volunteer program is to improve access to healthcare in vulnerable communities by providing support in clinics, hospitals, and health promotion activities. Volunteers in this program will participate in tasks such as patient support, organization of health campaigns, and assistance with health education activities.
Activities
- Patient Support: Volunteers will assist patients during medical visits, facilitating communication between patients and healthcare professionals. They will also provide emotional support, especially for those facing chronic or severe illnesses.
- Prevention Campaigns: Participation in awareness campaigns on common diseases, infection prevention, and promotion of healthy habits.
- Support in Clinics and Hospitals: Volunteers will assist in organizing and managing resources within healthcare facilities, working with medical and administrative staff to ensure efficient and orderly service delivery.
- Educational Talks: Collaboration in delivering educational sessions on basic medical topics, hygiene, mental health, and disease prevention.
Requirements:
- Basic or intermediate training in medicine, nursing, psychology, or related fields (volunteers without professional training are welcome, with a commitment to undergo training).
- Commitment to health work ethics and respect for patients' rights.
Volunteer Program in Education for Children
This program aims to improve the educational quality of children in vulnerable situations, providing them with tools for academic, emotional, and social development. Volunteers will work closely with children, assisting in their schoolwork and offering activities that foster creativity and learning.
Activities
- Academic Support: Helping children with school assignments and projects, focusing on subjects such as mathematics, language, science, and reading.
- Skills Workshops: Organizing workshops to develop non-academic skills, such as conflict resolution, teamwork, and effective communication.
- Extracurricular Activities: Organizing recreational activities, such as sports, games, and crafts, to promote teamwork and social skills.
- Emotional Guidance: Providing emotional support to help children cope with family, school, or personal difficulties, offering a safe space for expression and reflection.
Requirements:
- Basic training in education, pedagogy, or related fields.
- Positive attitude and patience to work with children and youth.
Volunteer Program in Art and Dance
This program seeks to foster creative expression, especially for those without access to cultural resources. Through art and dance, volunteers will help strengthen participants' self-esteem, offering them a means of escape, enjoyment, and personal growth.
Activities
- Art Workshops: Organizing workshops in painting, sculpture, photography, and other forms of artistic expression, allowing participants to explore their creativity while developing technical and artistic skills.
- Dance Classes: Offering dance classes in various styles and techniques, from contemporary dance to folk dance, focusing on both technique and the development of confidence and body expression.
- Exhibitions and Performances: Helping organize art and dance exhibitions and performances, giving participants the chance to showcase their skills to the community and reinforcing their sense of belonging and pride.
- Community Projects: Collaborating on community mural projects or cultural events that integrate various art and dance forms into the local context.
Requirements:
- Knowledge or experience in an artistic or dance discipline.
- Creativity and the ability to work with people of different ages and cultural backgrounds.
. Women and Youth Empowerment Program
This program aims to provide women and youth with the tools they need to become agents of change in their communities. Empowerment will be achieved through training activities, leadership development, job skills workshops, and the creation of support networks.
Activities
- Leadership Workshops: Facilitating workshops that promote leadership among women and youth, encouraging them to make informed decisions and actively participate in their community.
- Job Skills Training: Offering practical workshops on skills like resume writing, job interview preparation, negotiation, and entrepreneurship.
- Support Networks: Forming support and mentoring groups where women and youth can share experiences, receive advice and motivation, and build valuable connections for personal and professional growth.
- Awareness Activities: Organizing talks and educational events on topics like gender equality, sexual and reproductive health, and human rights, promoting informed and responsible decision-making.
- Empowerment Events: Celebrating participants achievements through events that recognize their efforts, boosting their self-esteem and motivation.
Requirements:
- Experience in social work, psychology, community development, or related fields.
- Commitment to women's rights and gender equality.
Opportunities for International Volunteers
The El Salinerito Corporation also offers international volunteer opportunities, allowing people from around the world to join our causes. International volunteers can participate in the programs described above, as well as in specific projects addressing global needs such as environmental sustainability, infrastructure development, and strengthening healthcare systems in rural communities.
Requirements:
- Interest in working on social and community development projects.
- Adaptability and willingness to work in a culturally diverse environment.
Itinerary
Day 1
(day)
Arrival in Ecuador
Our coordinator will be there at Guayaquil's airport to (bring you to ?) the accommodation. There will be an Orientation (meeting might be better) Session at (to choose) so try to take a flight that arrives in the morning.
Day 2
(Monday)
Introduction
You will be volunteering at the program of your choice from 8 to 12pm. Workshop at the Chocolate Factory El Salinerito. Learn how to make chocolate from zero.
Day 3
(Tuesday)
Workday
Volunteer work from 8 to 12pm. In the afternoon, tour to Laguna de los Sueños and Farrallones de Tiagua and El Calvario.
Day 4
(Wednesday)
Workday
Volunteer work from 8 to 12. In the afternoon, tour The Cheese Factories.
Day 5
(Thursday)
Workday
Volunteer work from 8 to 12. In the afternoon, tour to The Museum Yuyay and to the salt wáter spring.
Day 6
(Friday)
Workday
Volunteer work from 8 to 12. Tour to the Thread and Textile Factory.
Day 7 and 8
(Saturday and Sunday)
Days off
Tour to the waterfall, to the brown sugar factory, hiking and camping at the Chasojuan Community.
Day 9
(Monday)
Workday
Volunteer work from 8 to 12. Tour to the Factory of dehydrated mushrooms, fruits and plants.
Day 10
(Tuesday)
Workday
Volunteer work from 8 to 12. Tour the Yurauksha community to observe local crafts and the manufacture of sausages made from llama meat.
Day 11
(Wednesday)
Workday
Volunteer work from 8 to 12. Tour to the soccer ball factory and to the natural oil factory.
Day 12
(Thursday)
Workday
Volunteer work from 8 to 12. Tour to observe the sunset.
Day 13
(Friday)
Workday
Volunteer work from 8 to 12. Tour to the soy derivatives factory.
Day 14
(Saturday and Sunday)
Departure
Farewell tour and dropped off at the airport.
Cost $ 1.200 USD
Our Team
MARCO CANDO
PROGRAM COORDINATOR
HOBBIES: Surfing, fitness, rambling, charity/fundraising, community events, environmental work,
CRISTIAN BERLIN RAMOS
DIRECTOR OF THE FUGJS
HOBBIES: Social and cultural activism, gastronomy, volunteering, environmental promotion, art and music, social and community entrepreneurship.
know our Main office
The administrative offices of the Youth Group Foundation are located in the parish of Salinas, in the Guaranda canton of Bolívar Province.
The address is on Samilagua Street, via Simiatug.
Contact information
