Forest conservation in Portugal

During the ecotourism trip, volunteers work as part of the field team to study and learn about each area and forest, carrying out different activities depending on the time of year.

Please note that volunteers work on Saturdays, while Sunday and Monday are their days off. Volunteer activities also start early in the morning in order to avoid working during the hottest hours of the day.

Field activities may include:

• Applying techniques to control invasive non-native species, which were mistakenly introduced in recent decades for rapid reforestation and now pose a serious threat to natural areas
• Planting different species using various methods depending on the season
• Maintaining planted areas
• Protecting biodiversity hotspots
• Maintaining and managing hiking trails

Accommodation is provided in the volunteer house, in a shared room with a maximum of 8 people. Volunteers will have access to the common room, outdoor spaces including the garden and pool for relaxation. WIFI is available throughout the house and is free of charge.

Meals are prepared every day, consisting of local cuisine, but specific dietary requirements can be accommodated upon request (vegetarian, vegan, lactose-free, gluten-free, etc.).

Meals

Three meals per day, every day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner (local style). Specific dietary requirements available upon request.

Local Life

Once a month, without a specific date, a 2-5 day mission takes place at another site. These national missions occur in different parts of the country. Therefore, participants may have the chance to explore other villages and regions of Portugal and play an important role in the larger-scale reforestation of areas degraded by intensive agriculture, fires, or the presence of exotic plants. The participant will work alongside volunteers, local coordinators, and other community members who join these initiatives in coordinated actions to create visible impact and raise awareness and promote the importance of teamwork.