This wildlife projectsustainable project in Portugal offers a unique opportunity to contribute to wildlife conservation in Europe. Witness, nurture, and safeguard various species such as deer, wild boars, eagles, llamas, Eurasian lynxes, Iberian wolves, European otters, and even brown bears!
Volunteers in this project have the privilege of supporting a nature park that not only has an environmental impact but also integrates individuals with disabilities within the local community. The goal is to rescue animals from mistreatment, illegal trade, and zoos. In this project, we welcome animals, provide care and medical treatment, and place them in an environment where nature thrives.
Working alongside local staff, you will engage in various tasks related to the conservation of wildlife in the reserve. You will also contribute to the farm by taking care of horses, cattle, ducks, pigs, chickens, and more. These tasks include observing animal behavior, forest conservation, habitat maintenance, feeding, and many other seasonal activities.
The organization managing the animal refuge is a social enterprise with a mission to contribute to local development and combat poverty by supporting and integrating individuals with disabilities. This organization plays a vital role in the local community, with 43% of its staff consisting of individuals with disabilities or chronic illnesses.
This wildlife project in Portugal is open to all, but it does require a certain level of physical fitness. If participating in the winter program, volunteers should be prepared for temperatures ranging from 5 to 15 °C and bring warm clothing. For those joining in the summer, when temperatures range from 25 to 38 °C, comfortable and lightweight clothing is recommended.
Duration in weeks | Total mission budget |
|---|---|
2 weeks | 1840 € |
3 weeks | 2360 € |
4 weeks | 2980 € |
5 weeks | 3500 € |
6 weeks | 4070 € |
7 weeks | 4590 € |
8 weeks | 5210 € |
9 weeks | 5830 € |
10 weeks | 6400 € |
11 weeks | 6970 € |
12 weeks | 7590 € |
During the first two nights, volunteers are staying in an international youth hostel in Porto. For the rest of the program, accommodation is provided in a shared apartment in Serra da Lousã (near the animal park).
Meals are prepared daily, offering local cuisine. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated upon request, such as vegetarian, vegan, lactose-free, gluten-free, etc.
Volunteers’ Schedule
Volunteers work up to 5 hours per day, depending on the association’s needs. Two days off per week are scheduled (usually on the weekend).
Documents required to reserve a spot in the program:
– Registration form with your contact details and travel dates (which will be sent via email).
– Dietary preferences/allergies.
– Passport scan.
For any international project, Freepackers requires travel insurance covering accidents, illness and repatriation, including civil liability for professional activities abroad.
For full protection while studying or interning abroad, you can take out Cap Student insurance online via this link Student insurance abroad | Chapka Assurances, which gives you a 5% discount.
If you choose another insurance provider, we will ask you to send us a copy of your insurance certificate in English.
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Responsible tourism is about making travel better for everyone involved. That includes local communities, the environment, and travelers themselves. It’s not just about where you go and the next photo-op. It’s about minimizing negative impacts, maximizing positive contributions to local communities, respecting local cultures and ecosystems, and supporting sustainable, locally led initiatives that continue even after you leave.
