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Volunteering for Wildlife in Portugal: Creating a World Where We All Thrive Together

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  • Preferred Participation Period :

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    Recommended Participation Date: Every Mon(Arrival Sun)

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  • Participation Fee
    2,525USD
Total Amount2,525USD
EPLH0009
Europe/Portugal/Lisbon
  • Operation Period: Always
  • Application Period: All Year Round
  • Number of Participants: No Limitation
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Program Creator / KoreaGapYear Global
We are a social enterprise that develops Gap year programs related to Internship, Volunteering, Traveling, and Education.
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  • Learning Experience
  • Entertainment
  • Atmosphere
  • Facility
  • Safety

PROGRAM INTRODUCTION

PROJECT INTRODUCTION

 

 

Join us in caring for wildlife in Portugal's natural environment and work towards a more sustainable society! You'll have the chance to encounter numerous wild animals rarely seen and interact with diverse people from around the world, spending time creating a world where we live together.


 

Deer, wild boars, eagles, llamas, lynxes, wolves, otters, brown bears… These are just a few of the many animals you can meet at the wildlife rescue center in Portugal. Most of them have been rescued from zoos, private owners, or various abusive situations and are now cared for at the center.

In this project, you can participate in various activities such as feeding the animals or cleaning and maintaining their enclosures. You may also help care for horses, cows, pigs, ducks, and chickens on farms in need. Through these activities that directly benefit many animals, you'll have a rewarding and fulfilling experience.

 

The wildlife rescue center in Portugal is committed to not only protecting animals and the environment but also working towards creating a sustainable local community. The center contributes to solving issues like employment difficulties and poverty among marginalized groups by employing people who are often disadvantaged, such as those with disabilities or chronic illnesses.

During your time at the center, you'll interact with a variety of people. In the shared goal of animal protection, differences among individuals are not an issue. As you become accustomed to daily life with the kind and warm local staff, you'll get closer to a more inclusive society where everyone lives together.

 

The wildlife rescue center where this project takes place is located in a rural village about 200 km from Lisbon. As you will be staying away from the bustling city in the serene countryside, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy a more relaxed pace in nature.

Take this time to heal and reflect in a peaceful environment! Adjusting to a new setting allows you to rediscover yourself and meet aspects of yourself you didn't know before. By getting to know yourself better in the quiet and tranquil nature, you’ll mend any wounds and rejuvenate yourself. Recharge with energy to return to your daily life in Portugal's rural village and live more vigorously!

 

PROGRAM ACTIVITIES

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PROJECT ACTIVITIES

 

This project is a volunteer activity aimed at providing a safe and comfortable life for wildlife at a wildlife rescue center located in a tranquil rural village away from the urban area of Portugal. Experience meeting a variety of animals in a lush, green sanctuary. It will be a rewarding time to closely experience a life of coexistence.

 

Main Activities Observe the behavior of the animals to check for any signs of abnormal behavior or illness.
Clean and maintain the enclosures to ensure that the animals needing protection have a comfortable and pleasant environment.
Prepare and provide food for the animals.

* The above information is an example for understanding. You will receive more specific guidance on-site depending on the timing and conditions.

 

Time Activity Details
09:00 Travel to the activity location with local staff & commence volunteer work
13:00 Lunch at the activity location
14:00 Volunteer work (including free time)
20:00 Dinner at the accommodation

* The above schedule is an example for understanding. A more detailed schedule will be provided on-site.

 

 

▶ Miranda do Corvo, Portugal

This project takes place in Miranda do Corvo, a small city in central Portugal. It is about 200 km from Lisbon and approximately a 30-minute drive from Coimbra, a famous historical city in Portugal.

At the start of the project, participants will spend the first two days in Lisbon for orientation before moving to Miranda do Corvo. They will stay at the volunteer accommodation and engage in activities. Enjoy a healing time as you escape the bustling city and embrace the tranquility of the countryside!

 

Additional Information

  • This project is available year-round and starts every Monday. Participants can choose a volunteer period of 2 to 12 weeks.
  • Generally, you will engage in activities 3 to 5 hours daily, Monday through Friday. More detailed activity schedules will be provided on-site.
  • It takes 5 to 10 minutes on foot to get from the volunteer accommodation to the activity location, though this may vary depending on local conditions.
  • A brief orientation on the first day will provide useful information such as an introduction to Portugal, project details, and safety guidelines. Following this, you can get accustomed to living in Portugal with a Lisbon city tour.
  • Outside of volunteer hours, you can participate in tours, activities, etc. Local agencies offer these programs, and additional costs may apply.
  • Because you will spend a lot of time with animals, appropriate clothing and footwear for the activities are necessary.

 

English Proficiency ★☆☆☆☆

  • Basic communication skills are required as you will need to interact with local staff and fellow volunteers in English.

 

Physical Fitness ★★☆☆☆

  • Most activities will take place outdoors with animals. It is advisable to check your physical fitness before participating in the project.

 

 

 

PROGRAM INCLUSIONS

SUPPORT

 

   Local Orientation    Online Orientation    Online Consultation    Local Institution Completion Certificate
   KGY Certification    Pre-Departure Care    KGY Consultation   KGY Mission
  24hr Emergency Care   Flight Ticket Booking Assistance   Real-Time Consultation Service  KGY Note Book
   Project and Participation Costs    KGY Mission Scholarship    OT Documents    Local Accommodation
   Pickup Service After Arrival    Local Coordinator    Local Meals    Local Activity 
   Local SIM Card    City Tour   Insurance (*Coverage under limited terms)     Free Wi-Fi at Accommodation

 

Included Support

■ Accommodation and Meals

  • Dormitory-style accommodation where you can interact with volunteers from around the world and relax comfortably
  • Delicious local meals made with local ingredients (3 meals per day)
  • Common areas where you can meet and socialize with other international friends

 

■ Project Activities

  • Safe pickup service from the airport to the accommodation (one way)
  • Detailed local orientation covering the basics of living in Portugal
  • City tour of Lisbon with other international volunteers
  • Bus ticket from Lisbon to the Miranda do Corvo activity center (one way)
  • Local SIM card provided (*Individual top-ups required)
  • Support from a dedicated local manager
  • 24-hour emergency contact network for immediate assistance
  • Travel tips to help you live like a local

 

■ Care Services

  • Participant dispatch procedures: Project registration and dispatch process
  • Orientation: Providing various information to ensure a successful gap year experience
  • Pre-departure materials: Resources with tips from planners to ensure safe travel for first-time travelers
  • Gap Year Notebook: A notebook to reflect on yourself during your gap year (▶ Learn More)
  • Gap Year Missions

 

■ Certificates and Recommendations

  • Certificate of volunteer service from the local organization
  • Korea Gap Year participation certificate and activity completion certificate

* Certificates and recommendations from the local organization will be issued upon request after the project ends. Additionally, the format or issuance status of the local certificates and recommendations may vary according to the local organization's forms and procedures.

* Certificates and recommendations will be issued after successfully completing the project and submitting feedback.

 

Not Included

  • Round-trip airfare
  • Other local expenses (extra accommodation, dining out, transportation, etc.)
  • Individual travel insurance

 

* Please book your flight and transportation after receiving the final confirmation and departure schedule for the project.

PROGRAM PROVIDER INTRODUCTION

INSTITUTION INTRODUCTION

 

 

This project takes place in Lisbon, Portugal, in collaboration with an NGO. Operating in line with UN Sustainable Development Goals 4 (“Quality Education”), 15 (“Life on Land”), and 17 (“Partnerships for the Goals”), the project provides refuge for wildlife injured and displaced by human activities, and strives to foster community integration.

 

A Word from the Local Coordinator

HelloI'm Ritathe project coordinator. My amazing team and I invite you to join this project :)

Would you like to participate in activities for social facilities and environmental causes in Portugal, creating positive energy in the community with us?

You will have the chance to meet new friends from around the world with completely different cultures, embark on adventures, and make unforgettable memories together.

We are committed to ensuring your safety and comfort, so you can grow personally and make a meaningful impact on the local community you’re helping.

We look forward to meeting you in Lisbon, Portugal. Let's make it happen together!

 

ACCOMMODATION

ACCOMMODATION INTRODUCTION

 

■ Volunteer Accommodation

The volunteer accommodation is located in a rural village, Miranda do Corvo, about 200 km from Lisbon. It is approximately a 5–10 minute walk from the accommodation to the volunteer activity site. Volunteers will live with other international volunteers in a dormitory-style shared room. Basic bedding is provided, and bathrooms are shared. Free Wi-Fi is available, and there are common areas such as a kitchen and living room where you can make new friends.

During the project period, three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be served at the accommodation’s restaurant, made with fresh ingredients in Portuguese style.

* If you have special dietary requirements such as vegetarian, gluten-free, etc., please inquire separately.

 

 

■ Local Orientation & Pre-Arrival Accommodation

Participants will stay in a pre-arrival accommodation located in Lisbon for the first 2 days of the project, after which they will move to the volunteer accommodation in the activity area.


 

You will stay in an eco-friendly volunteer house where you can live with international volunteers in Lisbon. During the volunteer period, you will have the opportunity to experience different cultures while living with international friends. The accommodation is easily accessible to the volunteer activity site and various Lisbon tourist attractions. It is also managed by the accommodation coordinator, ensuring safety. The house is designed for marine protection and includes various themes for climate awareness and change, making it another learning journey. The volunteer accommodation, with a beautiful outdoor terrace, is a 5-minute walk to the beach and about a 45-minute public transport ride or a short walk to the volunteer activity site, depending on the location.

Rooms accommodate 6 to 14 people, with bed arrangements designed to offer some privacy in shared rooms. Free Wi-Fi and basic bedding are provided, and common facilities include shared bathrooms, an outdoor terrace, and a kitchen with cooking utensils.

 


 

Meals will be provided in a buffet style, including a variety of Portuguese local foods, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner available. If you wish to eat outside, you can request a take-out meal to enjoy at your preferred location.
Laundry services are available at the accommodation for approximately 5 euros per load upon request, or you can use a nearby self-service laundromat.

 

Dormitory (separate for men and women) / Shared bathroom / Free Wi-Fi / Basic bedding / Personal storage / 3 meals provided (breakfast, lunch, dinner) / 24-hour staff presence

 

* The accommodation is dormitory-style. However, private rooms are available upon request for an additional fee. Upgrading to a private room is possible with extra payment.
Availability should be checked upon application and can be added as an option at the top.

* Transportation between the project site and accommodation is by public transport, and transportation costs are incurred locally. (Estimated 30-40 euros per week, varies by activity site)

Vegetariangluten-freelactose-free and special diets should be requested separately.

* Accommodation may vary depending on the local institution’s circumstances.

PROGRAM LOCATION INTRODUCTION

LOCATION INTRODUCTION

 

Location :   Portugal, Lisbon

 

Portugal is located at the far western end of the Eurasian continent, facing the Atlantic Ocean. Thanks to its maritime climate, the weather remains mild throughout the year, with temperatures never dropping below freezing even in winter, making it a popular destination. From the vibrant tiles known as 'azulejos' that adorn the cities, the striking red rooftops, to the cheerful yellow trams that traverse the city, and the brilliantly shining blue sea, every corner is a picturesque landscape you’ll fall in love with.

With endless beaches and lush forests, a blend of global cultures in international cities and small, remote villages, Portugal offers a delightful mix of beauty and diversity. Wherever you are, you will encounter friendly people, delicious food, varied culture, and stunning natural scenery.

Create unforgettable memories in Portugal, the homeland of the sweet egg tart!

 

Recommended Travel Destinations

1. Tagus River Yacht Tour

Sail on the tranquil waters of the Tagus River, which embraces Lisbon. Enjoy the brilliance of the sun breaking on the surface, the gentle sunset enveloping Lisbon, and the calm darkness reflecting the city lights. The beauty of Lisbon from the river will create memories you’ll never forget.

 

2. Nazaré

Nazaré, located about an hour and a half by car from Lisbon, is a coastal city known as a paradise for surfers. Here, you can encounter ‘monster waves’ reaching up to 20m or even 30m. Witness the overwhelming and vast moments crafted by nature.

 

3. Cabo da Roca

Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of the Eurasian continent and the edge of the world where land meets the sea, is known as the “Cape of Lisbon.” Imagine the hopes of those who once stood here, gazing at the sunset over the endless horizon. How about finding your own dreams in the landscape where brave souls ventured into the unknown?

 

Participation Duration and Fees

SCHEDULE AND PRICES

 

■ This project starts every Monday.

■ The minimum duration for participating in this project is 2 weeks.

■ The costs listed below include the project fee, accommodation, meals, and one-way airport pickup service.

 

Duration Participation Fee
2 weeks ₩3,150,000
3 weeks ₩3,930,000
4 weeks ₩4,710,000
5 weeks ₩5,490,000
6 weeks ₩6,290,000
7 weeks ₩7,070,000
8 weeks ₩7,850,000
9 weeks ₩8,630,000
10 weeks ₩9,420,000
11 weeks ₩10,200,000
12 weeks ₩10,980,000

 

■ Eligibility and Requirements

  • Adults over 18 years of age in good physical health
  • Those interested in wildlife conservation
  • Those who want to participate directly in environmental conservation
  • Those who wish to volunteer with friends from around the world
  • Those in need of a healing experience close to nature

 

 Gap Year Mission Scholarship  (▶ More Details)

 

 Installment Payment Information

If full payment is difficult, you can pay a deposit of ₩500,000 and settle the remaining balance within 2 weeks. The process for confirming participation in the project will start based on the date of the deposit, and we will check the availability and slots. Early booking is important to secure your preferred dates and duration! (Refunds are not available once participation is confirmed)

* However, if the start date is approaching, the schedule for paying the remaining balance may change depending on the situation.

 

 Early Bird Discount and Urgent Application Information

For all Gap Year projects, it is recommended to apply at least 3 months before the start date due to the standard procedures and preparation period. Applications should be made no later than 2 months before the start date. However, if urgent participation is necessary, you can use the urgent application service for an additional fee, which will expedite the process as much as possible.

* While we try to expedite the process, basic communication with local agencies and time required for confirmation are involved. Therefore, those using the urgent application service must actively cooperate with the Korea Gap Year team.

** Those who apply 180 days before the start date can receive an early bird discount.

*** The urgent application service is available through the options above. For inquiries about the urgent application service, please contact koreagapyear@gmail.com.

 

  

- What is Provided: Automatic application for Gap Year Mission and Notes / Complete OT materials provided upon confirmation / Additional urgent personnel placement / Support for necessary documents if needed

* If you have difficulty calculating dates, please refer to the Naver date calculator >> Naver Date Calculator

**Note: In cases of extremely urgent applications, there might not be available slots due to local conditions, and procedures will proceed according to the Gap Year refund policy. Also, issues arising from participant non-cooperation are the participant's responsibility.

 

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Should you have any other inquiries, please don't hesitate to contact us via email (program@koreagapyear.com).
You can counsel with one of our staff in English or Korean.

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