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Forest Conservation Volunteering with International Friends Amidst Lisbon's Beautiful Nature

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  • Preferred Participation Period :

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    Recommended Participation Date: Every Mon(Arrival Sun)

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  • Participation Fee
    2,110USD
Total Amount2,110USD
EPLH0010
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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PROGRAM INTRODUCTION

PROJECT INTRODUCTION

 

 

This project involves forest conservation volunteer work at the famous Sintra-Cascais Natural Park in Portugal. In the vast forest, teeming with life, experience a meaningful time protecting and restoring Portugal’s beautiful nature alongside global volunteers.

 

1. Say goodbye to the hectic daily grind and enjoy some me-time

When we’re overwhelmed by daily life, we often lose our way and wander without knowing where or why we’re going. How about stepping away from the path in front of you for a while?

Take a leisurely walk through the lush forests of Portugal, where no one knows you, and have some time just for yourself. Enjoy the refreshing breeze and the scent of fresh grass as you fully embrace the tranquility that nature offers. You’ll regain the peace that’s been missing from your busy life and forget the worries that have piled up.

 

2. Create meaningful memories with diverse friends from around the world

Have you ever imagined meeting like-minded foreign friends and building new connections during a spontaneous trip?

Even though you may have different appearances, languages, and cultures, you all share a common goal of protecting the environment. Explore Portugal’s green forests with friends who share this passion. Through hands-on activities and shared experiences, build unforgettable memories and a special bond that will give you strength and broaden your world even after you return to your daily life.

 

3. Find fulfillment in Portugal’s pristine natural beauty

From the endless horizon of the Atlantic Ocean and the sheer cliffs carved by ancient waves to the lush green forests and the red sunsets falling off the edge of the world—Portugal’s natural wonders will leave you in awe.

But if you take a step closer to the scenery filled with pure admiration, you’ll encounter nature’s wounds that you might not have noticed before. Embrace and restore the damaged environment caused by reckless development and climate crisis with your own hands. By doing your best not for yourself but for the future, you’ll find rewarding changes starting from your small actions.

 

 

* This project operates with a small number of participants, so availability may vary greatly depending on the desired time of participation. If you wish to apply, please do so quickly!

 

PROGRAM ACTIVITIES

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PROJECT ACTIVITIES

 

Activity Dates

  • This project starts every Monday and ends on Friday.
  • Check-in is on Sunday before the start of the program, and check-out is on the last Saturday.
  • The project runs year-round.
  • Participants can choose a volunteer period between 2 and 12 weeks.

 

 

Main Activities

  • Learn about the area and the forest you will be working in.
  • Learn and apply methods to prevent invasive species.
  • Observe various types of trees and plants and assist in the natural regeneration of native plants (mainly conducted in autumn and winter).
  • Manage pedestrian pathways.

 

Sample Daily Schedule

Time Activity
6:30 AM ~ 7:00 AM Breakfast (Accommodation)
7:00 AM ~ 1:00 PM Travel to activity location, join local staff, start volunteer work
1:00 PM ~ 3:00 PM Lunch (Accommodation)
3:00 PM ~ 7:30 PM Free Time (City sightseeing, relaxation, Portuguese classes, etc.)
7:30 PM ~ Dinner (Accommodation), Free Time

* The above schedule is an example for understanding purposes; specific schedules may vary depending on local conditions.

 

Field Trips

  • Participants will take a field trip once a month to a different region of Portugal, not the regular volunteer location, for 2 to 5 days.
  • These trips will be to rural areas and the schedule will not be planned in advance, so participants will not know the details before the start of their activities.
  • During field trips, participants will stay at accommodation in the new area and will primarily walk between the accommodation and the activity site.

 

 

Additional Information

  • An orientation will be conducted on the first day.
  • In the morning of the first day, useful information such as an introduction to Portugal, project details, and safety rules will be provided. In the afternoon, a tour of Lisbon is scheduled. If you need help with purchasing transport tickets or exchanging money, local staff will assist you.
  • Travel between accommodation and activity site takes approximately 1 hour each way by public transport.
  • You may work with international volunteers, local volunteers, coordinators, and local residents involved in forest conservation activities.
  • Outside of volunteer hours, you are free to participate in tours, activities, language classes, etc. (additional costs may apply).

 

Other Considerations

  • This project involves many outdoor activities, so basic physical fitness is required. Since the project may involve mountainous terrain, please prepare comfortable and safe clothing, including hiking boots. Bringing personal items such as a raincoat, hat, sunscreen, and a backpack will help you participate more comfortably.
  • Since the activities are mainly outdoors, please dress according to the season. In Portugal, summer temperatures range from 25–35°C and winter temperatures range from 5–15°C. It’s best to prepare several layers of clothing that you can easily put on or take off according to the weather.

 

English Proficiency ★★☆☆☆

  • This project involves participants from around the world. Basic communication in English is sufficient.

 

Physical Fitness ★★☆☆☆

  • The project is mostly conducted outdoors. It’s a good idea to check your physical fitness before applying.

 

 

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 Upon Arrival    Local Dedicated Manager    Local Meals   Portuguese Culture Class
  Local SIM Card    City Tour   Insurance (Coverage within limited scope)  

 

 

Included Benefits

  • Project registration fee and participation fee
  • Activity placement and processing fees
  • Orientation costs
  • Full accommodation and meal costs during the project period
  • Korea Gap Year domestic career certification

 

Excluded Costs

  • Round-trip airfare
  • Other local expenses (e.g., extra nights, dining out)
  • Transportation between accommodation and activity site (If participating for more than 3 weeks, you can use a monthly pass worth 40 euros. Otherwise, daily transportation costs are about 4 euros.)
  • Individual travel insurance

PROGRAM PROVIDER INTRODUCTION

INSTITUTION INTRODUCTION

 

 

This project takes place with an NGO in Lisbon, Portugal. Following the UN Sustainable Development Goals of "Climate Action" (Goal 13), "Life on Land" (Goal 15), and "Partnerships for the Goals" (Goal 17), this project aims to assist in the restoration of forest ecosystems, raise awareness about environmental protection, and emphasize the importance of building collaborative networks.

 

 

Message from the Local Coordinator

Hello! I’m Rita, the project coordinator. My wonderful team and I are excited to invite you to this project :)

Join us in participating in activities for social and environmental causes in Lisbon, Portugal, and help create positive energy within the local community.

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

We are committed to ensuring your safety and comfort, allowing you to grow personally and create meaningful experiences for the local community you assist.

We look forward to meeting you in Lisbon. Join us!

ACCOMMODATION

ACCOMMODATION INTRODUCTION

 

 

You will stay in an eco-friendly volunteer house in Lisbon where you can live with international volunteers. During your volunteering period, you will have the chance to experience various cultures while living with international friends. The accommodation is conveniently located near the volunteering site and various Lisbon tourist attractions, and is managed by a coordinator to ensure safety. Designed for marine conservation, the interior of the accommodation features various themes related to climate action, providing another learning journey. The volunteer house, with its beautiful outdoor terrace, is located a 5-minute walk from the beach, and it takes about 45 minutes by public transport or a short walk to reach the volunteering site, depending on the location.

Rooms accommodate between 6 and 14 people, and the beds are designed and arranged to offer a bit more privacy even in shared rooms. Free Wi-Fi and basic bedding are provided, and shared facilities include a common bathroom, outdoor terrace, and a kitchen with cooking utensils.

 

 

Shared Room (Gender-separated) / Shared Bathroom / Free Wi-Fi / Basic Bedding / Personal Locker / Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Provided / 24-Hour Staff On-Site

Meals are served in a buffet style, including a variety of Portuguese local dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If you prefer to eat outside, takeout can be arranged with prior request so you can dine at your desired location.
Laundry services can be requested at the accommodation for about 5 euros per load, or you can use a nearby self-service laundromat.

 

* The accommodation is a dormitory-style shared room. Additionally, private rooms are available for an extra fee. Upgrading to a private room is possible upon payment of the additional fee. Availability will 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 or walking, with local transportation costs incurred separately (estimated 3-40 euros per week, varying by activity location).

* Special dietary needs such as vegetariangluten-freelactose intolerance should be requested separately.

* The accommodation may change depending on the circumstances of the local organization.

PROGRAM LOCATION INTRODUCTION

LOCATION INTRODUCTION

 

Location:   Portugal, Lisbon

 

Portugal is located at the westernmost point of the Eurasian continent, facing the Atlantic Ocean. Due to its maritime climate, the weather is mild throughout the year, and temperatures rarely drop below freezing in winter, making it a popular vacation destination. The city is adorned with decorative tiles called 'azulejos', has vibrant red roofs, and is enlivened by the yellow trams that traverse the city. The bright and clear blue sea adds to the charm, creating a landscape that is irresistibly enchanting.

With endless beaches, lush forests, international cities mingling with small, secluded rural villages, Portugal offers a blend of beauty and diversity. Here, you will always find friendly people, delicious food, diverse cultures, and stunning natural scenery.

Make unforgettable memories in Portugal, the birthplace 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. On a smoothly gliding yacht, enjoy the brilliant sunlight breaking on the surface, the soft sunset wrapping around Lisbon, and the peaceful darkness reflecting the city's lights. The beauty of Lisbon from the river, different from the city view, will become a lifelong memory.

 

2. Nazaré

Nazaré is a coastal city about an hour and a half by car from Lisbon and is a paradise for surfers. In Nazaré, you might encounter 'monster waves' reaching up to 20m or even 30m. Experience the overwhelming and vast moments created by nature.

 

3. Cape Roca

Cape Roca, the westernmost point of the Eurasian continent and the edge of the world where land ends and the sea begins, is known as the Rock of Lisbon. As you watch the sunset sink beyond the endless horizon, imagine the hopes of those who once stood on this land. How about finding your own dreams in the landscape where people who were not afraid to step into a new world once stood?

 

Participation Duration and Fees

SCHEDULE AND PRICES

 

 This project starts every Monday.

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

 The cost below includes project fees, accommodation, meals, and one-way airport pickup service.

Duration Participation Fee
2 weeks 2,630,000 KRW
3 weeks 3,220,000 KRW
4 weeks 3,800,000 KRW
5 weeks 4,390,000 KRW
6 weeks 4,980,000 KRW
7 weeks 5,560,000 KRW
8 weeks 6,140,000 KRW
9 weeks 6,740,000 KRW
10 weeks 7,320,000 KRW
11 weeks 7,900,000 KRW
12 weeks 8,490,000 KRW

 

 Eligibility and Requirements

- Ability to communicate in basic English

- Healthy adults aged 18 and over

- Individuals with a background or interest in forestry, ecology, or environmental studies

- People interested in climate change and environmental issues

- Those looking to spend time in nature and enjoy a relaxing healing experience

- Individuals who want to create memories with diverse volunteers from around the world

 

 Gap Year Mission Scholarship  (▶ Learn More)

 

 Payment Plan Information

If you are unable to pay in full, you can make a deposit of 500,000 KRW and pay the remaining balance within 2 weeks. The process for confirming participation will begin from the date of the deposit, and we will check your availability and the number of spots. Early booking is crucial to secure your preferred dates and duration! (Refunds are not available once confirmed.)

* Please note that the schedule for paying the remaining balance may vary depending on the proximity of the start date.

 

 Early Bird Discount and Emergency Application Information

We recommend applying for all Gap Year projects at least 3 months before the project start date to allow for the normal processing and preparation period. Applications should be submitted at least 2 months in advance as a general rule. However, if you have urgent needs or require immediate participation, you can use the emergency application service by paying an additional fee to expedite the process.

* Although we strive to expedite the process, please be aware that there is a standard processing time required for communication with local agencies and confirming participation. Emergency applicants must cooperate actively with the Gap Year Operations Team.

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

*** The emergency application service can be selected from the options above. For inquiries about the emergency application service, please contact koreagapyear@gmail.com.

 

  

- Provided Services: Automatic application for Gap Year missions and notes / Complete OT materials upon confirmation / Additional emergency personnel placement / Support for required documents if needed, etc.

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

 

** Note: In the case of ultra-urgent applications, there may be no available spots depending on local circumstances, and the process will proceed according to Gap Year refund regulations. Additionally, any issues arising from participant non-cooperation will be the responsibility of the participant.

 

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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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