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Great 4.42rating (11)

Environmental and Salt Flats Conservation

location
2 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Restore ecosystems by manually removing invasive plant species and helping native flora thrive.
  • Support sustainable salt farming practices through hands-on tasks like salt scraping, packing, and labeling.
  • Participate in sustainable aquaculture by engaging in shrimp fishing to promote eco-friendly practices.

Highlights

  • Restore ecosystems by manually removing invasive plant species and helping native flora thrive.
  • Support sustainable salt farming practices through hands-on tasks like salt scraping, packing, and labeling.
  • Participate in sustainable aquaculture by engaging in shrimp fishing to promote eco-friendly practices.
  • Maintain natural habitats by cutting vegetation and preserving the balance of local ecosystems.
  • Assist with logistical operations, including supporting the shop and reception, while interacting with visitors.

  • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    50+

    About the program

    This Environmental Conservation Project focuses on preserving local ecosystems through hands-on activities that help maintain biodiversity.

    The Environmental Conservation Project offers volunteers the opportunity to engage in a variety of impactful, hands-on tasks aimed at protecting and restoring natural ecosystems. Volunteers will actively participate in the manual removal of invasive plant species, an essential step in allowing ...

    About the program

    The Environmental Conservation Project offers volunteers the opportunity to engage in a variety of impactful, hands-on tasks aimed at protecting and restoring natural ecosystems. Volunteers will actively participate in the manual removal of invasive plant species, an essential step in allowing native plants to flourish and maintain ecological balance. By removing harmful species, volunteers help create healthier environments for local wildlife.

    Additionally, the project involves supporting sustainable salt farming practices, where volunteers will assist in activities such as salt scraping, packing, and labeling. These tasks are crucial to maintaining the traditional salt farming methods that are environmentally sustainable and vital to the local economy.

    Volunteers will also have the chance to engage in shrimp fishing as part of sustainable aquaculture efforts, promoting responsible fishing practices that help protect marine ecosystems. This experience offers a unique opportunity to contribute to sustainable food production while gaining insight into eco-friendly fishing methods.

    Another key aspect of the project is vegetation cutting, where volunteers will help manage overgrowth and prevent invasive species from taking over local habitats. This work is vital for maintaining the health of forests, wetlands, and other natural areas, ensuring that native species can thrive and that biodiversity is preserved.

    Finally, volunteers will contribute to the smooth running of the project by providing logistical support in the shop and reception. This may involve assisting with product sales, interacting with visitors, and helping with various administrative tasks. Volunteers will not only make a direct impact on environmental conservation but also gain valuable experience in community engagement and operational support.

    Overall, this project provides a meaningful opportunity to make a tangible difference in environmental conservation while being immersed in nature and contributing to sustainable practices in a vibrant community setting.

    We kindly ask all volunteers to wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes that are suitable for outdoor activities. Since we will be working in various weather conditions, please ensure your shoes are waterproof to keep your feet dry and comfortable. Additionally, we recommend bringing raincoats or waterproof ponchos to stay protected in case of rain, as we want everyone to be safe and comfortable while providing the best care for the animals. Thank you for your cooperation!


    Typical day

    Volunteering in the Salinas near the Montijo Portal offers a dynamic and rewarding experience, with each day bringing new tasks and learning opportunities. The work supports the preservation of the salt marsh ecosystem, promotes sustainable land use, and helps protect local biodiversity.

    Rather than ...

    Typical day

    Volunteering in the Salinas near the Montijo Portal offers a dynamic and rewarding experience, with each day bringing new tasks and learning opportunities. The work supports the preservation of the salt marsh ecosystem, promotes sustainable land use, and helps protect local biodiversity.

    Rather than following a rigid schedule, daily activities are adapted based on weather conditions, tides, conservation needs, and ongoing projects.

    Tasks:

    • Assisting with habitat restoration, such as removing invasive plants or planting native species

    • Helping maintain traditional salt pans and walking trails

    • Participating in bird monitoring and biodiversity data collection

    • Supporting clean-up efforts to reduce pollution in the marshes

    • Assisting with educational visits, eco-tourism initiatives, or local community events

    • Observing and learning about salt harvesting processes (seasonally)

    Volunteers usually begin their day after breakfast with a morning briefing, during which the project coordinator outlines the day's goals and activities. Work typically takes place during daylight hours, often split into morning and afternoon sessions with a break for lunch in between. Depending on the task, some days may involve early starts or later finishes, especially if tidal conditions or wildlife observation schedules require it.

    Evenings are free, offering time for volunteers to relax.

    Important Notes:
    • Flexibility is key, as daily plans can shift due to weather, tide levels, or conservation priorities.

    • Volunteers should be comfortable working outdoors and engaging in physical tasks.

    • Weekends are typically free, though occasional community or environmental events may occur.


    Free-time activities

    IIn your free time in Montijo, Portugal, there are plenty of relaxing and enjoyable activities to explore. You can take a scenic ferry ride across the Tagus River to Lisbon, offering stunning views of the Vasco da Gama Bridge and the riverbanks. Montijo is also rich in culture and history, you can ...

    Free-time activities

    IIn your free time in Montijo, Portugal, there are plenty of relaxing and enjoyable activities to explore. You can take a scenic ferry ride across the Tagus River to Lisbon, offering stunning views of the Vasco da Gama Bridge and the riverbanks. Montijo is also rich in culture and history, you can visit the Casa Mora Municipal Museum, the Fisherman’s Museum, or the Agricultural Museum of Atalaia to learn about the region’s heritage. Don’t miss the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora da Atalaia, a charming hilltop church with traditional Portuguese tiles and panoramic views. Nature lovers can enjoy a peaceful walk along the riverside promenade or go birdwatching in the Tagus Estuary Natural Reserve, which is home to flamingos and many other species. For a unique experience, you can visit the restored Tide Mill (Moinho de Maré), or enjoy a relaxing time at Samouco River Beach, where you can see the Lisbon skyline. If you're looking for entertainment, the Joaquim de Almeida Theatre hosts films, concerts, and plays, while Forum Montijo is a large shopping center where you can shop, eat, or go to the cinema. For something more adventurous, try a horseback ride by the river in Gaio Rosário. Lastly, don’t forget to taste local cuisine: fresh seafood, wines, and traditional dishes are available in many restaurants and at the municipal market. If you visit during festival season, such as the São Pedro Festival or the Atalaia Pilgrimage, you'll get to enjoy live music, local food, and cultural celebrations. Furthermore, they are about 40 minutes from Lisbon, and it's possible to visit all the attractions in the capital several times.


    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level)

    Criminal Background Check

    required

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    This project covers the following:

    - Accommodation at the Santuário dos Animais Sem Fronteiras, where the volunteering takes place. The space includes a private room for each volunteer with a shared bathroom, and a shared equipped kitchen with all the necessary conditions for cooking.

    - Transfers to and from Lisbon Airport.

    - Support from the local team.

    - All meals are included during your stay, ensuring you are well-fed with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided.

    - Monthly pass to go from the accomodation to the place of the activities.

    Airport Pickup at Lisbon Portela Airport

    For arrival and departure, each volunteer will have a comfortable and convenient transfer service from the Lisbon Airport to their accommodation. Please note that you may need to wait for up to 2 hours at the airport if there are multiple arrivals, but rest assured, you will be met and taken care of. This service ensures a stress-free arrival and a seamless start to your volunteer experience!

    Accommodation

    A Casa Europa Hostel is a project of the Associação Para a Formação Profissional e Desenvolvimento do Montijo and was created to provide accommodation for young people and teachers from European schools involved in Erasmus+ projects with the Escola Profissional do Montijo.

    The hostel is located in modern residential buildings at Rua Beatriz Cassus, 124 and 140, near the Montijo Bullring and the Moinho de Vento do Esteval. The accommodation includes double rooms and dormitories with a capacity for up to four young people.

    On the ground floor, you will find a social area that includes a living room with a TV and internet access, a fully equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, a meeting room, and a reception. The common space also offers a breakfast service, making it a comfortable place to relax and socialize.

    Volunteers will stay in shared dormitory-style rooms, typically with 4 to 6 beds. Each room is equipped with either private or shared bathrooms, depending on availability, this will be confirmed in advance. The rooms are clean and comfortable, with basic furniture, bedding, and access to Wi-Fi. There’s an ATM located within walking distance of the hostel, along with supermarkets, cafés, and public transport. If you have any specific needs or preferences regarding your stay, feel free to let us know ahead of time.

    Food & Beverages

    Volunteers are provided with three daily meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The food is typically homemade and reflects traditional Portuguese cuisine, with fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced locally whenever possible.

    Meals are varied and balanced, including vegetables, grains, legumes, pasta, fish, and meat dishes. 

    We are happy to accommodate volunteers with special dietary requirements, including:

    • Vegetarian

    • Vegan

    • Gluten-free

    • Lactose-free

    Please inform us in advance. 

    Drinking water is always available and volunteers are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) in Lisbon. We assist you to find cheap flights to Portugal. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Portugal provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Portugal you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Portugal. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    The volunteers can arrive on Monday between 9:00 AM and 9:00 PM. Upon arrival, you will be greeted with a pick-up service at the airport and taken directly to the accommodation. The first day of volunteering will be on Tuesday, the following day. After settling in, you’ll have the rest of the day free to relax or explore the area. We look forward to welcoming you to Portugal for an unforgettable experience!

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program Fees

    $826 per week 2 - 12 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    2 - 12 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.


    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet

    4.42
    11 reviews

    Location


    Meet your project coordinator

    Vasco
    11
    reviews
    4.42
    Great
    2010
    Founded

    Verified

      Moderate response rate
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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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