Spring Break Impact Camp
Spring Break Impact Camp
This week-long immersive experience brings together young changemakers from across the world to explore the intersection of nature, community, and culture in one of Europe’s most vibrant coastal regions.
From restoring native forests and surfing the Atlantic waves to sailing at sunset and immersing yourself in Lisbon’s creative energy, this program offers a unique blend of environmental action and urban exploration, perfect for those seeking both meaning and excitement.
What You’ll Experience:
Environmental Action
- Restore ecosystems: Participate in reforestation and conservation efforts in Sintra Natural Park, planting native trees and supporting ongoing forest maintenance.
- Protect the ocean: Engage in impactful beach cleanups and contribute to raising awareness about marine conservation.
- Live sustainably: Learn about environmentally responsible lifestyles through workshops and field visits to innovative local sustainability projects.
Outdoor Adventures
- Surf the Atlantic: Experience the thrill of surfing along Portugal’s world-renowned coastline, guided by professional instructors.
- Explore underwater life: Take part in a snorkel baptism to discover the beauty and diversity of marine ecosystems.
- Connect with nature: Spend time outdoors, breathing fresh coastal air and finding inspiration in Portugal’s landscapes.
Why Join the Spring Break Impact Camp?
- Make an Impact
Take part in real environmental action by helping restore forests, protect coastlines, and promote sustainability in local communities. - Learn New Skills
Develop a wide range of abilities – from surfing and teamwork to leadership and environmental stewardship – that will benefit you long after the camp ends. - Travel with Purpose
Go beyond traditional tourism by engaging with Portugal through meaningful experiences that combine nature, learning, and culture. - Find Your Community
Meet passionate, like-minded youth from across Europe and around the world who share your drive to create positive change.
Daily Tasks:
- Conservation Efforts: Assist with conservation efforts in Sintra-Cascais Nature Park and other natural ecosystems
- Biodiversity Protection: Protect biodiversity niches and manage pedestrian trails.
- Planting and Maintenance: Plant native species using diverse methodologies, mainly in autumn and winter, and maintain planted areas.
- Invasive Species Control: Apply techniques to manage invasive alien species threatening natural areas.
Included
- Pick up at the Lisbon airport & transfer to the accommodation on Sundays (from 9am to 9pm only). There is an extra cost for pickups before or after this schedule.
- Accommodation at an impactful hostel in female or mixed dormitories. Bed sheets are provided. Shared use of common areas, outdoor area, garden with small pool, and free WIFI
- Three meals a day everyday: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner (Local style. Vegetarian, gluten-free and meals for lactose-intolerant are also available upon request)
- Orientation event on arrival (including introduction to Portugal and its culture, volunteer experience, overview of programs, practical information, safety guidelines)
- Free SIM card (It needs to be charged to work)
- Guided city tour
- The best tips to discover the city!
- Allocation and coordination of a work placement in an impactful non-profit project
- Introduction on the first day of volunteering
- Ongoing support throughout the stay
- 24h/7 emergency support personally or by phone
- Limited coverage civil liability insurance.
How and when do I get my volunteer certificate?+
You can request your volunteer certificate to ImpacTrip or the local coordinator at the end of your program.
Do I need to speak the local language?+
No, you don't need to have any previous skills in the local language! All of our programs are run entirely in English and our guides and staff are all comfortable speaking English as well. However, we always encourage our participants to get acquainted with some of the most basic terms and expressions, as even just a simple "Good morning!" in the local language can be a great icebreaker to start interacting with the locals! There are also language lessons available for volunteers that can be booked before or upon arrival.
Do I have to pay money for volunteering?+
You are not paying for your volunteer work itself but for your stay with us overall. The costs for your program further include various elements that are part of your stay such as your accommodation, food, transportation from the airport, guided city tour, local coordination and 24/7 support for emergencies. Check the "Included" section of the program you want to choose for complete information!
Can I cook in the accommodation?+
Yes, the hostel has an eqquiped kitchen where you can cook yourself with the only condition of cleaning everything used afterwards.
In case of need, how do I get health care?+
All volunteers must arrive with private health insurance that covers the costs of any health service that may arise in their program destination.
With this insurance you can be treated at any private or public medical center. The medical expenses will be paid by you and when you return to your country you will have to present all the invoices to your insurance so don't forget to budget medical emergencies.
In the case of European volunteers, to facilitate the process, it is advisable to come with your European Health Card.
Is prior experience required to take part in the Surf With Impact Program?+
Shall I bring any own equipment for the Surf With Impact Program?+
Will I have time for some sight-seeing as well?+
Of course! We want you to really get to know your natural and cultural surroundings and will provide you with useful tips and tricks that will help you discover the location of your stay like a local.
Your shifts will generally last between 3 and 5 hours per day and will take place either in the morning, in the afternoon or in the evening, which will leave you with plenty of free time to go explore, take a stroll around your surroundings, catch the most important sites, interact with the locals or simply go and relax! And of course, you will have your weekends off as well!
What is the minimum age to participate in this program? 16+
The minimum age to participate in this program is 16 years old. However, if you are under 18 years old, you need to have your parents formal consent.
What is the accommodation like? Could I stay in a private room?+
Depending on the program, in most cases, you will stay along with the other volunteers in dormitory-style rooms. Private rooms may be available at your accommodation as well for an extra cost.
