Volunteer Programs in Portugal

Volunteering with IVHQ in Portugal was an incredible experience. The country is absolutely beautiful, and getting to explore it with such fun, friendly people made it even better. My advice: be open and put yourself out there — everyone’s there to connect and have a great time. Totally worth it!

Volunteering at the Iberian Wolf Recovery Centre in Portugal was a truly eye-opening and humbling experience. Surrounded by the peaceful oak forests near Mafra, I joined a dedicated team working to protect one of Europe's most elusive and misunderstood predators — the Iberian wolf. Each day brought meaningful tasks: preparing food, maintaining enclosures, and ensuring the wolves lived in dignity and safety. Though there was no direct contact with the animals (to preserve their wild nature), just observing them from a distance was enough to feel connected to their world. The staff were incredibly passionate, always willing to share their knowledge about wolf behavior, threats to their survival, and the importance of preserving natural habitats. Living in simple accommodation close to nature, I learned not only about wolves but also about cooperation, patience, and the power of small efforts in conservation. The experience deepened my respect for wildlife and inspired me to continue supporting environmental causes long after I left. This journey wasn’t just about volunteering — it was about becoming part of a bigger mission to protect a species that deserves a future.