Portugal – Azores Social Impact & Eco Adventure for Teenagers

Join an unforgettable summer adventure in the Azores, where international teens aged 15–17 combine volunteer work, creativity, and outdoor exploration on the island of São Miguel. This 12-day program connects participants with local communities through youth engagement, sustainable farming, and digital storytelling. You’ll work alongside inspiring NGOs, help promote social inclusion, and discover the island’s breathtaking volcanic landscapes. Between volunteer days, enjoy exciting adventures such as canyoning, whale watching, and 4×4 excursions through lush valleys.

Program Highlights

• Families stay connected through real-time WhatsApp updates, photos and messages from our on-site coordinator.
• Meet your local coordinator and fellow teen travelers in an online meet and greet three weeks before the adventure begins.
• Volunteer ethically alongside Portugal’s top NGOs recognized for social and environmental impact.
• Support local children through creative and educational games.
• Assist in sustainable farming projects that promote inclusion and environmental care.
• Contribute to “Digital Changemaker” initiatives that help NGOs share their stories.
• Explore natural landmarks such as 7 Cidades, Furnas, Lagoa do Fogo, and Caldeira Velha.
• Take part in adventure activities like canyoning and whale watching.
• Strengthen teamwork through project development and group reflections.
• Enjoy social nights, karaoke, and a farewell bonfire celebration.

Your Schedule at a Glance (12 Days)

• Day 1: Arrival in Ponta Delgada, meet your coordinator, and group welcome dinner.
• Day 2: Orientation and treasure hunt in Ponta Delgada to discover the island’s capital.
• Day 3: 4×4 adventure to 7 Cidades and introduction to your first Digital Changemakers project.
• Days 4–6: Youth Support volunteering, lead creative and educational activities for children, develop and present your digital project, and enjoy canyoning plus evening events.
• Day 7: Full-day excursion to Furnas with a traditional geothermal lunch.
• Days 8–10: Sustainable Farming volunteering, help in organic gardens, support inclusion initiatives, and finalize your second Digital Changemakers presentation. Whale watching in the afternoon.
• Day 11: Visit Lagoa do Fogo and relax in the thermal baths of Caldeira Velha. Farewell dinner and bonfire night.
• Day 12: Departure from Ponta Delgada.

Note: The schedule is flexible, subject to weather conditions and local considerations, ensuring a dynamic and memorable experience.

Note for Parents: This itinerary is designed specifically for teenage volunteers, offering a higher level of supervision throughout the program. GoEco also offers the convenience of flight booking services to assist in coordinating participants’ travel arrangements after registration and approval.

Location of the Project: São Miguel Island, Azores, Portugal

Project length: 12 days (11 nights)

Arrival Airport: João Paulo II Airport (PDL), Ponta Delgada

Volunteer Work: Youth support, sustainable farming, and digital communication for NGOs

Age: Designed for teens aged 15-17

Number of Volunteers: Minimum 8 participants with group leaders and a chaperone

What’s Included

Accommodations: Shared single-gender dorms with other teen participants.

Food: Three meals daily, including packed lunches during excursions.(Local style, Vegetarian, gluten-free, and meals for lactose-intolerant are also available upon request).

Airport Transfers: Round-trip transfers from and to Ponta Delgada Airport.

 Orientation: Volunteers will receive an orientation of the area upon arrival and will receive a program orientation on their first day of volunteering.

 Support: Teen groups have designated support staff to support and chaperone their itinerary, comprehensive and professional pre-departure travel guidance, 24/7 GoEco emergency hotline, experienced local field team.

What’s not Included

Flights, visas (if required), travel health insurance, personal expenses like souvenirs and snacks.