Protect the Iberian wolf in Portugal. Are you passionate about wolves? Join a program for the preservation of the Iberian wolf in Portugal, in a sanctuary that welcomes wolves that have become too dependent on humans. All programs in Europe here
Protect the Iberian wolf in Portugal
The Iberian wolf inhabits the Iberian Peninsula and bears the scientific name Canis lupus signatus. It was described in 1907 by Spanish zoologist Angel Cabrera. It differs from the wolf found in the rest of Europe mainly by its smaller size and the colour of its coat, which is yellow-brown. Considered a potentially endangered species, the Iberian wolf is officially protected in Portugal. However, it continues to face numerous challenges including the destruction of its habitat, poaching and captivity.
The wolves live in a vast sanctuary
In the 1980s, north of Lisbon, in a valley in Mafra, a vast wolf sanctuary was created. This refuge welcomes wolves that have become too dependent on humans and are unable to return to life in the wild. It allows them, however, to live in an environment as close as possible to their natural habitat. The wolves areinstallés dans de vastes enclos. Le refuge, ouvert au public le week-end, porte un projet d’éducation à la conservation du loup et de son habitat
At the bedside of wolves in a sanctuary north of Lisbon
By committing to this sanctuary dedicated to welcoming and protecting Iberian wolves, you will contribute to the animals’ wellbeing by providing for their basic needs and observing their behaviours. You will also participate in the maintenance of their habitat. On a daily basis, your tasks will be as follows:
- Providing meals and checking water for the wolves.
- Observing and recording wolf behaviours and health indicators.
- Removing non-native plants and replanting native species.
- Assisting with the maintenance of the centre’s facilities and infrastructure.
- Participating in activities aimed at maintaining a healthy forest environment.
- 2 weeks: €1,590
- 4 weeks: €2,340
- From February to November
- Arrival on Sunday
- Rest on Saturdays and Sundays
- 2 or 4 weeks
Included in the fee
- Airport pick-up on Sunday
- Transport between Lisbon (where you will stay for the first two days) and the project
- Accommodation
- Supervision
- Guided city tour with tips on how to explore it
- Continuous support throughout your stay
- 24/7 emergency assistance, just in case, provided by Impact Trip
Not included in the fee
- Flights
- Airport pick-up on dates other than Sunday
- Return to the airport
- Transport between the project and Lisbon
- Meals (a kitchen is available for you to cook your own meals)
- Personal expenses
- Insurance
- Private room
- From 21 years old
- Physical work
- Language: English (intermediate level)
Accommodation You will stay in shared rooms in comfortable wooden cabins at the centre. The cabin is equipped with a washing machine, oven, refrigerator/freezer, cooking utensils and cutlery. Please note that there are no separate male/female rooms and that the kitchen and bathroom are shared by all occupants. The house can accommodate up to 6 people. The first two nights are spent in Lisbon in a dormitory.
Meals You will cook your own meals in the shared kitchen and will have the opportunity to go grocery shopping twice a week.
Free Wi-Fi
Arrival Pick-up at Lisbon airport on Sunday. The first two days take place in Lisbon. You are then transferred to the project site in Mafra.
Bring your gloves.
You will have free time to explore, walk around the surrounding area, visit the most important sites, interact with the locals or simply relax! And of course, you will also have your weekends free!
Tous les avis sur les missions Impactrip
About the Partner
Our partner is a social enterprise whose mission is to support and strengthen the work of non-profit social and environmental organizations. The company was founded in 2015 by Rita and Diogo, two social entrepreneurs who wanted to change the way people travel. The organization offers travelers the opportunity to take part in a variety of projects, mainly across Europe. It is B Corp certified, meaning that it combines social and environmental goals with profit. The B Corp community works toward reducing inequality, lowering poverty levels, creating a healthier environment, building stronger communities, and generating more high-quality jobs with dignity and purpose.
