Volunteer in Brazil

Permaculture, agroforestry and natural building in the mountains of the Atlantic Forest. Experience a multicultural community and be part of the positive impact on society and nature.

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Volunteer
in Brazil

Permaculture, agroforestry and natural building in the mountains of the Atlantic Forest.

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2014

FOUNDED

IN

+2.000

 VOLUNTEERS

 HOSTED

15.000

m² AGRO

FORESTRY

18.000

 TREES

 PLANTED

4.000

COFFEE

PLANTS

60%

OF FOOD

GROWN

ON SITE

5

NATURAL

BUILDINGS

ABOUT ECO CAMINHOS

Start Your Volunteer Experience
at Eco Caminhos

Eco Caminhos is a permaculture farm founded in 2014 in the mountains of Nova Friburgo, Rio de Janeiro.

We develop and practice solutions that harmonize agriculture, community and nature, bringing biodiversity back to the land and fostering collaboration among people.

As a volunteer, you gain hands-on experience, live in an international community, immerse yourself in nature and build friendships for a lifetime while contributing to a meaningful project.

The three pillars of our practical approach

Permaculture

Permaculture is a design system that works with nature to create sustainable and regenerative human ecosystems.

Agroforestry

Agroforestry is the integration of trees and crops to create productive, regenerative and biodiverse farming systems.

Natural Building

Natural building is the use of local, natural, low-impact materials and techniques to create healthy, sustainable and energy-efficient structures.

HANDS-ON PERMACULTURE AND AGROFORESTRY

What you will learn
and experience

In this volunteer program in Brazil, we offer flexible stays from 1 to 24 weeks and welcome people of all ages, cultures and backgrounds, with or without prior experience.

Our main goal is to create a positive impact on people, society and, eventually, in the world. If you are looking for a meaningful volunteer experience in Brazil, Eco Caminhos welcomes you.

Instructor teaching agroforestry and permaculture principles to international volunteers at an eco farm in Brazil.
Volunteers exploring biodiversity and native ecosystems during a guided nature walk on a permaculture farm in Brazil.
International volunteers relaxing at a beautiful waterfall after participating in eco farm activities in Brazil.
Mountains ni Eco Farm in Nova Friburgo
Volunteers building a cob wall using natural materials during a natural building volunteer program in Brazil
YOUR WEEKLY ROUTINE

What to expect
during your stay

Volunteers contribute 8 hours per day, three days a week (Monday, Wednesday and Friday), working in agroforestry, natural building and essential farm activities.

Tuesdays are dedicated to learning and hands-on workshops, while Thursdays focus on ecotourism and exploration. Evenings often include social moments, sports and community activities.

On Saturdays and sundays, there is also the option for ecotourism,exploration and relaxing.

Why volunteer with us

Hands-On
Permaculture and Agroforestry

Hands-on learning

Learn real permaculture, agroforestry, and natural building skills through practical, guided experience.

Real environmental impact

Contribute directly to reforestation, soil regeneration, and sustainable systems that create long-term change.

International community

Connect with volunteers from around the world and share meaningful cultural experiences. Making friends for life time.

Ecotourism & exploration

Enjoy hikes, waterfalls, forest walks, and outdoor adventures in the Atlantic Forest.

Meaningful transformation

Gain purpose, clarity, and personal growth through immersive life in nature.

ACCOMMODATION

Where you will stay

Eco Caminhos offers a variety of options to suit your preferences, ranging from shared housing to a more private eco-lodge. No matter which you choose, you’ll have a comfortable bed, a safe environment, and stunning views of the Atlantic Forest to rest and recharge.

Shared Living · Nature

Volunteer House

The volunteer house hosts up to eight people in shared rooms, creating a friendly, multicultural environment with volunteers and Brazilian staff.

It includes a fully equipped kitchen, bathroom, and a cozy living room for a simple and comfortable stay. Outside, a seating area offers beautiful mountain views.

A nearby creek and waterfall provide a refreshing spot to relax after activities. Winter nights (April–September) can be chilly, but the peaceful natural setting makes the experience special.

Located just outside the farm, transportation is usually provided on workdays; otherwise, it’s a 1.5 km uphill walk.

Nature
60%
Privacy
35%
Comfort
60%
Silence
58%
Also available

Volunteer House Suite

For those who prefer more privacy, it is also possible to stay in a private suite within the volunteer house. This option allows you to enjoy your own bedroom and bathroom while still being part as a sustainable farm volunteer.

You will share common areas such as the kitchen and living room with other volunteers and team members, creating opportunities to connect and enjoy a friendly shared environment.

Shared Living · Nature

Ecolibrium

Natural building
and design

Ecolibrium offers five double rooms and two suites, a spacious fully equipped kitchen with a large communal table, separate male and female bathrooms, and outdoor areas with hammocks to relax and enjoy the mountain views.

Ecolibrium is a multifunctional space that we envision becoming one of the largest permaculture learning hubs in Latin America in the near future. Covering 1,200 m², the project will bring together a wide range of facilities, including teaching and training areas, a restaurant, fifteen bedrooms, a maker space, two classrooms, a large kitchen, laundry facilities, an office, and plenty of bathrooms.

Although the broader project is still under construction, all volunteer areas are fully operational. At times, there may be some dust, noise, or movement of people and machinery around the site. We work carefully to minimize any inconvenience, and many volunteers appreciate seeing the natural building process unfold as part of the experience.

Nature
78%
Privacy
50%
Comfort
74%
Silence
70%
Also available

Ecolibrium Suite

The Ecolibrium Suite offers a peaceful and comfortable retreat for guests seeking greater privacy and tranquility during their stay. It provides a relaxing atmosphere where you can rest, reconnect with nature, and enjoy a slower pace of life after a day of activities on the farm.
Luxury Accomodation

Ecolodge

Immerse into nature

Ecolodge is a hidden gem at the farm. This spectacular bioconstructed house is located at the heart of Eco Caminhos. If you are looking for comfort regardless of the weather, this is the place we recommend.

Here, volunteers enjoy a higher level of privacy, with their own rooms and incredible views. The Ecolodge can comfortably accommodate up to 8 people. It includes two suites, a smaller bedroom, a large kitchen, a spacious living room, a terrace, a bathroom, and a garage. The house also features cozy indoor and outdoor fireplaces, perfect for bonfires.

Because the house is bioconstructed and equipped with double-glazed windows, it provides a warm and comfortable environment during the winter months. As a sustainable home, all electricity is generated through solar panels, which also provide warm showers. Waste is separated and collected by the Eco Caminhos staff.

Nature
100%
Privacy
100%
Comfort
100%
Silence
100%
Volunteer House

The volunteer house can host up to eight people in shared bedrooms for two, offering a simple and comfortable stay with a fully equipped kitchen, bathroom, and cozy living room. Outside, there is a seating area with mountain views, as well as a nearby creek and waterfall,perfect for relaxing after daily activities.

Due to its location, winter nights (April to September) can be quite chilly, but the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful natural surroundings make the experience truly special.

Located just outside the farm, volunteers are usually transported by pickup truck on workdays. When unavailable, the 1.5 km uphill walk offers a refreshing way to start the day and connect with nature.

Volunteer house suite
Volunteer House Suite

For those who prefer more privacy, it is also possible to stay in a private suite within the volunteer house. This option allows you to enjoy your own bedroom and bathroom while still being part as a sustainable farm volunteer.

You will share common areas such as the kitchen and living room with other volunteers and team members, creating opportunities to connect and enjoy a friendly shared environment. it is also possible to stay in a private suite within the volunteer house. 

Ecolibrium

Ecolibrium offers five double rooms and two suites, a spacious fully equipped kitchen with a large communal table, separate male and female bathrooms, and outdoor areas with hammocks to relax and enjoy the mountain views.

Ecolibrium is a multifunctional bioconstruction project at Eco Caminhos, designed to become a major permaculture learning hub in Latin America. Spanning 1,200 m², it will include training areas, accommodation, classrooms, a kitchen, and shared facilities.

While still under construction, all volunteer areas are fully operational, and some activity on-site may occur. Currently, it offers five double rooms, two suites, a spacious kitchen, separate bathrooms, and outdoor areas with hammocks and mountain views.

Ecolibrium Suite

The Ecolibrium suites offer a more private and comfortable space for those who would like a bit more tranquility during their stay.

The Ecolibrium suites offer a more private and comfortable space for those who would like a bit more tranquility during their stay. Each suite includes a double bed and a private bathroom, while still being part of the vibrant volunteer environment of the house.

Ecolodge

Ecolodge is a hidden gem at the farm. This spectacular bioconstructed house is located at the heart of Eco Caminhos. If you are looking for comfort regardless of the weather, this is the place we recommend.

Ecolodge is a bioconstructed house at Eco Caminhos, offering comfort, privacy, and stunning views. It accommodates up to 8 people, with two suites, one bedroom, a large kitchen, living room, terrace, bathroom, garage, and indoor and outdoor fireplaces.

Designed for sustainability, it features solar energy, warm showers, and double-glazed windows for year-round comfort. Located at the top of a mountain, access requires a 4×4 vehicle, but transfers are provided on arrival and departure.

Live and learn
on a Sustainable farm

We provide the essentials so you can focus on learning, growing and conneting. Here is what is covered in your program.

Included
Not Included
PLAN YOUR STAY

The longer you stay, the cheaper the price

At our permaculture farm, we value fairness .As volunteers gain skills and become more productive, their contribution grows and the price decreases.

Step 1
Where would you like to stay?
Volunteer House
Ecolibrium
Ecolodge
Step 2
What type of room would you like?
Shared bedroom
Volunteer House
Private suite
Volunteer House
Shared bedroom
Ecolibrium Hub
Private suite
Ecolibrium Suite
Private suite
Eco lodge - 1 or 2 people
Private house
Eco lodge - up to 8 people
Step 3 How long would you like to stay?
Step 4 Number of guests
1

Total (R$)
—
Approx. (US$)
—
estimated rate
Approx. (€)
—
estimated rate
Per week / person
—
average weekly cost
COMMUNITY VALUES

What we expect from
Volunteer

Here, we value transparency, motivation, collaboration, and kindness, initiative, and respect for shared schedules, as these help maintain harmony within the community. We invite our visitors to bring these qualities into their experience and help create a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone.

Eco Caminhos is a permaculture farm, offering the opportunity to experience a more conscious and sustainable way of life. As part of the community, participants are encouraged to contribute household chores when needed, and eventually supporting outdoor activities like agroforestry and bioconstruction.

Respect for everyone in the space is essential. To keep the environment safe and aligned with the spirit of our mission, the use of drugs or alcohol is forbidden on the farm.

PLANNING YOUR TRIP
Feel at home before you even arrive

Airport Transfer

We have a trusted driver who can pick you up in the airport in Rio de Janeiro and drop you off at the Eco Caminhos. Our driver will be waiting for you at the arrival hall to welcome you. The cost for the pick-up or drop-off service is R$1100 for the approximately 3-hour ride.

Safety

Our permaculture farm offers a peaceful and welcoming environment where you can enjoy a carefree stay. The surrounding rural community is very safe, with significantly lower levels of violence compared to large cities in Brazil. Surrounded by nature, here you can enjoy the tranquility that the countryside provides.

Our Testimonials

Real stories from volunteers who were part of our journey

★★★★★
9.9/10 no GoAbroad · 1.400 voluntários recebidos
Desde 2014, transformando vidas na serra
EXCELENTE
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Com base em 191 avaliações
Publicado em Google Google
Kristen Rocha profile picture
Kristen Rocha
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifica se a fonte original da avaliação é Google.
When I first heard about EcoCaminhos, I was incredibly interested about its mission and focus on sustainability. I heavily agree with the idea that we need to find solutions to deforestation, climate change, degradation, etc. Because of this, I was super excited to learn about the actions and initiatives EcoCaminhos is taking to help with said problems and how I could continue to contribute throughout my daily life. I really enjoyed the environment here. The staff and community here super friendly and welcoming. I had such an amazing time here. I loved learning how to do bio construction, as well as the agroforestry practices. All in all, the most meaningful part of this entire experience was how connected to nature I felt here. I couldn’t have asked for a better stay. Thank you, EcoCaminhos!
Publicado em Google Google
Taylor Hood profile picture
Taylor Hood
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifica se a fonte original da avaliação é Google.
Had an amazing time
Publicado em Google Google
Elena Gonzales profile picture
Elena Gonzales
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifica se a fonte original da avaliação é Google.
Amazing opportunity to feel connected with nature and the people here.
Publicado em Google Google
Alejandro Zúñiga profile picture
Alejandro Zúñiga
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifica se a fonte original da avaliação é Google.
Great experience; Coming from the city this is a unique experience to enjoy nature in a great farm surrounded by people that have a positive energy and are giving their best to give you a great experience. The cultural and hands on activities were really good; Overrall the work is hard but you enjoy it and food is also really nice
Publicado em Google Google
Paulina Hackett Medina profile picture
Paulina Hackett Medina
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifica se a fonte original da avaliação é Google.
This experience was a lot of fun but still work intensive. There’s hard labor, but it’s to be expected on a farm and the food was really good. The staff was very kind, particularly Helen, Dutra, Maria and Bart. Also, there’s two lovely, friendly dogs that love to get scratches/pets. Also, I recommend staying at the Eco Lodge vs the other places.
Publicado em Google Google
Maria Fernanda Licerio profile picture
Maria Fernanda Licerio
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifica se a fonte original da avaliação é Google.
I chose Eco Caminhos for this experience because I wanted to go deep into nature, disconnect from what I know and open myself to new ways of living and meeting other people. I believed in its mission and how much it was going to help me grow not only as an academic but as a person. I really enjoyed the farm and learning about sustainable agriculture, agroforestry and generally reconnecting with nature. As a person that lives in a desertic, industrial area where these practices are pretty much unheard of, it makes me happy to know that there are projects like Eco Caminhos that push for a better environment and balance harmony between human beings and nature as it was intended to be. The hikes, hands on agroforestry and bio construction were the best for me. I was looking for new experiences and to find myself liking new things, for growth within myself and change. I’ve discovered that I now love hiking, getting dirty and being surrounded by nature.
Publicado em Google Google
Brianna Zambrano profile picture
Brianna Zambrano
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifica se a fonte original da avaliação é Google.
Great experience here, the beautiful nature and the educational aspect of Eco caminhos is great. Hands on experience and being able to connect with nature and learn all about Brazil’s culture, agroforestry, and agriculture was amazing.
Publicado em Google Google
Renata Barreto profile picture
Renata Barreto
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifica se a fonte original da avaliação é Google.
Experience was great, the people who live in the farm and shape your experience are awesome. It is a hike at time so be prepared with good shoes and clothes. An experience one should do at least once
EXCELENTE
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5
Com base em 63 avaliações
Publicado em Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Alejandro Z profile picture
Alejandro Z
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verificada
Unique experience Great experience; Coming from the city this is a unique experience to enjoy nature in a great farm surrounded by people that have a positive energy and are giving their best to give you a great experience. The cultural and hands on activities were really good; Overrall the work is hard but you enjoy it and food is also really nice.
Publicado em Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Luca V profile picture
Luca V
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verificada
Thank you everything very good!!! incredible!!!
Publicado em Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Lui R profile picture
Lui R
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verificada
Muito enriquecedora Muito enriquecedora . Linda equipe, comprometida e humana. Natureza sublime e boas práticas de agrofloresta.
Publicado em Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Melanie profile picture
Melanie
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verificada
Authentic, inspiring, and deeply educational experience in Brazil! My stay at Eco Caminhos exceeded all expectations. I chose this experience because of its collaboration with Wheeling2Help, and it turned out to be an incredibly meaningful and enriching journey. The best parts for me were the agroforestry and bioconstruction activities. Being able to learn by doing, made everything more engaging and impactful. I gained valuable knowledge about sustainable practices while working alongside a supportive and diverse group of people. The environment is beautiful and peaceful, and the entire experience feels authentic and purposeful. Even the small challenges, like adapting to a new routine, became part of the learning process and made the experience even more rewarding. I would absolutely recommend Eco Caminhos to anyone interested in sustainability, community living, and personal growth. It’s an experience that stays with you long after you leave.
Publicado em Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Peter K profile picture
Peter K
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verificada
Amazing!! Amazing place, the connection with nature is great. Bart and all the team were always very friendly and willing to help for anything we needed. Maria and Escarlet are amazing cooks, the food was fantastic. I can wait to come back.
Publicado em Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Τάσος Π profile picture
Τάσος Π
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verificada
Amazing One of the best experiences of my life Thank you eco caminhos team.
Publicado em Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Joshua Y profile picture
Joshua Y
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verificada
DEFFO RECOMMEND Enjoyed it so much, learnt a great amount about the farm, and bio construction. The accommodation and view of the mountains was breathtaking. Would come back and definitely recommend for those who are interested
Publicado em Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
canard72 profile picture
canard72
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verificada
Off-the-beaten-track holidays Off-the-beaten-track holidays As a family of 4 (parents + 20 and 17 years old boys), we were looking for adventure, and especially a way to immerse into this beautiful country and learn more about the people, the culture(s) away from the mass tourism. Eco Caminhos was the perfect place to do that. Only a few hours bus away from Rio de Janeiro (the travel alone was worth it), we spent 6 wonderful days (5 nights) in their eco lodge and participated to a variety of activities: workshops, hands-on on ecological constructions and agroforestry, hiking, social night, cinema night, Brazilian language basics, etc. Waking up with the sun in this marvelous environment is certainly graved into our memories. A regenerating experience! The people working and living at Eco Caminhos are friendly, helpful, patient and always with a smile. Despite the different cultures, nationalities, we could integrate quick and felt like belonging to this Eco Caminhos family. A last point, we could combine this stay with 5 days in Rio de Janeiro and 3 days at Ilha Grande. The perfect mix of discovery, entertainment, learning, regenerating. If we could do it again, we would not change a thing. Just the perfect holidays! Hope to go back one day again to Eco Caminhos, bringing more time 😊 Thanks a lot to the Eco Caminhos team for the wonderful stay!
Publicado em Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Daisy Z profile picture
Daisy Z
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verificada
Best Experience Ever I was originally not supposed to stay an extra three more weeks in Brazil. I had a two week long trip in Brazil but was offered to stay an extra three weeks in EcoCaminhos. I had no idea what to expect since had done very little research about the program. Arriving to Nova Friburgo I felt like I was in a world like no other, but what took me away was the hospitality we received as soon as we arrived at EcoCaminhos. The staff were beyond kind and very helpful when it came to fitting us into our accommodations.The staff were also very attentive to any needs or any itinerary changes if needed. Learning about EcoCaminhos missions regarding permaculture, agroforestry, and bio-construction very fun and interesting. Never in my life could I have imagined that I would learn about reforestation and not only learn but most importantly actually do hands on work toward this mission. Being at EcoCaminhos leaves you feeling closer to nature and most importantly closer to people from all over the world. Thank you for everything EcoCaminhos!
Publicado em Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Heitor M profile picture
Heitor M
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verificada
Amazing experience in a ecofarm. It's a great opportunity to experience permaculture, bioconstruction, and agroforestry in practice, as well as living in a multicultural community. By allowing a week of hands-on experience at the ecofarm, they also helped me so much with my dissertation, in which I address ecovillages and proposals for solutions to the climate crisis. They welcomed me very well, all of them. Juliana, Bart, Geovani and everyone else. Bart showed me around the place. He explained permaculture, agroforestry, and a bit of bioconstruction. During our free time, we played a lot of games at the volunteer house and at the Colmeia, the main house, where we gather for lunch on weekdays. Working in the agroforest helps therapeutically; connecting with nature has something special; even though the work is tough, it's something to be aware of! The volunteer house is stocked with supplies on Mondays. On Sundays, we can request specific items. This way, we can make our own snacks and dinners. I was lucky enough to have a vegan apprentice, just like me. So we cooked and even made a vegan cake together. At the communal Saturday lunches, they were always considerate of me and made delicious vegan options. It’s definitely a multicultural and welcoming environment where people from various nationalities work and live together.
Your adventure starts here!