Volunteer at an Eco Farm and experience agroforestry, bioconstruction, and eco sports

Availability: All year        Duration:  1 – 24 weeks        Start date: flexible

Eco Caminhos is a sustainable farm located in the astonishing Atlantic Forest mountains of Nova Friburgo, Brazil. As a volunteer, you’ll live and work on a permaculture-based farm that integrates natural building, agroforestry and organic food production. Since 2015, we’ve built several natural houses and regenerated degraded land through productive agroforestry systems.

Our Eco Caminhos Introduction Program welcomes people from around the world to experience hands-on learning, cultural exchange and a regenerative way of life. You’ll contribute to meaningful projects, share daily life in community and explore an ecological hotspot within one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth. We offer flexible stays from 1 to 24 weeks and welcome people of all ages and backgrounds. No prior experience is required. Volunteers who demonstrate commitment and alignment with our mission may be invited to join our long-term (free) program, after successfully completing this program. At Eco Caminhos, sustainability is not a theory, it’s our lifestyle. You’ll learn by doing, reconnect with nature, and become part of a movement for real transformation.

Now the biggest oportunity volunteering at Eco Caminhos is to learn about yourself.

What will your average day look like?

Participants in the Volunteer Introduction Program work 8 hours per day, 3 days a week, usually on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Tasks may vary between agroforestry, natural building and other essential activities on the farm.

Tuesdays are dedicated to learning, with presentations on key topics such as permaculture, agroforestry, natural building and sustainability. These sessions are designed to deepen your understanding of the principles and techniques behind our work. Tuesdays also include practical workshops, such as Portuguese classes, cooking, composting and other hands-on activities connected to daily life on a permaculture farm. In addition, we hold feedback and planning meetings, where volunteers can share their experiences, suggest improvements and participate in shaping the future of the farm. Participation is optional.

On Thursdays, we organize a mix of nature-based, cultural, and eco-sport activities. Volunteers may hike to scenic mountain peaks, swim in waterfalls and natural pools or join mountain bike tours. We also explore the local region’s rich food, art and cultural traditions through guided visits to nearby communities. It’s a chance to experience both the incredible natural beauty and the vibrant culture that surrounds us. Weekends are free, though we often offer optional group activities for those who wish to participate. Many volunteers use this time to explore Nova Friburgo or travel to Rio de Janeiro.

Every two weeks, we host our Farmily Night, an evening where everyone comes together to socialize, cook, make a fire, play table games or ping pong, sing karaoke and share quality time. Suggestions for activities are always welcome. If the group is up for it we also organize football nights. Although we call this our Volunteer Introduction Program, it is more than just volunteering. It’s a unique blend of a volunteer experience, an apprenticeship and an ecotourism program. It offers a meaningful opportunity to contribute, learn, grow and live in harmony with nature.*This image is an example of our weekly routine

Accommodation Options

We offer two accommodation options for participants in our Volunteer Introduction Program, tailored to different preferences and needs. You can choose between comfortable shared facilities and more private, luxury accommodations. Our comfort shared accommodation is ideal for those who enjoy simplicity and the experience of living and connecting with people from around the world. It fosters a sense of community and shared learning. Our luxury facilities offer greater comfort and privacy, making them suitable for individuals or families seeking a quieter, more independent living experience. All of our accommodations include a reliable internet connection suitable for everyday use.

You can indicate your preference in the application form, and we will check availability. After applying, we’ll schedule an interview to provide more detailed information and answer any questions you may have.

Expectations

Now that you have an idea of what to expect from the farm, we would like to share some behaviors and responsibilities we expect from volunteers. Staying on a permaculture farm is not staying in a hostel. Following the permaculture principals means that people should come prepared to participate in a more concious lifestyle. It is important to be aware how we live, how we impact the environment and our fellow residents. We can say that this is often one of the biggest challenges people face at the farm but also form the biggest learning oportunity.

• Keep your room/house clean and organized
• Participation in meal preparation
• Have motivation, disposition, and initiative
• Be punctual and respect schedules
• Respect all members of the community
• No drinking and no drugs

Our volunteers sharing their experiences