Had a really amazing time! Everyone was super nice and I really felt like I made an impact with the diving as well as gaining a certification.
Environmental Scuba Diving Volunteer Project in Portugal - Lisbon
Purpose
Protect & preserve precious marine life
Start dates
Programs start every Monday
Duration
Choose from 1-12 weeks
Volunteer hours
Up to 6 hours a day
Age
Volunteers aged 16+ or 10+ accompanied
Accommodation
Dormitory-style hostel
Who is going?
Group video calls
Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.
This program is ideal for:
Fit and healthy volunteers who enjoy scuba diving or want to learn how. Volunteers with no diving experience must learn the basics of scuba diving and vital safety measures before engaging in any conservation activities. This can be achieved as part of the project.
Project details
Want to slip on some fins and kick off a new adventure as an Environmental Scuba Diving volunteer in Portugal? International Volunteer HQ’s Environmental Scuba Diving project is an exciting opportunity for volunteers to assist with marine conservation efforts in Portugal. Volunteers gain scuba and environmental protection experience while learning about the challenges marine ecosystems face and what can be done to help overcome them, helping ensure this unique natural environment and all its wildlife survives long into the future.
What to expect and how you'll make an impact
Join the Environmental Scuba Diving project and play a vital role in reducing underwater pollution and conserving marine life off the stunning coast of Portugal! This crucial issue is often overlooked, but you can make a tangible impact through underwater clean-up efforts and the protection of the marine ecosystem.
As an Environmental Scuba Diver you’ll be based at a dedicated diving school focused on local environmental protection, always under the guidance of an experienced dive instructor. On-site training is provided to ensure you’re well-prepared for your tasks. As a volunteer, you’ll:
- Clean Up the Seafloor: Dive beneath the waves to remove rubbish and debris, helping to restore the ocean’s natural beauty.
- Learn and Protect: Gain in-depth knowledge about the marine ecosystem and ways to safeguard it.
- Wildlife Observation: Observe and identify various fish and marine species, contributing to their conservation.
- Data Collection: Gather important data on fish numbers to support ongoing research and conservation efforts.
To participate in any of the conservation activities, you’ll need to complete dive training or already be an experienced diver. The project includes Scuba Schools International (SSI) diver certification training, so expect the first week to be dedicated to obtaining your diving certificate. This ensures you have the necessary skills to safely clean up the ocean.
The diving school is conveniently located at the volunteer accommodation. Each morning, you’ll meet at the accommodation before commuting together to the dive site. Depending on the location, the commute can range from a short 5-minute walk to a one-and-a-half-hour drive.
Why do Environmental Scuba Diving volunteering in Lisbon with IVHQ?
When you scuba dive in Portugal you’ll be adding value to the local community, while also developing personally and professionally by:
- Preserving and protecting local marine ecosystems
- Learning about marine conservation
- Developing your communication skills
- Gaining scuba certifications and dive experience
- Immersing yourself in Portuguese culture
- Exploring Lisbon, Portugal’s capital city
Volunteer requirements
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Volunteers with previous scuba experience will need to supply proof of any certifications and their dive log book.
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It is mandatory that all volunteers provide a medical certificate that clears them for scuba diving in order to join the program.
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Volunteers must be at least 10 years old to join this project. Volunteers between the ages of 10 and 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
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Volunteers aged 16-18 are required to provide IVHQ with a signed statement from their parents giving them permission to dive and participate on the program, and may be asked to provide additional documentation to the local team.
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All volunteers aged 13+ are required to provide a criminal background check to IVHQ prior to departure. Those aged 13-17, if unable to obtain a criminal background check, can provide two character reference letters instead.
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All volunteers are required to have adequate volunteer travel insurance
Are you eligible to volunteer?
Submit a free application so we can confirm your eligibility and check availability for your preferred dates.
Not sure which program to join?
Get personalized recommendations >
Who is going?
Group video calls
Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.
Portugal photo gallery
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IVHQ Environmental Scuba Diving project
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IVHQ Forest Conservation project
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IVHQ Upcycling For Social Good project
IVHQ Ecological Surf project
IVHQ Horse Caretakers project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Community Support project
IVHQ Biological Park Conservation project
IVHQ Horse Caretakers project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Horse Caretakers project
IVHQ Community Support project
IVHQ Forest Conservation project
IVHQ Wolf Conservation project
IVHQ Ecological Surf project
IVHQ Horse Caretakers project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Youth Support project
IVHQ Biological Park Conservation project
IVHQ Horse Caretakers project
IVHQ Community Support project
IVHQ Forest Conservation project
IVHQ Homeless Support project
IVHQ Horse Caretakers project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Food Rescue project
IVHQ Forest Conservation project
IVHQ Community Support project
IVHQ Horse Caretakers project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Biological Park Conservation project
IVHQ Upcycling For Social Good project
IVHQ Environmental Scuba Diving project
IVHQ Horse Caretakers project
IVHQ Community Support project
IVHQ Homeless Support project
IVHQ Youth Support project
IVHQ Forest Conservation project
IVHQ Horse Caretakers project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Community Support project
IVHQ Food Rescue project
IVHQ Homeless Support project
IVHQ Youth Support project
IVHQ Horse Caretakers project
IVHQ Community Support project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Forest Conservation project
IVHQ Homeless Support project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Homeless Support project
IVHQ Community Support project
IVHQ volunteer orientation
IVHQ Upcycling For Social Good project
IVHQ volunteer orientation
Exploring Portugal during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Portugal during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Portugal during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Portugal during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Portugal during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Portugal during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Portugal during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Portugal during an IVHQ weekend
What recent volunteers said about their IVHQ experience
HM
Hamish Mcneil
29 Jul 2024
...
SC
Sebastian Cabrera Gutierrez
10 Jul 2024
I feel that I gained much more experience being independent and I made tons of new friends. I would advise someone to do it and to not be afraid to get out of your shell.
...
LC
Lara Calvo
08 Apr 2024
This Program was phenomenal! The instructors and local team were super kind and helpful. They made this experience incredible and very comfortable.
...
HS
Heather Staples
03 Nov 2023
It was the best decision I have made! I have become so much more confident and everyone I met along the way was so lovely and inspiring. I would highly recommend this to anyone as I experienced so much and I loved every minute!
...
LJ
Leilani Janes
19 Sep 2023
Everything was great! I felt safe and welcomed in the accommodation and it felt like a great way to connect with other people and the culture I was in!
...
VV
Valentina Velazquez
05 Apr 2023
IVHQ was very helpful to guide me throughout the application and preparation process for my trip. They also helped me find projects that were connected under my interests. The local team were both helpful and friendly. I knew I could trust them with any questions or concerns I had. Being able to see all the different creatures that live under the water, and being able to help clean up their environment meant allowing them to continue living a safe life was my favourite moment. I learned that even one small action can lead to a large change in helping the world and the people on it. If you are considering volunteering, go for it! Stepping out of your comfort zone can be scary, but you will find that it will leave a good impact on your life and teach you many new things!
...
To read all reviews, visit our reviews page.
Scuba diving certification
As part of the Environmental Scuba Diving project you will complete internationally recognized SSI (Scuba Schools International) diving certifications. The certifications you complete will depend on your current diving experience as well as your program duration and the weather conditions. The courses range from Open Water Diver through to Advanced Adventurer. Specialties such as Buoyancy, Marine Ecology and Fish Identification are also available.
Your IVHQ Program Fee covers the cost of the required SSI online and in-person training, full scuba equipment hire and supervision from an experienced dive instructor. Beginners with no experience can join this project, but will have to learn the fundamentals and safety measures before engaging in any type of conservation activities.
It is recommended that you participate in this project for at least 2 weeks in order to take part in the conservation activities, as you will spend your first week on the program gaining a diving certification.
Academic course credit
Academic course credit
Gain course credit from your college or university and meet your academic requirements when completing a volunteer abroad program with International Volunteer HQ!
Learn about course creditLocation
Location
The IVHQ Portugal Program is located in and around Lisbon - the capital and largest city in Portugal. It’s a veritable treasure trove of history, culture, breathtaking scenery, exciting nightlife, gorgeous beaches and great places to eat and drink.
Portugal and Lisbon have risen from poverty only this century, so while it is a fantastic and affordable destination to visit, local communities are still facing the lingering effects of previously being one of the poorest countries in Western Europe. Volunteers can have an impact on these communities by supporting local initiatives which aim to improve the lives of Lisbon’s residents and make sure they have access to all of life’s basic necessities.
Arrival and orientation
The program orientation begins every Monday, and volunteers need to arrive in Lisbon the day before their orientation.
After you have registered for the program, please book your flights to arrive at Lisbon Airport (LIS). Your airport pick-up is included in your Program Fee, however, if you arrive outside of Sunday between 9:00AM - 9:00PM, your pick-up will incur an extra cost of CA$97. Volunteers under the age of 18 are required to travel with written consent from both parents or guardians in order to enter Portugal. Volunteers under the age of 18 who require a pre-arranged visa will also need their visa application to be signed by a parent or guardian.
When you arrive, you will be greeted at the airport by a member of the local team and transported to the volunteer accommodation in either Lisbon. Your accommodation is covered by your Program Fee and includes the night before your program orientation.
If you are traveling in Portugal prior to your volunteer program, we can arrange for you to be picked up from a prearranged location in Lisbon on the day before your program orientation.
Orientation is hosted by our Portugal team at the accommodation. It begins the morning of your chosen start date and lasts for a full day. The orientation covers everything you need to know for your volunteer program in Portugal – an introduction to Portugal, culture and customs, rules and expectations, safety, travel opportunities, an introduction to project and placement as well as a tour of the local area. The orientation will also give you a chance to sign up for Portuguese language lessons if you’re on a Lisbon based project, and to meet other volunteers with whom you can swap contact details for weekend travel and socializing.
Volunteer schedule example
Weekdays
You will have a morning, afternoon or evening shift at your placement and will work for approximately 3 to 6 hours per day. Please note that start times and daily workloads depend on the project that you are participating on.
| 8:00 - 10:00 AM | Breakfast is available at the volunteer accommodation. |
| 8:30 AM | Travel to placement to join local placement staff and begin work on your project. |
| 1:00 - 3:00 PM | Lunch is served at the accommodation or at your placement. After lunch, you will continue your volunteer work. |
| 2:30 PM | Volunteers with afternoon or evening shifts travel to placement and begin work on their project. |
| 7:00 - 9:00 PM | Dinner at the volunteer accommodation. After dinner you will have the remainder of the evening free to relax and use as you wish. |
Weekends
Volunteers have the weekends free and Portugal and Lisbon are full of interesting things to do, see, visit, eat and learn.
Explore the old city of Lisbon and get yourself lost in the small alleys that are seeped with music and delicious food. Be sure to try the local pastry - pastel de nata and listen to traditional folklore music - fado. Lisbon is a vibrant city with many cultural and music events, you can’t possibly be bored here. If it’s nature you’re looking for - it has that too! Sintra Natural Park is only a short drive away and boasts wonderful castles and palaces. Come for a day trip to Arrabida beach and try the well-known local wines.
Volunteers can make travel arrangements further afield once in Lisbon, with the advice and guidance of our local staff.
Accommodation and WiFi
Volunteers participating on Lisbon-based projects will stay at a lively dormitory-style hostel in Estoril, just a five-minute stroll from the beach. You’ll share a room with 3 to 13 fellow volunteers of the same gender, fostering a community atmosphere. In instances where the male dormitory is fully occupied, male volunteers may be housed in mixed-gender rooms with other guests.
Each volunteer will be provided with all necessary bedding and towels, and you’ll have access to shared Western-style bathrooms, which are communal and not separated by gender. The hostel staff will ensure cleanliness throughout the week, though volunteers are encouraged to maintain tidiness in their own spaces. For those under 18, please be aware that a 10:00 PM curfew is implemented to ensure everyone’s safety and well-being.
Staying connected is easy as free WiFi is available within the hostel, and local cafes and restaurants nearby. Plus, to help you stay connected on the go, the local team offers a complimentary local SIM card. This can be activated to purchase mobile data for any unlocked mobile phone, ensuring you can share every moment of your adventure.
For added privacy and comfort, private double rooms are available for an extra charge of CA$564. These rooms utilize the communal bathrooms and can be booked as an add-on through your MyIVHQ account after you register for the Portugal program, subject to availability.
From this central location, volunteers can conveniently travel to their placements by public transport or on foot.
Meals
Portuguese food is delicious, and during your time in Portugal, you’ll be treated to some incredible dishes.
Most volunteers enjoy three meals a day, starting with a self-serve breakfast at the accommodation. Kickstart your day with a selection of tea, coffee, fresh bread, cheese, ham, spreads, cereal, yogurt, and fruit. Twice a week, you’ll have the chance to savor authentic Portuguese dishes.
For lunch and dinner, you’ll feast on local favorites like fish and chicken, complemented by rice, pasta, vegetables, and salad. If your placement requires you to be away from the accommodation during meal times, you’ll either dine at your placement or take a packed meal with you.
While tap water in Portugal is safe to drink, bottled water is also readily available. If you prefer bottled water, budget approximately US$10 (approximately CA$14) a week for this.
Typical volunteer meal
Typical volunteer meal
Typical volunteer meal
Typical volunteer meal
Typical volunteer meal
Volunteer house accommodation
Volunteer house accommodation
Volunteer house accommodation
Volunteer house social area
House view towards the beach
Outside patio at the house
Outside patio at the house
Dining room at the house
Dining room at the house
Dining room at the house
Dining room at the house
Kitchen at the house
Kitchen at the house
Typical bedroom - house
Typical bedroom - house
Typical bedroom upgrade - house
Typical bathroom - house
Volunteer house accommodation
Pricing
Secure your place for just US$299 (approximately CA$436), pay your Program Fee later.
Spots are limited. For a Registration Fee of just US$299 (approximately CA$436) you secure your spot and unlock all our preparation and training tools.
You don't need to worry about paying your Program Fee until you get closer to your start date.
Duration |
Program FeeDue 30 days before you start, or within 48 hours if you register inside of 30 days. Covers the cost of hosting you.
|
|---|---|
| 1 week | $1,190 Equivalent to $170/day |
| 2 weeks | $2,000 Equivalent to $143/day |
| 3 weeks | $2,810 Equivalent to $134/day |
| 4 weeks | $3,620 Equivalent to $129/day |
| 5 weeks | $4,440 Equivalent to $127/day |
| 6 weeks | $5,260 Equivalent to $125/day |
| 8 weeks | $6,900 Equivalent to $123/day |
| 10 weeks | $8,540 Equivalent to $122/day |
| 12 weeks | $10,180 Equivalent to $121/day |
- All programs attract a Registration Fee of US$299 (approximately CA$436) in addition to the Program Fee. This covers all pre-departure support services.
- A 5% international banking fee is added at point of payment.
- Recommended spending money: Volunteers on Lisbon based projects and on the Biological Park Conservation project generally find US$65 to be sufficient for basic weekly expenses. For those on the Wolf Conservation project, we recommend a weekly budget of US$150.
- Any changes or cancellations within 14 days of your start date are subject to a US$200 late change/cancellation fee.
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Airport pick-up
- SSI Scuba Diving Certification(s) and Scuba Diving Equipment
- Accommodation
- 24/7 in-country support
- In-country program orientation
- Pre-departure support from your Program Manager
- Personalized preparation tools, guides and check lists
- Access to IVHQ’s preferred insurance and flights partners
- Discounts on language lessons
- Certificate of International Volunteer Service
Learn more about what's included in your IVHQ Registration Fee and Program Fee.
- Transport to and from your placement each day
- Return to the airport when your program finishes
- Flights
- Visa (if required), travel insurance (mandatory), vaccinations, criminal background check.
- Personal spending money for snacks, laundry, public transportation, drinks and leisure activities during your free time.
Popular add-ons & experiences in Lisbon
Take your volunteer experience to the next level with these popular add-ons and experiences. Explore your options below and learn how to book them once you've been accepted onto the IVHQ Lisbon program.
Airport Drop-off
Enjoy a stress free ride from accommodation back to Lisbon airport arranged by our local team.
CA$97
Extra Night of Accommodation (private room with three meals)
Arriving early or departing a few days after your program has finished? Book your extra nights of accommodation.
From CA$156
Extra Night of Accommodation (shared room with three meals)
Arriving early or departing a few days after your program has finished? Book your extra nights of accommodation.
From CA$90
Check what's required to visit Portugal
Safety and support
Safety and support
IVHQ follows best practice and industry-leading health and safety procedures, which are regularly reviewed and optimized as part of the B Corporation recertification.
- All volunteers encouraged to complete our interactive pre-departure training.
- All local teams trained on best practice volunteer management & First Aid.
- All IVHQ programs are required to adhere to IVHQ's Risk Management Policy.
- All volunteers have access to 24/7 in-country support from our local team.
Essential country information
Essential country information
| Capital | Lisbon |
| Population | 10.46 million |
| Languages | Portuguese |
| Currency | Euro (EUR) |
| Time zone | UTC+00:00 |
Weather and climate: Lisbon has a Mediterranean climate with dry hot summers and mild winters. During winter, from December to February, temperatures are mild and vary from 8°C to 14°C (46°F to 57°F). Summer, from June to September, is dry and hot with temperatures ranging between 18°C and 29°C (64°F and 84°F). Rainfall is heaviest in December/January and driest in July/August.
Apply to check if you're eligible!
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