Eco Tourism
Volunteering

VOLUNTEER IN BRAZIL AT A PERMACULTURE FARM

Category: Permaculture

  • A New Path to Lasting Impact: Strengthening Small Regenerative Organizations

    A New Path to Lasting Impact: Strengthening Small Regenerative Organizations

    Why a New Path Is Urgently Needed

    In today’s increasingly self-centered and fragmented world, regenerative organizations offer a powerful response to the climate crisis, rural youth exodus, and growing social inequality. Despite macroeconomic improvements, many young adults in urban areas still face high unemployment and informal jobs, with few real opportunities for personal and professional growth.

    A urbanização do Brasil e a relação com a densidade demográfica

     

    According to the Conexão Escola portal, Brazil’s urbanization process is closely tied to population density and has led to a significant rural exodus. From 2010 to 2022, Brazil’s rural population declined from 15.6% to 12.6%, while the urban population rose from 84.4% to 87.4%. This trend illustrates not only a territorial shift, but also the forced displacement of rural communities due to lack of opportunities, highlighting the urgent need to strengthen regenerative organizations in rural areas.

     

    This is where Eco Caminhos and the Ecolibrium Association step in. Based in Nova Friburgo, Brazil, they are pioneering a model that harmoniously integrates ecological, social, and commercial dimensions—proving that it is possible to regenerate the land while also empowering people and building financially sustainable systems.

    (more…)

  • Coffee Cultivation for Forest Restoration

    Coffee Cultivation for Forest Restoration

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    At Eco Caminhos, our coffee will offer more than a morning pick me up; but serve as a testament to agroforestry, an agricultural technique which combines reforestation with crop production. Guided by the principles of syntropic agriculture developed by Ernst Götsch, we are cultivating shade-grown specialty coffee that thrives in harmony with the surrounding ecosystem. Nestled in Brazil’s Mata Atlântica mountains, we aim to support local family farmers and exemplify how sustainable agriculture can drive economic growth while preserving nature.

    Specialty Coffee: Why the Demand—and Price—Are on the Rise

    Specialty coffee, known for its superior quality and unique flavor profiles, has gained global popularity in recent years. Market trends indicate that the price of specialty coffee is likely to increase, driven by both growing demand and the impacts of climate change on conventional methods of coffee production. Factors like limited availability of suitable growing conditions and rising production costs are putting pressure on prices. At Eco Caminhos, our agroforestry system mitigates these challenges by providing a resilient environment where our coffee can flourish under the canopy of native trees.¹ 

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    The Advantages of Our Agroforestry System for Coffee Cultivation

    Our approach to coffee cultivation is designed to restore the local ecosystem while minimizing resource use. We use 250 species of native trees from the Mata Atlântica, which play a vital role in restoring the region’s flora and fauna. Fertilization is required only once, and irrigation is needed only for the first three years after planting. Beyond that, irrigation stops as the deep-rooted trees naturally enhance water retention, creating a self-sustaining system. Fertilization is maintained through pruning, enriching the soil with organic matter. This method eliminates the need for agrotoxins and avoids annual plowing, as the permanent agroforestry system preserves soil structure and biodiversity. While the initial investment is higher, this approach becomes more workable and cost-effective over time, making it ideal for regions facing water scarcity and soil degradation. Additionally, it contributes to the regeneration of native ecosystems, promoting biodiversity and improving resilience to climate variability.[/swmsc_text_block][/swmsc_simple_section][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”25318″ img_size=”large” css=””][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][gap size=”30px” id=”” class=”” style=””][swmsc_simple_section id=”” class=”” style=””][swmsc_text_block id=”” class=”” style=””]

    Supporting Local Farmers Through Sustainable Agroforestry

    With future plans to expand our model, we aim to support local family farmers in adopting the model of agroforestry that we developed. These small farms are essential to Brazil’s agricultural landscape, and by integrating them into our model, we can help them transition to sustainable practices that counteract the heavy pollution affecting the region. 

    Not only does this movement have potential to transform agriculture in the region, but also plays a role in reforestation of the Atlantic Forest, where we are located, which suffered extensive environmental degradation from industrial agriculture and pollution.Our agroforestry practices serve as a buffer zone between natural reserves and agricultural landscapes. By increasing agroforestry systems, we create a protective layer that distances harmful agricultural practices from the natural reserves of the Mata Atlântica, helping to preserve biodiversity and prevent ecosystem degradation.

    In addition to environmental benefits, our program fosters a profound transformation for farmers who adopt agroforestry practices. These farmers reconnect with their land and nature, gaining independence from major fertilizer and agrochemical suppliers. By producing their own coffee brands and selling directly to end consumers, they reclaim power as producers and escape the constraints of traditional supply chains. This empowerment not only fosters economic resilience but also strengthens the bond between farmers, their land, and their communities.

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    Specialty Coffee in Agroforestry: A Resilient, High-Quality Product

    Shade-grown specialty coffee is known for its distinct taste, which develops under the protective canopy of trees. Our coffee plants benefit from this natural shade, which reduces temperature fluctuations and prolongs the maturation process, enhancing the beans’ complex flavors. Furthermore, our agroforestry system reduces the need for chemical inputs, as the diverse vegetation naturally manages pests and diseases, contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable coffee product.[/swmsc_text_block][/swmsc_simple_section][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][gap size=”30px” id=”” class=”” style=””][vc_single_image image=”23783″ img_size=”large” css=””][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1731520578623{margin-right: 20px !important;margin-left: 20px !important;}”][vc_column width=”1/2″][gap size=”30px” id=”” class=”” style=””][gap size=”30px” id=”” class=”” style=””][gap size=”30px” id=”” class=”” style=””][swmsc_simple_section id=”” class=”” style=””][vc_single_image image=”23115″ img_size=”large” css=””][/swmsc_simple_section][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][gap size=”30px” id=”” class=”” style=””][swmsc_text_block id=”” class=”” style=””]

    Learning and Community Engagement Over a Cup of Coffee

    The Ecolibrium Space, our educational center which is currently under construction, will feature a farm to table restaurant where you can order up a cup of our brew, but that’s not all; at the Ecolibrium Space we will be offering workshops and hands-on experiences in agroforestry, permaculture, and natural building. We aim to share knowledge with a diverse audience and empower them to implement sustainable practices in their own communities. Our programs are designed to foster a deep connection with nature while promoting regional sustainability, giving participants the skills to create positive environmental impacts wherever they go.

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    The Future of Specialty Coffee and Agroforestry at Eco Caminhos

    With increasing demand and prices for specialty coffee on the horizon, our agroforestry system offers a sustainable and economically viable solution. By providing support to local farmers in adopting our business model, we are not only enhancing their economic resilience but also contributing to the restoration of the Atlantic Forest. As we continue to expand, we invite you to join us on this journey. Whether you’re here for a cup of coffee, interested in our volunteer program, or exploring our tourism offerings, you’ll find opportunities for both theoretical and hands-on learning experiences. Our programs include exciting outdoor activities that immerse you in the beautiful mountains. To learn more about how you can get involved or visit, please explore our website.

    Join us at Eco Caminhos and be part of a growing movement toward sustainable agriculture that supports local economies and preserves the environment.[/swmsc_text_block][/swmsc_simple_section][vc_single_image image=”26679″ img_size=”1000X500″ alignment=”center” css=””][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][swmsc_simple_section id=”” class=”” style=””][gap size=”30px” id=”” class=”” style=””][swmsc_text_block id=”” class=”” style=””]

    Sources

    Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Environmental Science. “Sustainable Coffee Production.” Link.[/swmsc_text_block][/swmsc_simple_section][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • Visiting the Eco Lodge: ecological tourism at Eco Caminhos

    Visiting the Eco Lodge: ecological tourism at Eco Caminhos

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    If you are looking for a getaway that offers direct contact with nature and ecological practices, without sacrificing comfort and beauty, the eco lodge may be the ideal option. This space is not just a tranquil refuge built with natural materials but also an opportunity to explore the mountainous region of Rio de Janeiro and the agroforestry project of the farm where it is located. Let’s explore what makes the Eco Lodge so special and why this could be your next adventure!

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    What is the Eco Lodge?

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    The concept of Eco Lodge goes beyond a simple lodging. It is a space built with the purpose of integrating tourism with responsibility. From its conception, everything has been designed to provide a comfortable experience for users through low environmental impact strategies and much contact with nature.

    When you stay at the Eco Lodge, you will have the opportunity to experience an agroforestry farm in the interior of Rio de Janeiro, where the focus is on soil recovery through the pillars of permaculture. In addition to being a place for rest, it is also a space for learning and reconnection.

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    Location and Landscape

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    Located on Eco Caminhos farm in the Nova Friburgo, Rio de Janeiro, the environment offers a unique opportunity for guests to disconnect from the frantic pace of urban life and reconnect with rural life integrated with nature. The Eco Lodge is surrounded by many mountains, trails, and is close to rivers and waterfalls. In the midst of the Atlantic Forest, in a region rich in biodiversity, known for its many trails, peaks for hiking, and culinary references, as well as the cultivation of vegetables, strawberries, and flowers.

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    Unique Experience

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    Construction with Natural Materials

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    The Eco Lodge, like the other constructions on the farm, is built using local materials and natural building techniques, such as cob (a mixture of earth, sand, water, and straw), green roofs, recycled wood, bamboo strips, and natural stones. The chosen materials ensure thermal comfort during the day and night and allow for significant natural light capture, reducing energy and artificial cooling needs. Additionally, the design has been carefully planned to integrate with the natural environment and bring it inside.

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    Energy and Waste Management

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    The house’s energy and water heating are sourced from renewable sources, such as solar panels; the green roof and cob walls ensure thermal comfort without the need for artificial climate control. We have waste management that includes recycling and composting, and the treatment system for wastewater, both black and gray, is done through an evapotranspiration basin with banana plants.

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    Organic Foods

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    Additionally, upon request, we promote access to ingredients grown on our own farm and in the region, ensuring fresh and nutritious meals that respect the natural cycle of the land.

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    Connection with Nature

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    We offer suggestions to our guests for various outdoor activities in the surroundings. Among the options are trails through the most well-known mountains and visits to nearby waterfalls.

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    Environmental Education

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    In addition to enjoying the landscape, guests have the chance to learn more about permaculture. We can offer workshops and classes on topics such as natural building and agroforestry, where visitors can learn ecological practices that can be incorporated into their daily lives.

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    Community Participation

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    Another differential is the opportunity to participate in projects that involve the local community, learning more about the traditions, culture, and gastronomy of the region.

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    Guest Testimonials

    [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][gap size=”30px” id=”” class=”” style=””][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][swmsc_image_gallery border_radius=”5px” border_width=”0″ border_color=”#e6e6e6″ image_margin=”20px” image_size=”full” columns=”1″ grid_type=”masonry” image_text=”none” hover_icon_color=”#ffffff” hover_icon_bg_color=”#f8b54e” title_text_size=”20px” title_text_color=”#555555″ caption_text_size=”16px” caption_text_color=”#777777″ caption_border=”off” id=”” class=”” style=”” image_ids=”26280″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][gap size=”30px” id=”” class=”” style=””][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=””]Nothing is better than hearing from those who have already lived the experience. Check out some testimonials from Airbnb guests who stayed at our Eco Lodge:

    “The stay was great. The place is even more beautiful than the presentation photos. The house is very well equipped, and it was possible to cook for eight people with the provided utensils. The temperature inside the house is always very pleasant, both on sunny days and colder nights. The beds are comfortable, and the bathrooms were very clean. Maria Ines welcomed us very well and was always willing to help us. We recommend the accommodation.” – Kamilla

    “Awesome place, very well-equipped house, with very spacious areas, excellent furniture, and an incredible view of the valley and mountains. Upon arriving at the location, we were warmly received by Mrs. María Inês, who provided us with all the details and operation of the house. Speaking more about the house, it is an attraction in itself, a sustainable, comfortable construction, different, and located within a farm. It is definitely worth staying in this house and at this location. There are many attractions in the region, the farm itself offers some, and in the surroundings, you can find waterfalls, trails, and the city of Nova Friburgo. A place to return to.” – Luis

    “What an amazing moment we had! The house is so beautifully decorated, the view is breathtaking, and it will be just you and nature around. For us city folks, it was everything we needed. Birds visiting us on the porch, the distant sound of cows in the meadow, the calming sound of nature. And at night, not even that: total silence without noise! What a remarkable experience in itself! Oh, and don’t forget to buy some fresh vegetables from the host: carrots, lettuce, corn – homemade goodness! Fresh milk that tastes like what I think milk tasted like 50 years ago, from happy cows grazing on fresh green grass. The lovely host María Ines was also very helpful and made us feel very welcome. Thank you!” – Johannes

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    Why Visit the Eco Lodge?

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    Visiting the Eco Lodge is much more than just a stay; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in a sustainable lifestyle, learn from nature, and support responsible tourism initiatives, contributing to the continuation of an agroforestry project. If you’re looking for a purposeful trip and want to be part of a positive change in the world, consider making your next adventure at EcoCaminhos!

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    Ready to Explore?

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    If you’re interested in experiencing this unique experience, contact us to book your stay. Come with us to relax in a welcoming environment and leave with new learnings and a new way of seeing the relationship with nature.

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  • ECOLIBRIUM: Bioconstructing the Future

    ECOLIBRIUM: Bioconstructing the Future

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    The Ecolibrium Space

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    The Ecolibrium Association is a non-profit organization that aims to promote a resilient ecosystem, establishing conscious relationships between agriculture, community, and nature, using permaculture as a tool and values of respect, equality, and collaboration.

    With this, we bring to life this space also called Ecolibrium, which will expand the work already developed by Eco Caminhos, sharing our knowledge of agroforestry and natural building with even more people. Through a broader and more inclusive educational program, we will empower our audience with theoretical knowledge in this space and continue to put skills into practice on our farm. Additionally, we will also seek financial autonomy through ecotourism, organizing courses and events, and selling the products we cultivate.

     

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    The Architectural Project

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    The architectural project, developed by Mexican architect Pedro Pizarro Villalobos, was designed to host volunteers, students, and tourists, and to connect institutions, farmers, and local builders.

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    The building is a large circle and will include collective accommodations, among them dormitories and suites, kitchen, laundry, and bathrooms, as well as a workshop and a multifunctional area for activities, administrative office, and a restaurant with a view of the valley open to the general public, all connected by a large central courtyard.

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    Construction Phases and Strategies

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    The project is divided into three phases, and we are currently in the first. It is in this phase that most of the collective use accommodations are taking shape, such as the kitchen, laundry, two bathrooms, five rooms, and two of the eight suites.

    The main technique used here, as in all our constructions, is cob, also known as adobe, in this case, in solid walls over 40 cm thick, ensuring thermal and acoustic comfort and fulfilling its structural function to support the green roof. As the base of this wall, we use stones, one part below the ground for the foundation, along with a thick layer of gravel and piping for drainage in this area, and another part above, serving to protect the walls from ground moisture and rain since the eaves are not very extensive.

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    Taking advantage of the steep slope of the land, the second phase will be a floor below phases one and three, which we consider the ground floor. For this, a retaining wall will need to be built, along with a structure with pillars that will support the third phase. In this case, the walls will be only partitions, which can be thinner and consequently require less material, speeding up the process. Thus, we opted for the so-called wattle and daub technique, using a lattice of wood and bamboo, later covered with cob.

    In the second stage, the executive and educational sector predominates, where the administrative office, workshop, and multifunctional space will be located.

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    The third phase will be built on top of the second phase, completing the ground floor circle and creating a large internal courtyard. At the front of the building, a wooden deck extends towards the valley. This phase will include the entire structure of the restaurant, which is still under development, and the other suites.

    In this case, the chosen technique was also rammed earth, due to its lighter weight, which demands less from the underlying structure. For the coverage of the entire set, a green roof was planned, as it not only uses natural raw materials, prevents heat transfer to the surroundings, keeps the internal temperature pleasant, but also looks aesthetically amazing and maintains the characteristic of the buildings on the farm.

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    First Phase – Construction Stages

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    Executed Stages:

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    1.FOUNDATION: consisting of a high layer of gravel approximately 1 meter thick, with a drainage system and covered by large stones bonded with concrete;

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    2. WALLS – BASE: a stone wall approximately 40cm wide and 60cm high, elevating the earth wall from the ground and where wooden posts were fixed to support the walls; in this stage, we also left the hydraulic connections;

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    3. WALLS – COB: we obtained cob through a mixture of earth, sand, grass, and water, and it is essentially the core of the construction. We lay layers of 40cm width and structure the walls. For each layer of approximately 30cm height, we place bamboo slats across the posts to ensure more resistance to possible movements. At this stage, we also install conduits for electrical wiring;

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    4. LINTELS – for the door and window openings, we used planks from railway sleepers, which are repurposed and very durable. These will later be used to install the frames and also act as lintels. After installing them, we continue to raise the walls;

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    Stage in progress:

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    5. WOODEN “RING”: when we reach a wall height of 2.50 meters, we place wooden beams over them, fitting them in and creating a kind of belt around the structure. After this, we continue with cob in a diagonal to create the roof slope;

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    Next Stages:

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    6. BEAMS AND PURLINS: we will place wooden beams perpendicularly to the walls to support the roof, and over them, the purlins;

    7. CEILING COVERING: the purlins will receive wooden boards that make up the ceiling and will later receive the green roof;

    8. GREEN ROOF: consists of a waterproofing system, a drainage system, and a substrate where plant species will be planted. We decided to cover this part of the work before finishing the veranda side because we are entering the rainy season, and with the covering, we can continue working internally;

    9. VERANDA: we will execute the foundation for the columns, which will be pieces of railway sleepers measuring 16x24cm and will have the same roofing structure as the building;

    10. SUBFLOOR AND FLOOR: the ground will receive a layer of expanded clay for thermal insulation, a concrete layer, and a stone floor covering, which will be easy to maintain and resistant to the high traffic the location will receive;

    11. FINISHES: at this stage, the walls will be covered with plaster and stucco, using a mixture of clay, sand, ground straw, and lime for internal use, and a mixture of clay, sand, fresh manure, and linseed oil for external use. Electrical, hydraulic installations, and frames will also be completed.

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    The stages were defined in this sequence due to the rainy season, which usually begins at the end of September. Therefore, we are speeding up to cover what has been done so far, postponing the veranda construction and thus enabling the completion of the final finishes under the covering.

    We started the work in February 2024, thanks to donations from partners and to our collaborators, apprentices, and temporary volunteers, who literally got their hands dirty, guided and supervised by builder Jorge Dutra and director Bart Bijen. We are now focusing our efforts on completing this first phase and raising funds for the next phases.

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    Collaborators:

    [/vc_column_text][gap size=”30px” id=”” class=”” style=””][vc_column_text css=””]Architectural Project: Pedro Pizarro Villalobos
    Construction Manager: Arthur Antony
    Construction Master: Jorge Dutra
    Construction Team: Rhana Parajara, Wallace Ferreira and Pedro Lindemann
    Project Detailing and Construction Team: Alieska Zancanaro[/vc_column_text][gap size=”30px” id=”” class=”” style=””][vc_column_text css=””]

    Investor Partners:

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    & individual donors[/vc_column_text][gap size=”30px” id=”” class=”” style=””][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][gap size=”30px” id=”” class=”” style=””][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • Digital Nomads Redefine Remote Work on Eco Farms

    Digital Nomads Redefine Remote Work on Eco Farms

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    For centuries, the promise of work and prosperity has drawn people from rural areas to bustling cities, but for many young professionals, the pendulum is swinging in the opposite direction. As a large portion of the job market moves online, many digital nomads are leaving urban life behind in favor of a slower, more sustainable existence in rural settings. Through programs like Nomad Farm, remote workers are exploring rural destinations around the world and learning about self-sufficiency and sustainable living on permaculture farms.

    Sustainability

    sustainability_education_farmPermaculture is a system that combines traditional agricultural practices with scientific knowledge to create sustainable farming systems that mimic natural processes. A key feature of permaculture farming is the pursuit of sustainable living, where we work in harmony with nature. Through permaculture, people grow their own food, reduce waste, build sustainable homes using natural building techniques, manage water systems, and engage in other practices. Digital nomads working on a permaculture farm can gain valuable insights into ecological practices and contribute to a more sustainable way of life.

     

    Well-being
    eco caminhos agriculture permaculture agroforestry organic bioconstruction

    Another appeal of permaculture is that it allows for a connection with nature. Research indicates that being immersed in nature significantly reduces stress, as farm life encourages habits that benefit physical and mental health in various ways. Engaging in outdoor tasks like hiking, cycling, trekking, and visiting waterfalls promotes a healthier lifestyle. In an era of mass-produced food, fresh farm produce stands out as a way to enhance nutrition and overall well-being. For digital nomads, living on a farm creates a routine conducive to improved mental health and enhanced physical fitness.

     

    Community

    One of the most rewarding aspects of permaculture farming is the community. Unlike the anonymity often found in cities, these small eco-farms offer a close-knit and welcoming environment. From shared meals and collaborative work on the farm to local festivals and gatherings, there are abundant opportunities to connect and build meaningful relationships. Becoming integrated into this community not only enriches the living experience but also fosters a sense of belonging and support.

     

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    Intercultural exchange

    Many permaculture farms are open to visitors from various places. Living on a farm offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the host country’s culture and interact with people from around the world. This experience includes engaging in the agricultural, building, and culinary traditions of the region. Living alongside people from other countries allows for the exchange and blending of ideas, arts, music, and meals from diverse cultures. The richness of this environment provides personal and professional growth, enabling digital nomads to gain new perspectives and skills that go beyond their work.

     

    Experience Nomad Farm Life at Eco Caminhos!

     We are excited to announce a special partnership between Nomad Farm and Eco Caminhos, from November 17 to December 15. This collaboration allows digital nomads to work remotely at Eco Caminhos through our partnership with Nomad Farm. At Eco Caminhos, Nomad Farmers will have the opportunity to work in a picturesque setting, interact with a vibrant international community, and contribute to environmental sustainability through hands-on practices in agroforestry and natural building. For more information about this coworking and coliving experience, visit the Nomad Farm website.

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    What’s Included in the Retreat?

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    Workshops

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    ♻️ Permaculture Presentation workshop

    🪵 Bioconstruction Presentation and workshop

    🌱 Future Ecolibrium project Presentation

    🥭 Agroforestry workshop

    🧀 Making cheese workshop

    🧼 Making Soap workshop

    🐄 Milking cows workshop

    👩‍🌾 3 Hands on farm days per week (optional)

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    Comodidades

    🍳 Breakfast on weekdays*

    🥘 Lunch on weekdays*

    ☕ Daily coffee

    💻 Coworking space & wifi

    🍴 Access to shared kitchen

    🧺 Access to laundry facility

    🫧 Weekly room & house cleaning

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    Recreation

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    ⛰️ 4 guided hikes in the mountains

    👙 1 Visit to Waterfall

    💌 Daily community gatherings & activities

    🚴 Access to mountain bikes

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