Youth Outdoor Leadership Expedition
2026 Dates: Spring: May 3–9 Summer: August 23–29
http://www.adventureschool.pt
A Life-Changing Outdoor Learning Experience
In today’s world, young people need more than just classroom learning—they need real-world experiences that build courage, resilience, and leadership. Our unique adventure education program provides an immersive, multi-day, team-based outdoor expedition in the mountains of Southern Spain, where participants develop skills, confidence, and lifelong friendships… while having an unforgettable adventure!
Out here, every challenge is a lesson and every obstacle an opportunity to grow. With expert instruction and personalized coaching, young participants gain the knowledge to navigate the outdoors and the mindset to tackle whatever adventure comes next, both on the trail and beyond.
What Makes This Special
Learning through experience – Engaging, real-world, hands-on learning in a natural environment.
Adventure & Fun – Feel the joy and freedom of exploring nature, working hard, and making friends.
Personal growth – Develop independence, resilience, and confidence by overcoming challenges; group reflections and discussions deepen and extend the learning and sense of achievement.
Teamwork & Friendship – Build trust and collaboration skills, and form lasting friendships, through shared challenges and exciting group experiences.
Skill development – Navigation, campcraft, safety, and self-sufficiency in wilderness settings.
Deep nature connection – Extended time outdoors builds appreciation and awareness.
Screen-Free, Nature-Based – Encourages focus, presence, and connection with others.
Expert guidance – Supportive mentorship from professionals with decades of experience.
Program Details
- Duration: 7 days / 6 nights
- Location: Sierra Nevada National Park outside Granada, Spain (6 hour drive from Lagos)
- Meeting Point: Bensafrim, Lagos, Western Algarve. All transport to/from Spain included
- Dates: Spring (May) 3 -9, Summer (August) 23 – 29
- Ages: 12-16+ (some exceptions possible)
- Group Size: Up to 12 participants with 2 instructors
- Required Gear: Sleeping bag (0C) & pad (rentals available); Rucksack (50+L), hiking shoes and clothing for mountain environments. A detailed packing list will be provided.
- No Phones: This is a fully screen-free experience.
- Accommodation: 6 nights tent camping: 3 nights at a campsite; 3 nights of wild camping
Price & Scholarships
€750 — all inclusive
Sibling and Returning Camper discounts available
Need-based scholarships available, please enquire
We are committed to keeping this program accessible to local families, while ensuring safety, professionalism, and sustainable operations.
Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Travel (6 hrs) + Arrival: Group dinner and evening games at Basecamp.
Day 2: Basecamp Preparation: Skills training, teambuilding, essential outdoor education.
Days 3 – 5: Mountain Expedition: Hiking and camping; applying and extending skills; overcoming obstacles; group activities and and discussions; wilderness lessons; and more.
Day 6: Conclude Expedition + Celebration: Exit mountain in evening: return to Basecamp for showers, celebration dinner; and group reflections and debrief
Day 7: Closing + Travel (6 hrs): Organizing gear; final celebrations; breakfast; return travel.
About the Instroctors
T.J. Eisenstein — A licensed outdoor guide in Portugal, leading 6,000+ guests and dozens of youth expeditions over the past 12 years. Founder of West Coast Adventures (Lagos) and longtime facilitator of weekly outdoor education programs for Algarve students.
Maarten de Vos — Outdoor educator with 17+ years as a high school Physical Education teacher in the Netherlands. Experienced youth coach through the international leadership organization MyQuest, has led mountain and coaching trips for students around Europe and Nepal.
Together, we bring 25+ years of combined experience in wilderness leadership, youth development, and outdoor education.
Join the Adventure!
To express interest or reserve a spot:
go@adventureschool.pt
Revieuws
“I discovered how strong and resilient I really am. I never thought I could climb that mountain, but I did. I learned that you should never give up and that you can control your mind.”
–Alejo–
“I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything. It was the best experience of my life, so I will keep coming back until I am 16 years old. “Never stop these adventures – you make so many children very happy and help us overcome our fears.”
“On behalf of myself and my whole family, I just want to thank you because you brought back a son who talked non-stop about his adventure, all his feelings, and everything he learned each day. Thank you very much for everything, from the bottom of our hearts.
Nicolás
-Miryam mother Nicolás-
“I was surprised that nobody gave up and that everyone helped each other when it got hard. And the views, the laughs we shared, and the feeling of accomplishing something together will stay with me forever.”
–Jack–
“I learned that I can build trust with people I didn’t know before. And sleeping under the stars in the mountains was something I will never forget.”
–Tawanda–
“It was much harder than I expected, but also much more fun than I imagined. The people made this experience special. Everyone was kind, supportive, and caring.”
–Lola–
“I learned that together we can build so much strength, even with people we didn’t know before. When I open up, I can truly be myself.”
–Fira–
“Reaching the top of the mountain together and seeing that beautiful view was unforgettable. I learned to never give up, even when things get hard.”
–Ronja–
“I learned that I can handle more than I ever thought. The views were incredible, and I will never forget them.”
–Mana–
“It was hard, challenging, and fun at the same time. If I were in charge, I wouldn’t change a thing.”
–Aron–
“I learned that hiking is not just about walking, but about setting goals and keeping going. The stories, and laughing together made it special. I learned to stay calm and support others.”
–Frank–
“Sleeping in a tent for the first time and hiking through the snow were experiences I will always remember. Crossing the river and cooking together were amazing. I learned to work together and never give up.”
–Owl–
“I learned that even though I am small, I can walk a lot. The waterfall near the lake and being together was very special. It was really fun and exciting. I learned about teamwork, survival skills, and a lot about myself.”
–Muze–
