Götsch Experience 2025

3rd Regenerative Journey with
Ernst Götsch at Vale da Esteva
22–26 October

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The Importance of the 3rd Edition of the Götsch Experience Vale da Esteva

The 3rd Götsch Experience Vale da Esteva, held from 22 to 26 October 2025, reaffirmed the commitment of Harmonious Jungle – Vale da Esteva to land regeneration and local development. Based in the municipality of Castelo Branco, this private initiative demonstrates that sustainability can indeed be a driving force for rural and economic revitalisation.


Over five days, participants from various backgrounds came together around syntropic agriculture, creating a tangible impact on the local economy — from accommodation and restaurants to services and regional products.


Harmonious Jungle – Vale da Esteva also became the first company to sign a Community Commitment Protocol with the Castelo Branco Parish Council, a milestone symbolising cooperation, responsibility, and a shared vision for the future.


More than just an event, the Götsch Experience is a regenerative movement that values the land, the people, and the power of small initiatives that make a real difference.

About Ernst Götsch

Born in 1948 in Raperswilen, Switzerland, Ernst Götsch immigrated to Brazil in the early 1980s, settling on a farm in the cocoa-growing region of southern Bahia. Years earlier, Götsch had decided to abandon his research in genetic improvement at the state-owned FAP Zürich-Reckenholz (now Agroscope) after a disturbing realization:


“Wouldn’t we achieve better results if we sought cultivation methods that provided favorable conditions for the good development of plants, instead of creating genotypes that withstand the mistreatment to which we subject them?”


in Agenda Götsch


FAQ Götsch Experience Vale da Esteva 2025

Training in Syntropic Agriculture with Ernst Götsch

  • What is the Götsch Experience?

    It is a practical and intensive training program with Ernst Götsch, focused on the application of syntropic agriculture principles.

    It takes place at Vale da Esteva, an ecological regeneration project located in the Tejo International Natural Park, in Portugal.

  • When and where did the event take place??

    From October 22 to 26, 2025, at Vale da Esteva, 11 km from Castelo Branco.

    Sessions run daily from 08:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with a lunch break at 12:30 PM, and a mid-morning lunch.

  • What was the content of the training?

    The program includes:


    October 22: Presentation of the property and analysis of the 2023 agroforestry system


    October 23: Observation and replanting in the 2024 agroforestry system


    October 24: Planting of strawberry tree and olive groves in regenerated areas


    October 25: Lecture by Ernst Götsch on syntropic agriculture and regeneration


    October 26: Continuation of planting in previously prepared areas

  • Who is Ernst Götsch?

    Ernst Götsch is the creator of syntropic agriculture, internationally recognized for his regenerative and innovative approach to restoring degraded ecosystems.

    His methodology combines agricultural productivity with soil life restoration and biodiversity enhancement.

    To learn more, follow the link "Meet Ernst Götsch".

  • Who participated?

    The training is open to farmers, students, technicians, researchers, policymakers, environmental activists, and individuals committed to land regeneration. No prior experience is required.

  • How were participants selected?

    Registrations were confirmed in order of payment.


  • How to get to Vale da Esteva?

    Transportation is the responsibility of the participants.

    The organization provides logistical support and ride-sharing coordination.

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