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CONSERVATION

Volunteer Abroad for Marine Conservation in Africa

What You'll Do

Marine Conservation Projects Across Africa

dolphin taken during a marine conservation volunteer project
MARINE CONSERVATION

Why Volunteer in Marine Conservation?

MARINE CONSERVATION

Who Can Volunteer?

marine conservation volunteers

Start Your Marine Conservation Volunteer Journey

Project FAQS

What marine species will I be helping to conserve?

The answer depends on the location of your project. Southern African coastlines are a haven for diverse marine life, and conservation efforts vary by region.

Dolphins – These creatures are the cornerstone of our marine conservation volunteer project in Zanzibar. The project aims to protect a variety of dolphin species by educating local tourist operators on how to ethically approach dolphins in their natural habitats.

Sharks – If sharks are what you are looking for, our shark conservation project in South Africa is an ideal choice. These iconic ocean predators face a range of natural and human-related challenges.

Whales – Humpback whales migrate along the East coast of Africa from May/June to September/October as they travel towards Antarctica. You may have the opportunity to see whales on many of our projects, provided the timing of your placement is right.

Whale sharks – These gentle giants are a major draw for volunteers in Mozambique. Projects often focus on monitoring populations, studying migration patterns, and promoting responsible tourism practices.

Manta rays – You may assist with identifying manta rays through photo identification, observing their behaviour, and documenting any threats to their population.

Sea turtles – Mozambique’s beaches are important nesting grounds for sea turtles. Volunteers may help protect turtle nests, monitor hatchlings, and educate local communities about turtle conservation.

Coral reefs – Learn how to monitor coral reef health, contribute to restoration projects, and educate others about the importance of these vital ecosystems.

Do I need to be a certified diver or swimmer?

While our projects require basic swimming skills, diving certifications are not mandatory. Many programmes offer training and guidance to ensure everyone feels comfortable and safe in the water. If you are keen to learn, we highly recommend starting your PADI or RAID Open Water Scuba certification.

Do I need to bring any medication?

Seasickness can affect some volunteers during their first few days, so we suggest bringing seasickness tablets or patches with you. Tablets should be taken the evening before diving or boat trips, and again in the morning before activities. Please also remember to bring a good SPF sunblock, as the African sun can be very harsh.

Proof of impact from those who lived it

The marine and dolphin conservation program in Zanzibar is overall very great and definitely recommended. The weekly schedule is very varied, you experience and learn a wide variety of things, especially about the local culture. Watching the dolphins is very interesting and gives you a closer look at the behavior of these magnificent creatures.The marine team leaders Max and Dulli are enthusiastic, have a good knowledge about everything and are very helpful.

Elin Kienzl Hinteregger, 25, ItalyDolphin & Marine Conservation Volunteering in Zanzibar

Embarking on the dolphin and marine conservation journey in Zanzibar was a heart touching adventure. Despite the dolphins being a little shy on my first week, diving into the mesmerizing depths during snorkelling, the daily boat rides along the beautiful coastline, interacting with the local community and seasoned fishermen and getting to swim with so many dolphins on my last day truly made for an unforgettable experience! The last 2 weeks are filled with memories which will stay with me forever. Hopefully I can return one day! Thanks again to everyone who helps run this wonderful project!

Katie McNutt, 22, ScotlandDolphin & Marine Conservation Volunteering, Zanzibar

I came back to Zanzibar for a week at the same time as my previous visit to see and swim with the dolphins and all my expectations were met and more. SIGN UP ASAP!

Christine Warren, 72, FranceDolphin & Marine Conservation Volunteering in Zanzibar

I loved my stay in Zanzibar! I had done another volunteering project with a different organisation in the past and it wasn’t really ethical, but this time I could see how useful I was and how big of a difference our stay was for the project. Seeing the dolphins, getting to know them, was just amazing! the locals are incredibly nice and welcoming as was the team! I will never forget my stay in Zanzibar!

Alys Fallon, 24, BelgiumDolphin & Marine Conservation Volunteering in Zanzibar