Humpback Whale Conservation in Mozambique

VOLUNTEER

CONSERVATION

Support Marine Protection Efforts that Save Sea Animals

Volunteer in one of the most beautiful coastal locations in Africa, getting involved in industry-leading, globally-recognised humpback whale research. As a 2-to-4 week long whale conservation volunteer you’ll learn all about these majestic creatures, including their behaviours, distribution, abundance and conservation methods used to project them.

You will learn research techniques and partake in frequent excursions out to sea, transforming scientific data into real solutions, in an effort to protect this species and preserve their valuable winter breeding ground. Humpback whales visit the area from the beginning of July to the end of September by the thousands to mate, give birth to their calves and lactate them until they are strong enough to migrate back to the rich waters of Antarctica where they feed during the summer.

Project highlights

  • Research Expeditions

Collect data on whale behaviour, movement patterns and more.

  • Photographic Identification

Learn to capture ID shots of migrating humpback whales and their calves.

  • Marine Diversity

Spot whale sharks, manta rays, dolphins and a diversity of other marine life.

  • Community Engagement

Create and present educational classes on marine biology, ecology and conservation.

  • Live on the Beach

Live amongst white sand dunes, overlooking crystal clear waters.

Inhambane, Mozambique
Available: Jun-Sep
Duration:
2 Weeks+
Price From €2,710
This cost covers your accommodation, meals, project fees, transfers, 24/7 support and in-country orientation.

Project impact areas

Here’s how you will create significant impact through the Humpback Whale Conservation project in Mozambique.

CONSERVATION

Whale Research

Participate in thrilling expeditions out to sea to collect data on humpback whales, particularly their behaviour, movement patterns, habitat use, and pod structures. You will learn all the research techniques that are used to study humpback whales, from photo-identification and acoustic recordings of their beautiful songs, to taking biopsies to study their diet and origin. After every trip out to sea collecting data, you will process the information gathered and interpret it with the whale research team.

U.N. Sustainable Development Goals

1. Life on Land

2. Life Below Water

3. Climate Action

4. Responsible Consumption & Production

CONSERVATION

Real Solutions

You will gain insight into what it really means to do research with megafauna in the field, and what can be achieved with this research to reach whale conservation goals. You will take part in every aspect of the humpback whale research and will gain knowledge about how we transform this scientific data into real protection efforts. Our current goal is to declare the area a World Whale Heritage Site! You will be an integral part of our young research team and will contribute to this success as a whale conservation volunteer in Mozambique.

U.N. Sustainable Development Goals

1. Life on Land

2. Life Below Water

3. Climate Action

4. Responsible Consumption & Production

CONSERVATION

Scientific Talks

Attend talks on whale biology, anatomy, physiology, pathology, acoustics, research, and conservation. Our research team has a wealth of specialist marine knowledge and researchers also give regular talks about specific wildlife, such as sharks or manta rays. These will be relevant to anything you’ve seen or learnt about during your week of volunteering and will be tailored to the particular interests of volunteers.

U.N. Sustainable Development Goals

1. Life on Land

2. Life Below Water

3. Climate Action

4. Responsible Consumption & Production

Accommodation & Meals

Barra Beach, Mozambique

Your home away from home on Barra Beach is a relaxed lodge base between the ocean and the Inhambane estuary – comfortable, social, and perfectly placed for early boat days.

Accommodation is in cosy bungalows with same-sex shared rooms (typically 2-3 per room) and either en-suite or shared bathrooms, with mosquito nets and fans or air conditioning. The lodge has a pool and social spaces, plus Wi-Fi in the restaurant and project office for staying connected. Three cooked meals a day are provided, with a mix of Mozambican and familiar favourites, and packed lunches may be used on busier days. Let us know about dietary requirements in advance so we can plan accordingly.

You’ll be based on Mozambique’s Inhambane coastline, where Barra Beach and nearby Tofo sit between the warm Indian Ocean and the calm waters of the estuary. This stretch of coast is one of the country’s richest marine hotspots, with reef systems, seasonal whale migrations, and regular sightings of dolphins, manta rays, and whale sharks. With big skies, long beaches, and a laid-back surf-town energy, it’s the kind of place where ocean life is always close – and every day feels connected to the sea.

Life at the Base

Barra Beach, Mozambique

Barra Beach sits on Mozambique’s Inhambane coastline, around 30 km from Inhambane city, with easy access to both the estuary and the open ocean. It’s a tropical, laid-back setting with bright starry nights, a strong sense of local community, and plenty to explore on your days off – from pristine beaches to Tofo’s cafés, surf vibe, and sunset spots.

Your work is boat-based, using a dedicated research vessel that gives the team 360° viewing for spotting wildlife and space for practical field methods and data collection. Volunteers have been part of the programme from the start, supporting ongoing marine research that contributes to real-world conservation work in the region.

Local SIM cards can be bought for unlocked phones, and you’ll also be able to connect to Wi-Fi at base for staying in touch between activities.

The closest airport is Inhambane Airport (INH), around a 45-minute drive from base. Many volunteers travel via Johannesburg, connecting onward via Maputo before flying to Inhambane, and we’ll arrange your transfer and meet you on arrival.

Flights to Inhambane do not operate every day, so an overnight stopover can sometimes be necessary. If needed, the team will meet you at Inhambane Airport or arrange a trusted taxi transfer for you. There are also overland options including local buses and chapas, or a private shuttle from Johannesburg that runs twice weekly and should be booked in advance.

You’ll be supported by a specialist marine team, working alongside marine biologists and conservation staff who guide you through the week’s aims, methods, and best practice. There are also learning opportunities built into the programme, including occasional lectures led by resident scientists.

From day one, you’ll receive an introduction and orientation so you understand the research focus, your role, and how your contribution fits into the bigger picture. The team is there to help you build confidence in the field and get the most from your time on the water.

Safety is built into how the programme runs, from clear briefings and boat protocols to practical guidance around ocean conditions and wildlife encounters. If you’re prone to seasickness, bring suitable medication, and always follow staff instruction on the water.

Mozambique is a malaria area, so bring effective repellent and speak to a medical professional before travel about prevention. If you are arriving from a yellow fever risk country, you may need proof of vaccination, and if you plan to dive, check that any medication you take is suitable for scuba diving.

Project Destination

Barra Beach sits on Mozambique’s Inhambane coastline, around 30 km from Inhambane city, with easy access to both the estuary and the open ocean. It’s a tropical, laid-back setting with bright starry nights, a strong sense of local community, and plenty to explore on your days off – from pristine beaches to Tofo’s cafés, surf vibe, and sunset spots.

Your work is boat-based, using a dedicated research vessel that gives the team 360° viewing for spotting wildlife and space for practical field methods and data collection. Volunteers have been part of the programme from the start, supporting ongoing marine research that contributes to real-world conservation work in the region.

Communication

Local SIM cards can be bought for unlocked phones, and you’ll also be able to connect to Wi-Fi at base for staying in touch between activities.

Flights & Arrivals

The closest airport is Inhambane Airport (INH), around a 45-minute drive from base. Many volunteers travel via Johannesburg, connecting onward via Maputo before flying to Inhambane, and we’ll arrange your transfer and meet you on arrival.

Flights to Inhambane do not operate every day, so an overnight stopover can sometimes be necessary. If needed, the team will meet you at Inhambane Airport or arrange a trusted taxi transfer for you. There are also overland options including local buses and chapas, or a private shuttle from Johannesburg that runs twice weekly and should be booked in advance.

Staff

You’ll be supported by a specialist marine team, working alongside marine biologists and conservation staff who guide you through the week’s aims, methods, and best practice. There are also learning opportunities built into the programme, including occasional lectures led by resident scientists.

From day one, you’ll receive an introduction and orientation so you understand the research focus, your role, and how your contribution fits into the bigger picture. The team is there to help you build confidence in the field and get the most from your time on the water.

Safety

Safety is built into how the programme runs, from clear briefings and boat protocols to practical guidance around ocean conditions and wildlife encounters. If you’re prone to seasickness, bring suitable medication, and always follow staff instruction on the water.

Mozambique is a malaria area, so bring effective repellent and speak to a medical professional before travel about prevention. If you are arriving from a yellow fever risk country, you may need proof of vaccination, and if you plan to dive, check that any medication you take is suitable for scuba diving.

...the joy of making a real impact...

“I volunteered at this project for 2 months and had an amazing time. I saw humpback whales close up, including calves, and had hands on experience with data collection and photo identification. I learned so much. In addition to helping with research, the organisers arranged other great activities for me, including snorkelling in the estuary where I saw seahorses and tons of starfish, a tour of the local community in the Inhambane area, kayaking in the mangroves, and surfing lessons. I also had the opportunity to swim with whale sharks and dolphins while I was there. Staff was great – very nice people, great sense of humor. I met some great people there too. It was an experience I will never forget.”

Lauren Swift, United States

Project gallery

A scenic ocean view from a sandy dune under a clear blue sky.
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REAL SOLUTIONS
REAL SOLUTIONS
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RESEARCH EXPEDITION
RESEARCH EXPEDITION
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LIVE ON THE BEACH
LIVE ON THE BEACH
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
CLIMATE
CLIMATE
A sunny beach scene featuring umbrellas.
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whales swimming(video holding)
whales swimming(video holding)
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Pricing

Rates

USDGBPEURAUD
DurationProgram Fee
2 weeks$2,945 ($1,473 per week)
3 weeks$3,645 ($1,215 per week)
4 weeks$4,345 ($1,087 per week)
5 weeks$5,045 ($1,009 per week)
6 weeks$5,745 ($958 per week)
8 weeks$7,145 ($894 per week)
2 weeks£2,355 (£1,178 per week)
3 weeks£2,915 (£972 per week)
4 weeks£3,475 (£869 per week)
5 weeks£4,035 (£807 per week)
6 weeks£4,595 (£766 per week)
8 weeks£5,715 (£715 per week)
2 weeks€2,710 (€1,355 per week)
3 weeks€3,355 (€1,119 per week)
4 weeks€4,000 (€1,000 per week)
5 weeks€4,645 (€929 per week)
6 weeks€5,285 (€881 per week)
8 weeks€6,575 (€822 per week)
2 weeks$4,360 ($2,180 per week)
3 weeks$5,395 ($1,799 per week)
4 weeks$6,430 ($1,608 per week)
5 weeks$7,470 ($1,494 per week)
6 weeks$8,505 ($1,418 per week)
8 weeks$10,575 ($1,322 per week)
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Inclusions

  • Shared house style accommodation on beachfront
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner (Mon - Sat)
  • Laundry service
  • Airport transfers on arrival and departure
  • All project transport, equipment and resources
  • Support from experienced local and international staff
  • Full orientation for responsible project contribution

Exclusions

  • Flights
  • Visas
  • Insurance
  • Weekend tours
  • Personal expenses

Requirements

  • The minimum age to join this project is 18 years old
  • The minimum stay for this project is 2 weeks
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Project faqs

Do I need to be a certified scuba diver to participate?

You are not required to be a certified scuba diver to join this project. However, if you wish to complete your scuba certification whilst in Mozambique, please let our Destination Team know so you can receive the correct rate.

How many species of whales exist?

There are approximately 12 different species of whales with various subspecies. Whales are also divided into two main categories – baleen whales and toothed whales. Baleen whales include species like grey whales, pygmy right whales, right whales, and rorquals, which include blue whales, fin whales, and humpback whales. Toothed whales include species like beaked whales, dolphins, killer whales, pilot whales, porpoises, sperm whales, and white whales. Our whale conservation volunteer projects are focused primarily on the protection of humpback whales.

How can I help save humpback whales?

By participating in this whale volunteer program, you will gain experience working with a team of volunteers, marine biologists and other scientists where you can help conduct research, assist in the development of marine conservation, and study and protect humpback whales. If you are unable to become a whale conservation volunteer, you can still help save and protect whales by supporting conservation programs in your local community, including beach and ocean clean ups, marine research projects, and other efforts.

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Our favourite weekend activities in Mozambique

Make the most of your free time in Mozambique – from laid-back Tofo beach days and ocean adventures to yoga sessions, nightlife, and weekends exploring further afield.

Tofo Beach

Head to the world-famous surfer’s paradise known for its consistent waves and laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re a complete novice or a seasoned surfer looking to hone your skills, Tofo Beach offers the perfect setting for an unforgettable surfing experience whilst in Mozambique.

Ponta Malongane

Hike to the top of Ponta Malongane, a dramatic headland offering panoramic views of the unspoiled coastline. As you ascend the rugged terrain, keep an eye out for diverse birdlife and unique coastal plants. Once you reach the summit, be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of the turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and lush inland areas.

Yoga Classes

In Tofo, both Turtle Cove and Kumba Lodge offer morning yoga sessions. Open to practitioners of all levels, these classes provide a serene experience amidst a tropical paradise. Surrounded by lush palm trees, participants can find inner peace while embracing the natural beauty of their surroundings.

Nightlife

There is something happening almost every night of the week with local bars such as Tofo Tofo and Mozambeats hosting live music. Sunday nights are typically the most eventful as residents from nearby towns make their way to the beach with family and friends.

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