MARINE SCIENCE AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION
Quick Facts
Benguerra Island, Mozambique
Vilanculos Airport
Any date
2 - 8 weeks
Impact: Marine Conservation
MARINE SCIENCE AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION
This volunteer project in Mozambique offers volunteers a once-in-a-lifetime experience to explore and observe this incredible setting with world-leading scientists and environmentalists. You will step off the island having engaged in scientific research with professional scientists, learning about precious marine ecosystems in the Indian Ocean and enriched your life and resume with valuable training. Dive into a world of marine conservation, quality outreach projects, permaculture and both scuba and free diving.
Project Highlights








The Destination
The Bazaruto Archipelago National Park (BANP) is a 30-minute boat ride off the coast of southern Mozambique and is made up of five islands, including Benguerra, where the project base is located. Home to the last viable population of dugongs in the Western Indian Ocean, the BANP is also a breeding ground for migratory humpback whales, and a refuge for over 20 endangered wildlife species, six dolphin and five turtle species – plus plays host to 10 critical marine and terrestrial habitats. The archipelago is an unexplored sanctuary for wildlife and marine animals.
ACCOMMODATION
MEALS
COMMUNICATION
CLIMATE
Project Impact Areas

ECOSYSTEM MONITORING AND FUNCTION
Monitoring the ocean over time and space (time-series monitoring) helps scientists better understand intricate workings of marine ecosystems. In this theme, you will help detect and predict climate-driven changes on the biological, chemical, and physical conditions of the ocean and how these changes influence the function of the ecosystem.

SPECIES IDENTIFICATION AND HABITAT MAPPING
The conservation of critical habitats for marine life depends on identification of how different species use pelagic and benthic ecosystems. In this theme, you will help conduct open ocean, coastal, seabed and underwater surveys to study marine life hotspots and learn how organisms interact with the environment over time and space.

MIGRATORY FISH POPULATION DYNAMICS
The understanding of migratory patterns of marine life and their hotspots around Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and National Parks (NPs) is critical for conservation efforts. In this theme, you will help locate and tag pelagic animals (conventional, acoustic, satellite). Bio-samples will be collected for isotope and DNA extraction.

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
Take part in land-based projects and leave behind a lasting positive impact on the environment and the Benguerra Island community. In this theme, you will be involved with marine debris monitoring, recycling, permaculture and collaborations with the local community (e.g. environmental awareness initiatives).
Recent Reviews
I had high expectations on arrival and those have been exceeded. The team are generous with their time, their expertise, and their welcome. I experienced a broad range of activities including sampling, laboratory work and ocean observation, as well as undertaking a scuba diving course. The facilities are lovely and it is an exceptionally beautiful place to stay.
The staff and facilities are simply amazing, with the perfect location for our research trips out by boat each day. The views are incredible from the accommodation, and we loved the chance to explore the rest of the island by 4x4.
Other Activities
PADI SCUBA DIVING COURSES
PURE APNEA FREE DIVING COURSES
RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES
Apply Now

Once you have submitted your application, a Destination Specialist will be in-touch to discuss the project with you.
Project Fee Includes
- Park fees
- Serviced accommodation on Benguerra Island
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- Transport from the mainland to Benguerra Island
- Visa transport to Maxixe (if staying longer than 4 weeks)
- 3 meals a day
- 24/7 support from resident staff and management
- All lectures and training needed for you to contribute to the stations mission and goals
Project Fee Excludes
- Flights
- Visa-related costs
- Medical and travel insurance
- Optional courses (e.g. PADI Scuba Diving, Pure Apnea free diving)
- Transport to/from optional weekend leisure activities
- Mandatory contribution of US$25 that is donated to the African Impact Sustainability Fund
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