The programWith this immersive volunteer program you’ll be in the centre of the action – diving in the protected waters of Benguerra Island, collecting data on animal sightings like migratory humpback whales and making an impact through beach cleanups.
You’ll have the unique opportunity to learn about oceanography and get hands-on with marine exploration, doing everything from monitoring marine debris to mapping wildlife and identifying species.
Plus, our team of experts will guide you on survey techniques, how to present scientific data and how to operate marine sensors.
Participants on this volunteer program contribute to research in three main areas:
- Ecosystem monitoring: Learn about marine ecosystem dynamics through remote sensing and underwater measurements.
- Species identification and habitat: Survey marine life hotspots and study organism-environment interactions.
- Migratory fish population dynamics: Participate in research fishing expeditions, collecting fin-clip and tissue samples from migratory species.
- Marine debris monitoring: Work with the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park to monitor and address marine pollution.
Working in collaboration with a local partner organisation, this is an incredible opportunity to make a real difference in marine science while gaining hands-on experience.
Just a heads-up: to take part in surveys and help with research, you’ll need your Open Water diving certification. No sweat if you don’t have it yet – we offer training.
Location
Tucked away in the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park on Benguerra Island, this spot is a true paradise. The park is home to five main islands – Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, Santa Carolina and Bangue. Here, coral reefs, seagrass meadows and mangrove forests blend seamlessly into the endless expanse of the open ocean.
With gentle currents and temperatures ranging from 23°C to 30°C, the stage is set for an unforgettable experience beneath the waves. As you dive through the tropical waters expect to encounter manta rays, sharks and an amazing variety of over 2,000 fish species.
Spectacular species
The Bazaruto Archipelago is a thriving hub of biodiversity. Here, you’ll find the last viable population of dugongs in East Africa along with five species of sea turtles (leatherback, green, olive ridley and hawksbill), sharks, manta rays, whales, dolphins, marlin and other megafauna. The archipelago encompasses over six tropical marine ecosystems, each contributing to the rich biodiversity found in the area.
Benguerra Island hosts a wide variety of habitats, including white sand beaches, coastal sand dunes, savannah grasslands, evergreen dune forests, freshwater lakes, mangrove forests and seagrass meadows. Among these environments are approximately 140 species of birds, a multitude of reptiles and amphibians, such as crocodiles, chameleons, snakes, tortoises and lizards, as well as a handful of mammals, including red squirrels and antelope suni.
5
