Endangered Sea Turtle Conservation

location
1 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 16 - 50+

rating  Brilliant 4.7  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Excellent response rate

Highlights

  • Help return raised sea-turtles back into the ocean
  • Take turtle measurements and monitor stats about them
  • Stay close to the stunning beaches of Nungwi

Highlights

  • Help return raised sea-turtles back into the ocean
  • Take turtle measurements and monitor stats about them
  • Stay close to the stunning beaches of Nungwi
  • Gain knowledge and awareness on the life cycle of sea turtles


  • Especially good for

    Age 16+
    Singles
    Couples
    Families
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    As a volunteer, you can participate in a variety of activities including monitoring water quality, maintaining nets for juvenile turtles, and much more.

    Overview
    Sea turtles, which have existed on our planet for millions of years, are facing extinction. The Sea Turtle Conservation Project aims to help sea turtles grow up in a safe environment and releases them into the ocean annually. However, the project is not profitable and requires support to ...

    About the program

    Overview
    Sea turtles, which have existed on our planet for millions of years, are facing extinction. The Sea Turtle Conservation Project aims to help sea turtles grow up in a safe environment and releases them into the ocean annually. However, the project is not profitable and requires support to continue. Participants can help by working alongside the 28 project staff and contributing financially through their stay.

    The work begins with team collaboration every morning after breakfast. The tasks may vary, but the water in the basins must be exchanged daily, seaweed must be collected, and the sea turtles must be cleaned. Maintenance, measurements, and cleaning tasks are done on different days. Upon arrival, each participant will be introduced to the work and given a list of tasks during the welcome meeting. The project raises over 150 sea turtles per year, and there are around 33 larger turtles in the lagoon.

    Participants will have the opportunity to engage in various activities, including:

    • Exchanging water for basins and the Sea Turtle Hospital
    • Checking water quality
    • General cleaning
    • Collecting seaweed from the Indian Ocean
    • Filling tube feeders
    • Cleaning adult turtles
    • Treating hospital turtles
    • Cleaning the lagoon (removing leaves and plastic)
    • Measuring hatchlings
    • Measuring juveniles
    • Cleaning the beach
    • Inspecting nets
    • Maintaining juvenile nets
    All participants will learn and perform all different tasks.

    Location
    Nungwi is a picturesque village located on the northern tip of Zanzibar Island, off the coast of Tanzania. It is known for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning coral reefs. The village is a popular tourist destination, offering a wide range of activities such as swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, and fishing.

    Project Tasks
    • Survey the endangered turtles for initiative conservation efforts
    • Gain knowledge and awareness on the life cycle of sea turtles
    • Provide you with the opportunity to help return raised sea-turtles back into the ocean

    Typical day

    Volunteer for estimated 4 hours a day 
    Week 1
    Monday: Orientation

    Begin your day with a delightful breakfast, followed by an orientation session that sets the tone for your journey. Our team will introduce you to the program, offer vital information, and acquaint you with the Nungwi center.

    You'll ...

    Typical day

    Volunteer for estimated 4 hours a day 
    Week 1
    Monday: Orientation

    Begin your day with a delightful breakfast, followed by an orientation session that sets the tone for your journey. Our team will introduce you to the program, offer vital information, and acquaint you with the Nungwi center.

    You'll receive guidance on the dos and don'ts, our code of conduct, and media consent guidelines, along with completing necessary documentation. Embrace the local culture with a basic history lesson & Swahili language lesson. After lunch, embark on a walking tour to familiarize yourself with nearby shops, ATMs, and other key locations.

    After the orientation, you will transfer to Nugwi and check in to your accommodation. You will be staying at this accommodation for the duration of your program.

    Tuesday to Friday: Conservation Efforts

    From Tuesday to Friday, dive headfirst into meaningful conservation efforts. Work closely with our experienced local coordinators as you actively participate in a variety of tasks. Engage in the vital cleaning and maintenance of the turtle basins and hospital, ensuring a pristine environment for the turtles. Collect seaweed from the Indian Ocean, contributing to the ecological balance. Check water quality to guarantee the well-being of these magnificent creatures. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of sea turtles as you assist with hatching measurements, juvenile measurements, and nest inspections. Every action you take contributes to the preservation and protection of these majestic beings.

    Saturday & Sunday: Free Time

    Take a well-deserved break and explore the wonders of Zanzibar at your own pace. Wander along the sandy beaches, soak up the sun, or embark on a thrilling adventure to discover the natural beauty and cultural treasures of this remarkable island.

    Week 2
    Monday to Friday: Conservation Efforts

    In the second week, build upon the progress made in Week 1 and continue your conservation efforts. Dive deeper into the treatment of injured sea turtles, playing a crucial role in their recovery. Maintain the nests of the young turtles, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for their growth. Join hands in beach cleanups, contributing to the preservation of the pristine shoreline. As you participate in these activities, you'll witness firsthand the impact of your dedication and the positive changes taking place.

    Specific timings for each activity will be provided upon arrival, allowing for flexibility and adjustments to ensure a seamless and enriching program experience.

    Please note that the schedule may vary to accommodate specific animal care needs, educational workshops, or other unforeseen circumstances. Our program is designed to offer a comprehensive and immersive experience, allowing you to actively participate in conservation efforts while gaining a deeper understanding of the critical role we play in safeguarding our wildlife.


    *Schedule possible to change due to the project and community needs at the time. Volunteer flexibility and adaptability is important to a positive volunteering experience. 



    Free-time activities

    Here are some of the best things to do in Zanzibar…

    Stone Town

    Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its winding streets, historic buildings, and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can explore the local markets, visit the old fort, and learn about Zanzibar’s fascinating history.

    Relax on ...

    Free-time activities

    Here are some of the best things to do in Zanzibar…

    Stone Town

    Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its winding streets, historic buildings, and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can explore the local markets, visit the old fort, and learn about Zanzibar’s fascinating history.

    Relax on the beaches

    Zanzibar has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with white sand, crystal clear water, and palm trees swaying in the breeze. Some of the best beaches include Nungwi, Kendwa, and Paje.

    Go on a spice tour

    Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island, and visitors can take a tour of the local spice farms to learn about the different spices grown on the island, including cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves.

    Snorkel or dive in the coral reefs

    Zanzibar’s coral reefs are home to a stunning array of marine life, including colourful fish, sea turtles, and dolphins. Visitors can go snorkelling or diving to explore these underwater wonders.

    Visit the Jozani Forest

    The Jozani Forest is a nature reserve known for its unique wildlife, including the rare red colobus monkey. Visitors can take a guided tour of the forest to learn about the local flora and fauna.

    Go on a dhow cruise

    Dhows are traditional sailing boats used for fishing and transportation in Zanzibar. Visitors can take a sunset cruise on a dhow to enjoy the beautiful scenery and watch the sun dip below the horizon.

    Visit the Prison Island

    Prison Island is a small island just off the coast of Zanzibar known for its giant tortoises and beautiful beaches. Visitors can take a boat tour to the island to see the tortoises up close and relax on the beach.

    Explore the local markets

    Zanzibar’s local markets are a colourful and lively place to explore, with vendors selling everything from spices and textiles to handmade crafts and souvenirs. Some of the best markets to visit include Darajani Market in Stone Town and Forodhani Night Market.

    Visit the Old Slave Market

    Zanzibar was once a major hub of the East African slave trade, and the Old Slave Market in Stone Town is a sombre reminder of this dark history. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the slave trade and its impact on Zanzibar.


    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 16 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 16 years old on the program start date.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level)

    Criminal Background Check

    required

    Required Documents

    Inbound travel insurance only from Zanzibar Insurance Corporation

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

    What's Included

    What's Included

    Services by Involvement Volunteers IVI

    Program fees include:
    • Accommodation
    • 3 meals p/day & 2 p/day at weekends
    • Arrival airport transfer (Sat/Sun arrivals)
    • Filtered drinking water, coffee & tea
    • 1 day orientation
    • Daily transportation to project
    • In country 24/7 support & emergency assistance
    • Fundraising support
    • University course credits (where applicable)
    • Certificate of Completion

    Airport Pickup at Zanzibar International Airport

    Programs begin every Monday, and volunteers are required to arrive the day prior, for orientation before the project. Your accommodation on the Sunday is included in the program fees. If arriving on Saturday, there is a fee for the extra night.

    A free airport pickup is included when arriving to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) on Saturday or Sunday between 6AM to 9PM.

    If arriving outside of the pickup times, we charge an additional fee for any extra night’s accommodation before your program, and an extra fee for a private transfer.

    Alternatively, if arriving early you could wait at the arrival’s terminal for the pickup time, book accommodation at the airport and meet us during the pickup times or make your own way to the project (we will advise on how to do this).

    From the airport to the accommodation, it takes 15-30 minutes by car to Stone Town and around 1.5 hours to Nungwi.   

    Accommodation

    The accommodation site features a large cottage where rooms sleep 1-4 people on a single gender basis. There is no air con or hot water (although this won’t matter in the heat!). Additionally, there are other huts on the compound for work and toilets. The participants’ houses are located directly on the compound. You can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all included. No Wi-Fi, although local sim cards can easily be purchased nearby. You will can find a few small local stores that sell snacks, drinks and any basic supplies you might need during your stay. Nearby, there are ATM’s, banks, shops, a local pharmacy, etc. 


    Food & Beverages

    All meals will be provided at the guesthouse during your stay (3 on weekdays and 2 on weekends). Local meals that are typical of Zanzibari culture will be provided at the accommodation.


    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Internet Access

    Sorry, no access at the project site

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Zanzibar International Airport (ZNZ) in Zanzibar. We assist you to find cheap flights to Tanzania. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Tanzania provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Tanzania you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Tanzania. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    Program starts every Monday. Arrivals on Sat/ Sun. If arriving on Sat, an extra night is charged.

    *Please note: Effective 1st October 2024, Inbound travel insurance is mandatory for all foreign visitors to Zanzibar. This must be obtained only from Zanzibar Insurance Corporation. Please contact us for more info. 

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program fees

    1 week (min. stay) 1,286€
    2 weeks 2,034€
    3 weeks 2,882€
    4 weeks 3,730€
    8 weeks 7,121€
    12 weeks (max. stay) 10,513€
    Average fees 1,080€/week

    Program fees

    1,080€ per week 1 - 12 weeks Age 16 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    1 - 12 weeks

    Deposit

    The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.


    Final Payment

    Your final payment will be agreed with Involvement Volunteers IVI during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


    Meet your organization

    Involvement Volunteers IVI

    Brilliant 4.7 rating (204 reviews)

    Non-profit - founded in 1989

    Verified by Volunteer World

      Excellent response rate

    Coordinated by

    Lauren

    Spoken languages: English

    About the project

    IVI are a non profit org with 28 years experience providing responsible volunteer placements in 15 countries worldwide. We help you connect with inspiring opportunities

    Meet your organization

    Involvement Volunteers International delivers positive social change to developing communities and vulnerable populations through local, national & international volunteering.  Our projects empower the skilled & un-skilled to catalyse the efforts of local partners in creating a better world.


    WHO WE ARE

    Founded in 1989, IVI is a pioneer of overseas volunteering.  Back when there was no internet and phones were a luxury in many parts of the world, we traveled to developing countries in search of credible NGO's in need of manpower and global volunteer resources.  Some of the many relationships we forged are utilized to this day. 

    We are passionate about volunteering and giving back to society and in particular developing communities which are less fortunate than us.  In this way, we combine travelling with volunteering to help people make a positive impact overseas.

    SOCIAL EXPERIENCES
    All of IVI’s projects have a strong social element at the core.  With more manpower (& womanpower!) we can truly catalyse the efforts of our local partners.  This means you're sure to meet loads of like-minded people from all parts of the world.   This type of experience truly broadens your understanding of the world and yourself, opening your heart to new enlightened ways of thinking .   With your new found travel companions, you'll have plenty of opportunity to explore and have fun!  

    Our projects create a unique platform to experience the true heart and soul of a destination rather than simply the tourist areas.   We'll involve you in meaningful & responsible volunteer work that really benefits the local communities.

    AFFORDABLE VOLUNTEER TRAVEL
    As a non profit org, we are not motivated by shareholder profits.  Our fee structure is fully transparent to ensure volunteers hard earned money is going directly to the areas where it is most needed.  It is vitally important to us that the presence of volunteers has a positive and sustainable impact on the local communities we work with.   

    We charge a one off US$275 application fee per volunteer to cover the running of IVI including administration overheads, project inspection costs, marketing, and salaries.

    The program fee starts at $150 p/week and goes straight to the in country management to cover arrival airport transfers, on the ground coordination, orientation, accommodation, meals, in country 24/7 project support, project development, donations and related administration costs.   

    In comparison to many of our competitors, our programs are incredible value.

    SAFETY & RESPONSIBLE PROGRAMS
    With approx 80-90% of our volunteers being single young female travelers, volunteer safety is of the utmost importance.  All of our projects include a dedicated 24/7 in-country management support contact as well as a dedicated placement manager pre/post journey.  This ensures you will be cared for every step of the way.    The local teams are highly experienced and qualified to manage emergency situations.

    All IVI projects have been personally inspected to ensure the standards meet necessary guidelines for quality and safety.  In addition, we monitor and maintain communication with local embassies to oversee potential issues in order to notify volunteers and their families accordingly.   

    Our Australian team are available 24/7 and only a phone call away.

    Our responsibility also extends to the local people which is why volunteers working in childcare related fields must provide a criminal background check before they travel.   Our ultimate goal is the long term development of the communities we work with, hence we work closely with our local partners to ensure that projects are needs driven and sustainable. 

    SUPPORT

    From your very first inquiry, right through to your welcome home, you'll have the same dedicated volunteer manager at every stage.  We are experts in the field and will provide you in depth insights about what to expect and how to prepare to ensure you have an amazing experience overseas.  Every project includes a detailed welcome pack which provides all aspects needed such as in country contacts, what to pack, cultural values, basic language guides and much much more.   

    On arrival at your destination, you'll be greeted by one of our in-country team and in many cases 1 week orientation is provided to help ease you into the way of life and ensure you're equipped with the right customs to ensure a successful volunteer abroad experience.  

    FUN!
    Volunteering abroad is quite possibly the most rewarding experience you will have in your life!   We know this not only through our own experiences, but through the testimonies from thousands of volunteers we have successfully placed worldwide over 27+ years in operation.  Volunteering overseas is not only rewarding.   It's fun!   You're meeting new people, you're seeing new sights, and you're expanding your understanding of yourself and the world.  You're experiencing something real and life changing in many ways...  

    GET INVOLVED WITH IVI TODAY!

    204 reviews · rating4.7

    What a fantastic trip. Getting the opportunity to live in a village for a week was so incredibly special, and all of our hosts quickly became like family. The work itself was challenging at times but very rewarding, and I felt like we were making a difference within the communities that we worked ...
    The team of us who were placed in Moala were instantly taken in by the family we were living and were made to feel part of the family. I am grateful for this experience, for the people I met and for the wonderful people who cared for us throughout the 2 weeks. This trip has inspired me to pursue ...
    What an incredible experience to be able to live in amongst the island community, fully immersed in village life. I really really enjoyed my stay and it was so amazing to explore the island in my free time. In the classroom, it was mostly helping kids one on one with the work assigned by the ...
    I am so blessed to have been lead by amazing dietician and naturopathic professionals who have inspired what I hope to be in this field one day. Words and pictures could never capture how life changing this experience was, and what beautiful souls these people hold. Pictures also don’t capture how ...
    There were so many highlights to this trip! However the one that stood out the most was living in Moala village for one week. The team of us who were placed in Moala were instantly taken in by the family we were living and were made to feel part of the family. The people we visited in Moala, Yako ...
    hannah rupp rating5

    2024 at Primary Teaching Support

    I had such a great time in Zanzibar. The accommodation is really good, it’s clean, you have a very sweet balcony and the bedrooms are good. Also the roommates and coordinators are were really nice 🥰 I really enjoyed my time at the school and I loved to work with the kids 🥰 I made so many ...

    Location

    Africa > Eastern Africa > Tanzania > Nungwi, Zanzibar

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    Contact Lauren
      Excellent response rate
    English

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