Penguin, Whale and Dolphin Conservation in South Africa

Durations: 2 - 24 weeks
Fieldwork hours35 hrs of fieldwork per week
sdg 12
sdg 14
sdg 15
sdg 8
The project
Join us in Gansbaai, South Africa, an area renowned for its Marine Big 5 – the great white shark, the southern right whale, the bottlenose dolphin, the Cape fur seal and the African penguin! This is your chance to witness these incredible animals in their natural habitat within the Dyer Island ecosystem. You’ll actively engage in award-winning conservation projects, working with sharks, whales, penguins and other marine species, while contributing to eco-tourism, research and education efforts. It’s a unique opportunity to make a positive...
What’s Included

Project work

Work with sharks, whales, penguins and other marine species to support eco-tourism, research and education.

Accommodation

Live in dorm-style accommodation with shared amenities, including kitchen, living room, dining room, activity room, pool, games and workspaces.

Meals

Enjoy complimentary breakfast and lunch; dinner is not included. You can prepare your own, eat out or get takeout.

Airport transfer

Arrive on Sunday, spend the night at a hotel just 4 minutes from the airport. The following morning, you'll be picked up and taken to Gansbaai.

Comprehensive pre-departure support

Includes a dedicated support coordinator to answer your questions, an Essential Info Pack, and a webinar to learn more about your program.

Comprehensive in-country support

Includes a welcome orientation, including safety, culture and environmental info. A Program Manager is there to support you.

24/7 mental health support

Receive support services provided by licensed professionals.

Local transport

You’ll be transported to and from your project work by boat.

Project training

Receive training for the project to equip you for your assigned tasks.
What's not included

Flights and airport taxes, medical and travel insurance, visa costs, police or background check, additional drinks and gratuities, extra local excursions, personal items and toiletries, dinners, laundry, snacks, sweets and alcohol, local transport during free time, food and accommodation outside of the research station.

Your accommodation

It’s easy to be reeled in by the tranquil lifestyle of the Gansbaai community. Our volunteer houses mirror that minimalist beachtown aesthetic that keeps people coming back to the charming fishing village. You’ll stay in dorm-style accommodation comprising four cottages, each with a sleek design, and a new building that can accommodate up to 40 individuals. Sleeping arrangements and bathrooms are shared, with bedding and a weekly cleaning service provided.

 

Each unit has a kitchenette, but the main cooking takes place in the communal kitchen, along with a nearby dining room and sitting area – perfect for bonding over a delicious meal! Other amenities include a lecture room, workspaces, a pool for those hot, summer days and an activity hall with weights, table tennis, pool, foosball and various board games. 

 

Stay connected with Wi-Fi and satellite TV, and there’s an inverter for power outages. It’s not just comfortable – it’s the perfect space for a fantastic experience!

You might also be interested in these programs