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Outstanding 5.00rating (13)
  • Life Below Water

Dolphin & Marine Conservation

location
2 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Environmental Surveys Collect vital data on coral reefs and seagrass meadows.
  • Ethical Tourism Workshops Educate local boat and tour operators on ethical dolphin tourism.
  • Dolphin Monitoring Monitor and swim with pods of dolphins in their natural habitat.

Highlights

  • Environmental Surveys Collect vital data on coral reefs and seagrass meadows.
  • Ethical Tourism Workshops Educate local boat and tour operators on ethical dolphin tourism.
  • Dolphin Monitoring Monitor and swim with pods of dolphins in their natural habitat.
  • Community Interaction Interact with community members about environmental conservation.
  • Tropical Paradise Live in a tropical setting of white sands and crystal clear water
    • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Families
    Groups
    50+
    Wheel Chairs

    About the program

    Assist with researching wild dolphins and studying the impact of tourism on their behaviour, while collecting data on coral reefs.

    Monitor Dolphins & Promote Marine Sustainability

    Join us as a dolphin & marine conservation volunteer and become a guardian of the delicate balance of the local marine ecosystem, protecting it from the harmful effects of human activities. On this dolphin conservation project you’ll head out on ...

    About the program

    Monitor Dolphins & Promote Marine Sustainability

    Join us as a dolphin & marine conservation volunteer and become a guardian of the delicate balance of the local marine ecosystem, protecting it from the harmful effects of human activities. On this dolphin conservation project you’ll head out on daily boat trips and snorkel through the crystal-clear waters of the Menai Bay Conservation Area whilst carrying out research on both bottlenose and humpback dolphins. You will track their movements, behaviours, and interactions with tourist boats conducting dolphin tours. You will also have the opportunity to swim with the dolphins in an ethical manner.

    This intimate volunteer experience (no more than 10 volunteers) is about leaving an impact on the sustainability of all marine life in the surrounding ocean.


    Daily Dolphin Monitoring

    Become a champion for these magnificent creatures and join our mission to protect their well-being by ensuring responsible dolphin tourism practices in Zanzibar. Daily boat trips will whisk you away to the heart of Zanzibar’s vibrant marine ecosystem, where you’ll witness dolphins in their natural habitat and contribute to valuable research and conservation efforts. This is your chance to make a real difference in dolphin conservation while experiencing the magic of these playful creatures firsthand.


    Coral Reef Monitoring

    Armed with snorkels and a keen eye for detail, you’ll embark on underwater expeditions to gather vital data on coral reef health. Monitor the progression of coral bleaching, identifying areas where the resilient reefs are fighting back and areas where the damage is more severe. Your observations will provide invaluable insights into the resilience of these ecosystems and the effectiveness of marine conservation efforts.


    Conservation Efforts

    As a marine conservation volunteer, you will engage with community members, raising awareness of and emphasizing the need for environmental conservation. From eager students at after-school clubs to local fishermen, you will empower them to become responsible stewards of their natural heritage, ensuring a brighter future for the island they call home. This is your chance to share your knowledge and inspire current and future generations of marine conservationists.

    Typical day

    Example Daily Schedule

    Monday – Friday

    Morning

    07:45 – 11:00
    Dolphin Monitoring or Marine Activities

    11:00 – 12:00
    Free Time

    Lunch

    12:00 – 12:30

    Afternoon

    12:30 – 13:00
    Preparation for Afternoon Activities

    13:30 – 16:00
    Community Development Activities
    (Dependent on Community Needs)

    Dinner

    18:30 – ...

    Typical day

    Example Daily Schedule

    Monday – Friday

    Morning

    07:45 – 11:00
    Dolphin Monitoring or Marine Activities

    11:00 – 12:00
    Free Time

    Lunch

    12:00 – 12:30

    Afternoon

    12:30 – 13:00
    Preparation for Afternoon Activities

    13:30 – 16:00
    Community Development Activities
    (Dependent on Community Needs)

    Dinner

    18:30 – 19:00

    Evening

    19:00 – 21:00
    Free Time, Games Night, or Movie Night

    Free-time activities

    During your free time, you will get the opportunity to enjoy some incredible attractions around the island, as well as venture further to mainland Tanzania. Here are just a few suggestions of what to do:

    • Scuba diving and experience Zanzibar’s beautiful coral reefs
    •  Kite-surfing, surfing and scuba ...

    Free-time activities

    During your free time, you will get the opportunity to enjoy some incredible attractions around the island, as well as venture further to mainland Tanzania. Here are just a few suggestions of what to do:

    • Scuba diving and experience Zanzibar’s beautiful coral reefs
    •  Kite-surfing, surfing and scuba diving & padi qualifications
    •  Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Stone Town on a City Tour or the famous Spice Tour
    • Enjoy stunning sunsets and BBQs on the beach
    • Safari experiences and tours at Jozani Forest, Kuza Cave & Mikumi
    • Horse riding along the beach
    • Full moon party at Kendwa Rocks Hotel 

    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level)

    Criminal Background Check

    required

    Nationality Restrictions

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

    Other Skills

    communication, adaptability

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 08:00 - 16:30

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    Our project fee includes:

    • Accommodation throughout your entire stay at our African Impact home in Jambiani – a cozy, safe and lively house shared by our volunteers, interns and staff
    • 3 fresh and delicious meals a day made by chefs from the local community
    • Monday airport pick-up and drop-off by the African Impact team 
    • Experienced international and local staff members who live and work alongside you every day
    • A full induction, orientation and training session to ensure you can contribute sustainably
    • All necessary project equipment and resources you’ll need on the ground

     

    Our project fee excludes:

    • Flights to your chosen destination, but we can guide you on this
    • Medical or travel insurance
    • Visa-related costs
    • Weekend trips or tours, or any other non-project activity
    • Snacks, soft drinks, gifts or souvenirs
    • Laundry
    • WiFi – it’s pretty slow here anyway!

    Airport Pickup at Zanzibar International Airport

    Airport pickup and drop-off on selected days are included in the volunteering fee. Two slots are available between 11am and 5pm on Mondays.

    Accommodation

    Your home away from home in Zanzibar is a secure modern beachfront property with comfortable shared facilities.

    Volunteers will stay in gender-specific rooms, with a maximum of four people per room. Each room includes bunk beds, a private bathroom, linens, mosquito nets, a ceiling fan, and air conditioning. The property also features a pool and social areas, plus a dedicated Project Room and office space.

    Zanzibar is a melting pot of cultures and flavours, offering one of Africa’s richest and most diverse culinary scenes, shaped by centuries of trading and migration. The seafood is incredibly fresh and delicious, but there are also plenty of options for non-seafood eaters. Local favourites include Zanzibar pizza (more like a savoury crepe), biryani, pilau, mishkaki (meat skewers), and mandazi (Swahili doughnuts). A local chef will prepare fresh meals for you every weekday!

    Food & Beverages

    They’ll be eating fresh, locally prepared Swahili-style meals, with plenty of variety and options. You could describe it like this:

    Volunteers will enjoy freshly prepared meals cooked by a local chef every weekday. Zanzibar’s cuisine reflects its rich mix of African, Arab, Indian, and coastal influences, with an emphasis on flavourful spices and fresh ingredients. Meals often include fresh seafood, but there are many non-seafood and vegetarian options available as well. Typical dishes may include pilau and biryani rice, mishkaki (grilled meat skewers), curries, vegetable stews, chapati, and mandazi (Swahili doughnuts). Zanzibar pizza, a popular local favourite similar to a savoury crepe—is also commonly enjoyed.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    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

    Start dates:

    May: 4th & 18th

    June: 1st, 8th, 15th & 29th

    July: 6th, 13th, 20th & 27th

    August: 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th & 31st 

    September: 7th & 21st

    October: 5th & 19th

    Free transfers leave the airport on Mondays at 11AM or 5PM. For departures, transfers to the airport leave base at 9AM or 3PM & flights need to align with these airport transfers as well. Any arrival/departure that does not want to wait for these transfers, can request a private transfer.






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

    Program Fees

    $1,089 per week 2 - 12 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES

    Duration

    2 - 12 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.

    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet

    5.00
    ・
    13 reviews

    Location

    Africa > Eastern Africa > Tanzania > Jambiani

    Meet your project coordinator

    Destination Specialist
    13
    reviews
    5.00
    Outstanding
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    Verified

      Good response rate
    Spoken languages: English
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    Volunteer Abroad  >  Animals  >  Marine Life in Tanzania
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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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    Price details