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Brilliant 4.72rating (254)

Endangered Sea Turtle Conservation

location
1 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 16 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Help return raised sea-turtles back into the ocean.
  • Clean tanks and the nearby beach to protect the turtle environment.
  • Stay close to the stunning beaches of Zanzibar!

Highlights

  • Help return raised sea-turtles back into the ocean.
  • Clean tanks and the nearby beach to protect the turtle environment.
  • Stay close to the stunning beaches of Zanzibar!
  • Gain knowledge and awareness on the life cycle of sea turtles.

  • You don't have to pay anything yet

    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

    Picture yourself working hands-on with some of the world's most fascinating creatures while surrounded by Zanzibar's stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. Our sea turtle conservation program offers a unique opportunity to protect these ancient species, which have survived millions of ...

    About the program

    Overview

    Picture yourself working hands-on with some of the world's most fascinating creatures while surrounded by Zanzibar's stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. Our sea turtle conservation program offers a unique opportunity to protect these ancient species, which have survived millions of years but now face the growing threat of extinction.

    Based in the coastal village of Makunduchi, this program focuses on rehabilitating injured sea turtles and releasing them back into their ocean home. Since its establishment in 2024, the project has been dedicated to giving these endangered creatures a second chance while raising awareness about marine conservation throughout Zanzibar. By providing medical care and fostering environmental education, we aim to inspire long-term preservation efforts in the region.

    What You’ll Do
    As a volunteer, you’ll join a passionate team of local conservationists and fellow volunteers to:

    • Care for injured sea turtles, clean their habitats, and ensure water quality for their recovery.
    • Feed adult turtles, monitor hatchlings, and measure juveniles to track their progress.
    • Help restore sea turtle habitats by removing debris from pristine beaches.
    • Lead educational tours and workshops to inspire visitors and locals about the importance of marine conservation.
    • Witness the rewarding moment of releasing rehabilitated turtles back into the wild.

    Beyond Conservation
    Your time in Zanzibar isn’t just about the turtles. Snorkel vibrant coral reefs, clean and explore breathtaking beaches, and soak in the rich local culture. From learning Swahili with friendly locals to sampling Zanzibar’s famous spices, your experience will be an adventure like no other.

    Why Join Us?

    • Play a direct role in preserving endangered sea turtles and their habitats.
    • Gain hands-on experience in marine conservation and practical skills for future endeavors.
    • Connect with like-minded volunteers from around the globe.
    • Create memories that will last a lifetime while making a meaningful impact.

    Program Highlights

    • Rehabilitate and release injured sea turtles into their natural habitats.
    • Participate in critical conservation tasks, such as feeding turtles and monitoring hatchlings.
    • Raise awareness about marine life through interactive community outreach.
    • Protect local ecosystems by keeping Zanzibar’s beaches clean.

    Your Role
    From checking water quality in the turtle hospital to inspecting nests and helping hatchlings, every task you take on contributes to the survival of these remarkable creatures. The program also offers opportunities to lead educational tours, inspiring others to join the fight for marine conservation.

    This isn’t just a volunteer program—it’s a chance to create lasting change while enjoying the adventure of a lifetime. Imagine the joy of watching a turtle you helped save swim back into the ocean or exploring Zanzibar’s coral reefs after a fulfilling day of conservation work.

    Ready to Make a Difference?
    The turtles—and Zanzibar—are waiting for you. Dive in and become part of something bigger.

    Location

    Makunduchi is a charming coastal village located on the southeastern tip of Zanzibar Island, Tanzania. Known for its tranquil beaches and authentic local culture, it offers a serene escape from the busier tourist hubs of the island. Makunduchi’s pristine shoreline, with soft white sands and turquoise waters, makes it an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration.

    Project Tasks
    • Support the survival of endangered sea turtles and safeguard their future.
    • Join the effort to maintain clean, healthy marine ecosystems.
    • Develop conservation skills, explore marine biology, and learn what it takes to protect wildlife.
    • Inspire local communities and visitors to embrace the importance of conservation and take action.
    • From cleaning nests to releasing turtles, every step you take makes a meaningful difference in their survival.

    Typical day

    Monday
    • Start with breakfast and a fun orientation to the program.
    • Dive into a Swahili lesson and get a crash course on the local culture.
    • Explore Makunduchi on a guided tour to find shops, ATMs, and more.
    • Overnight at Makunduchi Accommodation
    Tuesday to Friday
    • Get to work cleaning the turtle hospital and ...

    Typical day

    Monday
    • Start with breakfast and a fun orientation to the program.
    • Dive into a Swahili lesson and get a crash course on the local culture.
    • Explore Makunduchi on a guided tour to find shops, ATMs, and more.
    • Overnight at Makunduchi Accommodation
    Tuesday to Friday
    • Get to work cleaning the turtle hospital and lagoon.
    • Feed turtles, monitor hatchlings, and keep their nests safe.
    • Collect seaweed from the Indian Ocean—it’s turtle food!
    • Join educational tours to share your knowledge and inspire visitors.
    • Wrap up the day with some beach cleanup to protect their natural habitat.
    • Overnight at Makunduchi Accommodation

    *** Please note that the schedule may vary to accommodate specific animal care needs, educational workshops, or other unforeseen circumstances.***


    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, Resume and Passport Scan

    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

    On-site Services

    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 Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (Zanzibar) to the Makunduchi Accommodation (Turtle Project) it takes around 1 hour by car/van.

    Accommodation

    Situated just 700 metres from the peaceful shores of Makunduchi Beach, the house enjoys a prime location, only 7km from the breathtaking Paje Beach and 5km from the scenic Jambiani Beach.

    Set amidst a serene forest in the Makunduchi area, the house is conveniently close to charming accommodations such as Madrugada, Ujamaa Beach Resort, and Clove Hotel. A short 5-minute bike ride brings you to the delightful village of Makunduchi, offering the perfect opportunity to experience its local culture and natural beauty.

    The rooms are single gender, shared between 2-4 people. No wifi or air-con, but they have fans, hot showers, bed linen, mosquito protection and brushes for you to wash your own clothes. You will easily 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

    You will have 3 meals a day during the week and 2 meals per day on the weekends.Local meals that are typical of Zanzibar culture will be provided at this accommodation such as wali (rice), ugali (maize porridge), nyama choma (grilled meat), mshikaki (marinated beef), samaki (fish), pilau (rice mixed with a variety of spices), biryani, and ndizi-nyama (plantains with meat). Once per week all participants create together the weekly food plan.

    You don't have to pay anything yet

    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

    $970 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

    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
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    School Construction

    Location

    Africa > Eastern Africa > Tanzania > Makunduchi

    Meet your project coordinator

    Lauren
    254
    reviews
    4.72
    Brilliant
    1989
    Founded

    Verified

      Very high response rate
    Spoken languages: English
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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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