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Brilliant 4.72rating (254)

Turtle Conservation Support

location
1 - 8 weeks  ·  Age 16 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Work hands-on with endangered sea turtles in China’s only natural breeding site.
  • Support conservation efforts by feeding turtles, cleaning their environment, and assisting in research.
  • Help educate local communities on the importance of protecting sea turtles.

Highlights

  • Work hands-on with endangered sea turtles in China’s only natural breeding site.
  • Support conservation efforts by feeding turtles, cleaning their environment, and assisting in research.
  • Help educate local communities on the importance of protecting sea turtles.
  • Assist in daily turtle care, including feeding and habitat maintenance.
  • Participate in conservation activities such as beach cleanups and habitat restoration.

  • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 16+
    Singles
    Couples
    Families
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Protect and rehabilitate local sea turtles. You'll assist in maintaining their environment, participate in breeding efforts, and work alongside local staff to support.

    If you’re passionate about turtle conservation, this program offers a rare chance to work closely with one of the ocean’s oldest and most captivating creatures—sea turtles.

    Located at a dedicated turtle reserve in Huidong, this project is home to four different sea turtle species. You’ll gain ...

    About the program

    If you’re passionate about turtle conservation, this program offers a rare chance to work closely with one of the ocean’s oldest and most captivating creatures—sea turtles.

    Located at a dedicated turtle reserve in Huidong, this project is home to four different sea turtle species. You’ll gain hands-on experience while learning about these remarkable animals through direct observation and active participation in their care.

    Your tasks will include feeding the turtles, cleaning their enclosures, and helping to maintain a clean and safe habitat by removing litter from the beach. You may also get the opportunity to contribute to scientific research and take part in community education efforts that promote awareness around the importance of sea turtle conservation.

    Beyond the practical work, this experience allows you to engage with the local community, deepen your cultural understanding, and collaborate with conservationists and university students who share your enthusiasm for marine life.

    The reserve is set in a scenic coastal town that hosts China’s only natural sea turtle breeding ground—and the largest marginal sea in the country. If you love wildlife, beachside living, and making a real impact, this program could be exactly what you’re looking for.

    Program Highlights

    • Work hands-on with endangered sea turtles in China’s only natural breeding site
    • Support conservation efforts through feeding, habitat maintenance, and research assistance
    • Help raise awareness about turtle protection through local education initiatives
    • Immerse yourself in Chinese culture and connect with local conservationists and students
    • Soak up the sun and relax on Huidong’s beautiful beaches

    Your Role

    • Feed turtles and assist in their daily care
    • Clean enclosures and maintain a healthy, safe environment
    • Join beach cleanups and help restore turtle habitats
    • Occasionally support research projects on turtle behaviour and conservation
    • Educate local communities about protecting marine life
    • Work alongside passionate conservation professionals and students

    Location

    Huidong is a coastal county located in southeastern Guangdong Province, China, known for its natural beauty, relaxed atmosphere, and scenic beaches. Situated along the South China Sea, it offers a mix of mountains, hot springs, and seaside resorts, making it a popular getaway from the busy cities of Shenzhen and Guangzhou. The area features quiet fishing villages, historical towns, and bays like Xunliao and Double-Moon Bay, which attract visitors with their clean waters and laid-back charm. With a warm climate and a slower pace of life, Huidong is ideal for nature lovers, beachgoers, and anyone looking to experience a more peaceful side of southern China.

    Project Tasks

    • Get a hands-on approach to help raise China’s sea turtles.
    • To educate and promote the importance of turtle conservation to members of the public.


    Typical day

    Volunteering 4 hours a day (Mon-Fri)Sunday
    • Arrival and Pick up from the Shengzhen airport
    • Check in to the accommodation
    Monday
    • Take a high-speed railway from Shenzhen to Huizhou City (about 30 mins). From railway station to Huidong turtle reserve accommodation(about 50 mins).
    • Here you’ll receive ...

    Typical day

    Volunteering 4 hours a day (Mon-Fri)Sunday
    • Arrival and Pick up from the Shengzhen airport
    • Check in to the accommodation
    Monday
    • Take a high-speed railway from Shenzhen to Huizhou City (about 30 mins). From railway station to Huidong turtle reserve accommodation(about 50 mins).
    • Here you’ll receive an introduction about the work assignment.
    • Evening: Ice-breaker and team activities.
    Tuesday
    • Morning: Pre-job training and Watch documentary films about Sea Turtle.
    • Afternoon: Take a walking tour of the sea turtle reserve, and observe different species and their living habit.
    • Evening: Sharing time – My first day with Turtles.
    Wednesday
    • Morning: Working with the Sea Turtle keeper to do some cleaning or feeding etc.
    • Afternoon: Beach cleaning
    • Evening: Sea Turtle knowledge quiz game
    Thursday
    • Morning: Working with Sea Turtle keeper to do some cleaning or feeding etc.
    • Afternoon: Design a turtle conservation poster.
    • Self-care dinner: Visit the night market.
    Friday
    • Morning: Working with Sea Turtle keeper to do some cleaning or feeding etc.
    • Afternoon: Sightseeing on a speedboat.
    • Final dinner: BBQ Time

    ***This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances.***


    Free-time activities

    Things to Do in Huidong

    • Xunliao Bay
      A popular coastal area with clear waters and sandy beaches, perfect for swimming, jet skiing, seafood dining, and relaxing in beachfront resorts.
    • Huizhou West Lake
      A tranquil park featuring traditional bridges, pagodas, and walking paths around scenic lakes, ideal for ...

    Free-time activities

    Things to Do in Huidong

    • Xunliao Bay
      A popular coastal area with clear waters and sandy beaches, perfect for swimming, jet skiing, seafood dining, and relaxing in beachfront resorts.
    • Huizhou West Lake
      A tranquil park featuring traditional bridges, pagodas, and walking paths around scenic lakes, ideal for leisurely strolls and photography.
    • Pinghai Ancient City
      A historic walled town with stone gates, old temples, and traditional architecture offering a glimpse into the region’s past.
    • Double-Moon Bay
      A unique beach area with two crescent-shaped shorelines facing each other, known for its natural beauty and panoramic viewpoints.
    • Tianhou Temple
      A peaceful seaside temple offering cultural insight and scenic views of the ocean, dedicated to the sea goddess.
    • Daya Bay Nuclear Power Science Museum
      An interactive and educational museum focused on nuclear energy, environmental science, and sustainability.
    • Hot Spring Resorts
      Several resorts in the region feature natural hot springs and mountain views, offering a relaxing spa experience.

    Further Afield:

    1. The Great Wall of China – A must-see when visiting China, this ancient wonder stretches over 13,000 miles and offers breathtaking views and historical insights, best explored near Beijing.
    2. Terracotta Army in Xi’an – An awe-inspiring archaeological site featuring thousands of life-sized statues guarding the tomb of China’s first emperor.
    3. Guilin and Yangshuo – Famous for their karst limestone mountains and winding rivers, this region is perfect for boat cruises, bike rides, and rural village visits.
    4. Chengdu’s Giant Pandas – Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to see these iconic animals up close in a naturalistic setting.
    5. Shanghai and Beijing City Tours – Experience the modern and ancient sides of China in these two bustling cities, with highlights like the Bund, the Forbidden City, and local food streets.


    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

    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

    • 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 Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport

    Programs begin every Monday, and volunteers are required to arrive the day prior, for orientation before the project.

    A free airport pickup is included when arriving to Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX). You must arrive between 09:00 to 20:00 on Sunday.

    If arriving outside the pickup time, you can book an extra night or private transfer for an additional fee.

    Accommodation

    Our accommodation is situated in Daao Village, offering standard rooms (shared between two people) with separate male and female dormitories. The facilities include hot showers, Western-style bathrooms, and limited WiFi (signal strength may vary based on local conditions). Public areas are available for participants to relax and socialize. There are also laundry facilities available and air conditioning.

    Daoao Village has limited facilities, including a small shop for basic necessities and a local clinic. The nearest town, which has ATMs, restaurants, and other amenities, is a 20-minute walk away. A weekly transfer to town is provided for shopping.

    Meals are served in a traditional Chinese family-style round table setting (non-buffet). As we are located near the sea, seafood is commonly included in our menu. If you have any allergies, please inform us in advance so we can make the necessary arrangements. Vegetarian options are available upon request.

    Fresh fruit, tea, and drinking water are provided at the house. However, tap water is not recommended for drinking.


    Food & Beverages

    Due to the Huidong Sea Turtle Camp’s seaside location, some seafood dishes are inevitable. Please notify us in advance of any allergies or dietary restrictions.

    Meals may include, but are not limited to, the following:

    Breakfast:

    Soybean milk
    Dumplings
    Noodles
    Steamed stuffed buns
    Porridge
    Fried rice
    Lunch & Dinner:

    Stir-fried pork, chicken, or duck
    Stir-fried vegetables or tofu
    Scrambled eggs with tomatoes
    Let us know if you have any dietary preferences, and we’ll do our best to accommodate them!

    Internet Access

    Limited 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 Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport (SZX) in Shenzhen. We assist you to find cheap flights to China. 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 China provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

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

    Details on arrival

    Arrivals on Sunday. Please see pickup info for times. 

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

    Program Fees

    $882 per week 1 - 8 weeks Age 16 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    1 - 8 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
    4.7
    Top Pick
    One of the top picks on Volunteer World, according to travelers
    2025
    I supported a loving team with daily tasks such as keeping the enclosures clean, shredding antelopes and feeding the kittens. Comments on ...
    2025
    Very well organised, had no problem checking in. The work was so nice and the people were wonderful. Staff is also there to help out with ...
    Sarah Damaschin

    School Construction

    Location

    Asia > Eastern Asia > China > Huidong

    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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