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Great 4.45rating (27)

Turtle Watch: Conservation in Action

location
2 - 26 weeks  ·  Age 17 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Gain hands-on insight into turtles, their unique behaviors, habitats, and conservation needs while learning directly from experienced wildlife experts.
  • Immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture, discover local traditions, cuisine, and daily life while living and volunteering in the community.
  • Connect with passionate animal lovers from around the world, share experiences, and build lasting friendships while making a real impact together.

Highlights

  • Gain hands-on insight into turtles, their unique behaviors, habitats, and conservation needs while learning directly from experienced wildlife experts.
  • Immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture, discover local traditions, cuisine, and daily life while living and volunteering in the community.
  • Connect with passionate animal lovers from around the world, share experiences, and build lasting friendships while making a real impact together.
  • Discover Vietnam’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich biodiversity while making a meaningful contribution to wildlife conservation.
  • Play your part in protecting wildlife and help safeguard endangered species for future generations.

  • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 17+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Many of Vietnam’s turtle species are critically endangered. Volunteer in the country’s oldest national park and support conservation, research, and essential daily care.

    Vietnam is home to a remarkable diversity of freshwater turtles and sea turtles — including some of the world’s most critically endangered species, such as the Yangtze giant softshell turtle. Today, these ancient reptiles face serious threats. Habitat loss caused by human activity is one of the ...

    About the program

    Vietnam is home to a remarkable diversity of freshwater turtles and sea turtles — including some of the world’s most critically endangered species, such as the Yangtze giant softshell turtle. Today, these ancient reptiles face serious threats. Habitat loss caused by human activity is one of the greatest dangers, while hunting for meat and shells — considered delicacies or used in traditional medicine across parts of Asia — has pushed many species to the brink. During the 1980s and 1990s in particular, illegal wildlife trade was widespread and devastating.

    As a volunteer, you will support a dedicated turtle conservation center located in Vietnam’s oldest national park. Founded in 1998, the organization works to preserve the region’s rich turtle biodiversity and has become a leading force for turtle conservation in Vietnam. Encouragingly, awareness of wildlife protection is steadily growing within Vietnamese society.

    The center lies about 100 kilometers southwest of Hanoi, surrounded by dramatic limestone mountains, lush rice fields, and traditional mountain villages. The national park provides a vital habitat for 122 reptile species and 135 mammal species. Spanning 7,000 square meters, the rescue center is home to more than 800 turtles from 25 different species — most of them rescued from the illegal wildlife trade.

    The center’s mission is not only to rehabilitate and protect turtles but also to educate local communities about conservation and species protection. Passionate and motivated volunteers play an essential role in supporting this work — and are always warmly welcomed as part of the team.

    There are no specific requirements for participation. It is important to enjoy working with animals and to be interested in animal welfare. Good physical fitness is often an advantage. Good English skills are required. Knowledge of Vietnamese is also helpful but not mandatory.


    Typical day

    As a volunteer, you’ll support the Conservation Center team with daily animal care — preparing food, cleaning, and maintaining or improving enclosures and ponds. You may also assist with documenting data and research findings. The on-site veterinary team welcomes helping hands, giving you ...

    Typical day

    As a volunteer, you’ll support the Conservation Center team with daily animal care — preparing food, cleaning, and maintaining or improving enclosures and ponds. You may also assist with documenting data and research findings. The on-site veterinary team welcomes helping hands, giving you valuable insight into wildlife medicine and rehabilitation.

    Another important part of your role is supporting the organization’s outreach efforts. You’ll help update the website and social media channels, guide visitors through the center, and actively raise awareness about wildlife conservation and animal welfare.

    The workday usually begins at 7:30 a.m. During your lunch break, you can enjoy a meal with fellow volunteers at the national park restaurant. In the afternoon, you’ll typically work until 4:30 p.m. Weekends are generally free, though occasional support may be needed — in which case you’ll receive a day off in return.


    Free-time activities

    During your volunteer stay in Vietnam, you’ll live amid the stunning scenery of a national park about four hours southwest of Hanoi. Surrounded by dramatic limestone mountains, lush rice fields, and dense forests, you’ll have the chance to experience authentic Vietnamese life. Being located ...

    Free-time activities

    During your volunteer stay in Vietnam, you’ll live amid the stunning scenery of a national park about four hours southwest of Hanoi. Surrounded by dramatic limestone mountains, lush rice fields, and dense forests, you’ll have the chance to experience authentic Vietnamese life. Being located right in the park also makes it the perfect base for excursions on your days off — just be sure to inform your volunteer coordinator of your plans.

    You can rent bicycles within the park, go trekking, or enjoy karaoke nights with fellow volunteers and locals. A visit to the nearby nature reserve is also worthwhile, where, with some luck, you might spot the rare Delacour's langur.

    Nearby, in Bai Dinh, you can explore Southeast Asia’s largest temple, or take a trip to the former imperial capital of Hoa Lu, with its many temples and historic buildings nestled in breathtaking green hills. Another spectacular option is a guided boat tour through the three Tam Coc caves, offering unforgettable views of this unique landscape.


    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 17 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 17 years old on the program start date.

    Nationality Restrictions

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

    Other Skills

    There are no special requirements to participate. What matters most is a love for working with animals and a strong interest in wildlife conservation. Good physical fitness is often an advantage.

    Time Commitment

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

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    Before Departure

    • Personalized guidance and support from the trained RGV team in Munich

    • Project placement and full coordination of your stay abroad

    • Assistance with preparations: visa, health precautions, travel insurance, etc.

    • Non-binding flight options

    • Travel ABC with packing checklist

    • Home: digital assistant with tips and resources for your trip

    • Academy: e-learning platform with 6+ hours of videos and personal development tools

    On Site

    • Orientation program with the local team

    • Continuous support and guidance from on-site staff

    • 24-hour emergency contact

    • Airport transfers on arrival and departure days

    • Accommodation in the guesthouse

    • Meals provided: breakfast, lunch, and dinner

    After Your Return

    • Certificate of participation recognizing your volunteer work

    • Reflection course to process and learn from your international experience

    • Evaluation form and optional feedback session

    Airport Pickup at Noi Bai International Airport

    For your stay in Vietnam, you’ll fly directly into the capital, Hanoi. If you arrive later in the day, it’s a good idea to spend your first night in the city. Our team will pick you up from the airport, and you’ll stay together in a local accommodation for the night.

    On your arrival day, you can relax and recover from your journey or explore the surroundings at your own pace. The orientation program begins on your second day in Vietnam. After the first part of the program in Hanoi, you’ll travel to your final project location to start your volunteer experience.

    Accommodation

    During your volunteer stay in the national park, you’ll live in a guesthouse. The accommodation is simple but comfortable, featuring Western-style toilets, hot showers, Wi-Fi, and air conditioning. Up to 20 volunteers from around the world stay here, sharing a room with two or three others.

    Breakfast and dinner are provided at the guesthouse. For lunch, you can visit the small restaurant in the park with other volunteers, where you’ll find tasty and affordable meals.

    Being located right in the heart of the national park gives you the perfect base for weekend excursions. You can rent bicycles nearby or use public transport to reach attractions such as the Tam Coc caves.

    Food & Beverages

    Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included. If you have any special dietary requirements, please let us know and we will do our best to accommodate you (vegan, vegetarian, food allergies).

    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 Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi. We assist you to find cheap flights to Vietnam. 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 Vietnam provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

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

    Details on arrival

    For your stay in Vietnam, you’ll fly directly into the capital, Hanoi. If you arrive later in the day, it’s a good idea to spend your first night in the city. Our team will pick you up from the airport, and you’ll stay together in a local accommodation for the night.

    On your arrival day, you can relax and recover from your journey or explore the surroundings at your own pace. The orientation program begins on your second day in Vietnam. After the first part of the program in Hanoi, you’ll travel to your final project location to start your volunteer experience.

    You can start every Wednesday or Sunday.

    Your orientation program in Vietnam starts right in Hanoi. Together with a member of the RGV team—and possibly other volunteers who arrived at the same time—you’ll begin with a city tour. You’ll also get an introduction to life in Vietnam, including essential tips, cultural insights, and important dos and don’ts.

    On your second day, you’ll travel by bus to your project site. The journey to the national park southwest of Hanoi takes around four hours, offering a first glimpse of Vietnam’s breathtaking landscapes. From the bus, you’ll also get a chance to observe Hanoi’s wild traffic in action!

    Once at your project site, you’ll receive a detailed introduction to the area and your work. You’ll be shown around the center, get an overview of the daily operations, and meet your dedicated on-site contact person, who will guide you and answer any questions throughout your volunteer experience.

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

    Program Fees

    $775 per week 2 - 26 weeks Age 17 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    2 - 26 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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    Location

    Asia > South East Asia > Vietnam > Cuc Phuong commune

    Meet your project coordinator

    RGV
    27
    reviews
    4.45
    Great
    1999
    Founded

    Verified

      Moderate response rate
    Spoken languages: German, Spanish, English
    Travel safely by using Volunteer World for your communication and bookings. This way, you can benefit from the Flex Option, Refund Guarantee, and Resolution Support.

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    Contact RGV
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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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