Login
  • Life Below Water
Reopening soon

Whale Monitoring Supporter

location
1 - 20 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Learn from biologists and locals about whales and all marine fauna that lives in the coast!
  • Live in a free-spirit environment, next to the beach, close to places where backpackers and travellers gather.
  • You will do complementary activities as part of the program to get involved with the local life!

Highlights

  • Learn from biologists and locals about whales and all marine fauna that lives in the coast!
  • Live in a free-spirit environment, next to the beach, close to places where backpackers and travellers gather.
  • You will do complementary activities as part of the program to get involved with the local life!
  • You will remember all the sunsets in Punta Cometa, Mazunte, the southernmost point in the whole Mexico, where last part of the monitoring whales work takes place at the end of the day!
  • As part of the monitoring by boat, you will snorkel above corals and may be surrounded by dolphins, sea turtles, rays jumping, and many more animals!


  • Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups

    About the program

    Learn about whale populations crossing Oaxaca coast, collaborating with biologists and locals. Dolphins, turtles and snorkeling above corals, will be part of your life!

    Welcome to our Whale Monitoring Program in Puerto Angel and Mazunte, Mexico, where the waters of the Pacific Ocean become your classroom, and Humpback whales captivate you.

    On the Oaxaca coast, whale watching is not regulated, despite the existence of national norms that protect whales from harmful ...

    About the program

    Welcome to our Whale Monitoring Program in Puerto Angel and Mazunte, Mexico, where the waters of the Pacific Ocean become your classroom, and Humpback whales captivate you.

    On the Oaxaca coast, whale watching is not regulated, despite the existence of national norms that protect whales from harmful tourist practices. In 2022, the first workshop was held on the coast to educate local cooperatives and captains on how to monitor whales, marking the beginning of this program. The main objective of this program is to gain a better understanding of whale populations on the Oaxaca coast and to support the dissemination of the importance of good practices to protect whales among residents and visitors.

    For this reason, what we expect from volunteers is to keep their eyes very open and focused on every detail in the ocean, as well as to engage in conversations with people about everything you learn during their experience with us. 

    The main activities that you will undertake are:

    Whale Monitoring on the High Seas:
    Picture yourself aboard a boat, navigating the pristine waters off Oaxaca's coast, alongside passionate young biologists and a local ecotourism cooperative. In the early mornings, as the sun paints the sky with hues of gold, you'll monitor and document the majestic whales that grace these waters. Armed with cameras and data sheets, you'll not only capture breathtaking images of marine life but also contribute to vital research for the conservation of these magnificent creatures.

    Sunset Whales from Punta Cometa:
    As the day unfolds, shift your gaze towards Punta Cometa, the southern gem of Mexico. Here, in the tranquil evenings, you'll witness the enchanting spectacle of whales navigating the waters against the canvas of a mesmerizing sunset. Engage with fellow travelers and backpackers, sharing your newfound knowledge about these gentle giants and the importance of preserving their habitats.

    Immersive Cultural Activities in Mazunte:
    Your volunteering journey extends beyond the shores. In Mazunte, immerse yourself in the vibrant local life through cultural workshops, where you'll craft traditional artifacts and learn the essence of Oaxacan artistry. Join bird-watching excursions, discovering the rich avian diversity that graces this coastal haven. Explore natural wonders, from hidden coves to lush landscapes, connecting with the heartbeat of the region.

    Education and Community Engagement:
    Your role extends beyond observation; it's about fostering awareness. Engage with travelers, sharing tales of your marine adventures and the significance of preserving these marine ecosystems. Inspire others to appreciate the delicate balance between human existence and the natural world.

    By joining this volunteering program, you're not just a spectator; you become an integral part of a movement dedicated to the conservation of marine life, cultural exchange, and fostering a deeper connection with the environment. Come, be a guardian of the sea, a storyteller of sunsets, and a catalyst for change in the heart of Oaxaca, Mexico.

    Typical day

    Wake up with the sun, hit the waves by 6 AM—let the Pacific Ocean be your playground. Spend your morning, 'til around 10 AM, monitor and document the incredible marine behaviour under the sunrise.

    Noontime's your chance to refuel. Grab a quick bite for breakfast, then dive into the morning's data. ..

    Typical day

    Wake up with the sun, hit the waves by 6 AM—let the Pacific Ocean be your playground. Spend your morning, 'til around 10 AM, monitor and document the incredible marine behaviour under the sunrise.

    Noontime's your chance to refuel. Grab a quick bite for breakfast, then dive into the morning's data. It may take an hour of your time.

    Come afternoon, you've got a call to make: head to Mazunte and back (over half an hour of your time. You can ask for a private taxi, at 300 Mexican pesos, or go budget-friendly with public transport at 30 pesos a ride.

    As the sun starts to dip, you'll find yourself at Punta Cometa, the southernmost point in the whole Mexico, continuing to monitor the behaviour of whales during the sunset, where you will have a 360º view of the Ocean from 16:00 to 19:00 aprox. Heading back home, you will have to make the ride back by private taxi or public transport.


    Free-time activities

    Mazunte, a haven for backpackers, unfolds as a coastal gem. Its inviting beach beckons for tranquil swims, while the vibrant streets host a plethora of charming eateries, exuding a delightful hippie flair. Beyond, nature trails weave through the landscape. In this unique blend of seaside relaxation, ...

    Free-time activities

    Mazunte, a haven for backpackers, unfolds as a coastal gem. Its inviting beach beckons for tranquil swims, while the vibrant streets host a plethora of charming eateries, exuding a delightful hippie flair. Beyond, nature trails weave through the landscape. In this unique blend of seaside relaxation, yoga, meditation, culinary delights, and natural escapades, Mazunte crafts an unforgettable experience for those seeking a harmonious blend of adventure and repose.


    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 (intermediate level)

    Nationality Restrictions

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

    Other Skills

    motivation, good attitude, open minded :)

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 06:30 - 19:00

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    The program fees includes:

    •  Airport pick up in Huatulco. We will accompany you from the airport to your accommodation in Puerto Ángel. A guide to travel by public transport from the airport to Puerto Ángel on the first day and the first day of work from Puerto Ángel to Mazunte, and come back in case that you choose to travel by public transport.
    •  Accommodation in shared rooms with access to kitchen to cook your meals.
    •  2 or 3 days per week monitoring activities by boat and snorkelling, as well as monitoring by land in Mazunte. There will be guides who can speak to you in English.
    •  Complementary activities 1 or 2 days per week, with cultural workshops, tours in nature, etc.
    •  Liability insurance, although is needed to have a travel insurance
    •  Certificate of the volunteering program

    Please note: Transport is not included, you will have to choose if you would like to transport by taxi for 300 mexican pesos (we can help you to fix that with a trustworthy driver) or by public transport 30 mxn per ride (60 mxn both ways).

    Airport Pickup at Huatulco Airport

    We will accompany you by public transport from the airport to let you know how to travel freely in Oaxaca coast! The pick up will be before 15:00 any day of the week :)

    Accommodation

    In Puerto Angel, Oaxaca, our hostel is a quiet haven for young students and backpackers. Enjoy a peaceful night's sleep, cook in our communal kitchen, and unwind in cozy common areas. It's the perfect retreat for those seeking serenity by the sea.

    Internet Access

    Limited access at the project site

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Food & Beverages

    Food, snacks or beverages are at extra costs.

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Huatulco Airport (HUX) in Huatulco. We assist you to find cheap flights to Mexico. 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 Mexico provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

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

    Details on arrival

    We'll be your guides from Huatulco airport to Puerto Ángel, utilizing public transport to introduce you to the ins and outs of local mobility. To kickstart your experience seamlessly, please aim to arrive before 15:00.


    The whales season starts in November and ends in March, making the program available throughout these months.

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

    Program Fees

    $866 per week 1 - 20 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    1 - 20 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.

    4.92
    33 reviews

    Location

    Americas > Central America > Mexico > Puerto Ángel

    Meet your project coordinator

    Beatriz
    33
    reviews
    4.92
    Outstanding
    2021
    Founded

    Verified

      Below average response rate
    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.

    You might also be interested in

    Contact Beatriz
      Below average response rate

    Most volunteers ask about


    Do you have any more questions? Send a message to Beatriz
    Please don't share personal contact details for your privacy

    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

    Book with Flex Option!

    Choose new departure dates or change to a different volunteer program at no extra costs within 12 months.

    Complete Support for Every Volunteer

    This helps us run our platform and offer essential services like Comprehensive Support, Refund Guarantee, Flex Option without rebooking costs, and Price-Guarantee. This includes VAT.

    Price details