Prepare for an extraordinary adventure with our dolphin, turtle and dugong conservation program in the breathtaking Bazaruto Archipelago. On this marine conservation volunteer program you’ll dive into the warm waters around Benguela Island and play a part in conserving Mozambique’s oldest marine protected area.

The program

On our dolphin, turtle and dugong conservation program you’ll learn about oceanography and get hands-on with marine conservation. You’ll be doing everything from monitoring marine debris to mapping wildlife and identifying species. 

You’ll learn survey techniques, how to present scientific data and operate marine sensors. And when it comes to experience, you’ll be right in the action – diving, collecting data on animal sightings and pitching in with beach cleanups.

Participants on this volunteer program contribute to research in four main areas:

1. Ecosystem monitoring: Learn about marine ecosystem dynamics through remote sensing and underwater measurements.

2. Species identification and habitat: Survey marine life hotspots and study organism-environment interactions.

3. Migratory fish dynamics: Tag and track pelagic fish to understand migration patterns and ecosystem processes.

4. Marine debris monitoring: Work with the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park to monitor and address marine pollution.

Just a heads-up: to take part in surveys and help with research, you’ll need your Open Water diving certification. No sweat if you don’t have it yet – we offer training.

Working in collaboration with a local partner organisation, this is an incredible opportunity to make a real difference in marine science while gaining hands-on experience.

Location

Tucked away in the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park on Benguerra Island, this spot is a true paradise. The park is home to five main islands – Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, Santa Carolina and Bangue. Here, coral reefs, seagrass meadows and mangrove forests blend seamlessly into the endless expanse of the open ocean.

With gentle currents and temperatures ranging from 23°C to 30°C, the stage is set for an unforgettable experience beneath the waves. As you dive through the clear waters expect to encounter manta rays, sharks and an amazing variety of over 2,000 fish species. 

Spectacular species

The Bazaruto Archipelago is a thriving hub of biodiversity. Here, you’ll find the last viable population of dugongs in East Africa along with five species of sea turtles, sharks, manta rays, whales, dolphins, marlin and other megafauna. The archipelago encompasses over six tropical marine ecosystems, each contributing to the rich biodiversity found in the area. 

Benguerra Island hosts a wide variety of habitats, including white sand beaches, coastal sand dunes, savannah grasslands, evergreen dune forests, freshwater lakes, mangrove forests and seagrass meadows. Among these environments are approximately 140 species of birds, a multitude of reptiles and amphibians, such as crocodiles, chameleons, snakes, tortoises and lizards, as well as a handful of mammals, including red squirrels and antelope suni.

Get dive-ready!

Since it’s a diving program, participants need to hold an Open Water certification before joining. Not yet certified? No problem – you can book training with us. And if your last dive was over six months ago, we can arrange a refresher course to get you back in the water.

Free time adventures

During your downtime, check out Tofo Beach – it’s known for its diving and nightlife. Or visit Vilankulos, one of Mozambique’s main tourism spots, offering safaris to the Bazaruto Archipelago, island hopping and activities like snorkelling, kitesurfing or catching a sunset cruise. 

For a different adventure, hop on a quad bike and explore the beautiful landscapes. Don’t miss out on cultural tours and visits to local markets to learn about the area’s culture and traditions.

Bazaruto is calling your name!