Description

As a volunteer on this project you will be getting up close to the incredible Whale Sharks of Mozambique. You will be provided with the opportunity to learn about the behavior of wild whale sharks as you scuba dive Mozambique's incredible coastline. Duties will also include the monitoring of indicator fish species and coral condition to help in the overall research that is imperative in the conservation of this marine area. During the turtle-breeding season (October-March) you may also be involved in the monitoring of nesting activity.

Highlights

Volunteers will be involved in conducting research on whale sharks. The whale shark is the world's largest fish and is a threatened species. Even though they are sharks, they are harmless to humans as they feed on plankton and are relatively calm creatures making them easy and safe to monitor. Most of the research that you carry out will involve taking underwater photographs to help identify individual whale sharks. Whale shark monitoring is carried out while snorkeling in close proximity to them. You will assist with the investigation of their numbers, distribution and ecology in an attempt to help understand and conserve these magnificent fish.

Collect data during beach walks, boat surveys, swims and research dives along Mozambique's coastline in and around the Tofo area. Duties will also include monitoring indicator fish species and coral condition to help in the overall research that is imperative in the conservation of this marine area. During the turtle-breeding season you can also be involved in the monitoring of nesting activity.

Travel Types

• Ecology
• Environmental Studies
• Eco Tours
• Scuba
• Snorkeling
• Surfing
• Sports

Qualifications

Project Age Limit: Minimum age of 17 years (with parental/ guardian consent), maximum decided on potential participants health and physical ability.

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

from USD 2,379.00

Cost Includes:

• Housing
• Food
• Pre-departure orientation/Training
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support

Program Fees Include:

What's Included in the Program:

* All accommodation throughout your program
* All meals
* Orientation upon arrival
* PADI Open Water course (or advanced course, or research dives for an equivalent value)
* Transfer to and from Inhambane airport to Tofo
* Use of project equipment
* Project activities including boat launches for whale shark snorkeling and research dives
* Full support and assistance from the project coordinator
* 24-hour support number and contact for emergencies

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

• Animal Welfare
• Environment
• Global Warming
• Veterinary
• Volunteering
• Wildlife Surveying

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living

Real Gap Experience's Mission Statement

We offer over 250 projects and travel options in over 35 countries. So whether you are interested in volunteering, community work, conservation, paid work overseas, teaching English, learning a new skill, adventure travel or sports and expeditions, you will find what you are looking for with Real Gap. Not only about we passionate about responsible travel, we also want to make sure you have a good time too! Our travel advisers have traversed the globe and taken their own gap years, so they can give you all the advice you need to plan yours. You will also get support from both our on-site and office staff who understand the needs and expectations of Real Gap travelers.

Year Founded

2005