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South Africa – Marine Biology Internship

by: GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

Add first reviewVerifiedSince 2005

Get hands-on marine research experience in Gansbaai, South Africa, beside the renowned Dyer Island ecosystem, home to the Marine Big Five. Over four weeks, work alongside experienced marine scientists through structured training modules, boat-based fieldwork, and conservation projects. Weekdays combine lectures, lab work, and species monitoring, while weekends take you aboard research vessels coll...

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Program Highlights

Conduct hands-on marine research beside Dyer Island, home to South Africa's Marine Big Five: whales, sharks, dolphins, seals, and African penguins.

Collect real field data aboard shark-diving and whale-watching research vessels alongside experienced marine biologists.

Learn practical research skills, including photographic identification, biodiversity assessments, and statistical analysis using R software.

Assist with African penguin care and seabird rehabilitation at a local wildlife sanctuary near Gansbaai.

Attend structured lectures and training modules covering marine ecology, research methods, and scientific communication.

Quick Details

Locations:
  • South Africa
Starts At: $3,200 for 4 weeks + 1 day
Availability
Year(s) Offered: Year RoundIntern Duration:
  • 1-3 Months
Age Requirement: 18+
Types & Subjects
Fields:
  • Animal Sciences
  • Biology
  • Environmental Studies
  • See more
Guidelines:
  • All Nationalities
See all program details
Last Updated: Jul 15, 2026

Awards

Top Rated Provider Volunteer Abroad 2025Innovative Volunteer Abroad ProgramGoAbroad Innovation Awards 2024 Finalist - Intern Abroad ProgramTop Rated Provider 2023 - Notable MentionInnovation in Sustainability Finalist 2022

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • South Africa

Types and Subjects

  • Fields
  • Animal Sciences
  • Biology
  • Environmental Studies

Availability

Years Offered: Year Round

Intern Duration:
  • 1-3 Months

Age Requirement

18+

Guidelines

All Nationalities

Starts At

  • 4 weeks + 1 day: $3,200
  • 5 weeks + 1 day: $3,800
  • 6 weeks + 1 day: $4,400
  • 7 weeks + 1 day: $5,000

Program Cost Includes

  • Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
  • Some Meals / Partial Meal Plan
  • Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
  • In-Country Orientation

Program Cost Excludes

  • Visa Fees
  • International Airfare
  • Domestic Airfare

Refund Policy

Refund with conditions

Accommodation Options

  • Dormitory

Qualifications & Experience

      Accepted Education Levels

    • University Freshman (1st Year)
    • University Sophomore (2nd Year)
    • University Junior (3rd Year)
    • University Senior (4th Year)

    Application Procedures

    • Online Application

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    GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

    GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

    Verified

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    Get hands-on marine research experience in Gansbaai, South Africa, beside the renowned Dyer Island ecosystem, home to the Marine Big Five. Over four weeks, work alongside experienced marine scientists through structured training modules, boat-based fieldwork, and conservation projects. Weekdays combine lectures, lab work, and species monitoring, while weekends take you aboard research vessels collecting data on sharks, whales, and other marine life. You'll also help care for injured seabirds and African penguins at a local rehabilitation center. Build practical skills like photographic identification, biodiversity assessments, and statistical analysis using R software. Ideal for university students, recent graduates, and anyone considering a career in marine biology or conservation. No pri...

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