GoAbroad
$3,200Program Costs
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2005Year established

Program Overview

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 prior research experience required, just curiosity, physical fitness, and a willingness to work outdoors in changing conditions. Internships begin the first Monday of each month; minimum age 18, minimum two-week commitment.

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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.

What's Included

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

Exclusions

Visa Fees
International Airfare
Domestic Airfare

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • South Africa

Available Terms / Availability

  • Years Offered
  • Year Round

Eligible Nationalities

  • All Nationalities

Education Levels & Language

  • Education
  • University Freshman (1st Year)
  • University Sophomore (2nd Year)
  • University Junior (3rd Year)
  • University Senior (4th Year)
  • University 5th Year or More
  • Some college credit, no degree

Accommodation Options

  • Dormitory

Application Procedures

  • Online Application

Age Requirement

18+

Duration

  • 1-3 Months

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

Refund Policy

Refund with conditions

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Recognitions & Awards

Awards and accreditations earned by this provider

Top Rated Provider Volunteer Abroad 2025
Innovative Volunteer Abroad Program
GoAbroad Innovation Awards 2024 Finalist - Intern Abroad Program
Top Rated Provider 2023 - Notable Mention
Innovation in Sustainability Finalist 2022
Innovation in Sustainability 2021 Finalist
Innovative New Program Volunteer Abroad 2020 Finalist
2019 Notable Mentions
GoAbroad Innovative New Program - Volunteer Abroad
GoAbroad Top Rated Organization 2017 (Notable Mention)
Global Youth Travel Awards 2018
GoAbroad Top Volunteer Abroad Organization 2018
World Youth Student & Educational Travel Confederation

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