The whale shark protection program is a unique opportunity to carry out underwater research and gain knowledge of the marine world. You'll join a team of qualified scientists from a research center, giving you privileged access to the region's wildlife and ecosystem. All selected ecovolunteer missions here
The whale shark research program
You will have the opportunity to participate, under the supervision of a team of scientists, in the organization of marine research activities. You'll get together with other volunteers to help collect data during scuba dives and ocean trips around the Tofo coastline in Mozambique. Get ready for an incredible diving adventure that guarantees real experience in marine research, and a contribution to a high-impact environmental protection project.
Your actions for marine wildlife
The project involves several types of research on different species.
Some activities are carried out at specific times of the year, while others are conducted throughout the year.
- Whale shark, dolphin, barrier reef and seahorse watching: all year round.
- Turtles: November to March.
- Humpback whales: June to October.
Here's a summary of the research and conservation activities you can get involved in.
- They take part in the whale shark census;
- They have the opportunity to study underwater behavior and photography;
- They are used to collect a wide range of data (location, gender, distinguishing marks, etc.);
- They observe the coral reefs;
- They take photos that help identify manta rays and other endangered species;
- They observe humpback whales and sea turtles;
- They help clean up beaches and protect the environment;
- They dive with the world's largest marine species: the whale shark;
- They learn more about the different species and help to protect them;
- They learn to dive and discover the magic of the underwater world;
- They observe the migration of humpback whales;
- They get involved in marine research and learn research and analysis techniques.
Some research activities take place all year round, while others take place at specific times of the year.
- Whale shark, dolphin, barrier reef and seahorse watching : all year round;
- Turtles: November to March;
- Humpback whales: June to October;
- Length of stay: 2 to 12 weeks
| Length of stay | Fees | Fees after tax deductions *. |
|---|---|---|
| 2weeks | 1849 € | 616.46 € |
| 3 weeks | 2715 € | 905.18 € |
| 4 weeks | 3190 € | 1063.55 € |
| 6 weeks | 4340 € | 1446.96 € |
| 8 weeks | 5145 € | 1715.34 € |
| 10 weeks | 6211 € | 2000.75 € |
| 12 weeks | 7276 € | 2425.82 € |
Included in price
- Airport transfers
- 24/7 assistance from our local partners
- International diving certification (except for two-week projects)
- Data collection dives and ocean excursions
- Accommodation and all meals during your stay
- Donation to the foundation in charge of protection activities.
Not included in price
- Airline tickets
- Travel and repatriation insurance
- Visa
Mission eligible for tax deduction *.
The partner association's educational mission and its commitment to environmental and social development mean that it is considered to be an association of general interest. As a result, the people who participate in and contribute to the projects can deduct up to 66% of the sums involved from their taxable income.
- You will be asked to submit a CV in English.
- From 18 years of age. Children and young people aged 4 to 18 are accepted if accompanied by their parents.
- Be able to swim 100 m unassisted.
- Volunteers signing up for two weeks only must have their PADI Open Waters or PADI Advanced Open Waters diving certification. All others will have diving courses.
- People with pre-existing health problems or over 45 must also bring a medical certificate of plngée.
- People taking Lariam/Mefloquine/Mephliam/Tropicure (or any other derivative) as antimalarial treatment (prophylaxis) will not be allowed to dive.
- Accredited divers must bring their dive card (showing their last recorded dive) with them to the project site as proof.
- Accredited volunteers who do not require a diving course but who have not logged any dives in the six months prior to their departure will have to pass a diving exam before they can participate in their research dives.
Housing
Accommodation: Volunteers stay at the Tilak Lodge, located next to the diving center and a stone's throw from Tofo beach.
Activities/leisure
On days when you're not in the water, the social project guides can take you on activities around Tofo such as Portuguese lessons, historical visits...
The partner association
Le partenaire is a 1901 association registered in France, whose mission is to encourage participation in ethical and sustainable development projects. It connects NGOs, social action associations and government structures with volunteers. It promotes solidarity and participative travel. The partner is a certified WYSE Travel Confederation Member. WYSE is a global non-profit organization representing youth and student travel stakeholders worldwide. It is also a member of the AFNOR commission for the development of the international standard on responsible tourism, a member of the International Mobility Committee, certified as an Australian specialist, accredited by the international group ICEF, a member of EAIE (European Center of Expertise, Networking and Resources for the Internationalization of Higher Education) and a member of the travel4impact Network. All missions with Freepackers