South Africa Shark conservation

Shark Conservation

Volunteering along a beautiful stretch of South Africa's rich coastline, whilst seeing some of the greatest sea creatures the world has to offer, you become part of a passionate team contributing to worldwide scientific research on sharks. Help to monitor and observe the sharks in their natural habitat, finding out more about their behaviour. This research is crucial if we are to stop the continuing decline of shark populations around the world.

Your days will be spent out at sea, either helping with the tourist shark and whale watching trips or contributing to ongoing monitoring and research. In return for your hard work, you get unparalled access to sharks and gain new insights into conservation issues, as well as enjoying the amazing coast on South Africa's famous Garden Route.

What Will I Be Doing?

Your days are varied, but are mainly centred around two areas:

• Monitoring: Help researchers in their work to identify the movement of the sharks throughout the year. This involves observing them from a boat or diving cage, photographing them and keeping records. You will be given plenty of training and development, with daily lectures on sharks and their habits as well as hands-on experience. It won't be long before you are contributing your own observations at lectures and feeling very much part of the team.
• Tourist trips: The research team take groups of tourists on shark and whale watching trips. You will be working alongside them, operating equipment, as well as looking after the passengers. You'll never tire of seeing the wildlife along this coastline - whales lifting their flukes as they dive, penguins, dolphins and, of course, sharks!

There is plenty to do during your time off. The conservation area is about two hours drive from Cape Town along the attractive garden route. There are excellent beaches, restaurants and nightlife within easy reach.

Getting there

A flight can be arranged to Cape Town. You will be met at the airport and transported to site along the stunningly attractive Garden Route

Highlights - what will I get out of this?

• The thrill of having a shark swimming towards you - still exciting even after several weeks!
• Being part of a friendly team, working and socialising around a fantastic stretch of coast.
• Coming away with a lot more knowledge and some wonderful memories
• Getting to know the South African people, as well as its wildlife.
• Helping a species that is dying out and contribute to reversing this sad trend.
• Further your work experience, enrich your CV and gain unforgettable memories

Accommodation

Comfortable and secure accommodation is provided about 5 minutes walk from the office and boats in a really lovely neighbourhood. The house has great shower facilities, living area and fully equipped kitchen where you will be able to cook for yourselves (food is not included). There is also a restaurant area at the office block where you can have lunch.