Dolphin Research & Marine Conservation Project

Dolphin tourism is booming in Zanzibar. However, there are no tourism regulations here and the dolphin species that call these crystal waters home are at risk.

Based in the beautiful and remote fishing village of Kizimkazi in the Menai Bay Conservation Area, our Dolphin Research Project involves working with the local community to promote marine conservation and the protection of the dolphins and their habitat.

We’ve developed Ethical Dolphin Tour workshops, which our volunteers help run, that educate local boat drivers on dolphins, their behavior and how to run a responsible tour. Our workshops have been given the green light by the government and we are working with tour operators to encourage them to use ethical boat drivers.

Together with the Institute of Marine Science Zanzibar, our volunteers help with monitoring how human-dolphin interaction affects the way the dolphins live and behave. Promoting sustainable dolphin tourism in the area by empowering the local community can go a long way to protecting these amazing animals.

Menai Bay is famed for its dolphin populations and the sea teems with hundreds of different species of fish. With crystal clear waters, pristine white beaches and close dolphin encounters coupled with the impact you will have on the community this is an experience of a lifetime.

Location Highlights

Zanzibar is a fascinating place filled with pristine beaches, luxurious resorts, exotic wildlife and the cultural melting pot of Stone Town. It is a very diverse place with warm and welcoming people and a very different culture to mainland Tanzania. It truly is African Impacts most beautiful destination! As well as the numerous beaches, resorts and islands that you can enjoy on boat trips from Jambiani, Stone Town offers a unique insight into the history and culture of Zanzibar.

With a mix of European, African, Asian and Arabic culture, it’s an eye-opening place to spend the afternoon exploring the narrow alleyways, old architecture or just sipping on a cold drink on a roof-top terrace bar as the sun slowly goes down.

What Else Will I Be Involved In?

There are loads of ways to get stuck into community projects. Work in the gardens, plant trees, run sports and games with the nursery school children, help out on beach clean-ups and with repairs at the local school.

Duration: 2 – 8 weeks

Countries: Tanzania

Experiences: Volunteering

Ages: 17 and up (17 with parental permission.)

Experience Requirements:

• Genuine love and concern for people and the environment
• Enthusiasm, and interest in wildlife and the natural environment
• Good understanding of English
• You must be in good physical health, as you will be expected to participate in physical activities
• Ability to work as part of a team, be flexible and cooperative
• You must be able to swim!

Project Starts: Every Other Monday during selected dates

Dates: 12 & 26 March | 9 & 23 April | 7 & 21 May | 4 & 18 June | 2, 16 & 30 July | 13 & 27 August | 10 & 24 September | 8 & 22 October | 5 & 19 November | 3 December (2 weeks maximum stay on last arrival date)

Price:
2 weeks – $2,304.00
3 weeks – $2,925.00
4 weeks – $3,545.00
5 weeks – $4,165.00
6 weeks – $4,785.00
7 weeks – $5,405.00
8 weeks – $6,025.00
9 weeks – $6,645.00
10 weeks – $7,265.00
11 weeks – $7,885.00
12 weeks – $8,505.00

Please contact us if you have any questions!

Accommodations

Jambiani is a stunning, safe beach location where you will have the opportunity to explore village life and the beautiful beach dotted with palm trees. You can swim in the turquoise warm waters, or visit some of the many beachfront resorts, restaurants and cafes to sit back and have a cold drink! Strolling around Jambiani you will constantly hear the phrase Karibu (‘you are welcome’), which sums-up island life.

Your marine dolphin research is based in the peaceful fishing village of Kizimkazi, where you will spend most of your days. Just over an hour’s drive away from Jambiani is the historical trading city of Stone Town. Wander down the cobbled alleyways – along twists and turns – that will lead you to a fascinating mix of African, Arabic, Indian and European culture. Step back in time to experience the heart and soul of this enchanting island.

You will be staying at our volunteer house in the picturesque Jambiani village, directly on the beach. There is no better place to wake up and watch the sunrise over the Indian Ocean! We offer shared en-suite accommodation with a balcony overlooking the sea. Our Project Coordinators live on the premises to provide you with all the support you need and our team of excellent chefs cook you three delicious meals a day.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  Airport Collection and drop off on arrival and departure

Internet is available at the house for a cost of 3000 Tanzanian shillings per hour. A free hour is provided on your arrival

$5USD (10,000 Tanzanian Shillings) – undergarments NOT included. Facilities provided for own-washing at no cost

All your daily transport to the project sites

3 freshly cooked meals a day

A full-time housekeeping service and 24-hour support

Volunteers stay in shared airy rooms with up to 4 volunteers per rooms.
Roof and portable fans provided

A great experience with the opportunity to make new friends!

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

Items of a personal nature, personal insurances, visas and gratuities

 Gratuity

Optional extra activities, not specified above

MORE INFORMATION

Expectations and requirements

Helpful travel info