Volunteer on our professional and responsible whale project. Our volunteers get really close up to the Southern RightWhales  and other marine animals. Limited placements allow volunteers the opportunity to maximise their time working closely with marine biologists.

Our partner organisation is situated in Gansbaai, Western Cape, about two and a half hours drive from Cape Town. The area is known for its natural unspoilt beauty of small bays, white sands and its archaeological and historical value. Our partners our proudly Fair Trade Tourism South Africa (FTTSA) accredited thereby meeting strict criteria such as: fair wages and equal employment, democracy, transparency and environmental conservation.

Volunteer in a uniquely rich marine eco-system where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet at the southern tip of Africa. The breeding ground of the Southern Right whale visiting from the Antartic feeding grounds as well as numerous mothers and calves. Also regular sightings of Bryde’s whales and Humpback whales. The densest population of Great White sharks in the world. Also large resident populations of dolphins, seals and thousands of seabirds.

Work closely with an Internationally renowned boat-based whale watching company attracting

thousands of visitors annually. Assist a permanent team of full-time marine biologists studying marine

species in co-operation with universities and academic institutions worldwide. Daily interaction with adult whales and mothers with calves controlled to the highest scientific standards.

This volunteer programme is seasonal and only operates when the whales are in the bay area during the months of July to December. There is a fully dedicated research boat conducting studies into the biology

and behaviour of marine species available. As well as active involvement in education and community programmes.

Southern Right whales including calves arrive in July and leave in December for Antarctica. Other species include Humpback whales, Bryde’s whales; Bottlenose, Pacific Humpback and Common dolphins as well as Great White Sharks, Cape Fur seals and African penguins are resident all year

For those interested there are also opportunities to work on their sister shark-cage diving boat!

Our volunteers stay in private self-catering homes within walking distance from the project. Here you will manage your own food budget and buy supplies from the local shops.

The “Project Contribution” included in your overall fee will contribute to the long-term sustainability of the project during your actual volunteer stay on the ground. On your return home you may continue to support the project financially with donations via TravelPledge, a UK-based charity, or via our separate Donations Account. Please enquire with our office for further information.

Your Voluntouring experience is not complete without taking in some key heritage and tourist sites during your off-periods. To find out more about South Africa and some of the fantastic sights and activities that await you see the “Sightseeing SA” tab on our home page for more information.