Whale Shark Research in Mozambique

  Mozambique

• Other Cities in Mozambique: 
Rural Areas

Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks, 9-12 weeks and 3-6 months
Typical Duration of Program: 5-8 weeks
Dates: Year 'round

Description: Volunteer in Mozambique on the Whale Shark Marine Conservation Project and help with hands-on whale shark research, coral reef monitoring, humpbacked whale monitoring and turtle nest surveys, as well as, explore one of Africa's best scuba diving destinations.

The Whale Shark Marine Conservation Project involves gathering field data on whale sharks, coral reefs and other marine biodiversity to make recommendations for improving the conservation of marine life as well as creating general awareness about the marine environment.

Whale Sharks are the ocean's biggest fish. Although sharks, whale sharks feed on plankton and are harmless to people. But they are a threatened species and more information is needed to be learned about their population dynamics.

Highlights: As a GeoVisions volunteer it may be possible to:

* Help with the marine research and monitoring activities for the project under the guidance of the project coordinator.
* Assist with the collection of data via beach walks, boat surveys, swims and scuba dives off the coastline of Tofo.
* Help monitor whale shark numbers, behavior and ecology as well as taking underwater identification photographs of the whale sharks.
* Join research scuba dives to help monitor the condition of the coral reefs and indicator species of reef fish.
* At certain times of the year, it is also possible to help survey humpbacked whale numbers and turtle nesting activity.
* Assist with beach cleanups and other general environmental activities.
* Help in uploading and analyzing field data and create awareness among the general public of the importance of the marine environment.

Qualifications: In order to carry out these activities you will need to be capable of equalizing your ear pressure and willing to learn to scuba dive. A four day internationally recognized PADI open water diving course is provided as part of this project to train you to be able to carry out this coral reef monitoring. If you already have this qualification you may do an advanced open water diving course instead or an equivalent number of extra research dives. Of course, this program requires that volunteers are capable swimmers and snorkelers (swimming 100 meters).

* Personalized Volunteer placement in Mozambique, based on your skills and interests, including all the coordination, in-person visits and communication necessary with the local organization.
* Orientation including a tour around Tofo and Inhambane.
* An open water scuba diving courses (4-7 days). This is a PADI international accredited course that will then allow you to scuba dive throughout the world. A certificate of completion is also included.
* Housing at the project's volunteer accommodations, the basic amenities (electricity and running water), shared dorm rooms, all of your meals except lunch, and transportation from the airport to your placements and programs.
* An experienced U.S. based GeoVisions Program Manager who will serve as your coordinator and liaison with our in-country staff in Mozambique.
* In-country basic language assistance.
* Professional, locally-based staff to provide orientation, supervision and guidance throughout your stay.
* Extensive medical, accident and dental insurance along with emergency evacuation insurance.
* Important documents, including in-depth pre-departure packs, orientation information, and all in-country informational materials.
* Country-based airport transportation.
* A toll-free 24-hour emergency hotline in the U.S.
* Two-months membership at Pongo Resume to help volunteers get their experience recorded on their resume.
* The President's Volunteer Service Award including a lapel pen, signed letter from President Barack Obama and a certificate.
* An additional benefit is the PADI Suba Dive Certification each volunteer can qualify for when participating on this program. The cost of instruction and certification is included in the project fee.

Experience Required: no

Age Range: 18-65

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Mozambique Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

GeoVisions's Mission Statement: GeoVisions is committed to help individuals develop global skills to succeed in the twenty-first century. These skills will ultimately lead to greater cooperation and understanding among nations and peoples of the world. We are committed to treating every person on a GeoVisions program with respect, and devoting our energies to helping participants meet their individual and collective goals.

Year Founded: 2001

GeoVisions is a based organization. We do not require our participants to be of the same faith. Our volunteers will not be involved in religious proselytizing.