As a Sri Lanka turtle conservation volunteer, you will play an essential role in protecting and rehabilitating sea turtles while also supporting community development projects. With many turtle species at risk of extinction, conservation efforts are more crucial than ever. By volunteering, you'll raise awareness about plastic pollution, care for injured or disabled turtles, and help release baby turtles back into the wild, offering them a safe future away from natural threats and poaching.
BACKGROUND TO THE TURTLE CONSERVATION PROGRAM
Sri Lanka is home to five sea turtle species: the Green Turtle, Hawksbill, Loggerhead, Olive Ridley, and Leatherback. The Green Turtle is the most commonly encountered species, while the Loggerhead is the rarest, usually found in the East Coast of the U.S. The Hawksbill, Olive Ridley, and Leatherback are critically endangered due to overhunting and other human activities. In Ambalangoda, a fishing hub, many turtles are caught in nets, and some lose limbs, making rehabilitation essential.
The biggest threat to sea turtles is plastic pollution, with millions of microplastics, straws, and bottles polluting the oceans. Volunteers will play a key role in combating this environmental disaster and helping protect marine life.
Volunteering in Sri Lanka provides an incredible opportunity to help these incredible creatures while immersing yourself in the natural beauty and culture of the island.
TURTLE CONSERVATION VOLUNTEER PLACEMENT EXAMPLES
Ambalangoda Turtle Conservation Sanctuary
At this sanctuary, volunteers will assist in the rehabilitation of disabled turtles and support efforts to protect and release healthy turtles back into the wild. The sanctuary also works to protect turtle eggs from poaching. Volunteers will learn how to properly nest turtle eggs, care for turtles, and safely release hatchlings into the sea.
Beach Cleanups
A key part of your role as a turtle conservation volunteer is maintaining safe beaches for turtle nesting. Volunteers will be involved in regular beach cleanups, removing litter and dangerous debris that could harm turtles. In an effort to combat plastic pollution, volunteers will work toward the goal of collecting 200 kilograms of waste from the beaches each day.
Turtle Hatchery & Baby Turtle Release
Volunteers will help care for turtle eggs that have been moved to a safe hatchery. This is crucial as turtle eggs are often stolen by poachers or threatened by human activity, such as hotel developments. Volunteers will assist in nesting, monitoring, and releasing baby turtles, ensuring they have a safe start in life. The hatchery operates in compliance with national wildlife guidelines, offering a secure environment for turtle conservation.
By volunteering on this project, you will not only contribute to the survival of these endangered creatures but also support vital environmental conservation efforts.
OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER VOLUNTEERING IN SRI LANKA
Top Destination
Sri Lanka is often regarded as one of the best volunteer destinations due to the exceptional local support, great value for money, and the overall experience in Ambalangoda. The local team goes above and beyond to ensure that every volunteer has an unforgettable experience, which is reflected in the positive feedback received. This makes it an ideal choice for first-time travellers seeking extra support, a variety of organised weekend trips, and the opportunity to participate in meaningful local initiatives in an exotic setting.
Return Airport Transfer
Your return airport transfer is not included in your Program Fee. However, our local team can assist with arranging transfers to the airport or other destinations from the volunteer accommodation. It’s more flexible to make these arrangements once you’re in Sri Lanka, as travel plans can change, and you might be able to coordinate with others on similar flight schedules. The cost will vary depending on your transport method and final destination, and if you’re traveling with other participants, it can often be shared. We strongly advise against using public transport or ridesharing apps for your airport transfer, as while they may be cheaper, they are less convenient and pose additional safety risks.
Weekends
Weekends in Sri Lanka are free, allowing you to relax or explore the country. Most participants take this opportunity to travel, while others enjoy downtime at the volunteer accommodation. We provide a Sri Lanka Weekend Travel Guide with top tips for making the most of your weekends. Additionally, before you depart for Sri Lanka, you can sign up for one of our exciting weekend trips, including the Adventure Hill & Country Trip, the Cultural Triangle & Elephants Trip, and the Maldives Chill Out Trip. These trips run every month, giving you plenty of chances to join in. Your project work is from Monday to Friday, so you’ll have plenty of time to experience Sri Lanka’s beauty and culture.
Project Flexibility
This volunteer project operates in the mornings, giving you the opportunity to participate in teaching projects during the afternoon. A minimum commitment of one week is required for each project, and you can finalize these arrangements once you’re in Sri Lanka. There are no additional costs, and we always welcome extra support for the community-based projects.
