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Brilliant 4.71rating (152)
  • Life Below Water

Conservation of Whale and Dolphin Populations

location
1 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Complete your reservation as soon as possible. This project fills up quickly and is already booked on certain dates.

Highlights

  • Contribute to whale and dolphin conservation efforts.
  • Explore Tenerife's awesome beaches and enjoy adventures like kayaking and hiking.
  • Conduct data collection, participating in fin identification and documenting behaviour, species and individual counts.

Highlights

  • Contribute to whale and dolphin conservation efforts.
  • Explore Tenerife's awesome beaches and enjoy adventures like kayaking and hiking.
  • Conduct data collection, participating in fin identification and documenting behaviour, species and individual counts.
  • Participate in land surveys to monitor boat activity and assess its impact on dolphin migration and movement.
  • Input data into databases and citizen science platforms for future analysis and reporting.
    • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    50+

    About the program

    Contribute to critical whale and dolphin conservation initiatives in the beautiful subtropical Canary Islands archipelago.

    GVI’s whale and dolphin conservation program is based on the island of Tenerife, situated in the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean. As a volunteer, you'll work alongside international peers to ethically observe and document these magnificent creatures, contributing to their conservation. Tenerife, ...

    About the program

    GVI’s whale and dolphin conservation program is based on the island of Tenerife, situated in the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean. As a volunteer, you'll work alongside international peers to ethically observe and document these magnificent creatures, contributing to their conservation. Tenerife, just a short flight away from major European cities, offers prime opportunities for spotting a diverse range of species, including pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins and even killer whales.

    Given the threats posed by unsustainable tourism, your involvement is key. Whether you're out on boats or exploring beaches, you'll capture photos, observe behaviours and collect data on environmental factors. 

    Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, sits off the coast of Spain and Africa. Its mix of sunny beaches and volcanic landscapes, like Mount Teide, sets the scene for our research station. Our base offers access to hiking trails, volcanoes and diverse environments like cloud forests. Close to Puerto Colon port, we're perfectly placed for whale watching tours. Plus, we're near amenities and popular spots like Costa Adeje and Siam Mall for shopping and exploring.

    Typical day

    Engage in impactful projects throughout the day, then wind down with group activities or chill time with friends.

    Example of a typical day:

    7:00 am: Soak in the morning views and fresh sea air, maybe even squeeze in a run before breakfast.

    7:30 am: Gather for a team breakfast to kick off the day.

    9:00 ...

    Typical day

    Engage in impactful projects throughout the day, then wind down with group activities or chill time with friends.

    Example of a typical day:

    7:00 am: Soak in the morning views and fresh sea air, maybe even squeeze in a run before breakfast.

    7:30 am: Gather for a team breakfast to kick off the day.

    9:00 am: Head out on a boat to collect cetacean data and participate in a beach cleanup.

    12:00 pm: Group lunch with varied meals made from local ingredients.

    13:00 pm: Input data into the local database, including observations of dolphin and whale behaviour.

    18:00 pm: Help with base duties, prepare dinner, or enjoy some free time.

    19:00 pm: Reflect on the day's achievements and discuss our environmental impact.

    20:00 pm: Relax, hang out, or join in on activities with fellow participants.

    Free-time activities

    By participating in this program, you are not only offered an opportunity to work toward conserving ecosystems but also the opportunity to see local sites! 

    These side trips are not included in the program fee but are highly recommended:

    • Explore La Laguna's historic streets, packed with beautifully ...

    Free-time activities

    By participating in this program, you are not only offered an opportunity to work toward conserving ecosystems but also the opportunity to see local sites! 

    These side trips are not included in the program fee but are highly recommended:

    • Explore La Laguna's historic streets, packed with beautifully preserved buildings.
    • Immerse yourself in the wonders of Macizo de Anaga, a UNESCO biosphere reserve boasting epic wildlife and scenic trails.
    • Chill out on Tenerife's beaches, from golden sands to volcanic shores.
    • Experience the views from Spain's highest peak, Pico del Teide volcano, with a cable car ride in Teide National Park.

    Every four weeks, you can enjoy cultural immersion through GVI Experiences. These are included in your program at no extra cost.

    These activities may include: 

    • Learn to make delicious Canarian dishes.
    • Tour Old Town Tenerife's 15th century port.
    • Camp in Teide National Park.
    • Stargaze and learn the constellations.
    • Hike prehistorical micro-climates and laurel forests.
    • Cable car up an active volcano.

    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (intermediate level)

    Criminal Background Check

    required

    Required Documents

    Medical form and Passport copy

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Other Skills

    No skills required. All training is provided online 8 weeks prior to program start date.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    WHAT'S INCLUDED

    • 24-hour emergency phone
    • 24-hour in-country support
    • Access to Alumni Services and Discounts
    • Airport pick-up (unless otherwise stated)
    • All necessary project equipment and materials
    • All necessary project training by experienced staff
    • Location orientation
    • Long term experienced staff
    • Meals while on project (except on work placements for long term internships)
    • Safe and basic accommodations (usually shared)
    • Welcome meeting

    WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

    • Additional drinks and gratuities
    • Extra local excursions
    • Flights
    • International and domestic airport taxes
    • Medical and travel insurance
    • Personal items and toiletries
    • Police or background check
    • Visa costs (where necessary)

    Airport Pickup at Tenerife South Airport

    Airport pick up is provided from Tenerife South Airport on your program start date within a specified time period. 

    Accommodation

    Our research station in Tenerife is located just a short walk from 3 main harbours. Accommodation will be in shared rooms in a house on the island. Participants stay in dormitory-style rooms designed for 6–8 people, with shared bathrooms, showers and toilets. The accommodation provides modern amenities including electricity and running water.

    Food & Beverages

    Staff and participants alternate cooking meals on a rotating schedule, keeping things simple yet nutritious with flavours inspired by the Canary Islands. Breakfast offers cereals, eggs, toast and fresh fruit, while lunch features sandwiches, salads, rice and pasta. Dinner varies based on preferences, with popular options like curries, pastas, salads and stir-fries. If you prefer, you can grab lunch in town or cook at the base. We accommodate all dietary needs.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Tenerife South Airport (TFS) in Tenerife. We assist you to find cheap flights to Spain. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Spain provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Spain you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Spain. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    2025
    • 05 Jul 2025
    • 19 Jul 2025
    • 02 Aug 2025
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    2026
    • 03 Jan 2026
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    • 07 Nov 2026
    • 21 Nov 2026
    • 05 Dec 2026
    • 19 Dec 2026
    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program fees

    1 week (min. stay) 2,095€
    2 weeks 2,545€
    4 weeks 3,745€
    6 weeks 5,145€
    8 weeks 6,245€
    10 weeks 7,495€
    12 weeks (max. stay) 8,845€
    Average fees 1,416€/week

    Program fees

    1,416€ per week 1 - 12 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES

    Duration

    1 - 12 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.

    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet
    4.7
    Travelers’ Choice
    One of the most loved volunteer experiences, according to travelers

    Location

    Europe > Southern Europe > Spain > Tenerife

    Meet your project coordinator

    Bianca
    152
    reviews
    4.71
    Brilliant
    1998
    Founded

    Verified

      Very high response rate
    Spoken languages: English
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    Volunteer Abroad  >  Environment  >  Marine Conservation in Spain
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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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