This marine conservation project in Mozambique welcomes individuals passionate about protecting underwater habitats and ecosystems. Participants must be competent swimmers and hold Open Water and Advanced Open Water Dive Certifications. These certifications can be obtained prior to arrival or upon arrival in Mozambique.

Project details

Immerse yourself in hands-on marine conservation as you help collect data to assist with the protection of the ocean habitat. Volunteers gain marine conservation and scuba experience while helping to carry out a wide range of conservation activities.

What to expect and how you'll make an impact

Embark on a transformative Marine Conservation journey along Mozambique’s breathtaking coastline, where pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs set the scene. While these coastal treasures face growing threats from pollution and climate change, your involvement as a volunteer plays a crucial role in ongoing conservation efforts and scientific research.

Hands-On Experience & Meaningful Contribution

As a Marine Conservation volunteer, you’ll immerse yourself in a range of activities designed to make a real difference. Your typical tasks may include:

Participating in research dives to collect essential data and photographs that support long-term marine studies.
Monitoring whale behavior and migration during dedicated whale-watching excursions.
Assisting with shark tagging and plankton sampling for microscopic analysis. Exploring coral reefs and conducting mangrove monitoring to track the health of these - delicate ecosystems.
Kayaking in protected areas to gain a deeper understanding of local marine environments.
Engaging with the community through visits and educational initiatives, raising awareness about marine conservation and even teaching local children how to swim on weekends.

Through these activities, you will not only develop hands-on scuba diving skills but also directly contribute to crucial data collection and ongoing conservation work. Expect to complete at least four dives per week (weather and conditions permitting), with additional responsibilities such as snorkel surveys and dry tasks that support the project’s objectives.

Training, Certification & Requirements

To take part, you must be a competent swimmer and hold a PADI Open Water Certification (or an equivalent qualification from SSI, RAID, NAUI, etc.). If you are not already certified, you can obtain your Open Water Certification before arrival, or complete a RAID certification in Mozambique for US$200. Upgrades for existing certifications are also available through the local team.

If you choose to certify in Mozambique, online theory courses must be completed on-site before starting practical dives.

Equipment Provided

All necessary diving equipment is provided for volunteers, though experienced divers may wish to bring personal items such as a snorkel, tempered glass mask, open-heel fins with booties, a 5mm long-sleeve wetsuit, and personal mouthpieces. Recommended extras include a dive computer/watch and an underwater camera (like a GoPro).

Learning Opportunities

In addition to fieldwork, you’ll have access to educational presentations led by local experts. Topics include cetacean evolution, humpback whale biology, photo identification, whale songs and communication, threats to marine life, and much more. Broader marine biology sessions cover mangrove and estuarine ecosystems, sea turtles, sharks, plankton biology, and other key conservation topics.

Commitment & Impact

A minimum commitment of two weeks is required to ensure you receive adequate training and have a meaningful impact on the project. Please specify your dive certification status when applying, or indicate if you plan to complete certification in Mozambique.

By volunteering, you’ll contribute directly to vital conservation initiatives, help protect Mozambique’s stunning marine environment, and gain invaluable skills and experiences along the way. This is your opportunity to make a tangible difference - both in and out of the water - while connecting deeply with local communities and the natural world.

Contributes to United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal #14: Life Below Water

The ocean regulates and drives global systems that make the Earth habitable for humankind. Marine biodiversity is critical to the health of people and our planet. Preserving threatened ecosystems, as well as tackling marine pollution and overfishing through conservation activities is key to saving our ocean.

Why do Marine Conservation volunteering in Mozambique with IVHQ?

Contribute to critical whale and marine ecosystem research through hands-on experiences. Participate in research dives, whale watching, and shark tagging while exploring breathtaking coastal and marine environments. Make a real impact by helping protect endangered species and raising awareness within local communities. Gain unique skills, connect with like-minded individuals, and experience marine life up close on this unforgettable adventure.

Volunteer requirements

Volunteers aged over 18 on their start date are required to provide a criminal background check to IVHQ before departure.

All volunteers must speak English and have adequate volunteer travel insurance.

Are you eligible to volunteer?

Submit a free application so we can confirm your eligibility and check availability for your preferred dates.

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Who is going?

Group video calls

Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.

Mozambique photo gallery

A large whale shark swims gracefully in the open ocean, surrounded by smaller fish. Its distinctive white spots and streamlined body are clearly visible against the deep blue water, capturing a highlight from a marine conservation diving experience in Mozambique.

Whale Shark Sighting during Marine Conservation Dive in Mozambique

A group of volunteers gathers around wooden tables inside a thatched-roof building, listening to a local team member’s presentation. Laptops, notebooks, and a projector are on the table, while large windows provide a view of palm trees outside.

Marine Conservation Volunteers Attending a Presentation by the Local Team

A scuba diver in full gear is underwater, facing the camera and holding their breathing regulator. The diver wears a black wetsuit and yellow diving mask, surrounded by clear blue water and the rocky, plant-covered seabed typical of Mozambique's marine environment.

Marine Conservation Volunteer Diving off the Coast of Mozambique

A close-up of a vibrant starfish with orange spots surrounded by long-spined black sea urchins on a sandy reef floor. The image captures the biodiversity that marine conservation volunteers help to study and protect in Mozambique.

Colorful Starfish and Sea Urchins on Mozambique Reef

A group of four marine conservation volunteers are bent over checking and assembling scuba diving equipment in an outdoor courtyard with hanging wetsuits in the background.

Preparing Scuba Gear for a Marine Conservation Dive in Mozambique

Two smiling volunteers in full wetsuits wave from a boat loaded with scuba gear, just offshore from a sandy beach with turquoise water and a blue sky.

Marine Conservation Volunteers Ready on Dive Boat in Mozambique

A group of volunteers sits at a wooden table indoors, focused on laptops while entering marine survey data. One person points at the screen, collaborating with others in a relaxed, rustic workspace.

Marine Conservation Volunteers Recording Survey Data

A lionfish with long, flowing spines and striped body is seen swimming close to the sandy, rocky seabed in shallow water. Its distinctive appearance highlights one of the marine species monitored by conservation volunteers in Mozambique.

Lionfish Spotted during Snorkeling Survey

A scuba diver underwater, wearing a black wetsuit and dive mask, faces the camera and makes the double Thumbs Up hand signal.

Diver Giving a Thumbs Up during a Marine Conservation Dive

A panoramic view from a coastal cliff in Mozambique reveals palm trees, rugged terrain, and a distant island under a golden sunset sky.

Scenic Coastal Viewpoint at Sunset

A group of locals paddle a handmade canoe across vibrant turquoise waters, showcasing traditional life and marine beauty in Mozambique.

Locals Rowing a Small Wooden Boat in Crystal Waters

A group of IVHQ volunteers enjoy a relaxed dinner together at a rustic restaurant in Tofo, Mozambique, sharing stories and drinks.

Volunteer Dinner Gathering in Mozambique

A group of volunteers and local surf instructors give thumbs-up on the beach in Mozambique, enjoying camaraderie and cross-cultural exchange.

Volunteers and Locals Smiling on the Beach

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Location

A tranquil beach scene in Mozambique, framed by lush palm leaves and tropical plants. The golden sand leads to clear turquoise water, where a small traditional dhow boat floats offshore.

Location

Mozambique’s Inhambane Province offers a unique volunteer experience, immersing participants in a rich cultural tapestry woven from African, Portuguese, and Arab influences evident in its music, food, and historical landmarks.

This southeastern African hidden gem boasts breathtaking beaches, vibrant marine ecosystems, and a deep cultural heritage. The town of Inhambane, with a history spanning over a millennium, seamlessly blends Portuguese colonial aesthetics with a relaxed coastal ambiance, providing an engaging and authentic experience.

Renowned for its pristine waters and exceptional diving opportunities, the region teems with marine biodiversity, including manta rays, whale sharks, and humpback whales. Traditional dhow boats line the shores, and bustling markets reflect the area’s long-standing fishing and trading traditions. Inhambane’s hospitable communities, stunning natural beauty, and laid-back atmosphere create a memorable destination for volunteers seeking to discover the culture and beauty of Mozambique.

Arrival and orientation

Program orientation is held on the first and third Monday of each month. Volunteers must arrive in Inhambane the Sunday before their chosen orientation date.

After registering, book your flight to Inhambane Airport (INH). Airport pickup is included in the Program Fee. Upon arrival, you will be met by a local team member or taxi and taken to the volunteer accommodation in Inhambane, approximately 30 minutes from the airport by car. The Program Fee covers your accommodation, including the night before orientation.

If you are already traveling in Mozambique, pickup in Inhambane can be arranged for the day before your orientation.

Orientation is conducted by our Mozambique team at their office located within the accommodation. It starts on the morning of your program start date and includes information on Mozambique, culture, customs, rules, expectations, safety, travel options, and an introduction to your specific project.

Volunteer schedule example

First Day

You will complete your orientation and an introduction to your project and the plans for the coming weeks.

Weekdays

Volunteers work for approximately 5 hours per day, but start times and daily workloads depend on the tides and dive schedule. Volunteers will be assigned a dive time and this will change throughout your time on the program. A typical day would be as follows:

7:00 - 8:00 AM	Make your own breakfast at the volunteer accommodation.
8:00 - 9:00 AM	Volunteers leave the accommodation and travel to the dive and activity centre.
12:00 PM	Volunteers break for lunch. Volunteers either travel back to the volunteer accommodation or eat a packed lunch.
12:00 - 4:00 PM	Entry and analysis of data collected. Please note: Some afternoons will be dedicated to shallow surveys in the estuary
4:00 - 6:00 PM	Free time to relax, enjoy the beach, surf, kayak or paddle board, or explore Inhambane.
6:00 PM	Dinner at the volunteer accommodation prepared by the in-house chef.

Weekends

Volunteers have free time on the weekends to explore Inhambane’s stunning beaches, relax at the accommodation in the laid-back coastal atmosphere, or take part in a range of adventure activities. You can snorkel or scuba dive, take a dhow safari to nearby islands, or those looking to immerse themselves in local culture can visit the vibrant Inhambane Market, explore historic Portuguese architecture, or enjoy fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants. If you’re staying longer, you may also want to venture further along Mozambique’s coastline.

Accommodation and WiFi

Volunteer accommodation consists of shared beachside bungalows (up to 3 volunteers of the same gender per room), each with an en-suite bathroom, a common area, a basic kitchen, and a beach-view balcony. Single beds with bedding are provided; bedding changes and bungalow cleaning are available upon request. Laundry service is also available (excluding underwear).

The accommodation has electricity, running water, and Western toilets. Volunteers should bring their own beach towels and toiletries, though bath towels are provided. Please note that power outages may occur, particularly during the wet season, and the tap and shower water comes from a natural bore source and has a slight saltiness to it.

WiFi is accessible in the restaurant area and the local team’s office above it. Volunteers can purchase an e-SIM or purchase a local SIM card upon arrival in Mozambique, with data for approximately US$10.

Meals

Volunteers in Mozambique can expect three daily, nutritious meals prepared by an on-site chef at the volunteer accommodation. Meals are a blend of Mozambican, South African, and Western cuisine.

Typical breakfast includes cereal, fruit, coffee, tea, eggs, and bread with spreads. Lunch and dinner often feature dishes like curry, rice, burgers, salads, chips, beef, and fish. Volunteers away from the accommodation during lunchtime will receive a packed lunch prepared in advance.

The accommodation also houses a restaurant and bar where volunteers can purchase additional menu items such as desserts, drinks, and snacks between scheduled meals.

It is not possible to drink tap water in Mozambique. However, filtered water is readily available at the local team’s office, and volunteers should bring a reusable water bottle. An estimated budget of $5 per week is recommended for purchasing 2 liters of bottled water daily when away from the accommodation.

Please inform us of any special dietary needs during the application process to allow for necessary arrangements. While we strive to cater to individual requirements and ensure volunteers are well-nourished, flexibility regarding food options is expected, as the diet may differ from what you are accustomed to at home.

A shared bedroom featuring two wooden single beds, a fan, refrigerator, and ocean-inspired bedding at the volunteer accommodation in Mozambique.

Twin Volunteer Bedroom with Beach-Themed Bedding

A cozy bedroom with wooden walls, twin beds, and a mosquito net draped over one of the beds inside the Mozambique volunteer accommodation.

Shared Volunteer Bedroom with Mosquito Net

A shaded balcony with wooden chairs and a table provides a communal space for volunteers to relax outside their accommodation in Mozambique.

Beach Bungalow Balcony with Seating Area

A well-equipped kitchen with wooden cabinetry, a dining table, fridge, and basic appliances inside the volunteer house in Mozambique.

Beach Bungalow Shared Kitchen and Dining Area

A rustic wooden bathroom with a flush toilet, open storage shelves, and a hand basin at the IVHQ volunteer accommodation in Mozambique.

Bathroom Facilities at Volunteer Accommodation

A tiled wall with showerhead and a small mirror in the shared bathroom facilities for volunteers staying in Mozambique.

Tiled Shower at Volunteer Accommodation

A spacious open-air dining area with long wooden tables, handwritten notes on ceiling beams, and coastal views, where volunteers share meals in Mozambique.

Dining Area/Restaurant with Beach Views

Bright red chairs and tables on a wooden terrace surrounded by palm trees at volunteer accommodation near the beach in Mozambique.

Outdoor Terrace with Red Patio Furniture

Vehicles parked on the sandy shoreline beside the IVHQ volunteer accommodation in Mozambique, with direct access to the tidal flats and ocean.

Volunteer Accommodation Exterior Overlooking the Beach

A serene view of the pool and loungers overlooking the estuary at sunset, offering volunteers a peaceful retreat at the Mozambique accommodation.

Pool Area at Sunset by the Estuary

A simple buffet breakfast station in the volunteer lodge in Mozambique includes cereal dispensers, fruit, juice cartons, and utensils on a table.

Volunteer Breakfast Buffet Setup

A breaded chicken burger with lettuce on a soft bun is paired with a simple salad of tomato, cucumber, and onion, served as a volunteer lunch in Mozambique.

Chicken Sandwich with Garden Salad

A glass bowl of mixed steamed vegetables and a dish of veggie noodles are served for lunch at the IVHQ volunteer base in Mozambique.

Vegetarian Lunch with Noodles and Steamed Vegetables

A shared meal of rice and a hearty vegetable-beef stew is served at the volunteer lodge in Mozambique during dinnertime.

Curry Dinner with Rice and Vegetables

A meal of golden-fried fish fillets, French fries, seasoned yellow rice, and a fresh cucumber and tomato salad served for dinner at the volunteer accommodation.

Fried Fish and Chips with Rice and Salad

A dinner plate includes grilled meat, pap (maize meal), tomato sauce, cooked greens, coleslaw, and fresh salad, served to IVHQ volunteers in Mozambique.

Traditional Mozambican Dinner Plate

A freshly made pizza with toppings like chicken, tomato, and cheese is partially sliced and served on a white plate. An example of a meal purchased in Mozambique.

Pizza Ordered by Volunteers

A tray with mugs, instant soups, tea & coffee laid out for volunteers as part of the offering at the IVHQ Mozambique accommodation.

Hot drinks, Available All Day in Local Teams Office

Pricing

USD
- United States Dollars - $
- Australian Dollars - AU$
- Brazilian Reals - R$
- British Pound Sterling - £
- Canadian Dollars - CA$
- Chinese Yuan - CN¥
- Euros - €
- Hong Kong Dollars - HK$
- Mexican Pesos - MX$
- New Zealand Dollars - NZ$
- Singapore Dollars - SG$
- Swiss Francs - CHF
- UAE Dirhams - AED

Duration	Program Fee Due 30 days before you start, or within 48 hours if you register inside of 30 days. Covers the cost of hosting you. USD United States Dollars - $ Australian Dollars - AU$ Brazilian Reals - R$ British Pound Sterling - £ Canadian Dollars - CA$ Chinese Yuan - CN¥ Euros - € Hong Kong Dollars - HK$ Mexican Pesos - MX$ New Zealand Dollars - NZ$ Singapore Dollars - SG$ Swiss Francs - CHF UAE Dirhams - AED
2 weeks	$2,204 Equivalent to $157/day
3 weeks	$2,904 Equivalent to $138/day
4 weeks	$3,604 Equivalent to $129/day
5 weeks	$4,304 Equivalent to $123/day
6 weeks	$5,004 Equivalent to $119/day
8 weeks	$6,234 Equivalent to $111/day
10 weeks	$7,634 Equivalent to $109/day
12 weeks	$8,779 Equivalent to $105/day

All programs attract a Registration Fee of US$299 (approximately $299) in addition to the Program Fee. This covers all pre-departure support services.
A 5% international banking fee is added at point of payment.

Accommodation
24/7 in-country emergency support
In-country program orientation
Pre-departure support from your Program Manager
Personalized preparation tools, guides and check lists
Access to IVHQ’s preferred insurance and flights partners
Comprehensive in-country day to day support and guidance
Certificate of International Volunteer Service

Learn more about what's included in your IVHQ Registration Fee and Program Fee.

Flights
Visa (if required), travel insurance (mandatory), vaccinations, criminal background check.
Personal spending money for snacks, laundry, public transportation, drinks and leisure activities during your free time.

Check what's required to visit Mozambique

Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important you monitor this right up until you depart for your trip.

Safety and support

A smiling volunteer traveller wearing a traditional Andean poncho stands in front of the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain in Peru. The landscape features vibrant red, yellow, and green hues across the mountains, with a small lake visible in the background.

Safety and support

IVHQ follows best practice and industry-leading health and safety procedures, which are regularly reviewed and optimized as part of the B Corporation recertification.

All volunteers encouraged to complete our interactive pre-departure training.
All local teams trained on best practice volunteer management & First Aid.
All IVHQ programs are required to adhere to IVHQ's Risk Management Policy.
All volunteers have access to 24/7 in-country support from our local team.

Learn more about IVHQ's safety

Essential country information

Capital	Maputo
Population	33.64 million
Languages	Portuguese
Currency	Mozambican metical (MZN)
Time zone	GMT+2

Weather and climate: Mozambique has a tropical climate with two main seasons: a wet season (November to March) and a dry season (May to October). The wet season is characterized by hot, humid weather and heavy rainfall, particularly along the coast. The dry season is cooler and drier, making it a popular time for tourists to visit, especially those interested in wildlife viewing and beach activities.

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