If you’re passionate about ocean conservation and want to see humpback whales in their natural environment, this is an opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures closely and contribute to their protection through valuable data collection.

Project details

Volunteer in Mozambique to protect humpback whales! Join IVHQ’s Whale Conservation project and collaborate with local experts to gather crucial data. Humpback whales migrate annually from Antarctica to Southern Africa between June and October to mate and calve. Your efforts will contribute to the conservation of these vital marine mammals that play a key role in ocean ecosystem health through nutrient transport.

What to expect and how you'll make an impact

Become a vital part of researching and protecting humpback whales in their natural Mozambican habitat. This immersive program offers hands-on experience working alongside a local team, providing valuable insights into conservation initiatives and allowing you to actively contribute to meaningful projects.

Join boat-based research trips to collect data on humpback whales and dolphins, and take part in land-based surveys to better understand whale behavior and social dynamics. You’ll develop skills in photographic identification and contribute valuable data to both local and international whale databases. Your involvement will directly support conservation efforts through data entry and analysis, as well as recording and processing whale songs using a hydrophone. Beyond research, you’ll have the chance to explore the stunning waters of Mozambique through snorkel-based excursions in marine protected areas, helping to protect coral reefs and marine ecosystems.

As a Whale Conservation volunteer in Mozambique your duties may include:

Conduct boat-based research trips to collect data on whales and dolphins.
Participate in land-based surveys.
Learn to interpret whale behavior and social structures.
Master photographic identification techniques and contribute to whale databases.
Enter and analyze collected research data.
Record and process whale songs using hydrophones.
Undertake snorkel excursions in marine protected areas.

Throughout your experience, you can expect informative presentations from the local team on topics such as cetacean evolution and physiology, humpback whale biology, photo identification, whale songs and communication, cetacean cognition and social structures, global threats to cetaceans, and general marine biology including mangrove and estuarine ecosystems, sea turtles, sharks, camera trap methodology, and plankton biology.

Important Note: This project runs from the third Monday of June to the first Monday of October. Activities may vary based on the time of year and weather conditions. In the event of unfavorable sea conditions, alternative conservation or recreational activities will be arranged (please note that entry costs for recreational activities are not included in the program fee).

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 Whale Conservation volunteering in Mozambique with IVHQ?

Participate in the Mozambique Whale Conservation project and be crucial in protecting humpback whales. You will gather essential data on their behavior, migration patterns, and overall health. Your contributions will inform long-term conservation efforts dedicated to securing the future of these magnificent animals.

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 humpback whale breaches near the coastline of Mozambique, with land visible in the background, highlighting coastal biodiversity.

Humpback Whale Breach Near Shoreline

A humpback whale swims gracefully just beneath the surface in the clear blue waters of Mozambique, observed during marine conservation activities.

Observing Humpback Whale Behaviour Underwater

A whale swims just beneath the ocean’s surface, visible from above through clear turquoise water during a boat conservation session in Mozambique.

Baby Bumpback Whale Observed from Boat

Two whales emerge and splash playfully in the Indian Ocean, observed during a marine survey as part of IVHQ’s Whale Conservation project in Mozambique.

Whale Pair Surfacing and Splashing Together

A conservation volunteer captures underwater footage of a humpback whale swimming peacefully, showcasing eco-tourism and marine research in Mozambique.

Close-Up Encounter During Underwater Monitoring

A humpback whale bursts out of the ocean in a dramatic breach, captured mid-air against a clear blue sky during conservation monitoring in Mozambique.

Humpback Whale Breaching off Mozambique’s Coast

A humpback whale with white-tipped flippers leaps out of the ocean off the coast of Mozambique, splashing back down with power.

Energetic Whale Breach Displaying White Flippers

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

Academic course credit

Gain course credit from your college or university and meet your academic requirements when completing a volunteer abroad program with International Volunteer HQ!

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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	$1,949 Equivalent to $139/day
3 weeks	$2,649 Equivalent to $126/day
4 weeks	$3,179 Equivalent to $114/day
5 weeks	$3,709 Equivalent to $106/day
6 weeks	$4,154 Equivalent to $99/day
8 weeks	$5,129 Equivalent to $92/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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