Cape Verde4.5/5 (2 reviews)
Turtle conservation in Cape Verde
In Cape Verde, patrol loggerhead turtle nesting beaches at night, protect nests and release hatchlings into the ocean alongside local coordinators.
- Where
- Cape Verde
- Length
- From 2 to 12 weeks
- Minimum age
- 18 years old
- Language
- English intermediate
from €1,290 for 2 weeks
Check availabilityTalk to the teamNo commitment. Anaëlle, Amélie or Maëlia will reply.
The project
The beaches of Cape Verde are major nesting sites for loggerhead turtles, making them an ideal destination for responsible tourism.
Loggerhead turtles help maintain the health of seagrass beds and coral reefs, which serve as vital food sources and shelters for a wide variety of marine species.
In addition to studying local biodiversity, participants also help identify threats to the species’ survival, such as coastal development, which disrupts nesting and egg-laying.
The beach is located 15 minutes away by car (transport included).
Tasks and schedule
Volunteers take part in various missions led by local coordinators, with the main goal of protecting turtles and their nests.
Working hours: 8:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.
- Patrolling the beach (at night and early morning) to monitor nesting activity and deter poaching
- Collecting and relocating eggs to safe hatchery areas
- Counting turtles, taking measurements, and checking tags
- Releasing hatchlings into the ocean
- Collaborating with local authorities to strengthen protection measures
Equipment and tips: sleeping bag, headlamp, warm and waterproof clothing.
The work is carried out by both local assistants and volunteers. While the project includes a range of activities, turtle and nest protection remains the main focus of this responsible tourism programme.
A project we follow
Projects chosen with care and followed through regular visits on site.
Accommodation and meals
You’ll stay in a volunteer house with shared bedrooms and bathrooms (non-mixed).
The house is located about a 10-minute walk from the school.
The accommodation is equipped with Wi-Fi.
Additional information
Meals
Meals are included: three per day on weekdays and two per day on weekends. You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy local dishes prepared with good vibes at the volunteer house (local style).
Vegetarian, gluten-free, and lactose-free meals are also available upon request.
Local Life
There are plenty of activities to enjoy around the island, such as:
- Snorkeling
- Jet Ski
- Camping
- Hiking and trekking
- Restaurants and bars
- Sports activities such as yoga or volleyball
(Please plan a separate budget for these optional activities.)
At least five days before your arrival in Cape Verde, you must pre-register on the official government platform at www.ease.gov.cv. An airport security tax will need to be paid. It is recommended to keep proof of payment for this tax, as you may be asked to present it upon arrival in Cape Verde.
Budget
How long are you going for?
From July to October inclusive. Arrivals on Sundays.
What is included
- Reception at the airport and transfer
- Accommodation in a volunteer house
- Meals (local and western mix)
- 24/7 Assistance
- Supervision and training
Not included
- Return to the airport
- Flights
- Personal insurance
- Visa (for stays over 30 days)
- Airport security tax
Where your money goes
Donations are reinvested in full and directly into the local associations. How the costs break down
See the budget week by week
| Length | Total programme budget |
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Responsible travel by Freepackers
Why not take your time?
Extend your trip in Cape Verde
No volunteering here: a tour with local guides, at your own pace. The team arranges it with your stay, in the same enquiry.
You can add it when you fill in your enquiry.
Getting ready to leave
Your application
An up-to-date CV and a cover letter describing your background and what brings you here.
Insurance
For any project abroad, Freepackers requires travel insurance covering accidents, illness, repatriation and third-party liability. With Chapka Cap Student, you get 5% off.
Online language lessons
With Clic Campus: video lessons and an e-learning platform, from home.
Questions
What kind of accommodation is provided for a family?
You stay together, in private rooms, shared houses or comfortable local guesthouses.
Is it a safe trip for children?
Our projects are selected with safety in mind. Families get a reassuring setting and supervised activities. The days are designed to include young and old alike, with a flexible pace and time to discover things together.
Can you join a project as a family?
Yes. For families who want to travel together, we offer programmes designed to welcome children from the age of 4, 10 or 15 depending on the project. Our programme pages say whether they are open to families; otherwise, contact our team to find out more.
Another question? Ask the team, and someone who knows the project will answer.
In Cape Verde too
All our programmes in Cape Verde
Cape Verde, Praia4(2)
Cape Verde education project
- Duration
- 2 to 12 weeks
- Age
- From 15 years old
from €1,090 for 2 weeks
