Seychelles – Wildlife Conservation Expedition

Seychelles can be best described as one of the world’s paradise destinations. The tropical rainforests, white sand beaches, and pristine water, combined with the tropical climate make the Seychelles irresistible. After exploring the beaches and jungles, Seychelles becomes a great location for bird watching and observing tortoises in their natural habitat. For those with an extra sense of adventure, there is an underwater wonderland with a diverse selection of fish and coral species waiting to be discovered. Different parts of Seychelles also offer a bustling tourist life with hotels, restaurants, and nightlife. With all it has to offer, Seychelles has earned the reputation of being a prime location for eco-tourism and scuba-diving adventures.

The Seychelles Conservation Expedition works to protect the critically endangered colonies of hawksbill turtles, the giant tortoise, the endemic Coco de Mer palm and juvenile lemon sharks. Depending on the season, volunteers are involved in collecting data and census on the population of different species in the area. This is done by carrying out turtle nest surveys on the beaches, shark tagging, mangrove and bird surveys, Coco de Mer monitoring and in-water turtle snorkels. Training for the physically demanding project is quick, allowing for volunteers to be integrated into the field research as soon as possible. During both land and water fieldwork, volunteers have the opportunity to observe some other wonders of the islands, such as giant tortoises.

he work on this project is seasonal. From September to March is turtle season, so volunteers’ work here will be focused on this. During the rest of the year, volunteers will focus more on local fauna and flora surveys and conservation efforts.

April through August: Volunteers will participate in fauna surveys and census research, local endangered flora conservation efforts, and giant tortoise habitat maintenance and restoration, as well as mangrove surveys and Coco de Mer monitoring. The collection of this data serves to protect the endangered population of animals and flora, while aiming to restore the mangrove population after it was destroyed by the 2004 tsunami. From April through to May, you may get involved in Baited Remote Under Water Video surveys (BRUV) to assess the populations of carnivorous and fish species along the remote north shore of Curieuse Island.

September through March: During this time, volunteers will be involved with the above activities, lemon shark tagging, as well as with the research and census of Giant Aldabra tortoise as well as the hawksbill turtle during its nesting season

A typical day starts with breakfast followed by general chores after which volunteers will embark on a challenging day of data research and hiking. Volunteers will explore the diverse terrain of Seychelles while gathering data; though it can be quite physically draining, it is a rewarding task. Be prepared to hike quite a bit over rocky terrain and long stretches of beach.. At the end of the day, volunteers gather for a debriefing while eating and socializing at the base. The volunteers typically have both Saturday and Sunday off to explore the island or head into town.

Internet: There is Internet connection on base however given the remote location it may not be as stable. Volunteers rely on cafes for Internet during their free time on weekends, the nearest being Praslin Island (Approx. 20 minute boat ride away.)

Accommodations: Very basic with shared, mixed-sex dormitories and shared bathrooms/kitchen/social areas. Volunteers work together to keep the place running, taking turns with general chores such as washing, cleaning, and cooking. Toilets are required to use bucket flush system as there is no running water in the lavatories. There is running water in the showers, however shower use is infrequent so as to reserve water for everyone. You will have intermittent generator use and solar power for a few hours each night, enough to charge an iPod or camera batteries. Volunteers with longer stays may want to bring a laptop which can be charged on base.

Food: Mainly vegetarian diet, limited refrigeration. Basic meals ranging from veggies, beans, rice tomatoes, pasta, etc. Volunteers are in charge of preparing food on a rotational basis. Bottled water is brought in as needed for drinking.

Please take note of this project’s minimum requirements:

• Minimum age of 18
• Police clearance
• Good level of physical fitness
• Immunizations (consult your doctor)
• Team worker and good attitude

Besides its stunning beaches, wildlife, and sea life to explore, Seychelles is also a thriving tourist hub. Spend your free time discovering the stunning coral and diverse sea life in one of Seychelles diving expeditions, or head onto one of the main islands for a vast selection of cuisine and nightlife. Seychelles is your doorway to paradise, every day another opportunity to discover something wonderful.

Program Add-Ons (Not Included):
Take your volunteering experience one step further!

• You can never be too prepared. Join the EFR training and get certified in First Aid and CPR for adults and children. Available for volunteers staying for 4 weeks or more.
• Take part in the Biological Survey Techniques Course for in-depth training that will allow you to effectively plan and execute your own field surveys in the future.

Please note that there is an additional cost for these programs.