Based in the beautiful Bay of Lakonikos in the southern Peloponnese, you will live and volunteer with a team of international volunteers to conserve and protect one of the most important loggerhead turtle nesting areas in Greece.  The project’s main purpose is to protect the sea turtles and their habitats through monitoring and research, developing and implementing management plans, restoring habitat, rehabilitating sick and injured turtles if required and most importantly, raising public awareness.  Volunteers will contribute by taking part in daily beach patrols to locate new tracks and nests, recording data and taking measurements, relocating nests if required, harvesting bamboo and assembling nest grids as well as manning a beach kiosk to educate the public about the project and conducting public awareness presentations at campsites and hotels in the local area.

Based in a designated area on a public campsite right next to the beach, you will be sharing a tent and take turns in preparing dinner for the group.  The campsite has a mini-market, a self-service restaurant and access to a telephone.  On your downtime there is plenty of time to relax on the white sandy beaches or to unwind with your fellow volunteers back at the campsite.

Greece is a country with one of the most fascinating histories in Europe.  You will have the opportunity to visit the Village of Mavrovouni and the fishing port of Gythio. Located close to the project site, stroll down the cobbled streets and take a look at some of the old buildings or enjoy some of the fantastic food Greece has to offer with great views across the bay. In Gythio there is an ancient theatre and a few Roman ruins scattered around to explore. On occasion the project staff may take volunteers to Limeni Village where it is sometimes possible to snorkel with turtles.

What you need to know

This project accepts family group volunteers, so if you are looking for a summer holiday with a difference, this may be the way forward.  The project is seasonal, with operating times between June and September each year.

Upon arrival, you will be briefed on personal safety as well as general Health & Safety procedures as part of your training; you will also be required to sign an agreement with the partner agency stating you will observe these procedures.

Note that there is no pick-up service from the airport for this project.  All participants need to make their own way to Gythio so make sure you leave more than enough time to make the journey.

What is Included?

What Is Not Included?