This is one of the most beautiful sea turtle projects we’ve ever come across, mainly because the people involved are so passionate about what they do. Based on the stunning Greek island of Kefalonia, this is a research-driven sea turtle conservation project. The program strongly emphasises hands-on learning, giving volunteers real-world experience in a wide range of ecological research and conservation practices, including the legal and social sides of conservation, which are often the most complex and debated.
Heads up! This project fills up fast, so it’s a good idea to book early to secure your spot.
Volunteer tasks vary and may include:
Hop on your bike at sunrise and head out to monitor the nesting beaches. Each site is checked for fresh turtle tracks, either from nesting females or hatchlings emerging from protected nests. New nests are marked and safeguarded. Once patrols are complete, it’s time to head back to base for a well-earned break.
There's no fieldwork in the heat of the day from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm.
In the evening, head to the harbour in Argostoli to observe turtle behaviour in their feeding grounds, a perfect way to wrap up the day.
From 5:30pm or 7:00pm until around 1:00pm, then again from about 5:00pm to 9:00pm. A small number of overnight beach patrols go through the night. Each volunteer can work 35 to 40 hours per week, depending on their shifts (night shifts such as Hatchling Rescue and Night Surveys are 8 hours long, which can increase total hours).
At least four staff work year-round, with the rest being seasonal staff (April–November). Permanent staff coordinate both program locations, oversee scientific research, help train volunteers and lead presentations, and ensure volunteer activities run smoothly.
All staff have previously volunteered with this project.
Each field station has at least two field leaders who are responsible for scheduling weekly shifts, reviewing collected data, communicating with volunteers, planning activities, offering help and support through daily check-ins, and making sure any feedback or questions are addressed.
Each station also has Field Assistants (Lixouri has 2–3, Argostoli has 4–5) who are involved in most, though not all, shifts. A Field Assistant provides training both in and out of the field to help guide, inspire, and instruct volunteers. They are marine professionals who educate and support volunteers. Field Assistants give ongoing feedback to field leaders and coordinators to help improve the project and resolve any issues.
The working language of this project is English.
This project is closed during the winter months. It fills up fast, so book early!
Lixouri: Large house with one level comprising two adjoining apartments and two ground floor apartments. Rooms have bunk beds and storage furniture. Shared bathrooms (hot water heated by solar panels) and communal kitchens come equipped with cookware, utensils, and a shared fridge. There’s a washing machine available ($6 per wash including detergent). Wi-Fi is available but the signal is weak and the bandwidth is limited on the island. The tap water is drinkable but hard (high in minerals). Most people prefer bottled water ($4 for a six-pack of 1.5L bottles).
Meals are prepared by each volunteer, though some choose to cook together and split the grocery costs. There’s a supermarket just 200m from the apartments, perfect for regular grocery runs. The town square is only 600m away with various restaurants, bakeries, and cafés. The team occasionally hosts outings to the square to enjoy local food and some Greek dancing.
Argostoli: Located in Minies, just minutes from the airport and surrounded by the busiest nesting beaches, this station is within walking distance of many beautiful beaches. A large balcony is used for group meetings, conservation presentations, and offers views of the beach in the distance. The site has several small apartments with kitchenettes and bathrooms (water heated by solar). There’s a washing machine available ($6 per wash including detergent). Wi-Fi is available, but again, the signal is weak and the bandwidth limited. The water is safe to drink, and most volunteers skip bottled water altogether.
Volunteers cook their own meals, though many prefer to cook together and share costs. Before arriving, you can pre-order groceries to be delivered to your accommodation so food is ready upon arrival. If you arrive later in the day, shopping might be difficult, so pre-ordering is recommended.
There are beach bars and a few poolside restaurants within a 10-minute walk. Mini-marts and a café are 1.3 km from the apartments for everyday shopping. You can also taxi to Lassi (5 km) or Argostoli town (6 km) for larger stores, tourist shops, and restaurants with Greek dancing.
All our activities are based around the project and accommodation. We bike to the beaches and are driven to Harbour Shifts in Argostoli.
We offer transport on the start and end dates from the airport (EFL) in Kefalonia, or from the bus station in Argostoli or Lixouri (depending on your field station).
We need your arrival information at least two weeks before your start date.
We don’t have a strict schedule for pick-ups as we depend on your arrival time, which can vary due to air traffic, weather, or unexpected delays. Luckily, many volunteers are on the same flight.
Check out our additional trips to see what you can do in your downtime! There are some amazing outings to explore in your free time. Since you’re in such a stunning destination, it’s definitely worth discovering more of the island!
Chanel’s passion for being part of a dedicated conservation and research team led her to work with sea turtles since 2010. Her enthusiastic and driven approach, paired with a deep passion for endangered species, inspires her to raise awareness about turtles and broader environmental issues. She personally meets every volunteer before presenting on sea turtle biology and conservation and is happy to answer any questions about turtles or the project.
For the Sea Turtle Conservation Project on the stunning island of Kefalonia, Greece, we are looking for enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers who want to contribute to the protection of sea turtles. This project offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in wildlife research and conservation, and to be part of a passionate team working to safeguard these remarkable animals.
The projects in Ghana are suitable for young volunteers aged 18+, as well as the 50+ age group.
Passion for Conservation:
An interest in and enthusiasm for protecting wildlife, especially sea turtles.
Physical Fitness:
You’ll need to be able to cycle and walk long distances on the beach, even in hot conditions.
Flexibility and Adaptability:
Willingness to work in varying conditions and live in shared accommodation.
Communication Skills:
Ability to collaborate well with local staff, other volunteers, and visitors, and to clearly share information.
Team Spirit:
Willingness to work as part of a close-knit team and contribute positively.
Age:
18 years and over.
As a volunteer at the Sea Turtle Conservation Project on Kefalonia, Greece, you’ll enjoy a varied and meaningful experience. Your daily tasks might include protecting newly laid nests, monitoring sea turtle behaviour, supporting educational activities for locals and tourists, and helping to keep the beaches clean.
You’ll work a mix of morning, evening, and occasional night shifts, allowing you to experience all sides of the conservation effort. You’ll be supported by experienced staff and field assistants, who will prepare you for your duties and offer opportunities for continuous learning and development.
During your time in Kefalonia, you’ll stay in shared accommodation, an ideal chance to make new friends and work alongside like-minded volunteers from all over the world. Outside of working hours, you’ll have the chance to explore the island, soak up the incredible scenery, and relax on beautiful beaches.
This project isn’t just about contributing to sea turtle conservation; it’s also about personal and professional growth. You’ll gain hands-on experience in fieldwork and conservation, learn about the legal and social sides of environmental protection, and develop valuable skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.
If you’re passionate about wildlife conservation and ready to take on a meaningful challenge, this project on Kefalonia could be just right for you. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the future of these beautiful sea turtles and their natural habitat.
We completely understand that having your child volunteer overseas can feel like a big step. In fact, it’s often just as exciting for parents as it is for the young person themselves, and sometimes even a little more nerve-racking. That’s why we want to reassure you that your child is in good hands.
Since 2004, we’ve been supporting volunteers and have guided many young people through meaningful international experiences.
We take safety seriously. That begins with carefully selecting our partner organisations, volunteer projects, and host families. Every placement is thoroughly checked to make sure it meets our high standards for safety, support, and ethical practices.
Our experienced and caring local contacts are always there to support volunteers throughout their journey. From clear pre-departure preparation to personal assistance during the project, we’re available to help whenever needed.
We believe strongly in open communication. You're always welcome to contact us with any questions or concerns. We’re here not only for the volunteers, but for their families too.
You can feel confident knowing we are fully committed to creating a safe, supportive, and positive experience. Your child’s wellbeing, safety, and overall happiness are our top priorities.
If there's anything you’d like to ask or talk through, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We're here to support you every step of the way.
Warm regards,
The Volunteer Worldwide Team
Average cost for a 4 week stay = $774/week
Average cost for a 6 week stay = $715/week
2 weeks of volunteering: $1789
4 weeks of volunteering: $3097
Extensions are available in 2-week blocks: $1197 per 2 weeks.
*All prices are in AUD.
Before departure
Online introductory meeting
Information pack about Greek culture and customs, plus an overview of everything you need to prepare, including insurance, finances, and travel tips
Pre-departure training
Assistance with obtaining a police check (VOG)
Access to the online volunteer community
Help booking your flight (on request)
During your trip
Airport transfer to the project, including one hotel night stay
Transfer from the project back to the airport
On-site orientation
Support throughout your stay
Accommodation in a volunteer house
After your trip
Evaluation session
Certificate (upon request)
Option to stay active in our WhatsApp community
Memories for life!
Flights
Vaccinations
Visa
Police check (VOG)
Travel insurance
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