This is a seriously cool project that’s all about protecting sea turtles. These amazing creatures are sadly endangered, and this project helps give them a fighting chance. Local fishermen are paid to bring turtle eggs to the centre, where they’re safely hatched and raised. Once the baby turtles are a bit bigger and stronger, they’re released back into the ocean.
Because there are far fewer females, male turtles are released after just a few weeks. The females stay longer at the centre to increase their chances of survival and hopefully return 20 years later to lay eggs on the same beach. Pretty amazing, right?
As a volunteer, you’ll work alongside the local team to help care for the turtles. That includes cleaning the tanks, feeding the turtles, and collecting fresh seawater for their enclosures. You’ll also get involved in some cool community activities around the centre.
Releasing the baby turtles into the ocean is seasonal, so depending on when you’re there, you might be lucky enough to be part of this unforgettable moment.
Each morning, you’ll head to the turtle project with your local coordinator. It’s about a 30–40 minute drive in a minivan. When you arrive, the team will give you a quick run-through of the day’s tasks.
Tourism is a big part of the centre’s income, so you’ll also see day visitors dropping by to learn about the turtles. It’s a great chance to see how your work supports both wildlife conservation and the local community.
Kristel en Zoé
Hoe dan ook smaakt dit avontuur naar meer en hopen we in de toekomst nog met vrijwillig wereldwijd te kunnen reizen.
Imke
Ik heb het zo naar mijn zin gehad! Ik zou vrijwilligerswerk echt aan iedereen aanraden!
Marlous
Echt een geweldige ervaring en een top tijd gehad!
Damian
Vrijwilligerswerk is voor mij het delen van ervaringen. Hoe meer energie je erin stopt, hoe meer voldoening je er ook uit kan halen.
You’ll be working from 9:00am to 12:00pm. This project combines well with others, such as the dog care project or the kindergarten program.
There are around eight permanent staff members, and often several volunteers helping out.
English is spoken at the project. Most of the local staff speak English quite well.
The project does not run on weekends or public holidays. You’ll receive this information either on arrival or beforehand via the welcome email.
In Galle, you’ll stay in a volunteer house. If the house is full, you’ll share a room with one other volunteer. If you’re lucky, you might even have a room to yourself. Three meals a day are included and meals are prepared for you. These are typically local dishes. You’ll also have access to Wi-Fi and laundry facilities. If you would prefer to stay with a host family, we can arrange that for you too.
In Galle, you’ll be picked up by a regular driver in a tuk-tuk or minivan. It’s a great way to get around in Sri Lanka.
If you have extra space in your luggage and would like to bring something for the project, it’s hugely appreciated. Just check with us in advance to find out which supplies would be useful and needed.
Harsha will pick you up from the airport.
Take a look at the optional trips to see what you can do in your spare time. We offer some really beautiful excursions. And since you’re already in such an incredible place, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore more of the country.
In Sri Lanka, your contact person is Harsha. He speaks English well and coordinates the volunteer programs. You can ask him anything about your trip to Sri Lanka. He’s always available for support during your stay too. Harsha is a fantastic local contact. Here’s a photo of Harsha with his son and wife.
For this project, we’re looking for volunteers who are passionate about the wellbeing of sea turtles. You’ll be involved in caring for turtles, cleaning their enclosures, and releasing baby turtles back into the ocean.
This project is suitable for volunteers of all ages.
Passion for Animal Welfare
A genuine interest in conservation and caring for animals is essential. Experience in animal care is a bonus, but not required.
Initiative and Proactiveness
You’ll need to be able to work independently and take initiative. Tasks might include collecting fresh seawater or helping organise daily routines.
Patience and Empathy
Caring for injured or recovering turtles requires patience and understanding.
Cultural Sensitivity
Being open and respectful towards local customs and traditions is very important. A willingness to learn from the local community is key.
Flexibility and Adaptability
Conditions in Sri Lanka may be different from what you're used to. Being open-minded and adaptable will help you get the most out of the experience.
Communication Skills
Clear and friendly communication is important when working with local staff and other volunteers.
Team Spirit
Teamwork is at the heart of this project. A positive attitude and a willingness to collaborate will go a long way.
As a volunteer, you’ll assist with day-to-day turtle care, cleaning tanks and enclosures, and (depending on the season) helping to release hatchlings into the sea. Working hours are generally from 9:00am to 12:00pm.
Your stay in Sri Lanka will offer opportunities for both personal and professional growth. You’ll experience a rich new culture and create memories that last a lifetime.
If you’re passionate about animal welfare and conservation, and ready to contribute in a hands-on and meaningful way, this sea turtle project in Sri Lanka is a perfect match. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of these incredible creatures.
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
1 week of volunteer work: $875
2 weeks of volunteer work: $1475
3 weeks of volunteer work: $1920
Each additional week: $290
These prices are based on staying with a host family. If you prefer a hotel, there is an extra cost of $49 per room per night.
*All prices are in AUD.
Online introductory meeting
Information pack with details about Sri Lankan culture and customs, along with everything you need to prepare (including advice on insurance, money matters and travel tips)
Pre-departure training
Assistance with applying for a police check (VOG)
Access to our online volunteer community
Help with your visa application
Assistance with booking your flight (on request)
Airport transfer to the project site
On-site orientation
Support with visa extensions (if needed)
Ongoing support throughout your stay
Accommodation with our local coordinator
Three meals a day
Debriefing session
Certificate (on request)
The chance to stay involved through our WhatsApp community
Memories that will last a lifetime
Return flight
Vaccinations
Visa
Police check (VOG)
Additional hotel costs ($49 per night per room)
Travel insurance
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