Overview
Volunteer with Turtles in Ghana

Volunteer with Global Vision International on this conservation project to help protect and monitor sea turtles in Ghana. Three types of sea turtle nest on the Ghanaian beaches: the Olive Ridley, the Leatherback and the Green Turtle. All of these are endangered species and their nesting sites require protection, and you will help by patrolling beaches, collecting eggs and releasing hatchlings, whilst living in a beautiful tropical beachside location. This turtle conservation project also enables GVI volunteers to educate the local community, such as the local fishermen, who are often not aware of the importance of protecting the turtles, their nests and eggs. In addition, there will be the opportunity to get involved in eco-tourism projects to generate alternative incomes for the local community.

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What an amazing place… we had such a fantastic time with the community and everyone on the project. Located between the jungle and the beach, we could watch the sunrise and set from the same place.

Andrew and Helen, 2006 Volunteers

What Difference Does This Project Make?

Fishermen, and other members of the local community who come across the turtles, are not aware of the importance of protecting them. This unfortunately means that many turtles are killed and the meat is sold or the eggs are poached from their nests, so much so that the Ghana Wildlife Society is worried that “given the current rate of killing the turtles, they will soon be extinct.” Volunteers will play an extremely important role in the protection of turtles, and therefore in the long term conservation of Ghana’s wildlife.

Highlights

Living and working on a stunning beach, assisting well known grass roots organisations with their research, teaching the local communities, watching nesting turtles and their hatchlings. Exploring this beautiful and friendly west African country.

Location

This project is located in a coastal fishing and farming community in the most south-westerly part of Ghana.

Field Conditions

Volunteers will stay in simple dormitory huts, a relaxing beach-side environment where volunteers can unwind after working and meet other people. All meals are included and will be prepared by the resident chefs at the beach camp.