Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is this conservation project so important?
2. Why do we need to find out more about the Whale Shark?
3. Are there any other conservation objectives involved?
4. I have no diving experience, but can I join?
5. What will my role be as a volunteer?
6. Will I get an induction when I arrive?
7. What is the difference between the Whale Shark Conservation Project and the Diving Trip?
8. I am travelling alone, will I meet other people?
9. Are Whale Sharks dangerous?
10. What about visas?
11. How can I book?

Why is this conversation project so important?

Whale Sharks are magnificent creatures and the oceans largest fish. Diving or swimming with them is an unforgettable experience. They are becoming increasingly rare though, and there is still much to learn about these species. This project helps to collect data, identify different Whale Sharks and track their movements giving scientists a better understanding of their behaviour and the factors effecting their conservation. Not only do you get to swim with these huge fishies, but your work will be directly contributing to their protection. Amazing!

Why do we need to find out more about the Whale Shark?

Because they are considered good indicators of ocean productivity. Whale Sharks play a significant role with marine conservation of efforts. Not much is understood and known about the population dynamics of these big fishies and this Conservation Project aims to understand and prevent the threats to them.

I have no diving experience, but can I join?

Yes, you can join. Because 95% of the participants have no or little experience with diving we have included an Open Water course for you. You will be trained by PADI professional Dive Instructors how to dive safely. Remember, though most of the Whale Shark research is done without scuba gear. This is because Whale Sharks are surface feeders and it is much easier to keep up with them when not carrying bulky scuba gear.

Are there any other conservation objectives?

The Whale Shark Marine Conservation Project  also involves protection of coral reefs. Reefs play an important role in the ecosystem, a lot of marine life is supported through healthy and living reef systems. Threats to reefs include: coral bleaching, alien invasive species (like the crown of thorns star fish) and other ecological changes related to tourism and man made activities. One of the main course components involves monitoring the state of coral reefs in the Tofo area. Methods used are based on the international reef check system. This will involve completing scuba diving transects amongst the reefs and then recording coral data as an indicator of fish species. All the while you will be doing this in one of Africa's greatest diving destinations, Tofo!

What will my role be?

Your job on the Whale Shark Conservation Project will carry out marine research data collection and assist with monitoring activities under the supervision and guidance of the projects field co-ordinator. Joining other  olunteers on this project, you will be hands on, collecting data via: beach walks, boat survey, swimming, freediving, and scuba diving.

Your assistance is vital to carrying out the required field activities, but also helping to fund the project. As you would expect  the diving will be excellent and this will be a stunning environment to enjoy learning principals of marine conservation and learning about the worlds biggest fish, the Whale Shark.

Our volunteers are vital to help monitor whale shark populations, assist in understanding their behaviour and also you will be able to take underwater photos to help identify them. Joining research scuba teams to assist with the monitoring of coral reefs, during certain seasons you may also get the opportunity to help with hump back whale surveys as well.

Will I get an induction when I arrive?

You will be well looked after on the project. You can expect a though briefing and induction on arrival. You will be thaught about the project, the local area, safety and have a question an answer session.

What is the difference between our Whale Shark Conservation Project and the Diving Trip?

The Whale Shark Conservation project is based on scientific research study and includes an Open Water Course and up to 3 boat launches per week (this can involve snorkling or diving). You also stay in a volunteer lodge on the beach with all meals included. The Whale Shark diving trip is all about diving and getting as close as possible to the Whale Shark. There are much more exposure to Whale Sharks and other large marine life (with 28 dives included and unlimted ocean safaris). You stay in a backpack lodge on the beach that that has a great social scene.

I am travelling alone will I meet other people?

Actually we get asked this alot, probably because most of the people who take part are travelling solo. The programme books out most of the time, and there is always a good group of people taking part in the project. If you arrive on the set start date you will be met at the airport and introduced to everyone, you will meet lots of people and have some amazing experiences!

Are Whale Sharks dangerous?

No Whale Shark are absolutely not dangerous, although they are classed as sharks. To tell you the truth, they don't even have teeth. This is a completely safe project and you will be properly trained in how to interact with them and supervised when out on ocean safaris. Whale sharks are considered an endangered species, but are relatively easy to study due to their massive size (some have been measured up to up to 20 metres in length!).

What about Visas?

Rules change regularly, you will need to check with the Mozambique high commission about visas. Nevertheless the general rule is:

• The cost of a 30 day Mozambican visa is ZAR560.
• Further infomation can be seen here.

How do I book?

You will need to submit a booking form and pay a deposit of €100 if travelling in over 3 months. If there is less than three months before you start the project you will need to pay the full amount.