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You’ll be matched with your personal volunteer travel expert who’ll guide you every step of the way.
Meet Your Travel Expert
Receive your welcome pack with everything you need: arrival info, contacts, visa and insurance help, packing tips, vaccines, language basics, and so much more.
Get Ready to Go!
Choose your dream project and apply for free—no commitment, just excitement!
Pick Your Destination & Apply
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Once your dates are confirmed, pay your program fee—choose to pay in full or in easy installments.
Secure Your Spot
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Want to volunteer with sharks in South Africa? Our Travel Roots Shark Academy Volunteer Program is the perfect opportunity to gain hands-on marine research experience, dive into shark conservation, and make a real difference to our oceans.
This unique volunteer program is based at a world-class research facility along South Africa’s biodiverse coast. You’ll become part of a passionate team working to protect sharks and marine ecosystems through cutting-edge science, public education, and practical conservation. Whether you're assisting in shark tagging, deploying underwater camera systems, or participating in ecological surveys, every day brings a new adventure below the surface.
No previous experience in marine biology or diving is necessary—just a willingness to learn, explore, and contribute. This program is ideal for ocean lovers, aspiring scientists, students, and anyone keen to turn their curiosity into action.
Key Activities Include:
• Shark tagging and movement tracking
• BRUV (baited remote underwater video) deployment
• Great White Shark behavioural surveys
• Marine biodiversity and ecosystem health assessments
• Community engagement and educational outreach
• Data entry and analysis in support of research projects
• SCUBA dive training and research dives (optional)
• Shark handling, husbandry, and blood sampling techniques
• Night diving to study nocturnal marine life
• Workshops and lectures led by marine conservation expertsYou'll build confidence in the field, sharpen your scientific skills, and be part of a community working to secure a future for our oceans. Whether you're new to conservation or already on your career path, this program will leave a lasting impact on you—and the marine life you’re helping to protect.
By volunteering on our Shark Academy Volunteer Program in South Africa, you will:
• Gain hands-on experience in shark tagging, marine biodiversity surveys, and data analysis
• Learn to use BRUV (Baited Remote Underwater Video) systems to monitor shark populations
• Participate in educational workshops and lectures led by leading shark scientists
• Explore the underwater world through guided SCUBA diving expeditions (no experience needed)
• Assist in shark behavioural monitoring and learn husbandry and handling techniques
• Contribute to real conservation outcomes that support global shark protection efforts
• Enjoy stunning coastal landscapes, vibrant marine life, and an unforgettable adventure
• Build connections with like-minded volunteers, researchers, and marine biologists
• Strengthen your CV or academic portfolio with practical fieldwork experience
• Be part of a passionate and purpose-driven community working to save our oceans
What to Expect: A Day in the Life in the Shark Academy
Each day at the Shark Academy blends hands-on science, marine adventure, and conservation impact. Whether you're out on the boat or diving beneath the waves, your time here is full of meaningful contributions and unforgettable experiences.
Here’s what a typical volunteer day might look like:
7:30 AM – Morning Briefing & Equipment Check
Start your day at the research centre with a team briefing. Review the day's objectives and prep your gear—diving equipment, BRUV systems, tagging kits, and safety gear.8:30 AM – Fieldwork Begins
Head out to sea for the day’s core activity. Depending on the research schedule, you might be:
• Deploying BRUV systems to observe shark populations
• Participating in shark tagging operations
• Conducting Great White Shark focal surveys
• Collecting water samples or ecological data12:30 PM – Return & Lunch Break
Head back to shore and enjoy a relaxed lunch with your fellow researchers. Take time to recharge and reflect on the morning’s findings.2:00 PM – Data Entry, Analysis & Lectures
Spend the afternoon uploading footage, reviewing BRUV clips, entering field notes, or attending a workshop on shark biology or marine conservation strategies.4:30 PM – Dive Skills Development or Free Time
Depending on your certification level and interest, you might head back into the water for a dive session or enjoy free time exploring Hermanus or relaxing by the coast.6:30 PM – Dinner & Debrief
Gather with the team for dinner and a casual end-of-day debrief, where you’ll review findings and prepare for the next day.This is a fast-paced and active volunteer experience filled with growth, excitement, and purpose. Whether you're tagging sharks or analysing video footage, each task contributes to the long-term survival of these majestic creatures and their ecosystems.
Your Impact as a Volunteer
By volunteering with our Shark Academy Program in South Africa, you play an essential role in protecting one of the planet’s most misunderstood and endangered marine species. Every activity you engage in—whether tagging a shark, analysing underwater footage, or helping with educational outreach—feeds directly into real, ongoing scientific research and conservation strategy.
Your efforts contribute to:
Reducing knowledge gaps around shark migration, population dynamics, and behaviour
Improving national and regional policies for sustainable marine resource use
Increasing public understanding and appreciation of sharks through science communication
Creating data sets used by governments, NGOs, and academic institutions around the world
Not only will you gain hands-on research experience, but you’ll be part of a global movement working to protect the health of our oceans. Through your time, energy, and passion, you’re helping ensure that future generations inherit thriving marine ecosystems.
Your Home in South Africa
During your time with us, you'll reside at the Shark Conservancy House, located in Onrus, a charming seaside suburb of Hermanus. This coastal home offers a tranquil and comfortable base where you’ll connect with like-minded volunteers and recharge between your impactful days in the field.
The accommodation is conveniently situated within walking distance of Onrus Beach and local shops, with the picturesque mountains and sea never far from view. You'll be living in a relaxed and welcoming community known for its natural beauty, biodiversity, and small-town charm.
Here’s what’s included:
Shared accommodation with fellow volunteers in the Shark Conservancy House
Located close to the beach, cafes, and local amenities in Onrus
Fully equipped communal kitchen and lounge spaces for cooking and socialising
Comfortable shared bedrooms with basic furnishings and linens provided
Wi-Fi access in communal areas
On-site laundry facilities
Weekly housekeeping for shared spaces
Safe, secure, and supportive living environment
Onrus is the ideal setting for those who want to combine meaningful marine conservation work with the peaceful rhythm of coastal life. Whether you’re watching the waves roll in, exploring nearby art galleries, or spotting whales during migration season, your time here will be filled with discovery and inspiration.
History
Founded in 2007 and based along South Africa’s stunning Western Cape, our trusted partner has grown into a globally recognized hub for marine research and education. With a special focus on sharks and coastal ocean ecosystems, they’ve spent over a decade pioneering innovative approaches to marine conservation.
Mission & Vision
Their mission is to ensure the sustainability of sharks and marine environments through collaboration, education, and hands-on research. Working closely with government, academia, industry, and fellow NGOs, they co-develop responsible ocean management strategies to protect shark species and their habitats.
Through this program, you'll join a community dedicated to safeguarding the future of our oceans—by supporting both species conservation and ecological balance.
Program Fees & What’s Included
Program Fees
Duration Total Fee
2 Weeks (Min Stay) €1,295
3 Weeks €1,945
4 Weeks €2,595
5 Weeks €3,245
6 Weeks €3,895
7 Weeks €4,545
8 Weeks €5,195
What’s Included:
Welcome pack full of useful and essential information
All accommodation at the Shark Conservancy House in Onrus
Participation in hands-on shark conservation and marine research projects
All necessary equipment for tagging, BRUV deployment, and surveys
Daily support and training from experienced marine conservation professionals
Transportation to and from field research locations
Access to lectures and workshops by shark researchers and scientists
Full support before, during, and after your placement
100% Cancellation Money-Back Guarantee
So much more!
Your Investment in Shark Conservation and Your Future
When you join our Shark Academy Volunteer Program, you’re not only contributing to vital marine conservation work—you’re also investing in your own personal and professional development. You’ll gain valuable skills in ecological monitoring, data collection, shark biology, and diving-based research—all of which are transferable across careers in conservation, science, education, and beyond.
This is your opportunity to dive deep, grow fast, and help protect one of the ocean’s most misunderstood species—all while gaining memories that will last a lifetime.
Where You'll Be: In Hermanus, South Africa
Nestled along the southern coast of South Africa, Hermanus is renowned as one of the best whale-watching destinations in the world. But beyond the migrating giants of the sea, this charming town offers a vibrant marine ecosystem, dramatic cliffs, and endless natural beauty—making it the perfect base for marine conservation adventures.
Onrus, a peaceful coastal suburb of Hermanus, is where you’ll stay during your program. Surrounded by ocean, mountains, and wildlife, it’s a tranquil yet inspiring place to live and work. You’ll be just a short walk from local beaches, cafés, shops, and nature trails—blending conservation work with small-town coastal charm.
About South Africa
South Africa is a land of breathtaking diversity. From rugged coastlines and dramatic mountain ranges to lush forests and wildlife-filled savannahs, it’s a country that captivates the soul. Known for its rich cultural heritage, warm hospitality, and world-class biodiversity, South Africa offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers, adventurers, and conservationists alike.
The Western Cape province, where Hermanus is located, is particularly famous for its marine life, hiking trails, and vibrant towns. Whether you’re spotting great white sharks, exploring kelp forests, or watching the sunset over the bay, every moment in this region is full of wonder.
Your time off in Hermanus and Onrus will be just as exciting and enriching as your time in the field. With the beach on your doorstep, incredible natural landscapes surrounding you, and a welcoming community to explore, your free time offers endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and connection.
Some of the most popular free time activities include:
Whale Watching – Hermanus is one of the top whale-watching spots in the world during the season (June–November).
Local Beaches – Spend your afternoons relaxing on Onrus Beach or swimming in its tidal pools.
Hiking – Explore the scenic Fernkloof Nature Reserve with its panoramic views, native flora, and diverse birdlife.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding – Rent equipment locally and take to the waters of Walker Bay.
Town Exploration – Visit local markets, art galleries, cafés, and boutique shops in Hermanus.
Wine Tasting – Take a trip to nearby Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, home to some of South Africa’s best wineries.
Day Trips – Plan excursions to Cape Town, Gansbaai for shark cage diving, or explore the famous Garden Route.
Whether you're craving nature, culture, or coastal bliss, this region of South Africa delivers unforgettable moments beyond the conservation work.
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