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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.
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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.
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Our Travel Roots Whale & Dolphin Conservation Program in Spain offers a unique opportunity to become part of a growing movement dedicated to protecting whales, dolphins, and our oceans through ethical marine conservation, education, and sustainable ocean practices in Lanzarote, Canary Islands.
This programme goes far beyond simply observing marine wildlife. Volunteers actively contribute towards conservation awareness, citizen science initiatives, marine debris collection, environmental outreach, and the mission to help create quieter, lower-emission whale observation experiences that place the wellbeing of cetaceans first.
Located within the stunning volcanic landscapes of Lanzarote, one of the few places in Europe where whales and dolphins can be observed year-round, this programme allows volunteers to learn directly from experienced marine conservation teams while spending time at sea observing species in their natural habitat responsibly and ethically.
Throughout your time on the programme, you may have the opportunity to encounter incredible marine species including Atlantic spotted dolphins, Risso’s dolphins, rough-toothed dolphins, and various species of beaked whales, while also gaining valuable insights into marine ecosystems, cetacean behaviour, conservation challenges, and responsible wildlife observation practices.
The programme combines three key areas:
Marine Conservation & Citizen Science
Outreach & Environmental Education
Boating & Ocean Operations
Volunteers support daily conservation activities both on land and at sea, helping collect important sighting data, participating in beach clean-ups and marine debris removal initiatives, supporting awareness campaigns, assisting with guest education onboard, and contributing towards wider ocean conservation efforts across the island.
You will also gain insight into the realities of modern marine conservation and the growing environmental pressures facing cetaceans, including marine pollution, underwater noise pollution, habitat disturbance, and climate-related challenges affecting marine ecosystems globally.
Accommodation is based within the shared Volunteer Ocean House in Puerto del Carmen, creating a social and community-driven atmosphere where volunteers from around the world come together through a shared passion for marine conservation, ethical travel, and ocean protection.
Whether you are looking to gain experience in marine conservation, contribute towards meaningful environmental initiatives, improve your understanding of cetacean protection, or immerse yourself within an inspiring ocean-focused environment, this programme offers a truly eye-opening and impactful experience in one of Europe’s most unique marine ecosystems.
By volunteering on our Whale & Dolphin Conservation program in Spain, you will:
✅ Observe whales and dolphins in their natural habitat while supporting ethical marine conservation efforts in Lanzarote
✅ Learn about cetacean behaviour, species identification, marine ecosystems, and responsible whale observation practices
✅ Contribute towards citizen science initiatives by helping collect important sighting and environmental data
✅ Support ocean conservation through beach clean-ups, marine debris collection, and local environmental initiatives
✅ Gain experience in conservation outreach, environmental education, and awareness campaigns both onboard and within the local community
✅ Learn basic boating knowledge, ocean safety procedures, and daily catamaran operations alongside experienced crew members
✅ Collaborate with passionate marine conservationists and like-minded volunteers from around the world
✅ Immerse yourself in the incredible volcanic landscapes, coastal life, and unique culture of Lanzarote in the Canary Islands
✅ Be part of a growing mission helping create quieter, lower-emission whale observation experiences focused on cetacean wellbeing and ocean protection
✅ Build valuable conservation experience, confidence, and transferable skills while contributing towards meaningful marine protection efforts
What to Expect: A Day in the Life of a Whale & Dolphin Conservation Volunteer in Spain
No two days on this programme are ever exactly the same. Life in Lanzarote is shaped by ocean conditions, conservation activities, wildlife sightings, and the daily operations of the team, creating a dynamic and immersive marine conservation experience.
A typical day often begins at the Volunteer Ocean House in Puerto del Carmen, where volunteers prepare for the day ahead alongside fellow conservation volunteers and crew members. Depending on weather conditions and the planned schedule, much of your time may be spent out on the water searching for whales and dolphins in the surrounding Atlantic Ocean.
Before departing, volunteers may assist with preparing the catamaran, organising equipment, welcoming guests onboard, and helping with daily operational tasks. Throughout expeditions, you will learn more about cetacean behaviour, species identification, responsible whale observation practices, and the wider conservation challenges facing marine ecosystems today.
While at sea, volunteers may help collect important sighting information as part of ongoing citizen science and conservation initiatives. You could assist with recording behavioural observations, environmental conditions, species identification, marine debris sightings, and photographic data, all while learning directly from experienced conservation team members.
Alongside marine expeditions, volunteers may also participate in environmental outreach and conservation activities on land. This can include beach clean-ups, marine debris collection, local conservation events, environmental awareness campaigns, and educational initiatives designed to inspire greater ocean protection within the local community.
Some days may involve educational sessions, learning basic boating knowledge, understanding wildlife rescue procedures, or developing outreach and communication skills through presentations and awareness activities. Volunteers may also have opportunities to create social media content, contribute towards conservation storytelling, and support wider awareness surrounding cetacean protection.
Evenings are often spent relaxing with fellow volunteers, exploring Lanzarote’s volcanic landscapes and coastal towns, or enjoying the incredible sunsets and island atmosphere after a rewarding day contributing towards ocean conservation efforts.
This programme offers far more than simply observing marine wildlife — it provides an opportunity to become part of a wider conservation mission focused on education, environmental responsibility, ethical practices, and long-term protection of whales, dolphins, and our oceans.
Your Impact As A Volunteer
By joining our Travel Roots Whale & Dolphin Conservation Program in Spain, you become part of a growing movement working towards a more ethical and environmentally responsible future for whales, dolphins, and our oceans.
Your presence on the programme directly supports ongoing conservation awareness, citizen science initiatives, marine debris removal efforts, and environmental outreach activities designed to help protect cetaceans and their fragile marine ecosystems in the Canary Islands.
Through daily whale and dolphin observation expeditions, volunteers help contribute towards the collection of valuable sighting information and environmental data which supports wider understanding of marine species, behaviour patterns, and ocean health. Every responsible observation helps build greater awareness surrounding the importance of protecting these incredible animals and the environments they depend on.
Your involvement also helps support wider conservation initiatives beyond the boat itself. From participating in beach clean-ups and local environmental projects to supporting awareness campaigns and educational outreach, volunteers play an active role in encouraging stronger ocean protection both locally and globally.
One of the programme’s core missions is helping promote quieter, lower-emission whale observation practices that place the wellbeing of cetaceans first. By supporting this initiative, you are contributing towards a growing effort to reduce underwater noise pollution, minimise environmental impact, and encourage more responsible interactions with marine wildlife.
Beyond the direct conservation impact, your participation also helps inspire others. Through outreach activities, conversations, social media awareness, and community engagement, volunteers help spread important messages surrounding marine conservation, ocean responsibility, and the protection of whales and dolphins for future generations.
At the same time, this experience becomes an investment in your own personal growth. You will leave with a deeper understanding of marine ecosystems, ethical conservation practices, environmental challenges, and the importance of protecting our oceans, while also developing valuable transferable skills, confidence, teamwork experience, and a stronger connection to the natural world.
Your Home in Lanarote
During your time on our Travel Roots Whale & Dolphin Conservation Program in Spain, you will stay within shared volunteer accommodation located in Puerto del Carmen, one of Lanzarote’s most vibrant and coastal towns. The Volunteer Ocean House creates a relaxed, social, and community-driven environment where volunteers from around the world come together through a shared passion for marine conservation, ocean protection, and ethical travel.
The accommodation provides a comfortable base to unwind after days spent out at sea or participating in conservation activities across the island. The accommodation is located approximately 10 minutes from Puerto Calero, home to the programme’s catamaran and daily marine expeditions, making it a convenient location for volunteers taking part in boat-based conservation activities.Volunteers will typically stay in shared rooms alongside fellow participants, helping create a welcoming and collaborative atmosphere throughout the experience. Shared living spaces encourage cultural exchange, teamwork, and the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals all working towards a common conservation goal. The accommodation also places you close to Lanzarote’s beautiful coastline, cafés, shops, beaches, and local amenities, allowing you to fully experience island life during your time in the Canary Islands.
Free bicycle use is also available, giving volunteers the opportunity to easily explore the local area, coastline, and surrounding volcanic landscapes during free time.The programme begins directly in Lanzarote, and airport arrival is simple and accessible. The airport is located approximately 15 minutes away by car from the accommodation, and support is provided before arrival to help volunteers navigate the journey smoothly and confidently.
History
Our trusted partners behind this programme were founded with a clear vision — to help create a more ethical and environmentally responsible future for whale and dolphin observation in the Canary Islands.
The organisation was created in response to growing concerns surrounding ocean noise pollution, emissions, and the increasing pressure human activity places on cetaceans and fragile marine ecosystems. Rather than following traditional large-scale marine excursion models, the team developed a more conservation-focused approach centred around quieter, lower-emission whale observation experiences that place the wellbeing of marine wildlife first.
Driven by a deep passion for whales, dolphins, and ocean protection, the organisation combines marine conservation, citizen science, environmental education, and community awareness to help inspire more responsible interactions with the marine environment. Through small-group experiences, research support, conservation initiatives, and educational outreach, they aim to help people build a stronger connection with the ocean while actively contributing towards meaningful cetacean protection efforts.
Mission & Vision
The mission behind this programme is to help create a future where whale and dolphin observation becomes quieter, more sustainable, and more respectful towards marine wildlife and their natural environment. Through conservation action, education, research support, and awareness initiatives, the organisation aims to reduce human impact on cetaceans while encouraging a deeper understanding of the importance of ocean protection.
Their long-term vision is to contribute towards healthier oceans with less pollution, less underwater noise, and greater protection for whales, dolphins, and wider marine ecosystems. By combining ethical conservation practices with environmental outreach and citizen science initiatives, they hope to inspire long-term positive change within marine conservation and help shape a more responsible future for our oceans.
Program Fees
Duration Fee (€)
1 Week €950
2 Weeks €1,760
3 Weeks €2,500
For stays longer than 3 weeks, please contact us directly for extended stay pricing and availability.
Important Things To Note: All programs include a Travel Roots Service & Support Fee in addition to the listed program fee. This helps cover the support we provide before, during, and after your placement, including application guidance, partner coordination, pre-departure preparation, welcome pack support, and ongoing assistance throughout your journey.
Payment Terms
• Program fees are due 60 days before your start date
• If applying within 60 days of arrival, full payment is due within 48 hours of confirmation
What’s Included
Your program fees cover everything you need for a safe, enriching, and impactful experience:
✅ Active participation within the cetacean conservation programme
✅ Shared volunteer accommodation in Lanzarote
✅ One daily whale and dolphin observation boat trip from Monday to Saturday (weather permitting)
✅ Assisting with onboard outreach, guest briefings, and conservation awareness activities
✅ Snacks, fruit, and drinks during boat expeditions
✅ Collaboration with local conservation and environmental initiatives (subject to availability)
✅ Contribution towards cetacean Photo ID catalogues and marine species monitoring
✅ Citizen science work through marine life observations and sighting data collection
✅ Expert guidance and learning opportunities from experienced marine conservation professionals
✅ Welcome pack full of necessary and useful information before arrival
✅ Full support before, during, and after your programme
✅ Certificate of Completion
✅ Fair & Flexible Refund Policy
✅ So much moreWhat’s Excluded
✖️ Flights
✖️ Meals
✖️ Visa costs (if required)
✖️ Travel insurance
✖️ Personal expenses
✖️ Additional tours or activities
✖️ Vaccinations (if required)
Your Investment in Marine Conservation & Yourself
Joining our Travel Roots Whale & Dolphin Conservation Program in Spain is far more than simply travelling abroad — it is an investment into marine conservation, ocean protection, personal growth, and your future development.
Throughout your time in Lanzarote, you will gain valuable real-world exposure to ethical cetacean conservation, citizen science initiatives, environmental outreach, and responsible marine practices while working alongside passionate conservation teams within one of Europe’s most unique marine environments.
This experience allows you to develop transferable skills and practical knowledge in areas such as:
Marine conservation and environmental awareness
Cetacean behaviour and species identification
Citizen science and marine life observation
Conservation outreach and environmental education
Teamwork, communication, and adaptability
Responsible wildlife observation practices
Ocean conservation and marine ecosystem protection
Beyond the technical experience, this programme also offers the opportunity to build confidence, broaden your perspective, connect with like-minded individuals from around the world, and become part of a growing movement focused on protecting whales, dolphins, and our oceans for future generations.
Whether you are considering a future within marine conservation, environmental science, sustainability, wildlife protection, education, content creation, or simply looking to contribute towards something meaningful, the knowledge, experiences, and memories gained throughout this programme will stay with you long after your time in Lanzarote comes to an end.
Where You’ll Be – The Canarian island of Lanzarote
Location & Country Information
Your conservation journey takes place on the breathtaking island of Lanzarote, one of Spain’s Canary Islands, located within the Atlantic Ocean just off the northwest coast of Africa. Shaped by volcanic eruptions, powerful Atlantic waters, and a deep connection to nature, Lanzarote offers one of the most unique marine conservation environments anywhere in Europe.
Volunteers are based near Puerto Calero and Puerto del Carmen, where daily marine operations take place along Lanzarote’s dramatic southern coastline. These waters are internationally recognised for their incredible whale and dolphin activity, with species such as Atlantic spotted dolphins, Risso’s dolphins, rough-toothed dolphins, and beaked whales regularly found within the region’s nutrient-rich Atlantic ecosystems.
Unlike many marine destinations across Europe, Lanzarote allows for year-round cetacean observation and conservation opportunities, making it an incredibly important location for marine research, citizen science, and environmental awareness. The surrounding ocean environment provides a rare opportunity to witness whales and dolphins thriving within their natural habitat while learning about the growing conservation challenges facing marine ecosystems worldwide.
Lanzarote – Volcanic Landscapes, Ocean Life & Island Culture
Beyond its marine importance, Lanzarote is world-famous for its extraordinary volcanic scenery and strong environmental identity. Black lava fields, rugged cliffs, turquoise waters, and whitewashed villages create an almost otherworldly atmosphere across the island, unlike anywhere else in Europe.
Recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Lanzarote has long been celebrated for its commitment to sustainability, conservation, and preserving the balance between human life and the natural environment. The island’s landscapes, culture, and slower pace of life create the perfect setting for volunteers looking to disconnect from modern pressures and reconnect with nature.
Life on Lanzarote is heavily influenced by the ocean, conservation, and the island’s unique heritage. From traditional Canarian culture and coastal communities to the island’s deep connection with the Atlantic, volunteers quickly become immersed within an environment where nature and everyday life remain closely intertwined.
For many participants, Lanzarote becomes far more than simply the location of the programme — it becomes a place of inspiration, personal growth, reflection, and deeper connection to marine conservation and the natural world.
Free time Activities
& Tours
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Free Time Activities
During your free time, Lanzarote offers the perfect opportunity to explore one of Europe’s most unique and visually stunning islands. From dramatic volcanic landscapes and Atlantic coastlines to laid-back coastal towns and ocean adventures, the island provides an unforgettable balance between conservation, adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion.
Explore the famous volcanic landscapes of Timanfaya National Park
Relax on Lanzarote’s beautiful beaches and rugged coastline
Swim, snorkel, surf, or enjoy other ocean-based activities
Watch incredible Atlantic sunsets from coastal viewpoints
Discover traditional Canarian villages, cafés, and local markets
Explore lava fields, coastal trails, and scenic viewpoints across the island
Visit local restaurants and experience authentic Spanish and Canarian cuisine
Enjoy the relaxed island atmosphere alongside fellow volunteers from around the world
Take boat trips and explore Lanzarote’s surrounding coastal areas
Immerse yourself in Lanzarote’s unique mix of ocean life, volcanic scenery, and island culture
