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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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Seasonal Whale Monitoring Program in Mexico
Support data-driven conservation of Pacific humpback whales through monitoring, research, and community education
Choose from 1–20 weeks (season runs November to March)
Shared rooms in a peaceful beachfront youth hostel in Puerto Ángel
Up to 8 hours per day
2 days off per week
Want to support whale conservation efforts in an idyllic coastal setting? Our Travel Roots whale monitoring Program in Mexico places you in Puerto Ángel and Mazunte, Mexico, during the humpback whale migration season. Work alongside marine biologists and experienced local guides to help monitor whale populations, collect scientific data, and promote marine conservation.
Activities include early morning boat-based whale monitoring trips, snorkeling surveys (with coral reefs, dolphins, turtles, rays), and evening shore-based observation at Punta Cometa. Volunteers assist with real-time data recording, identification of whales and marine fauna, and support community awareness programs.
Enjoy a free-spirited coastal environment in Puerto Ángel, with opportunities to engage in cultural excursions, marine workshops, and wildlife photography sessions—gaining holistic exposure to both ecology and local traditions.
Key activities:
• Morning whale monitoring from boats with biologists
• Shore-based evening whale spotting at Punta Cometa
• Snorkeling surveys to document marine fauna
• Data analysis and processing
• Community and tourist education sessions
• Cultural and ecological workshops in MazunteBy volunteering on our Seasonal Whale Monitoring Program in Mexico, you will:
• Support scientific whale monitoring efforts during the critical migration season
• Collect valuable data that contributes to conservation strategies for humpback whales
• Assist marine biologists and gain hands-on field research experience
• Engage in community education that raises awareness about marine protection
• Enjoy unforgettable encounters with whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life
• Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Mexico’s Pacific coastWhat to Expect: A Day in the Life of a Whale Monitoring Volunteer in Mexico
Every day on our Seasonal Whale Monitoring Program combines marine research, coastal conservation, and cultural immersion. While tasks can vary depending on weather, sea conditions, and whale activity, a typical day might look like this:
6:30 AM – Early breakfast at the hostel to fuel up for the day ahead
7:00 AM – Boat-based whale monitoring trip: assist with spotting and tracking whales, recording data, photographing dorsal fins for identification, and noting marine fauna sightings (e.g. dolphins, turtles, rays)
11:00 AM – Return to shore; help process and organise collected data; review photos for whale identification
12:30 PM – Lunch break and rest during the heat of the day
3:00 PM – Afternoon activities:
• Shore-based whale observation at Punta Cometa
• Assist with community awareness talks or workshops for tourists and locals
• Help prepare educational materials or social media content promoting marine conservation6:00 PM – Dinner and free time to relax, explore Puerto Ángel, or join optional evening gatherings
Your days off are perfect for exploring the beaches of Mazunte, visiting ecological centres, or joining cultural events in nearby coastal communities.
Your Impact as a Volunteer
By volunteering on our Travel Roots Whale Monitoring Program in Mexico, you play an important role in supporting marine conservation during one of the most critical periods for humpback whales — their annual migration and breeding season.
Every boat trip you join, every data point you help collect, and every photo you capture adds to the scientific understanding of whale populations, behaviour, and health. This data is vital for informing conservation strategies that protect these magnificent animals from threats such as ship strikes, habitat degradation, and unsustainable tourism practices.
Your contribution also extends beyond research. By participating in community awareness activities, you help inspire locals and visitors alike to value and protect marine life. You become part of a network that bridges science, education, and culture — leaving a positive and lasting legacy along Mexico’s Pacific coast.
Your Home in Puerto Ángel
Volunteers stay in a relaxed beachfront youth hostel in Puerto Ángel, offering a social and friendly atmosphere just steps from the ocean. The hostel is designed for simplicity and community living, ideal for volunteers seeking a laid-back coastal experience.
Sleeping arrangements
You will stay in shared rooms (typically 2–4 volunteers per room), with basic bedding provided (mattress, sheet, pillow). The accommodation is clean and comfortable, with a strong focus on sustainability.What’s provided
• Shared bathroom facilities with showers and toilets
• Access to communal kitchen and dining area
• Fresh drinking water available
• Shaded outdoor spaces for relaxing and socialising
• Wi-Fi connection (limited in speed at times due to location)The hostel’s beachfront location means you can watch sunsets over the Pacific, enjoy the sound of the waves, and easily access your daily monitoring sites.
History
Our trusted partner for this program works with grassroots conservation groups along Mexico’s Pacific coast, protecting sea turtles through community-led initiatives. For over a decade, they have partnered with local families, indigenous communities, and conservation cooperatives to protect nesting beaches, operate hatcheries, and promote sustainable eco-tourism.
Their work arose from the need to reduce poaching and habitat destruction, while providing local communities with sustainable alternatives through ethical conservation tourism.
Mission & Vision
The mission is to protect sea turtle populations through effective nest protection, habitat conservation, and community education. By combining conservation action with responsible eco-tourism, their projects aim to ensure that both wildlife and coastal communities can thrive together.
The vision is a future where marine wildlife is safeguarded by the very communities that share its habitat, creating lasting benefits for both people and nature along Mexico’s biodiverse Pacific coastline.
Program Fees & What’s Included
Program Fee Schedule
Duration Fee (EUR)
1 week €769
2 weeks €1,500
3 weeks €2,250
4 weeks €3,000
6 weeks €4,300
10 weeks €7,000
15 weeks €10,500
20 weeks €14,000
Payment Terms
• Program fees are due in full 30 days prior to your start date.
• If booking within 30 days of your start date, full payment is required at the time of confirmation.What’s included
✅ Shared accommodation in eco-hostel
✅ Three local-style meals daily
✅ Drinking water supply
✅ Airport or bus station transfer on arrival
✅ All training and guidance from experienced local coordinators
✅ Project materials and equipment
✅ Welcome pack full of necessary and useful information
✅ Flexible start dates and free date changes (subject to availability)
✅ Full support before, during, and after your placement✅ Certificate of Completion
✅ 100% Cancellation Money-Back Guarantee
✅ So much moreYour Investment in Marine Conservation and Yourself
When you join our Seasonal Whale Monitoring Program in Mexico, you become an essential part of protecting humpback whales during their most vulnerable season. Your presence on the water, your help collecting data, and your support in community education activities directly contribute to the conservation of these incredible animals.
Your program fees help provide the tools and resources that make this work possible — from maintaining research boats and equipment to supporting local guides, biologists, and educators who are dedicated to marine protection. Every euro helps strengthen responsible whale-watching practices, safeguard marine habitats, and build community awareness that will benefit marine life for years to come.
At the same time, this experience is an investment in yourself. You’ll gain valuable skills in marine research, ecological monitoring, and cross-cultural teamwork. You’ll build meaningful connections, develop a deeper understanding of marine ecosystems, and take away memories and knowledge that will stay with you for life — all while knowing you’ve made a real and lasting difference.
Where you’ll be – Puerto Ángel and Mexico’s Pacific Coast
Your volunteering takes place in Puerto Ángel, a small fishing village on Mexico’s stunning Pacific coastline. Surrounded by cliffs, beaches, and vibrant marine life, this region is one of the most important migration routes for humpback whales.
Puerto Ángel is a peaceful community known for its relaxed vibe, friendly locals, and connection to the sea. The area offers incredible biodiversity — from dolphins and sea turtles to rays and tropical fish — and is an ideal base for whale monitoring and marine conservation work. The tropical climate provides warm, sunny days with cooling sea breezes and occasional tropical rains that keep the landscape green and alive.
Mexico – A land of culture and natural wonder
Mexico offers a fascinating mix of vibrant traditions, stunning landscapes, and world-famous cuisine. Oaxaca, in particular, is celebrated for its indigenous heritage, colourful festivals, and artisan crafts. During your time off, you’ll have opportunities to explore lively markets, sample delicious regional dishes, or simply relax by the sea, soaking up the unique spirit of coastal Mexico.
Free Time Activities
When you’re not on patrol or helping in the hatchery, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy the beauty of Mexico’s Pacific coast. Your free time is yours to relax, connect with fellow volunteers, or join in optional activities and tours.
• Relax on the beach — Unwind on golden sands just steps from camp, with warm waters perfect for swimming.
• Join a mangrove boat tour — Explore nearby mangrove forests and spot native birds and wildlife.
• Visit local villages and markets — Discover Oaxacan crafts, traditional foods, and vibrant cultural life in nearby communities.
• Take surf lessons or rent a board — The region’s gentle waves are ideal for beginners and fun for more experienced surfers.
• Explore waterfalls and forest trails — Enjoy hikes to hidden waterfalls and jungle paths with breathtaking views.
• Join a yoga or wellness session — Some nearby towns offer classes by the sea — perfect for stretching after night patrols.
• Attend local festivals (seasonal) — If your trip aligns, you may experience colourful celebrations that reflect the area’s rich culture.
Free time is flexible, giving you the chance to recharge, explore, and make the most of your stay in this stunning coastal setting.
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