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Join our Whale Shark Research & Conservation program in Sumbawa and work alongside local researchers to help monitor and protect the world's largest fish. Participate in whale shark identification, photo-ID data collection, educational workshops, and community conservation activities.
20 hours of help per week
Animal Care: Help look after and take care of animals.
Social Work: Help with volunteer work in local projects and communities.
Amount: US$ 55 Per day
Fee pays for: Benefits for travelers, Materials for volunteer activities, and Donation to project
Description: The $55 per day is essentially a donation to support the Whale Shark conservation program.
2 days off per week
Private Room: You will have a bed in a private room. In other words, a room just for you.
Breakfast: You are entitled to a free breakfast, every day of your stay.
Get free drinks or beverages.: Drink up! Get free and tasty drinks for yourself.
Certificate: Get a certificate of completion after you finish your experience.
Basic Internet Access: Basic speed internet for you to work remotely
Intermediate English or Intermediate French
Between 18 and 45 years old
Welcomes solo volunteers, couples, and partners of volunteers
Be from outside Indonesia
European Union Passport
United States visa or citizenship
Travel insurance
Flights, Travel Insurance, Internal Transportation and Visa
Join our Whale Shark Research & Conservation Program in the pristine waters of Teluk Saleh, Sumbawa, and contribute to the protection of the world's largest fish. Working alongside local researchers and conservationists, you'll participate in whale shark monitoring, Photo-ID identification, body measurements, behavioral observations, and scientific data collection that supports long-term conservation efforts.
Beyond fieldwork, you'll attend educational workshops at the Whale Shark Education Center, learn about marine ecology, sustainable fisheries, and the importance of community-based conservation. You'll also take part in beach clean-ups and environmental awareness activities with local communities, creating a meaningful impact both above and below the water.
Whether you're a student, marine enthusiast, photographer, diver, or simply passionate about ocean conservation, this program offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on research experience while helping protect one of Indonesia's most remarkable marine species. Together, we'll transform your journey into a meaningful contribution to marine science and regenerative tourism.
1st Day – Arrival & Orientation
12:00–17:00: Arrive, check in with your local host family, and settle in.
19:00–20:30: Welcome dinner, program orientation, and introduction to whale shark research.
2nd Day – Education & Research Preparation
08:00–09:00: Breakfast.
09:00–15:00: Visit the Whale Shark Education Center, attend research workshops, and learn monitoring methods and Photo-ID techniques.
3rd Day – Whale Shark Monitoring
08:00–09:00: Breakfast.
09:00–15:00: Join the research team to identify whale sharks, collect Photo-ID data, record observations, and learn scientific monitoring techniques.
4th Day – Marine Conservation
08:00–09:00: Breakfast.
09:00–15:00: Continue whale shark monitoring, behavioral observations, and marine conservation activities.
Evening: Free time.
5th Day – Community & Environment
08:00–09:00: Breakfast.
09:00–15:00: Participate in beach clean-ups, environmental education, and community conservation activities.
6th Day – Field Experience
08:00–09:00: Breakfast.
09:00–15:00: Assist researchers with field surveys, data recording, and conservation monitoring, followed by discussion and reflection.
7th Day – Closing Session
08:00–10:00: Final discussion, research summary, and certificate presentation.
10:00 onwards: Departure or continue your journey in Sumbawa.
Important: Your US$55/day contribution is subsidized and includes accommodation, meals, local transportation, research activities, and educational sessions. Stay with a local host family and work directly with local researchers—not through tour agents—for an authentic conservation experience. Activities may change depending on weather, sea conditions, whale shark sightings, and safety.
Respect local culture, traditions, and your host family throughout your stay.
Follow all instructions from researchers, boat crews, and field coordinators during research activities.
Never touch, feed, or disturb whale sharks or other marine wildlife.
Wear a life jacket and follow all safety procedures during boat trips and fieldwork.
Arrive on time and participate actively in scheduled research and conservation activities.
Help keep beaches, boats, and shared spaces clean by minimizing waste and using reusable items whenever possible.
As you'll stay in a Muslim community, please dress modestly, respect local customs, and be mindful of the daily adhan (Islamic call to prayer).
Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited during the program.
Bring a positive attitude, curiosity, and respect for nature, local communities, and fellow participants.
