Wildlife ACT’s Volunteer Travel Guide to Seychelles
The Essentials of Marine Conservation and Voluntourism
The Seychelles is home to vital nesting sites for endangered Sea Turtles, making targeted marine wildlife conservation efforts crucial for survival. By participating in marine conservation volunteer programs, individuals can directly contribute to protecting these iconic species and help restore fragile ecosystems.
Marine Conservation Volunteering
- Conserving tropical paradise.
- Marine and terrestrial conservation work.
- Turtle monitoring, endangered Turtle conservation, data collection, species protection and more
- Maximum 4 volunteers, working alongside experts
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A Day in the Life of a Marine Conservation Volunteer.
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Marine Conversation in the Seychelles
Marine conservation in the Seychelles is vital for ecosystem restoration and protecting marine biodiversity.
The islands, known for their stunning coral reefs and rich marine life, face threats from overfishing, climate change, and habitat loss. Marine conservation volunteering programs allow individuals to actively restore fragile ecosystems and help ensure the long-term health of the ocean and the marine life it supports. Since the 1960s, the Seychelles has led efforts to preserve its unique ecosystems, with Wildlife ACT’s North Island program playing a key role in recent marine conservation work. Volunteers contribute to protecting endangered species including Sea Turtles and the Aldabra Giant Tortoise, supporting global conservation initiatives and promoting a balanced marine environment.
Why Join Wildlife ACT as a Marine Wildlife Volunteer?
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“Wow! What a live changing experience. I spent 2 weeks in the bush with the Wildlife ACT team and it will be something I remember and treasure for the rest of my life. A must do once in a lifetime experience!”
I had a wonderful, enriching experience! I learnt a lot, and the enthusiasm and passion from the whole team really shone through. The field work felt very relevant and purposeful. I was very pleased that all activities were relevant and necessary to the project, rather than just to just appease volunteers. I was able to participate in real-life, in-situ conservation, which has enhanced my practical knowledge and field skills. The project managers are true standouts and are extremely knowledgeable in their fields. Their willingness to share their knowledge and experience really enhanced the experience. The wider community on North Island was incredibly friendly and welcoming. We were well fed too, which is always good!
Absolutely fantastic. The North Island staff embraced us like a warm hug. The island itself is stunning, and the conservation work being done is truly heartwarming. Volunteering on North Island was a once in a lifetime experience. It taught me a lot regarding Sea Turtle conservation, the blight of ocean trash, and the balance of flora and fauna required to rehabilitate a species or remove an invasive one. And all this was done whilst living in paradise! Helping the Environmental Team effectively double the number of Turtle hatchlings is a super positive outcome. Removing, analysing and uploading data on ocean trash will hopefully support efforts to reduce this blight. This is a long way to go, but every little bit helps!
The Wildlife ACT Marine Conservation Volunteer Experience
A dedicated team of conservationists and researchers in the Seychelles is focused on protecting its unique natural environment. As a Marine Conservation volunteer, you’ll join their efforts, working primarily in coastal and marine ecosystems.
The Seychelles is home to a range of endemic species, and local conservation organisations are combining efforts with ecotourism to fund ecosystem restoration. This has led to numerous programs where volunteers collaborate with locals to promote marine biodiversity. The islands' unique wildlife and biodiversity have made it a globally recognised hotspot of international importance.
Marine Conservation Highlights in Seychelles
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North Island
North Island, located in the Seychelles archipelago, is a private paradise known for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and diverse wildlife. The island has long been a conservation success story, with significant efforts to restore its natural ecosystems, including its native flora and fauna. North Island in the Seychelles is home to several endemic species and has been designated as a protected area for biodiversity conservation. With its isolated location, North Island offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage in meaningful environmental work, while also enjoying the island’s beauty. It’s a biodiversity hotspot, offering a chance to make a tangible impact on the preservation of both marine and terrestrial ecosystems.
Useful Travel Tips for Seychelles
Seychelles follows Seychelles Time (SCT), which is GMT+4. The country does not observe daylight saving time, so the time remains the same year-round. During European winter months, Seychelles is typically 2 hours ahead of most European countries, making it easy for travellers to adjust their schedules.
The Seychellois Rupee (SCR) is the official currency of Seychelles. While credit and debit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and shops, it's a good idea to have cash on hand, especially when visiting smaller islands or local markets. ATMs are conveniently located in popular tourist areas, and you can exchange money at banks or at the airport. Many destinations will also accept US Dollars, Pounds, and Euros, as well as credit cards.
Seychelles uses the metric system. Distances are in kilometres, temperatures in degrees Celsius, and weights in kilograms. If you're used to the imperial system, keep this in mind when planning activities or checking the weather.
Public transport options include buses and taxis, primarily on the main islands of Mahé and Praslin. Renting a car is a great way to explore at your own pace, especially on Mahé, where driving is on the left side of the road. For inter-island travel, choose from ferries, domestic flights, or private charters to easily visit Praslin, La Digue, and other stunning islands.
Seychelles has a population of around 100,000 people, reflecting a diverse mix of African, European, and Asian heritage. Most residents live on the main islands: Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue. This cultural blend makes Seychelles a vibrant and welcoming destination for travellers.
There are three official languages in Seychelles: Seychellois Creole (Kreol Seselwa), English, and French. English is widely spoken in business and tourism, but learning a few Creole phrases can enhance your experience. Try saying "Bonzour" for "Good morning" or "Mersi" for "Thank you" to connect with locals.
The economy of Seychelles is driven by tourism, fishing, and small-scale agriculture. Renowned for its pristine beaches, unique wildlife, and protected nature reserves, Seychelles relies heavily on sustainable tourism. Visitors may notice the contrast between the prosperous tourism sector and the challenges faced by local communities, who work to preserve traditional livelihoods.
Seychelles is one of the safest destinations in Africa, with low crime rates. However, it's still wise to be cautious with personal belongings, particularly on the beach and in less crowded areas. Petty theft and pickpocketing can happen, so keep your valuables secure and avoid leaving items unattended.
The majority of Seychellois identify as Roman Catholic, influenced by the country's French colonial history. You will also find smaller communities practising Anglicanism, Hinduism, Islam, and Buddhism. Religious freedom is respected, and there are many places of worship to visit on the main islands.
Seychelles has a fascinating history influenced by its strategic location in the Indian Ocean. The islands were uninhabited until the French arrived in the 18th century, followed by the British after the Napoleonic Wars. Seychelles gained independence in 1976 and has since become a stable republic, known for its focus on conservation and sustainable tourism.
The country leads the way in island restoration projects, tackling issues like deforestation, invasive species, and habitat loss. Notable initiatives include the 'Noah's Ark' project on North Island, aiming to return the ecosystem to its natural state. This ambitious program includes reforestation efforts and the reintroduction of native bird species, making North Island a premier destination for ecotourism.
The Seychelles enjoys a tropical climate, characterised by warm temperatures and high humidity year-round. Temperatures typically range from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 89°F), with cooler, breezier conditions along the coasts. The islands experience two main seasons: a wet, humid monsoon season from November to March, influenced by the northwest trade winds, and a drier, cooler season from May to October, driven by the southeast trade winds. This mild climate, combined with regular rainfall, supports the lush vegetation and diverse ecosystems that make the Seychelles a unique environmental haven.
The Seychelles is a marine conservation hotspot, home to endangered species like Sea Turtles, Sharks, Rays, and Whales. Its vibrant coral reefs support diverse marine life, including Bottlenose Dolphins, corals, and fish. The islands play a key role in global marine conservation by protecting these species and their habitats. Volunteers have the opportunity to contribute to preserving the Seychelles' unique marine ecosystems, ensuring the long-term health of its oceans and biodiversity.