Whale & Dolphin Research & Conservation Volunteer Program – Morocco
Join our marine conservation project based in M’diq, northern Morocco, and help us study and protect cetaceans living in the Strait of Gibraltar and surrounding Mediterranean waters.
Volunteers participate directly in field activities alongside marine biologists and researchers, contributing to one of the few cetacean monitoring initiatives operating from the Moroccan side of the Strait.
The goal of the project is to help map marine mammal presence in the region, improve knowledge about local species distribution, and contribute to photo-identification and behavioral research of dolphins and whales in northern Morocco.
What Volunteers Will Do
Boat Surveys – 3 Days per Week
Volunteers join offshore surveys to search for and monitor cetaceans in the area. Activities may include:
- searching for dolphins and whales
- recording sightings and environmental conditions
- learning cetacean observation techniques
- photo-identification of individual animals
- assisting with data collection and mapping
Depending on the season and sea conditions, species may include:
- bottlenose dolphins
- striped dolphins
- common dolphins
- pilot whales
- sperm whales
- seasonal orcas
Land-Based Survey – 1 Day per Week
Volunteers help monitor marine life from coastal observation points around the Strait region and Mediterranean coast.
Activities include:
- scanning for cetaceans
- recording marine traffic and environmental conditions
- helping map local biodiversity
- learning field observation methods
Conservation & Community Activities
Additional activities may include:
- beach cleanups
- environmental awareness actions
- helping local NGOs supporting street cats and other street animals
- assisting with feeding and care activities for rescued animals
Accommodation & Support
The program includes:
- shared accommodation
- airport pickup
- orientation and field training
- support from the research team
Duration & Cost
Minimum stay: 2 weeks
Program contribution: 500 EUR per week
The contribution helps support:
- research activities
- boat operations and fuel
- conservation work
- accommodation
- local partnerships and logistics
Who Can Join?
Open to anyone aged 18+ interested in:
- marine biology
- cetaceans
- conservation
- environmental volunteering
- ocean research
No previous experience is required. Motivation, curiosity and respect for wildlife are the most important qualities.