Peru Coastal Dolphin Research

Dolphin killing in Peru does not have traditional roots, but is a result of increasing poverty. In order to protect Peru´s dolphin populations, we must provide opportunities to local fishermen through which dolphins become more valuable to them as a protected species than as a hunted one.

It is a key element for us to intensively study the local dolphin populations in order to develop the potential of dolphin-watching tourism along the Peruvian coast. In addition, these studies are critical to creating the scientific base line, which will enable us to monitor the environmental impact of dolphin watching itself on one hand and the success of our conservation work on the other.

Participation as a volunteer does not require any specialized skills. You will be trained by our research team to participate fully in the project once you arrive. Although our field staff speak English, a little Spanish is of course to your advantage in communications with local fishermen.

Volunteer Role

You will contribute directly to this effort by studying and monitoring local populations of coastal bottlenose dolphins with our research team.

Typical tasks include:

You will be trained to photo-identify individual dolphins
Record data on the location and behaviour of local dolphin populations
Observe other marine wildlife such as sea lions, sea turtles, Humbolt penguins, and marine otters.

Project Location

During the initial phase of the programme you will use the fisherman’s port of Pucusana as an operational base, 70kms south of Lima. The second area is the Bay of Paracas in the north of the Paracas National Reserve.

Accommodation and Meals

There is basic hotel accommodation for the duration of the project, shared with other volunteers and staff at the project. You will have electricity, hot water, western style toilets, and laundry facilities. Meals are provided.

Programme Overview

Combine this project with our Peru Spanish Language School

Duration & Price: 18 days volunteering £1299, 4 weeks £1749

How to book & pay:
Secure with £195 deposit. The balance is due 12 wks before departure.

What is included?
All accommodation (shared)
2 meals a day (breakfast & lunch)
Personally met at lima airport
A detailed orientation on arrival
All project related transport
24 hour emergency help
Full support prior to departure
Detailed information pack

What is not included?
Flights & Visas
Extra activities not on itinerary
Travel Insurance
Vaccination-related costs
Any applicable airport taxes
Dinner

Programme Summary:
You will contribute directly to this dolphin conservation effort by studying and monitoring local populations of coastal bottlenose dolphins.
Other Peru volunteer work

Arrival dates: Please contact us for programme dates.

Peru Travel Advice:
Visit our Peru Travel Advice page for useful travel information.

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