In a word, volunteering in Greece is unmatched. This is the definition of travel with a purpose as you have the opportunity to explore the breathtaking coastline and play a real part in the mission to protect vulnerable marine life.

Our Greece marine conservation hub is based on the beautiful island of Zakynthos. 

Working in close collaboration with local partners on the ground, your work will contribute directly to the protection of loggerhead turtles. 

Lifelong friends and 24/7 support

Along with exploring stunning locations and helping with marine conservation efforts, you also have the opportunity for personal growth and development when you volunteer in Greece. You’ll be living and working alongside people from all over the world, building lifelong friendships and connections. You’ll learn new skills and gain experience in a unique and challenging environment, which will help you develop as a person and set you apart from your peers. And you’ll experience all this with the support of our expert team, all of whom are trained to adhere to rigorous health and safety standards.

Ready for the trip of a lifetime? Let’s go!

It’s no mystery why Greece is considered one of the most beautiful parts of Europe, and the island of Zakynthos is no exception. Located off the western coast of mainland Greece, this captivating island has it all – dreamy beaches, ancient ruins and incredible marine life. 

From this idyllic location we run two volunteer programs, sea turtle conservation and our under-18 sea turtle conservation, as well as one turtle and marine internship. 

The fascinating loggerhead turtle is the living representative of a group of reptiles that has travelled our seas for the past 100 million years. Sadly, many loggerhead turtles’ nesting beaches are under threat from tourism development.

Zakynthos is home to some of the world’s most important loggerhead nesting sites, providing a safe haven for the turtles to lay their eggs and hatch their young. These beaches are carefully monitored and protected to ensure that the turtles can nest undisturbed, and their hatchlings can make their way safely to the ocean.

Volunteer in Greece for loggerhead conservation

Without conservation efforts – like our volunteer programs in Greece – the loggerhead turtle populations would be at an even greater risk of decline. This would have a devastating impact on the marine ecosystem as a whole. 

Each one of our participants who chooses to volunteer in Greece can make a measurable contribution toward critical conservation efforts. Joining an expedition in Greece means you’ll help to preserve and protect this vital coastal habitat. It’s a unique opportunity to contribute to – and learn from – the work, the community and other participants.

GVI has been operating volunteer projects all over the world for the past two decades. We are proud of our approach to establishing long-term partnerships and sustainable projects. The local community is always consulted first and foremost in order to determine their needs. With the contribution of volunteers, we work together in partnership to achieve these goals.

In Zakynthos, we collaborate closely with local partner organisations committed to the conservation of vulnerable and endangered sea turtles and preserving their habitats.

On our turtle conservation expedition and turtle and marine internship, participants help gather data on sea turtle ecology. This information guides conservationists and local communities in the protection of turtles and their habitats. Participants may contribute to activities like: 

• Beach cleanups
• Sea Turtle surveys
• Coastal vegetation maintenance
• Habitat mapping
• Harbour surveys (March to mid-April).
• Biodiversity surveys
• Beach profile surveys

Our interns also have the incredible opportunity to work on a personal project under the guidance of a professional mentor. Plus, as an intern, you’ll receive the certification and career development you require to boost your CV and gain the competitive edge in the conservation industry. 

Teen volunteers on our sea turtle and marine conservation program focus on the protection of vulnerable loggerhead turtles that nest on the beaches of Zakynthos. Turtle conservation activities include:

• Join patrols and surveys to monitor and record new turtle tracks, check and record new nests, and construct protective grids for nests.
• Assist in clearing the beach of plastics or trash near the nesting sites during sea turtle conservation patrols.
• Training on the biology of important local species like loggerhead turtles.
• Regular beach cleans to minimise litter on Greece’s beaches and prevent it from being washed out to sea.

Whether you’re experienced in marine science or you’re someone who has never volunteered before, there’s a place for you on GVI’s conservation programs. Our volunteer programs in Greece are designed for those who are passionate about marine conservation and want to make a meaningful contribution to protecting precious species – there are no other prerequisites!

Training and support

Our programs are designed to be accessible and engaging for all volunteers, regardless of your background or experience level. Our expert staff will provide you with all the training and support you need to make a meaningful contribution to conservation efforts. 

Types of volunteers

Over the years, we’ve welcomed families and groups who want to volunteer together, as well as students who need to complete community service hours or want to gain experience in environmental conservation before pursuing higher education or a career in a related field. We also see career breakers and retirees joining us often. Whatever your motivation for volunteering, we believe that everyone has the potential to make a positive impact, and we strive to create a safe, inclusive environment for all.

Teen volunteering in Greece

If you’re under 18, our sea turtle and marine conservation program is specifically designed for teens. Participants can spend their days on the Mediterranean coast, contributing to the conservation of loggerhead turtle nesting areas. Activities include monitoring turtle behaviour, nest protection and beach cleanups. With a focus on health and safety, GVI is a British Standards 8848 compliant provider. This project is perfect for 15 to 17-year-olds wanting to make a positive impact, guided by experienced mentors who provide valuable training and support.