Marine conservation holiday in the Seychelles

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION

This programme is designed around low-impact, island-based living. Once on North Island, all activities take place locally, eliminating the need for additional internal travel and reducing overall emissions.

Transport on the island is minimal and primarily human-powered. Volunteers move between locations by foot or bicycle, significantly lowering the carbon footprint of daily operations.

Snorkelling, walking and manual conservation work form the core of activities, avoiding reliance on motorised or energy-intensive equipment.

Food is prepared locally on the island, with an emphasis on simple, fresh ingredients. Vegetarian options are available daily, helping reduce the carbon impact of meals.

Participants are encouraged to minimise waste, reduce plastic use and make conscious travel choices, including selecting lower-emission flights where possible.

ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE

This project is dedicated to restoring an entire island ecosystem. The “Noah’s Ark” initiative focuses on reintroducing native species and rebuilding habitats that were previously degraded by intensive agriculture.

Conservation efforts include the protection of endangered species such as hawksbill and green sea turtles, as well as the reintroduction of Aldabra giant tortoises and native bird species. Daily monitoring and data collection contribute directly to long-term research and species protection.

Habitat restoration is a core component of the programme. Volunteers support reforestation through nursery work and planting native vegetation, helping to rebuild ecosystems and support biodiversity.

Marine conservation activities, including reef monitoring, help track the health of surrounding coral ecosystems and fish populations.

Strict environmental guidelines are followed to minimise disturbance to wildlife. Participants are trained in responsible behaviour to ensure all interactions are non-invasive and conservation-focused.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY

The project supports the local economy through employment of local staff and collaboration with conservation professionals.

Volunteers contribute to a model of ecotourism that funds ongoing conservation and restoration work.

Supplies and services are sourced locally where possible, supporting businesses within the Seychelles. The integration of conservation and tourism helps create sustainable economic value linked to environmental protection.

EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY AND DIVERSITY

The programme works closely with local staff and conservation experts, many of whom are from the Seychelles, the wider region or neighbouring countries. This ensures local knowledge and expertise are central to the project.

All staff are paid fairly according to local standards, and the project supports skill development through hands-on conservation work and training opportunities.

The volunteer programme brings together people from diverse international backgrounds, fostering cultural exchange and shared learning in a collaborative environment about the island and its ecosystem.

The trip is LGBTQ+ friendly and promotes an inclusive and respectful atmosphere. Due to the nature of island terrain and physical conservation work, a reasonable level of mobility is required, but the team aims to be as inclusive as possible within these constraints.