Volunteer in Beautiful Bali

An island paradise in need of protection

Kick-start your conservation career in the crystal-clear waters of Bali, where you’ll contribute to vital marine conservation efforts amongst volcanic mountains, lush jungles and vibrant coral gardens. Alongside a local partner organisation, you’ll learn dive and snorkel survey techniques, species identification, coral planting and more, helping to monitor, protect and restore the coral reefs and seagrass meadows that sustain Bali’s unique marine ecosystems. 

Overview

Whether you’re interested in snorkelling or learning to dive, our marine conservation programs in Bali offer you the opportunity to explore some of the world’s most breathtaking underwater habitats, while helping to monitor, protect and restore them. Most of your time will be spent in the water, collecting data on the colourful coral gardens and swaying seagrass meadows, where marine life is abundant. Every day could bring a sighting of anything from black-tipped reef sharks and green sea turtles, to seahorses and tropical fish, to – if you’re very lucky – an elusive dugong. 

We offer two incredible marine conservation programs in Bali: a marine conservation internship where you’ll gain diving certifications, and an island conservation expedition with snorkelling. Both programs are focused on combating the impacts of unethical tourism, pollution and climate change on Bali’s precious marine species and underwater habitats. 

Free time in Bali

There’s loads to see and do in and around Amed, where our programs are based. You’ll have plenty of free time to explore the area. Take a day to hike up Bali’s highest volcanic mountain, Mount Agung, or explore the lush trails and jungles of Bali Barat National Park. A short boat ride will take you to one of the numerous pristine beaches nearby to see more of Bali’s stunning marine life. You can also spend some time exploring humming markets, dining on freshly caught seafood at a local restaurant, or visiting one of the many yoga studios and spas in the area. 

Just 30 minutes outside Amed is the incredible Tirta Gangga Water Palace, an ancient temple that stands as a living example of Balinese tradition, culture and spirituality. Uluwatu Temple – the cultural heart of Ubud with its Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary – offers dramatic cliff-side views, delivering the seamless blend of culture and nature that’s characteristic of the Balinese experience. 

No matter how you like to explore and unwind, there’s something for everyone in Bali!

Filter programs

Volunteering
Island Conservation Expedition with Snorkelling in Bali
Internship
Marine Conservation Internship in Bali
Bali’s climate and culture

Bali’s Climate 

Bali has a tropical climate with high temperatures and a dry and rainy season. 

Dry season runs from May to October, and typically brings clear skies, less humidity, and temperatures between 20°C and 31°C (68°F to 88°F).

Rainy season comes between November and April, bringing higher humidity, storms, and frequent heavy downpours. December, January and February are the wettest months, but temperatures during the rainy season remain pleasantly warm, between 24°C and 29°C (75°F to 84°F).

Bali’s Culture

Bali’s culture is fairly conservative, so it’s important to dress modestly and avoid entering sacred areas wearing inappropriate or improper clothing. 

Respect is important to Balinese people, so it’s not customary to engage in public displays of affection, or shouting and confrontation. 

Food, flowers and money are often left at temples as offerings, but visitors should never touch or take anything left by templegoers. 

Programs

There are currently two programs offered at our Bali location:

 

Bali diving conservation program opportunities

The Marine Conservation Internship in Bali gives you the opportunity to either learn to dive or achieve additional PADI diving qualifications while directly contributing to important marine conservation initiatives in the area. 

Every day of your program will be spent in the water, collecting data on coral and seagrass meadows, transplanting coral, and conducting species surveys. You’ll also spend time conducting community outreach workshops to help raise awareness of the importance of marine ecosystem protection. 

On this program, you’ll have a chance to:

  • Gain hands-on fieldwork experience
  • Learn marine conservation methodologies and technique
  • Work on a personal project under the mentorship of an expert supervisor
  • Access some of the world’s best diving spots
  • Achieve PADI certifications under the instruction of expert PADI trainers

Through your work on this program, you’ll contribute directly to UN SDG #13 Climate Action, #14 Life Below Water and #17 Partnerships for Goals.

Bali snorkelling conservation program opportunities

Our Island Conservation Expedition with Snorkelling in Bali gives you the opportunity to make a meaningful and sustainable contribution to the protection and restoration of Bali’s unique marine ecosystems. 

You’ll assist with snorkelling surveys, data entry and important education initiatives aimed at supporting ongoing marine conservation efforts in the area. 

On this program, you’ll have a chance to:

  • Gain hands-on fieldwork experience
  • Learn marine conservation methodologies and technique
  • Snorkel in the Coral Triangle, famous for its dense marine biodiversity and exquisite coral reefs.
  • Immerse yourself in Balinese culture and community 

From carrying out coral bleaching surveys and Crown of Thorns surveys, to assisting with long-term reef ecosystem monitoring, your work on this program will contribute directly to UN SDG #13 Climate Action, #14 Life Below Water and #17 Partnerships for Goals.

 

The hub

Our Bali hub can accommodate about 13 participants at a time. There are 7 private rooms and 3 shared rooms in the beachfront guesthouse where you’ll be staying, with private room upgrades available on request (at an additional cost). 

Each room has a fan and a desk, and there are shared common areas including a rooftop auditorium, a kitchen, two dining areas and a shallow pool. 

Wifi is available, but it may be unreliable at times. It’s recommended you bring a network-unlocked phone so you can purchase a local SIM to stay in touch with friends and family back home. 

FAQs

Which languages are commonly spoken?

The most commonly spoken languages in Bali are Bahasa Indonesia (the official language) and Balinese (the local language). English is widely spoken in tourist areas, especially in hotels, restaurants, and dive shops.

How can I prioritise health and safety?

To prioritise health and safety in Bali, ensure your Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccinations are up to date, use insect repellent to prevent dengue fever, and drink only bottled or purified water. Stay vigilant in crowded areas to avoid pickpocketing, be cautious of common scams, and choose freshly prepared meals from reputable vendors to prevent foodborne illnesses.      

What activities can I do in my free time?

Visit ancient temples and palaces, shop in local markets, relax on the beach or in the natural pools of a waterfall, or go surfing.