Overview
Spain is a lot more than Barcelona and Madrid and this particular project lets the participants explore the Eastern part of Spain - Valencia. One of the most beautiful regions of the country, the coastline of Valencia has long stretches of beaches surrounded by forests. Quite naturally, the region attracts a lot of water sports enthusiasts and beach lovers. However, because of the spread of unplanned tourism, the marine life of the region bore the brunt of the increase and now calls out for conservation efforts.
Volunteering Solutions, thus, offers a niche Marine Conservation Program in Denia, a port town in Valencia. Participants in this project will get to understand the impact of tourism on marine life, ways to minimize its adverse impact, monitor the progress and spread awareness on the same. A great opportunity for anyone looking for a career in marine biology or as a conservationist, time away in the wilderness of Eastern Spain can be a fruitful gap year addition as well.
Program Requirements
Volunteers must be 18 years or older at the time of joining the project and should be physically fit and prepared to work outdoors and swim. Participants must have at least a basic knowledge of the Spanish language prior to joining the program.
Volunteer Roles & Responsibilities
- Monitoring the whales, dolphins and seabirds.
- Coastal flora and fauna surveys and data collection.
- Working at the wetland to improve the ecosystems.
- Turtle monitoring.
- Coast and underwater cleaning.
- Reforestation and forest fire prevention.
- Learn to accurately identify the targeted species and helping with the logistical operations.
Volunteer Work Schedule
- Volunteers will work from Monday to Friday in the morning (approximately between 8am -1pm), and depending on the weather conditions work during the week will combine both water and coastal activities.
- For the rest of the day, volunteers will have time to relax and go to the beach, join our cultural activities, explore the city, practice sports and go for tapas.
- Occasionally, volunteers are expected to work half days on Saturdays or Sundays, but normally weekends are free to explore the beautiful surrounding area or to travel to other cities. Our local staff will give advice and help organize your trips!
Living
Your volunteering adventure in Spain will only get better with Volunteering Solutions. Like we keep saying, just pack your bags and arrive.
Airport Transfer
Volunteers are provided pickup from the Valencia Airport. The airport is served by some major airlines such as Iberia, Lufthansa, Ryan Air, Air France, Air Berlin and Transavia and has direct flights from major cities in Europe. Participants doing the project in Denia can also be provided from Alicante Airport.
Orientation
All volunteers will be provided with an orientation session by the local coordinator. Areas like safety, locations, transportation, things to see etc will be covered in the Orientation. After your orientation is over, you will be introduced to your project.
Accommodation
Volunteer Accommodation is provided in a single room in a shared apartment. Accommodation is very comfortable with good facilities available. The rooms are well furnished and the apartment has a fully functional kitchen as well. Volunteers who want to cook their own meals can do so. Couples or friends travelling together can also be provided accommodation in shared room together. Participants also have an option to choose to stay at a host family by paying extra charges.
Meals
Meals are not included and participants can cook their own meals in the apartment or choose to eat at the numerous restaurants and cafes in the city.
During your Free Time
There is lot to do during your free time and on weekends. On the weekdays volunteers usually work from morning to afternoon and the rest of the day volunteers will have time to relax, go to the beach, join our cultural activities, explore the city, practice sports and go for tapas.On the weekends, volunteers can travel by train or bus to Barcelona or go to main Valencia town as well. While in Valencia, you can explore the beautiful relaxing beaches, the futuristic city of Arts and Science and the old maritime quarter of El Cabanyal. Valencia is rich in culture and heritage and has more than 15 kms of beaches. In Denia, volunteers can relax in the the quite town and get immersed in the local culture and life.
Program Cost
Please Note: -An application fee of £149 is charged over and above the program fee as an application payment.
What are you Paying for?
- 24 hrs Assistance and support from Staff
- Comprehensive Pre- Departure Information
- Airport Pickup at Valencia
- Orientation & Training
- City Tour & Leisure activities
- Accommodation in an apartment
- Travel & Medical Insurance (Available at an extra cost)
- 100% Financial Protection
- UK Based Support
- Certificate Of Completion (Upon Request)
What's NOT included?
- Airfare
- Visa Fee
- Meals
- Return Airport Drop
- Local Transportation
- Transfer from Airport to Denia
Program Dates
Months | 2021 |
June | 0620 |
July | 0418 |
August | 0115 |
FAQ's
FAQ's Application and Program Details
Volunteers must be 18 years or older at the beginning of the program.
Intermediate level of Spanish for projects with children.
Mandatory swimming knowledge for Marine Conservation Project.
Volunteers need to have an open mind and flexible attitude for working in a new and different environment.
The volunteer should bring energy and enthusiasm to make a difference.
The participant must be in good health.
Valencia has one of the most beautiful and sunny coasts of Spain, with several kilometers of beaches to enjoy the sea in a warm climate and practice water sports, and that’s why it is also an important tourist destination.
Denia is at the heart of the Valencia Community, between the cities of Valencia and Alicante and less than 100 km from both international airports. Denia is very well communicated with other Spanish cities by bus and is also the closest city to Ibiza. It only takes a couple of hours to arrive at the amazing island by boat!
Flights and Visa
Health and Safety
If you already have a valid Travel and Medical insurance, you can email us a copy of the same. It is also advised to bring along the Insurance documents during your trip.
Connect with Past Volunteers
To read alumni interviews from past participants, visit the Meet a Volunteer page on our website.
Accommodation and Living
Also, go for a football match which is a must when in Spain.