Become a Greece turtle conservation volunteer and play an active role in protecting endangered sea turtles through hands-on fieldwork. As a conservation worker, you’ll monitor nesting beaches, conduct beach patrol surveys, tag turtles, and assist in hatching rescues. This meaningful experience combines research and conservation, allowing you to adopt established scientific methods while making a real impact. Discover the rewarding opportunity to contribute when you volunteer in Greece.
Turtle Conservation Volunteer Program Highlights
- Support The UN’s Sustainable Development Goal No. 14 Through Conservation
- Build Conservation Skills In A Top European Location With Expert Field Staff
- Monitor Sea Turtles Through Beach Surveys, Nest Checks & Field Research
- Explore More Of Kefalonia With Day Trips To Myrtos Beach & Melissani Cave
- Enjoy Organised Activities On Site With Game Nights, Henna & Sunset Cycles
Background to the Turtle Conservation Program
Kefalonia, with its sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, is home to a variety of fauna and threatened species. Among these, the loggerhead sea turtle is one of the island’s most fascinating and at risk inhabitants. As the only marine turtle nesting in the entire Mediterranean, Kefalonia plays a crucial role as a breeding ground for this remarkable species.
Sadly, the loggerhead turtles face numerous threats that edge them closer to extinction. Both human and natural factors damage and destroy many of the eggs laid on the island’s beaches. Additionally, turtles often fall victim to hazards such as accidental boat strikes, plastic pollution, light disorientation, and entanglement in fishing gear. These challenges not only affect loggerheads but also endanger other turtle species like green and leatherback sea turtles globally.
Loggerhead turtles are easily recognised by their large heads, reddish-brown shells, and yellow-brown skin. They are also one of the world’s oldest species. The aim of this sea turtle conservation project is clear: to study and protect the endangered loggerhead turtles of Kefalonia and their habitats.
Each year, sea turtles migrate to Kefalonia for foraging and reproduction. Females nest on the island’s beaches up to five times in a single breeding season, primarily at night during the summer months. Each nest contains around 100 eggs, which hatch approximately two months later. Hatchlings emerge at night to make their way to the sea, minimising predation risks. During this time, you and fellow volunteers will focus on safeguarding sea turtle nests from accidental damage.
PMGY’s Greece turtle conservation volunteer program provides an incredible platform to make a meaningful impact. As a volunteer, you will help protect the loggerhead turtles through conservation efforts and field research. The work demands energy, enthusiasm, and creativity to ensure the conservation goals are met effectively.
Volunteering with turtles in Greece offers a unique opportunity to contribute to wildlife preservation while gaining valuable experience. Greece is PMGY’s sole European destination offering a wildlife conservation program, making it a distinctive and rewarding choice for conservation enthusiasts.
Turtle Conservation Volunteer Placement Examples
Sea turtles nest along the southern coast of Kefalonia, and to maximise monitoring efforts, two field stations have been established at separate coastal locations. Your volunteer work in Greece will take place at one of these locations, which are only a 30-minute ferry ride apart. The specific location of your placement as a Greece turtle conservation volunteer will depend on the start date of your program.
Argostoli - If your program begins on a Sunday, your placement will be in Argostoli, the capital town of Kefalonia. While Argostoli covers several kilometres, the field station is set around a 15 minute drive from the centre. The setup is close to several nesting beaches and offers a beautiful stretch of coastline with narrow sandy bays and striking cliffs. These beaches, which vary in size, are critical nesting habitats for sea turtles. The field station here covers eleven beaches ranging from 100 metres to 1 kilometre in length. Volunteers will work in sub-teams to conduct morning beach surveys, ensuring all locations are monitored.
The bay of Argostoli, which merges into the Koutavos Lagoon, is another focal point of conservation efforts. During the summer, its warm waters attract several sea turtles, often visible in the harbour. Volunteers and tourists alike have the chance to observe these turtles up close, making Argostoli a unique conservation setting.
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As part of the sea turtle conservation project in Lixouri, volunteers patrol the beaches in the morning to identify tracks left by female turtles during the previous night. These tracks help pinpoint the location of nests, which are then marked and protected. Volunteers also work alongside field assistants to collect vital scientific data to ensure the safety of the nests. During hatching season, volunteers monitor for hatching tracks and conduct nest inventories to assess the success of hatchlings.
While both field stations share a common goal, there are key differences in their conservation approaches. In Lixouri, volunteers patrol the main nesting beaches at night to spot, measure, and tag nesting female turtles. This practice is not feasible in Argostoli due to the scattered nature of its smaller beaches, making it difficult to predict nesting locations.
In Argostoli, observation shifts in the harbour focus on monitoring the feeding and behaviour of adult turtles, which are frequently seen in this area. In contrast, turtle sightings in the Lixouri harbour are less common, although their numbers are increasing yearly. Harbour shifts in Lixouri primarily involve spotting turtles when they do appear.
Despite these differences, your daily tasks on the Greece volunteer program will remain largely similar. Tasks include patrolling nesting beaches, monitoring turtle activity, and collecting data to support conservation efforts. In your free time, you can take the short ferry ride between the two locations to experience and understand the unique environments and challenges at each field station.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Work Day
As a Greece turtle conservation volunteer, you’ll play an active role in protecting the endangered sea turtles of Kefalonia and preserving their ecosystems. Your work will involve practical measures such as surveying nesting beaches, safeguarding nests, monitoring the health of the population, identifying threats, and engaging in public awareness campaigns.
Your fieldwork will begin the day after your arrival and orientation. The first few days will focus on training and development, guided by experienced field assistants. Through workshops and practical sessions, you’ll gain the skills and knowledge needed for all aspects of the animal volunteering project.
Beach Surveys - A key part of your fieldwork will be morning beach patrols. You’ll walk along nesting beaches to identify and protect newly laid sea turtle nests. This involves marking and measuring the nests to track their progress through incubation and hatching. Nesting season runs from mid-May to late August, making this the primary period for beach surveys. Your efforts will help prevent accidental damage and ensure successful hatching.
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Hatching Rescue & Nest Protection – The hatching season begins around two months after nesting, typically running from mid-July to late October. During this time, you’ll monitor nests closely to ensure they remain safe. As the hatchlings emerge, you’ll help guide them safely to the sea, removing obstacles like light pollution that could disorientate them. You’ll also conduct nest inventories to assess hatching success.
Light Pollution Surveys – Light pollution is one of the greatest threats to sea turtle nests, second only to natural factors like storms. Bright lights from nearby areas can disorientate hatchlings, causing them to crawl away from the sea. You’ll conduct environmental studies to measure light pollution, identify its sources, and implement strategies to mitigate its impact. Raising public awareness and engaging with the local community will also be an important part of your work.
Turtle Tagging – During the mating season, from April to May, you’ll assist with tagging adult loggerhead turtles. This process involves measuring the turtles, assessing their health, and attaching tags to track their movements. By gathering this data, we can better understand population dynamics and overall health, helping to guide long-term conservation efforts.
Other Activities – Your role will also include a variety of other tasks. You’ll monitor sea turtles in the harbour, observing and recording their behaviour. Night shifts may involve guarding nests and assisting with hatchling releases. Additionally, you’ll support data entry, contribute to public education efforts, and raise awareness about the importance of sea turtle conservation.
Field leaders will provide a weekly schedule, giving you a clear understanding of your daily tasks and shifts. To ensure a varied experience, you’ll rotate through different activities, building your skills across multiple areas of conservation and becoming familiar with diverse research methods and fieldwork techniques.
Mornings typically involve an early start, with volunteers cycling to the beaches for monitoring and surveys. Afternoons are free for relaxation, exploring the local area, or escaping the heat. Conservation work resumes in the early evenings, with occasional night shifts. Volunteers work six days during their first week and five days in subsequent weeks. Daily transport to your fieldwork site, whether by bicycle, on foot, or by minivan, is included in the program.
Other Things to Consider as a Turtle Conservation Volunteer
Project Focus – This program is heavily centred around conservation activities rather than the traditional gap year or volunteer travel experience. Expect early morning starts and late afternoon shifts each day. While there is ample downtime, punctuality and full participation in assigned shifts are essential. A strong passion for marine conservation should be your main motivation for joining. While most participants find the program highly rewarding, a small number may feel it lacks the cultural and travel balance offered by other destinations.
Cycling – Fieldwork spans multiple nesting beaches across large areas, with bicycles serving as the primary mode of transport. In Lixouri, for example, the nesting beaches are an 8km cycle from the main town. All participants must be confident cyclists, as cycling is integral to most shifts. Volunteers should also feel comfortable navigating hilly terrain and walking along beaches in hot weather. Cycling is always done in teams, departing at scheduled times. Helmets and safety vests are provided, and a bicycle safety briefing is given upon arrival. Cycling is permitted only during daylight hours.
Hatchling Rescue Shifts – From July to October, volunteers take part in overnight Hatchling Rescue shifts, a critical part of the program. These shifts, conducted with at least one other volunteer, involve staying overnight on the beach to monitor and assist hatchlings. Volunteers typically complete at least one such shift per week, so it’s essential to be comfortable sleeping and working on the beach at night. If this is not suitable, consider joining the program outside of the hatching season.
Volunteering with Friends – You are welcome to join the Greece turtle conservation volunteer program with a friend. Simply indicate this in the special requirements section of the online application. The team will arrange for you to stay in the same accommodation and project location, and they’ll do their best to match your free days. However, given the wide range of fieldwork covered daily, it may not always be possible to assign you and your friend to the same tasks and shift patterns.
Days Off – Your volunteer work in Greece runs six days in your first week and five days in subsequent weeks. As the project runs seven days a week, your days off may vary and won’t necessarily be consecutive. Many volunteers use this time to travel around the island.
Day Trip Opportunities
Located in the charming village of Grizata near the harbour town of Sami, this unique experience invites you to explore Kefalonia the traditional way – alongside donkeys! Wander through serene countryside trails, take in sweeping views over Sami Bay, and stroll through lush valleys while learning about the island’s rural heritage. Perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a slower, more authentic adventure, this gentle trek offers a memorable way to connect with Kefalonia’s timeless charm.
Getting There
• 1–2 hours from base
Where to Stay
• Day Trip Option
Things to Do
• Basic Trek (1 Hour) – 25 GBP
• Longer Trek (2–3 Hours) – 50–75 GBP
• Full Day Trek – 125 GBP+
Just south of Kefalonia lies Zakynthos – a neighbouring island famous for its vibrant atmosphere, lively nightlife, and stunning coastline. Accessible by daily ferry from Pessada or private boat tours, it’s easy to enjoy a day exploring one of Greece’s most iconic destinations. A must-see highlight is Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach, a breathtaking cove framed by towering cliffs and turquoise waters, accessible only by boat. Whether you want to soak in the scenery or experience a new island vibe, a day trip to Zakynthos is unforgettable.
Getting There
• 1–3 hours by Ferry – 10–13 GBP
Where to Stay
• Day Trip Option
Things to Do
• Optional Full Day Boat Trip from Kefalonia – 40–60 GBP
Set off on a sea kayaking adventure in Fanari for an unforgettable day along Kefalonia’s beautiful coastline. Paddle through calm turquoise waters, explore hidden sea caves, and stop at secluded beaches for swimming and snorkelling. Enjoy lunch on a quiet shore before continuing through dramatic rock formations and tranquil coves. This full-day excursion combines gentle adventure, natural beauty, and relaxation – a perfect balance for outdoor enthusiasts.
Getting There
• 20 minutes–1 hour from base
Where to Stay
• Day Trip Option
Things to Do
• Full Day Kayak Trip – 60 GBP
Unwind with a peaceful sunset cruise along Kefalonia’s picturesque coastline as the sky turns golden and pink over the Ionian Sea. Glide past cliffs, quiet bays, and sandy beaches while enjoying a simple but delicious dinner of local dishes and wine, either on board or at a seaside taverna. It’s an ideal way to relax after a busy week and take in the natural beauty of the island from a new perspective.
Getting There
• 20 minutes–1 hour from base
Where to Stay
• Day Trip Option
Things to Do
• Sunset Cruise with Dinner – 40–60 GBP
A visit to Melissani Lake is one of Kefalonia’s most enchanting experiences. After a short walk through a cool tunnel, board a small rowboat and glide across the crystal-clear waters of this underground lake. Sunlight streaming through the open ceiling turns the water a brilliant blue, creating an otherworldly effect. Many visitors combine this with nearby beaches or sightseeing for a relaxing half-day trip filled with natural beauty.
Getting There
• 1–2 hours from base
Where to Stay
• Day Trip Option
Things to Do
• Cave Entrance – 6 GBP
• Local Beaches – 5 GBP
Accommodation - Shared Option Available
Volunteer House
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
During your time on the Greece volunteer program, you will stay in one of our Volunteer Houses on the island of Kefalonia. Depending on your project location, you will be based in either Argostoli or Lixouri, with both providing a convenient base for your conservation work and free time on the island.
The Volunteer Houses are located close to the nesting beaches monitored during the program, giving you easy access to your fieldwork while also allowing you to enjoy the coastline during your free time. The team organises a weekly social evening at the houses, providing another opportunity to relax and spend time with other volunteers.
Both locations are within easy reach of the main towns, where you will find ATMs, supermarkets, cafés and local restaurants. In Lixouri, the main square is within walking distance, while volunteers based in Argostoli can reach the town centre with a short taxi journey.
The accommodation is clean, comfortable and social, with same sex shared bedrooms accommodating up to 6 volunteers in bunk beds. Rooms have ceiling fans and windows with mosquito nets to help keep the accommodation comfortable throughout the warmer months.
Bathroom facilities are shared with other volunteers and include western style toilets and showers. Hot water is provided using solar energy and is therefore available at certain times of the day. Each house also has electricity, cooking facilities, refrigerators and a communal area where volunteers can relax together.
A washing machine is available for around 3 euros per wash, with washing lines provided for drying clothes. Wi-Fi is available in communal areas and is suitable for lighter use such as messaging and social media, although connectivity can occasionally be intermittent. Volunteers wanting more consistent internet access can purchase a local SIM card or use WiFi at nearby cafés.
During the hatching season, volunteers may occasionally sleep on the beach as part of overnight monitoring activities, typically around twice during the program. For these nights, we recommend bringing a sleeping bag, although one can also be rented locally for ten euros.
Field assistants also stay at the Volunteer Houses, meaning the local team is close by throughout your stay. Depending on the location of your fieldwork, you will either walk, cycle or use a minivan transfer provided by the team.
Wi-Fi
Yes
People Per Room
Up to 6 (Shared)
Single Sex Rooms
Yes
Western Bathroom Facilities
Yes
Airport Transfer
30 Minutes
Nearest ATM & Shops
10 Minute Drive
Meals
Meals are not included during your volunteer trip to Greece. However, the Volunteer Houses are equipped with basic kitchen facilities, allowing you to prepare simple meals. Grocery shops are conveniently located nearby and offer delivery services to the accommodation upon request.
Many volunteers take the opportunity to explore local cuisine by dining at nearby restaurants once or twice a week. Both Argostoli and Lixouri are home to fantastic cafes and restaurants, where you can enjoy authentic Greek dishes and experience the rich culture of the region.
Program Location
FAQ's
PMGY welcomes turtle conservation volunteers in Greece of all nationalities, religions, and backgrounds. The minimum age to join the program is 18, with no upper age limit. Additionally, all volunteers need to have good English, although it does not need to be your first language. While it’s not necessary to speak the local dialect, you’ll find that learning a few local words during your time in Greece will go a long way in building connections and enriching your experience.
As a Greece turtle conservation volunteer, you must provide a clean criminal background check before volunteering with us abroad. This ensures the safety and well-being of the children and communities we work with. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept anyone with previous criminal convictions.
In general, no formal experience or qualifications are required to join the turtle conservation projects — just lots of energy, enthusiasm, and a proactive approach to preparation!
Volunteering overseas can be a rewarding yet demanding experience. It can be physically and mentally challenging, so all participants must be fit in both areas. If you have any medical or mental health conditions that may affect your participation, these must be disclosed to us during your online application. This ensures we can best support you and assess the program’s suitability.
If you have any concerns or queries regarding your eligibility or suitability for the Greece turtle conservation program, we recommend that you contact us before committing to the program. Our team is always happy to assist you in making an informed decision and ensuring a positive and enriching experience for all involved.
For your volunteer trip to Greece, you should book your flights to Kefalonia International Airport Anna Pollatou (airport code EFL) to arrive on the designated start date. This is the official arrival day for the program, ensuring a smooth and well-organised beginning to your experience as a Greece turtle conservation volunteer.
Upon your arrival, you will be warmly greeted at the airport by a member of our local team or an appointed driver. They will be easy to spot, holding a sign with your name to ensure you feel welcomed from the moment you land. From there, they will escort you to your accommodation, where you will have the rest of the day to relax, settle in, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
The program officially ends on the designated finish date of your final week. This means you will need to vacate the accommodation on this day to make way for new participants arriving for their own life-changing experiences. Our local team will be available to assist with arranging transport to the airport or providing guidance for any onward travel plans you may have.
Whether you’re just arriving or bidding farewell to Greece, our team is here to ensure your transition is as seamless and stress-free as possible. Your time as a Greece turtle conservation volunteer will leave you with unforgettable memories, meaningful connections, and a lasting impact on the communities you’ve helped.
You can apply anytime for most of our programs, including the Greece turtle conservation volunteer program. However, we highly recommend applying soon to secure your spot. Some of our programs have limited capacity, and spaces can fill quickly, especially during our peak travel period from June to August. If you plan to join us during this time, applying early is even more important to avoid disappointment!
When you embark on this experience, you must be 100% committed to joining the program. To apply, locate the “Apply Now” button on the individual project page. This will guide you step-by-step through our online Application Process. We’ve made it as straightforward and user-friendly as possible so that you can easily secure your place.
Based on feedback from previous Greece turtle conservation volunteers, we’ve found that 2-4 weeks is the ideal amount of time to fully immerse yourself in the experience of volunteering in Greece. This duration provides ample opportunity to integrate into the local community, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to your chosen project. Over this time, you’ll be able to make a lasting positive impact while having plenty of time to explore Greece’s incredible sights and culture during your weekends.
Many of our Greece turtle conservation volunteers who joined us for just 2 weeks often expressed that their time was too short. They leave wishing they had stayed longer to further engage with the projects they’ve grown passionate about. If your schedule allows, we highly encourage you to consider a longer stay to make the most of this life-changing experience!
While our programs are available for longer durations, volunteers can initially sign up for a maximum of 12 weeks in each destination. In the past, we’ve found that some volunteers commit to extended placements but later wish to adjust their plans for independent travel or to join another program. Please note, however, that Program Fees are non-refundable once committed. If you arrive and find yourself loving the program (as many do!), you are more than welcome to extend your placement. Extensions are subject to availability at the time of your request, but our team will do their best to accommodate your desire to stay longer and continue making an impact.
For those considering an even more adventurous journey, we recommend exploring our Encounter Programs. These unique opportunities allow you to experience 2-4 week stays across 3-10 destinations, offering a perfect balance of travel, cultural immersion, and volunteering.
At PMGY, we understand the importance of safety, especially for first-time travellers, and we work diligently to ensure that all our programs, including those in Greece, provide a secure and enriching experience. Our programs are carefully designed to balance structure and independence perfectly. This means you’ll enjoy a guided and supportive environment while free to explore and immerse yourself in local culture. For further details, please refer to our Safety & Wellbeing page.
Volunteer safety in each destination is a top priority and is monitored regularly. A member of our International Team has thoroughly inspected every PMGY program to ensure it meets our high standards. We also stay current with advice published by the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office. Through constant communication with our local teams, we ensure that our volunteers are always placed in secure and stable regions.
Our International Team has personally visited and participated in every program we offer, paying close attention to every detail—from the living conditions and local neighbourhoods to the food you’ll enjoy. These meticulous checks ensure that all aspects of your stay meet our rigorous standards. Additionally, our local teams are experienced professionals with years of experience hosting international volunteers. They serve as PMGY’s trusted representatives, offering 24/7 support to all volunteers throughout their stay. To further enhance your safety, PMGY provides a 24-hour international emergency line accessible at all times. In-country staff also maintain connections with local medical professionals, ensuring that immediate assistance is available should it be required during your placement as a Greece turtle conservation volunteer.
Before you embark on your journey, you’ll receive a comprehensive Volunteer Handbook, which covers key topics such as health, safety, visas, and dress codes. If you have additional or specific questions, our dedicated support team is available 24/7 to assist. Furthermore, on a monthly basis, PMGY hosts an Introductory Webinar and a Safety Webinar. These interactive sessions offer invaluable information about our projects and practical tips for staying safe abroad.
When you arrive in-country, you’ll participate in a detailed orientation session. This introduction will cover the general volunteer program and your specific project, including essential safety advice tailored to your destination. During this session, you’ll also have the opportunity to purchase a local SIM card — a step we highly recommend to ensure you remain contactable at all times. Additionally, you’ll receive a comprehensive list of essential contact numbers to keep on hand during your stay.
While no travel experience can ever be guaranteed 100% trouble-free, PMGY has taken every precaution to ensure that your time as a Greece turtle conservation is as safe and enjoyable as possible. We strongly suggest following the local team’s guidance and advice to ensure your safety throughout your journey.
