Volunteer Program
Our Volunteer Program is carried out in Belek and Kızılot, which are recognised as crucial sea turtle nesting sites in the Mediterranean. Belek, in particular, stands out as one of the most significant known nesting sites for Caretta caretta in the entire Mediterranean, ranking as the second most dense according to Canbolat (2004). Kızılot has emerged as another important nesting beach, evident from the recorded number of nests since 2021.
The objective of this program includes:
-Monitoring and conserving sea turtle populations
-Identifying adverse conditions threatening nests, eggs, and hatchlings
-Formulating measures to minimise the effects of these adverse conditions
-Informing local residents and tourists about sea turtle conservation
-Encouraging active participation in conservation efforts.
To fulfil these objectives, we depend on the invaluable support of volunteers. You can also play a role in monitoring nesting beaches, finding and safeguarding nests, and assisting baby sea turtles on their journey to the sea.
Become a Volunteer!
We extend an invitation to our enthusiastic and dedicated friends to join us as volunteers from June to September. Whether experienced or inexperienced, all are welcome.
Application Form
Participation Periods and Fees
(This fee includes accommodation, meals, program trainings, field equipment, in-project transportation, campsite facilities, and textile products like t-shirts and shorts distributed as part of the project)
Note: Only volunteers who have received the “final acceptance mail” will participate in our projects.
If you are ready to be a part of our volunteer team, you can apply now to become our new teammate. Feel free to contact us for further information.
Camp Sites
Our camps in Antalya are situated in Belek and Kızılot. The camp sites are conveniently close to the sea, located at secure locations, and provide different accommodation options, including tent areas and air-conditioned rooms. Those seeking the tent experience, we advise bringing their own tents and camping equipment.
Our camps feature fully equipped kitchens, an ample number of toilets and showers, continuous hot water, and a 24/7 internet connection.
Please note that due to a shortage of additional staff, volunteers are responsible for all cleaning and maintenance tasks at our camps.
Explore Our Camp Sites!
You can check out the gallery to learn more about our Belek and Kızılot camp sites. Click the links below to explore the nature of the camp areas, the working environment, and volunteer life up close!
Belek Camp Site Gallery
Kızılot Camp Site Gallery
Volunteer Program Guide
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Age Requirement: To participate in our project, you must be at least 18 years old on the day of your arrival at the camp.
Regional Assignment: The region you applied for will be your final assignment location if planning and capacity conditions permit. However, if needed, you may be assigned to another region of EKAD. In such a case, you will be contacted.
Tent Accommodation and Equipment Rental: EKAD encourages tent accommodation. It is recommended for those interested in experiencing tent stays to bring their own tents.
Participation Fee: The participation fee is paid via EFT/Money Order after the pre-acceptance stage. Refunds are only made in cases where participation cannot be realised due to reasons on EKAD’s end.
Non-compliance and Warnings: Participants are expected to adhere to certain rules in camp life and fieldwork. Non-compliance results in 1 warning. If dismissed from the camp, a refund cannot be claimed.
Internship Opportunity: Students studying in related departments such as Biology, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Veterinary Sciences, Aquaculture, Marine Sciences, etc. can register this study as an internship (non-paid internship). Please see below for details.
Internship Opportunities
EKAD provides internship opportunities for volunteers willing to stay for at least 8 weeks.
Once confirmed, and upon their arrival to the project, interns must hand in all the paperwork that needs to be submitted by EKAD upon the completion of their internship –so EKAD can complete all documents on time. In case any invitation or paperwork is required prior to your arrival, you need to communicate this with the Volunteer Coordinator at volunteer@ekad.org.tr at the time of your application.
Please note that all data collected on the field will legally belong to EKAD, and cannot be used by interns for personal projects or any reports without EKAD’s written consent.
All interns will receive the same training and have the same tasks as all other long-term volunteers. EKAD cannot support any additional training, or provide a separate tutor/mentor for interns. Interns are subjected to the same Participation Fees.
Please inform the Volunteer Coordinator (info@ekad.org.tr) regarding the requirements of your University, within 10 days after submitting your online application, to prevent any delays on our side due to the processing of these requirements.
Daily/Guest Volunteering Opportunities
Individuals and families can participate in EKAD’s field studies as observers for a short period (1 day to 1 week) between June and September, to see EKAD’s practices and get an insight of what a sea turtle conservation study means. Children participating in the project must be between 8-18 years old.
Participants must cover their own transportation, accommodation and food expenses. Bringing your own car is recommended. Participation Fees include briefings and the field survey, and an option to stay at our camp.
Please contact info@ekad.org.tr to apply as a daily/guest volunteer.
Please click here to read our Policy for handling Personal Data.
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