Bird Sanctuary Volunteering in Nusa Penida

WHY we need you in Bali

HOW can you help?

WHAT can you do?

Why Involvement Volunteers International?

  PROJECT NAME: BIRD SANTUARY

LOCATION: NUSA PENIDA ISLAND

  START DATES: WEEKLY (SAT/SUN ARRIVALS) 

  ACCOMMODATION: VOLUNTEER HOUSE

  MIN DURATION: ONE WEEK

  MIN AGE: 17+

  SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: C6 Visa Required, Criminal background check required

    

Overview

Volunteering on Nusa Penida is a rare chance to experience authentic island life while contributing to meaningful conservation and community development initiatives. Just a 45-minute boat ride from Bali, this island is home to pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and rugged coastal cliffs. Unlike the busy mainland, Nusa Penida retains a slower pace of life and a deep connection to Balinese traditions.

The work involves partnering with local communities to protect wildlife and restore endangered bird populations, most notably the beautiful and iconic Bali Starling. Thanks to long-term collaboration, every village on the island has agreed to protect native bird species. Local regulations now safeguard wildlife from poaching and illegal trade, allowing vulnerable species to flourish safely in their natural habitat- something rare in many parts of Indonesia.

In return, we support the community through a range of initiatives, including sponsoring children’s education, running a community library, promoting sustainable farming practices, and restoring forests through tree planting.

Volunteering
No special experience is required- just enthusiasm, adaptability, and a passion for helping. Volunteer activities vary depending on the season (tree planting takes place during the rainy months), your length of stay, and your personal interests or skills. Tasks may include working in the plant nursery or organic garden, monitoring wildlife such as birds, turtles, butterflies, and bats, assisting with GPS mapping, teaching English or art, or helping with marketing, fundraising, and grant writing.

If you have specialist skills—like music, yoga, or something creative—let the team know, as they may be able to arrange community classes for local youth. Those interested in formal scientific research are also welcome to reach out to discuss potential research opportunities.

Volunteers typically work three to four hours each morning, leaving the afternoons free to explore the island. Occasionally, locals visit the centre in the evenings to practice English, and volunteers are encouraged to join in on these casual conversation sessions.

The local Nusa Penida team are warm and welcoming, though sometimes a little shy with international volunteers, so taking the initiative to offer your help is appreciated. The aim is for you to make a valuable contribution while enjoying a rewarding and memorable stay.

Please Note:
Volunteers must be at least 18 years old (or accompanied by a parent or supervising adult). You should be in good physical condition and ready for hands-on work in a tropical climate. Make sure to bring mosquito and sun protection, any recommended vaccinations or antimalarial medication, and a copy of your passport.

Location

Volunteers will stay on the beautiful island of Nusa Penida. Think bright blue waters, private caves, lush jungle, waterfalls, incredible marine life and a laid back vibe. The island is full of adventurous things to do, such as trekking to stunning viewpionts, diving, snorkelling and island hopping. 

Project Tasks

  • Bird monitoring/nestbox maintenance in the Nusa Penida area where the Bali Starlings were released (in the morning and aftenoon)
  • Assist in the nursery
  • Work in our demonstration organic gardens
  • GPS mapping of various locations on the island
  • Teach spoken English at local schools to children (dependent on local school schedules)
  • Teach spoken English at our Centre to local adults who want to increase their employment opportunities in tourism
  • Participate in conservation & sustainable farming methods for local farmers
  • Provide art and English classes to local children at our center
  • General maintenance at the Centre
  • Monitor the various species of endangered birds that have been rehabilitated and released
  • Monitor other wildlife (turtles, butterflies, bats, crabs)
  • Beach cleaning

Food & Accommodation

Accommodation at the centre is simple but comfortable, with clean rooms available for individuals and groups. Each room includes bedding, mosquito nets, and fans (note that there is no air conditioning).

The centre also houses the nursery, organic vegetable garden, bird rehabilitation area, office, and community library. Expect a truly local experience—you’ll likely wake to the sound of roosters, see pigs or cows wandering by, and spot endangered Bali starlings perched in the trees in the afternoons.

After volunteering in the mornings, you’ll have plenty of time to explore Nusa Penida’s stunning beaches, go snorkelling, or take a bicycle (available at the centre) to discover more of the island.

*Please note, no meals are provided. We do have a simple shared kitchen that volunteers can use to cook their own food. Many of our volunteers enjoy going to the local market and preparing meals together — it’s a nice way to experience the local culture and keep things flexible for everyone’spreferences.

 

All prices in USD
  • 1 Week - $475
  • 2 Weeks - $750
  • 3 Weeks - $1025
  • 1 Month - $1390
  • 2 Months - $2690
  • 3 Months - $3890
Vol House
What's Included
  • Accommodation
  • 1 Day Orientation
  • 24/7 In-Country Support
  • Project Materials & Equipment
  • Pre-departure Expert Advice
  • Preperation Tools & Checklists
  • Certificate of Completion
  • Conservation donation

Testimonials...

FAQ

You should be in good physical condition and ready for hands-on work in a tropical climate and be prepared for comfortable yet basic accommodation. 

We’re looking for volunteers who are motivated, open, and respectful — people who can adapt to new environments and work well with others. We ask everyone to help create a welcoming and inclusive space, free from any kind of discrimination.

  • Accommodation
  • Orientation
  • In country 24/7 support & emergency assistance
  • Fundraising support
  • University course credits (where applicable)
  • Certificate of Completion
  • Conservation donation that directly supports our wildlife protection and community programs

  • Airfares
  • Travel Insurance
  • Tours, Souvenirs & spending money
  • Meals
  • Transfer

Arrival transfer is not included. Please see your welcome pack for details on making your own way to us. 

After you arrive, you will join an onboarding orientation. Each centre will give a presentation to introduce the program, schedule, survival tips, and team members to help you get familiar with everything.

  • Bird monitoring/nestbox maintenance in the Nusa Penida area where the Bali Starlings were released (in the morning and aftenoon)
  • Assist in the nursery
  • Work in our demonstration organic gardens
  • GPS mapping of various locations on the island
  • Teach spoken English at local schools to children (dependent on local school schedules)
  • Teach spoken English at our Centre to local adults who want to increase their employment opportunities in tourism
  • Participate in conservation & sustainable farming methods for local farmers
  • Provide art and English classes to local children at our center
  • General maintenance at the Centre
  • Monitor the various species of endangered birds that have been rehabilitated and released
  • Monitor other wildlife (turtles, butterflies, bats, crabs)
  • Beach cleaning

Schedule:
Monday to Saturday  (one day off per week)

  • Morning Session: 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM
  • Afternoon Session: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
  • Visit Tanah Lot temple – A famous Hindu temple perched on a rock formation on the coast of Bali.
  • Explore Ubud – A cultural hub in the center of Bali known for its art galleries, museums, and traditional crafts.
  • Try surfing at Kuta Beach – One of the most popular beaches in Bali with great waves for surfers of all levels.
  • Visit the Tegallalang Rice Terraces – A beautiful and iconic rice terrace located in the Gianyar Regency.
  • Go snorkeling or diving at Nusa Lembongan – A small island located southeast of Bali with crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life.
  • Hike Mount Batur – An active volcano located in the north of Bali, offering stunning views from the summit.
  • Watch a traditional Balinese dance performance – Bali is known for its unique and beautiful dance traditions.
  • Relax at a beach club – Bali has many luxurious beach clubs with pools, restaurants, and stunning ocean views.
  • Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary – A nature reserve and temple complex in Ubud where you can interact with hundreds of friendly monkeys.
  • Dolphin watching in Lovina – Take a morning boat trip from Lovina Beach to spot dolphins swimming and playing in the ocean.
  • Visit the Banjar Hot Springs – A natural hot spring located in Lovina where you can relax and soak in the warm mineral water.
  • Take a cooking class – Learn how to prepare delicious Balinese dishes and immerse yourself in the local culinary culture.
  • Visit the Munduk Waterfall – A picturesque waterfall located in the Munduk village surrounded by lush greenery and a great spot for hiking.

We don’t have any major holidays that affect our programs — we’re open year-round.

Bali does have many local ceremonies, but these don’t disrupt the program. In fact, volunteers are welcome to observe or join these events as part of a unique cultural experience.

The only exception is Nyepi (the Balinese Day of Silence) — a sacred day that happens once a year. On this day, the entire island becomes completely quiet: no flights, no vehicles, no lights, and no outdoor activities for 24 hours. Everyone stays indoors, reflecting and resting. It’s a truly special cultural experience that many volunteers find unforgettable

Indonesia has to be one of the most interesting countries in the world for cultural learning for its diverse and sophisticated art forms, such as painting, sculpture, woodcarving, handicrafts, and performing arts. Indonesia has around 300 ethnic groups, each with cultural identities developed over centuries, and influenced by Indian, Arabic, Chinese, and European sources.

Millions of small farmers, farm workers and fishers are unable to tap into the opportunities offered by years of economic growth. They are often geographically isolated and lack access to basic infrastructure and support.

Bali is a Hindu Island, Balinese traditional cultures are still present, making the island charming and beautiful. Traditional Balinese clothing worn by women covers their shoulders and knees, especially, when they go to the temple and when they have a ceremony day.

IVI have a variety of programs designed to immerse volunteers into the local lifestyle in order to experience the unique culture, build life long relationships and benefit the people that need it the most.

Bali is situated just south of the equator. It has a hot and tropical climate year round.

The wet season is from November to March, and the dry season from April to October (although there may still be some showers) The rains usually only last for a few hours, so you will usually still get some sunshine during the day. 

The rainy season brings about humidity and it is generally hot year round, from 20 to 30 degrees. Cooler temperatures can be found up North in the mountain regions. 

Bali culture is incredible, rich in tradition and spirituality which focuses mainly on art and religion, with the two often expressed through each other.  Many Balinese people are an artist of some kind and spend their leisure time working on hobbies and artwork that have been passed down through generations.  

Many public areas, homes and paddy fields are decorated by detailed paintaings, intricate carvings, fine weaving, statues and various artworks. Life in Bali is very much communal and centered around local villages with the community institution or ‘Banjar’ responsible for many aspects of life. The Balinese have a word, “Niskala” which means that which cannot be sensed directly, but can only be felt within.      

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