Involvement Volunteers International WHY we need you in Bali
- Approx 14.3% of the population in Bali live below the poverty line
- Volunteering in this region creates employment opportunities for the local staff & helps invigorate the local economy.
- Many villages lack education and even access to clean water and electricity.
- Bali has been growing in environmental problems such as pollution and freshwater scarcity.
HOW can you help?
- Work alongside a local team and help protect the endangered sea turtles of Indonesia.
- Protect and conserve the loggerhead sea turtles and their nesting habitat by various means, such as providing protective hatcheries.
- Help treat injured or wounded turtles.
- Identifying turtle species, collecting eggs, monitoring nests.
WHAT can you do?
- Clean the turtles tanks, feed them and ensure the centre is clean and tidy
- Learn how to collect turtle population statistics, identify turtle species, collect eggs & monitor nests
- If you're lucky, get to release the baby hatchlings back into the sea!
- Crafting turtle toys, tidying the beach, and administering medication to any injured turtles, if necessary
Why Involvement Volunteers International?
- Non Profit Org & Charity with 35+ Years Experience
- 13 Projects to Choose From in Bali
- Social Experiences - Sharing with International Volunteers
- Excellent Safety Record, In-Country 24/7 Support & Emergency Assistance
- 1 Application Fee - Multiple Countries
PROJECT NAME: TURTLE CONSERVATION
LOCATION: LOMBOK ISLAND
START DATES: WEEKLY (SAT/SUN ARRIVALS)
ACCOMMODATION: VOLUNTEER HOUSE
MIN DURATION: ONE WEEK
MIN AGE: 16+
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: C6B Social-Cultural Visa Required, Criminal background check required
Overview
This project is based on the picturesque island of Lombok, just a two-hour speedboat ride from Bali. Originally launched in Nusa Penida in 2013, the initiative has since expanded to Lombok to further protect Indonesia’s vital sea turtle populations.
Indonesia plays a pivotal role in sea turtle conservation, hosting a rich variety of turtle species along its extensive coastline. The most commonly found species in Indonesian waters include the Olive Ridley, Green Sea Turtle, Hawksbill, Loggerhead, and Leatherback. The country is home to numerous important nesting sites, where female turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. Conservation initiatives in these areas focus on safeguarding these sites from human interference and ensuring optimal nesting conditions.
However, sea turtles across the Indonesian archipelago face numerous threats. These include habitat loss from coastal development, pollution, and the impacts of climate change. Illegal poaching for meat, eggs, and shells remains a serious issue, and many turtles fall victim to accidental capture in fishing gear.
Turtle nesting is a fascinating natural process—females return to sandy beaches to lay their eggs, and the incubation period is highly sensitive to temperature. Warmer sands produce more female hatchlings, while cooler sands yield more males. This makes sea turtles particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, as skewed sex ratios could affect future populations.
As a volunteer, you’ll work alongside local conservationists to support endangered sea turtles. Depending on the season, your tasks may include identifying species, collecting eggs, monitoring nests, or helping baby turtles reach the sea.
Turtles play a vital ecological role—particularly in maintaining healthy seagrass beds and coral reefs, which in turn support numerous marine species.
Local community involvement has been central to the project’s success. Since its inception, it has significantly reduced turtle poaching and empowered residents to take an active role in marine conservation.
Be prepared for a simpler way of life on the island, with fewer commercial amenities—though the beach is just steps away! After a rewarding day of conservation work, you’ll enjoy social and recreational activities with fellow volunteers.
Location
Lombok is a beautiful island in Indonesia, located just east of Bali, known for its stunning beaches, clear blue waters, and laid-back vibe. Less crowded than its famous neighbor, Lombok offers a more relaxed atmosphere, perfect for those looking to escape the tourist buzz. The island is home to the majestic Mount Rinjani, Indonesia’s second-highest volcano, which attracts hikers from around the world. With vibrant local culture, charming villages, and excellent surfing and diving spots, Lombok is an ideal destination for adventure and tranquility alike.
Project Tasks
- To protect and conserve marine turtles, particularly the loggerhead species, and their nesting habitats.
- To establish protective hatcheries and rescue centres for injured turtles.
- To safeguard nesting beaches from pollution and development.
- To gather data for research and monitoring efforts that deepen our understanding of sea turtles and their environments.
*Please note
All participants for the Education, Teaching, Construction, and Turtle Conservation projects, regardless of the program duration, will now be required to apply for a C6B Social Cultural visa prior to arrival.
Participants who have a Visa On Arrival or an E-Visa on Arrival will not be able to participate in these projects. Participants who only attend the culture, adventure, and yoga weeks will be accepted to join the programs with a Visa on Arrival. The standard visa application process can take 10-15 working days. There is an express service that can complete the visa process in 5 -7 working days.
Food & Accommodation
The accommodation centre provides shared, gender-gender rooms of 4-8 people. Each room includes air conditioning, hot showers, Wi-Fi, and personal lockers. The accommodation also features a swimming pool, and dedicated communal areas where participants can relax, and enjoy their time in Lombok. An on-site office is available to assist with any questions or support needed during the stay. – Laundry services are available at the centre for an extra cost.
There are small local grocery shops, cafes and an ATM within a 5–10-minute walk, and Senggigi centre is about 15–20 minutes by car. Private room options are available (subject to availability).
Meals at the accommodation highlight the variety and richness of Indonesian cuisine. Participants can enjoy traditional dishes such as me goreng (stir-fried noodles with vegetables), nasi goreng (Indonesian-style fried rice), and gado-gado (mixed vegetables with peanut sauce). Vegetarian options are widely available, with tofu and tempeh commonly used in many meals. A few Western dishes are also offered to provide a mix of familiar tastes.
Breakfast typically includes items such as pancakes, French toast, toast, and fresh fruit. Participants with food allergies or special dietary requirements should inform the team in advance so suitable arrangements can be made.
Drinks such as coffee, tea, and purified refillable water are available throughout the day. Since tap water in Indonesia is not safe to drink, participants are strongly encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
Please note that alcohol is not permitted at the accommodation centre.
*Accommodation may be in our local centre or in close proximity, depending on availability and time of year.
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1 Week - $475
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2 Weeks - $750
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3 Weeks - $1025
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1 Month - $1390
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2 Months - $2690
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3 Months - $3890
- Private rooms cost additional $250 p/week in Ubud & Nusa Penida, and $300 p/week in Lovina & Lombok.
What's Included
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Accommodation
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Meals
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Airport Pickup
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Local Transportation
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1 Day Orientation
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24/7 In-Country Support
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Project Materials & Equipment
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Pre-departure Expert Advice
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Preperation Tools & Checklists
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Certificate of Completion
- Application fee is one off per person (unlimited placements)
- Click Here to convert the below prices to your local currency
- Discounts may apply if travelling in a pair or group!
- All credit card /international fees included in below pricing! 🙂
Testimonials...
FAQ
If you have a passion for the enviornment or would love to learn more about what we can be doing to save these precious animals, then this project is a great fit for you. For anyone who loves animals and being outdoors, close to the ocean, you will love this project!
- Accommodation
- 3 meals p/day & 2 p/day at weekends
- Arrival airport transfer (Sat/Sun arrivals)
- Filtered drinking water, coffee & tea
- 1 day orientation
- Daily transportation to project
- In country 24/7 support & emergency assistance
- Fundraising support
- University course credits (where applicable)
- Certificate of Completion
- Ferry to and from Nusa Penida (only Sunday before project and Saturday after project)
- Airfares
- Travel Insurance
- Tours, Souvenirs & spending money
Programs begin every Monday, and volunteers are required to arrive the day prior, for orientation before the project.
A free airport pickup is included when arriving to Lombok International Airport (LOP). You must arrive between 06:00 to 20:00 on Sunday.
If arriving outside of the pickup times, you can pay an additional fee for a private pickup and any extra nights, depending on availability.
Journey time from the airport (via road) to the Lombok accommodation takes 1 hour.
On the Monday of your first week, you will participate in an Orientation Day to help familiarize you with the surroundings and local culture.
Orientation Schedule:
- Welcome & Introduction
- Overview of Program Documents & Rules (House Rules, Code of Conduct, Do’s & Don’ts, etc.)
- Introduction to Lombok Culture
- Project Information & Task Assignments
- From Tuesday onward, your program will follow its regular schedule.
Sunday
Welcome the new arrivals. You will have lunch and receive a short introduction on the beach to familiarize yourself with this new exciting setting. After that, you will get to know more about Lombok, about the supermarket, ATM, etc.
Monday
After having breakfast, you will see a presentation about the Turtle Conservation project and also receive a project briefing which will help you to understand the dos and don’ts of the project. After that you will engage in the typical activities you are supposed to do throughout the week such as feeding the turtles, cleaning the tanks, catching live food for turtles, and also cleaning the beach.
In the evening, you will then see a documentary about Turtles which will help you to widen your knowledge about these amazing creatures.
Tuesday
Following breakfast on Tuesday, your tasks will commence with cleaning the tanks, feeding the turtles, and gathering seaweed and live food for their nourishment. Additionally, you will engage in crafting turtle toys, tidying the beach, and administering medication to any injured turtles, if necessary.
Wednesday
After having breakfast on Wednesday, you will start cleaning the tanks, feeding the turtles and collecting seaweed and live food for turtles. In addition, you will also create turtle toys and provide medicine for injured turtles if there are any.
In the evening, you will then engage in some sports activities at the beach where you will play either volleyball, badminton or football.
Thursday
On Thursday, you will have breakfast and start cleaning tanks, feeding the turtles and collecting seaweed. you will also create turtle toys and provide medicine for injured turtles if there are any.
Thursday night will be a special one for you to enjoy the welcome and farewell dinner by a Bonfire. This would be a great opportunity to get to know the newcomers and say goodbye to those who are leaving.
Friday
On Friday, after having breakfast, you will feed the turtles and get an amazing opportunity to release turtles into the sea. But please do understand that this opportunity is only if you are leaving the program this week. (This opportunity will depend on the number of turtles in the center and the number of turtles that can be released every week. Therefore, there is a chance that the turtle release may not be a possibility every week).
If you continue another week at the project, you will engage in regular activities at the turtle conservation center. For those who are leaving the program, there would also be a feedback session regarding the program. After having lunch, you all can engage in activities such as feeding the turtles, cleaning tanks, and measuring the turtle growth.
Other activities you would engage in include cleaning the beach, making garbage bins for the local area, creating a Turtles/Environment campaign for the local area, releasing injured turtles after treatment and cleaning the beach, and turtles site construction work: such as extra turtle tank or wall, painting the walls, etc and collecting turtle information such as length of carapace, size of flippers, checking its weight, etc.
Participants not attending any program the following week are required to check out of their accommodation during the day on Saturday.
***This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances. ***
Things to do on Lombok Island:
- Climb Mount Rinjani
Trekking Mount Rinjani is one of the top adventures in Lombok. The climb usually takes 2-3 days and offers incredible views of the crater lake (Segara Anak), hot springs, and surrounding landscapes. It’s a challenging but rewarding experience for nature lovers and hikers. - Relax in Kuta, Lombok
Not to be confused with Kuta in Bali, Lombok’s Kuta is a peaceful coastal town with beautiful beaches like Tanjung Aan and Mawun. It’s a great base for exploring the south and has a growing number of cafés and surf schools. - Island Hop to the Gili Islands
Gili Trawangan (lively and social), Gili Meno (quiet and romantic), and Gili Air (a mix of both) are just a short boat ride away. You can snorkel with turtles, dive among coral reefs, or simply relax with a coconut in hand. - Swim at Tiu Kelep and Sendang Gile Waterfalls
Located in the north near the village of Senaru, these two waterfalls are surrounded by lush forest and are a perfect escape into nature. The hike to Tiu Kelep includes river crossings and jungle trails. - Surf at Selong Belanak and Desert Point
Lombok has excellent surf for all levels. Selong Belanak is ideal for beginners, while Desert Point (Bangko-Bangko) is famous among advanced surfers for its long, barreling waves. - Explore Traditional Sasak Villages
Visit Sade or Ende Village to experience the unique culture of the Sasak people, the island’s indigenous group. You can see traditional thatched houses, watch weaving demonstrations, and learn about local customs. - Visit Pink Beach (Pantai Tangsi)
One of the few pink-sand beaches in the world, Pantai Tangsi gets its colour from crushed coral. The calm, clear water makes it great for snorkelling, and the surrounding area is peaceful and remote. - Snorkel and Dive in South Lombok
In addition to the Gilis, areas like Sekotong and Belongas Bay offer pristine reefs, dramatic underwater landscapes, and fewer crowds. You might spot manta rays, reef sharks, and turtles. - Wander Through Mataram’s Markets and Mosques
Lombok’s capital city is home to local markets like Pasar Mandalika, as well as historical sites like the Islamic Centre Mosque. It’s a great place to see daily life and shop for souvenirs. - Catch a Sunset at Senggigi Beach
Senggigi offers a more developed beach scene with resorts, restaurants, and bars. It’s perfect for a relaxing evening walk along the sand while watching the sun set behind Bali’s Mount Agung.
*PLEASE NOTE: All participants for the Education, Teaching, Construction, and Turtle Conservation projects, are required to apply for a C6B Social Cultural visa prior to arrival. Participants who have a Visa On Arrival or an E-Visa on Arrival will not be able to participate in these projects. Participants who only attend the culture, adventure, and yoga weeks will be accepted to join the programs with a Visa on Arrival. Going through an online agency is the easiest way to obtain the visa.
**Exceptions to the C6B visa
Participants can join any program with a Visa on Arrival (VOA) for the following program types:
- 1-week culture week, plus 1 to 3 week volunteer program
- 1-week volunteer program
However, it is important to highlight that participants using a VOA must put ‘tourism’ for reason of visit.
We still encourage volunteers to arrive with a C6B visa for all programs. Please note that obtaining and using a VOA is entirely the participant’s responsibility. We cannot be held accountable for any issues or concerns arising from this, as we are obligated to recommend the appropriate visa type for participants joining volunteering projects.
Additional Requirements
- Older participants over 65 years are required to have a medical clearance as proof of their physical fitness as they may perform various activities.
- Participants below 18 years old need a signed parental consent as proof of involvement of their children in the program. If possible, accompaniment by an adult is highly advised.
- Due to the length and active nature of this program and as there are lots of outdoor activities under the heat of the sun, a decent level of fitness is required.
Additional Equipment
Personal belongings such as:
- Bring with you comfortable shoes and clothes so you can move comfortably and easily.
- Bring a hat, and sunglasses to protect from the heat of the sun, particularly during a long day of strenuous activities under the heat of the sun.
- Moreover, bring Medicines with you especially if you have to take specific medicines regularly as well as other medicines for headaches and stomach aches.
- Refillable water bottles and hydration packs to stay hydrated throughout the day, particularly during exploration and outdoor activities.
Using sunscreen, or any kind of lotions and mosquito repellents are not allowed to be used while working directly with turtles.
For information on holidays and any programs affected, please see the following link: ID – Holidays – All Programs
Lombok International Airport (LOP)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.
On the Monday of your first week, you will participate in an Orientation Day to help familiarize you with the surroundings and local culture.
Orientation Schedule:
- Welcome & Introduction
- Overview of Program Documents & Rules (House Rules, Code of Conduct, Do’s & Don’ts, etc.)
- Introduction to Lombok Culture
- Project Information & Task Assignments
- From Tuesday onward, your program will follow its regular schedule.
On the Monday of your first week, you will participate in an Orientation Day to help familiarize you with the surroundings and local culture.
Orientation Schedule:
- Welcome & Introduction
- Overview of Program Documents & Rules (House Rules, Code of Conduct, Do’s & Don’ts, etc.)
- Introduction to Lombok Culture
- Project Information & Task Assignments
- From Tuesday onward, your program will follow its regular schedule.
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.
Lombok International Airport (LOP)30 Years Non Profit Experience
IVI is an Australian charity & non profit organisation founded in 1989 and is one of the pioneers of overseas volunteering successfully placing over 20,000 volunteers globally.
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We place thousands of Uni students and can assist you with course credits and in-field experience points. Many of our project coordinators are qualified practitioners in their respective fields allowing unique in-field supervision and Uni accreditation options
Check out this amazing blog with step by step info on how to raise funds for your overseas volunteer experience to help maximize your impact abroad. Guide to Fundraising
Weekends & Extra Tours
