Volunteering in Sumbawa: Conservation

Highlights

Volunteer in a coastal fishing community in the remote area of Labuan Kuris, on the pristine island of Sumbawa. This experience gives volunteers the opportunity to engage in mangrove and coral reef restoration efforts, assist in local community development of sustainable ecotourism, and contribute to marine and environmental research. The local community in the village of Labuan Terata is highly enthusiastic about increasing sustainable tourism and improving the environment.

About the program

This programme offers volunteers the opportunity to work on various environmental and community development projects that can be tailored to their interests.

Mangrove Restoration and Research: Volunteers will engage in mangrove seedling planting and building fences to prevent the encroachment of water buffalo into mangrove areas. Volunteers will have the opportunity to carry out fieldwork and research to determine the carbon stock held within the existing mangrove forest area. They will also be encouraged to assist in applications for funding and sponsorship opportunities.
Coral Reef Restoration and Research: Volunteers will be involved in transplanting coral reefs to the area surrounding Gili Sejangan, monitoring coral health, and mapping coral reef coverage. Volunteers will also be given the opportunity to research the causes of coral reef decline and educate the community on these causes. Seeking sponsorship and funding opportunities will additionally ensure the long-term success of these conservation efforts.
Local Community Development of Ecotourism: Volunteers can collaborate with the local community to develop and market sustainable tourism initiatives. Volunteers can assist in setting up mangrove tours, trekking, boat tours, and snorkelling activities.

Typical day

The typical day of a volunteer is flexible and can be tailored to their interests.

Days 1-6: Orientation and Initial Activities. The first day involves arrival, orientation, and a tour of the project sites. Over the next few days, volunteers will begin mangrove tree planting, assist in building protective fences, and support coral reef transplantation. The initial activities also include introductions to carbon stock assessment, ecotourism facilities, and community engagement.
Days 7-12: Continued Restoration and Community Engagement. During this phase, volunteers will continue with mangrove and coral conservation activities. They can participate in research efforts such as mapping coral reef coverage and monitoring coral health.
Days 13-21: Advanced Activities and Local Impact. In the final phase, volunteers can conduct a carbon stock assessment in the mangrove forest and engage in advanced coral monitoring. Volunteers will also explore sponsorship opportunities for the long term. This stage offers an in-depth understanding of the project’s impact and its connection to the community’s future.

Especially suitable

This programme is perfect for volunteers seeking an adventure while contributing to environmental conservation, climate action, and community livelihood development. It also provides an excellent opportunity for students, researchers, and professionals seeking hands-on conservation experience. Additionally, those with previous skills and experience in fieldwork, environmental research, marketing, education, or sustainability would be highly suited for this volunteer package. The welcoming community ensures that volunteers feel at home, making it suitable for anyone eager to make a difference.

Requirements

This programme is open to individuals aged 18 and above. Participants should be prepared for moderate physical activity, as fieldwork will take place in tropical conditions, requiring stamina, resilience, and adaptability in a challenging outdoor environment. Volunteers need a passion for environmental conservation and a willingness to learn and adapt to local conditions. While experience in marketing and sponsorship is beneficial, it is not required, as the community’s enthusiasm and guidance ensure a fulfilling experience for all participants.

Free-time activities

Volunteers will have the opportunity to visit nearby villages, beaches, and islands. Additional activities include snorkelling and mangrove boat tours to visit impressive bat nests. Volunteers can also engage in local cooking and crafting, immersing themselves in local culture and heritage.

Upon arrival at Lombok International Airport, participants will be warmly greeted by a programme coordinator. Participants will then have the opportunity to rest for a few days in Lombok before embarking on the journey to Sumbawa. The schedule and timeline of this journey are flexible and can be tailored to the participant’s desires. Upon arrival in the village of Labuan Terata, an informative orientation session will take place, welcoming participants and covering the programme’s schedule, objectives, and expectations.

The programme operates year-round. Mangrove restoration efforts are focused in January, with the goal of planting 2,600 seedlings. However, restoration and research efforts will continue throughout the year.

Meals and Accommodation: Daily meals are provided along with accommodation at the village head’s house in Labuan Terata. If the volunteer prefers a basic local homestay, they may arrange it at their own expense.
Volunteering Equipment: All tools and materials required for volunteering activities are included.

Flights and Transportation: Participants are responsible for the cost of flights to and from Lombok and personal transport outside of scheduled activities. They must also arrange their own transportation from Lombok International Airport to the site.
Travel Insurance: Participants must arrange their own travel insurance.
Visa and Vaccination Fees: Participants are responsible for entry visa costs, related documentation, and vaccinations (if required).
Personal Expenses: Includes souvenirs, alcoholic beverages, optional activities, and any purchases beyond the scheduled program activities.
Extra Accommodation: Lodging before or after the scheduled program dates is not included.
Medical Expenses: Participants are responsible for any healthcare costs incurred during the program.
Recreation and Tours: Costs for recreational activities or tours listed under free time activities are excluded.
Lost or Damaged Equipment: Participants must cover the cost of replacing any lost or damaged equipment provided during the program.
Scooter Rental: Fees for personal scooter rental are not included.
Incidental Expenses: Any additional costs not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions.

Registration

Program Fees

$84 – $168

Program Fees

Clear

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