Bali – Community & Sea Turtle for Teenagers

Bali is one of the over 17,000 islands that make up the Indonesian archipelago. Indonesia is a unique country, home to hundreds of ethnic groups speaking many languages. The geography of Indonesia is very diverse and changes drastically depending on your location. It includes volcanoes, beaches and jungles, which shelter an array of animals including tigers, elephants and komodo dragons.

Every corner of the Indonesian islands showcases the customs embedded in their culture. Each island practically has its own unique set of traditions, which differ from one another. There are roughly 20,000 temples spread around the island of Bali and, because the Balinese are masters of sculpture, elaborate statues of gods and goddesses guard the temples. During your trip, take advantage of your free time on weekends and explore some of these magnificent temples and sculptures. Take in the distinct culture and traditions of each island as you travel from place to place.

This volunteer program stands out as a unique and multifaceted opportunity, seamlessly intertwining two distinct yet equally impactful initiatives. By merging community construction efforts in the cultural heart of Bali, Ubud, with the preservation of marine life on the scenic island of Nusa Penida, participants embark on an extraordinary journey that transcends conventional volunteer experiences. This comprehensive approach not only enriches the lives of local communities but also contributes to the sustainability and conservation of Bali’s diverse ecosystems.

Construction Project: this unfolds in Ubud and its neighboring villages, focusing on uplifting the foundations of these communities. Participants actively engage in building and renovating crucial infrastructure, ranging from schools to playgrounds and public libraries. Beyond the physical transformation, this initiative fosters a sense of community and educational advancement, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of those directly involved.

Turtle Conservation Project: this takes place on the captivating island of Nusa Penida. Here, volunteers play a vital role in safeguarding the local turtle population. Working within a conservation center, participants contribute to the care of injured turtles and ensure the protection of their nests, aligning with the principles of sustainable tourism. This not only aids in the immediate well-being of the turtles but also supports the broader ecological balance, emphasizing the interconnectedness of environmental conservation and responsible tourism practices.

Types of Construction Volunteer Tasks:

• Constructing and renovating schools to enhance educational facilities.
• Developing playgrounds to provide safe and stimulating environments for local children.
• Contributing to the improvement of public libraries, fostering a culture of knowledge-sharing.
• Construction/renovation tasks could include: Laying bricks, simple carpentry, painting, laying tiles, landscaping/gardening

Types of Turtle Volunteer Tasks: 

• Scrubbing, feeding, and cleaning turtle tanks to maintain a healthy habitat.
• Monitoring and protecting turtle nests & safely guiding hatchlings to the sea.
• Creating educational signage to raise awareness for turtle conservation.
• Contributing to beach cleanups to preserve the turtles’ natural environment.

Important Note: The volunteer work schedule is flexible, subject to the weather, needs of the communities and turtles, local holidays, and local considerations, ensuring a dynamic and memorable experience.

Internet: Wi-Fi is available in public areas.

Laundry: There are laundry services available for use for a small fee located around the village.

Accommodations: Participants in the teen program are accommodated in simple yet comfortable gender-based dorm rooms, featuring shared single-gender spaces with security measures for a comfortable and safe living environment. Each dorm will house up to six volunteers in a room and includes electricity, AC, hot showers and western style toilet facilities. There is a pool open year-round that is less than a five-minute walk from the accommodation.

Food: We will serve traditional Indonesian food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Traditional Indonesian food will be served and you can expect to experience a myriad of flavors and diverse dishes during your stay. Typical meals include Mie Goreng (fried noodles and vegetables), Nasi Goreng (fried rice and vegetables) or Gado Gado (mixed vegetables with a satay sauce). For those who do not eat meat, Indonesian cooking uses a lot of tofu and tempeh (soybeans). Some western dishes will also be available. Breakfasts vary and may include pancakes, toast, fresh fruit, etc. Tea, coffee and drinking water are also available at the house. We will provide two meals (breakfast and dinner) on weekends.

Please take note of this project’s minimum requirements:

• Interview with GoEco Advisor
• Parental consent it required
• Two Character Reference Letters
• Physically fit
• Eligible for a tourist visa to Indonesia
• Other vaccinations as advised by your doctor for travel to Indonesia
• Adaptability to challenging conditions and diverse cultures

​Bali has something for everyone! As part of the program, you’ll experience the heart of Bali, from the cultural hub of Ubud to the picturesque landscapes of Jatiluwih. Engage in language courses, community projects, and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Nusa Penida while contributing to turtle conservation.