China Turtle Conservation

Huidong, China

APPLY NOW

JULY &

AUGUST

MINIMUM

1 WEEK

PRICES FROM

£522

  • OVERVIEW

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If you're passionate about marine conservation, this program offers a unique opportunity to work closely with one of the world’s most ancient and fascinating creatures—sea turtles.

The turtle reserve in Huidong is home to a variety of turtles from four different species! You’ll learn about these incredible animals as you observe their behaviors and actively contribute to their care.

 

Your responsibilities will include feeding the turtles, cleaning their enclosures, and maintaining their habitat by removing debris from the beach. Occasionally, you may also assist with scientific research and help raise awareness through educational programs that highlight the importance of sea turtle conservation.

 

Beyond the hands-on conservation work, this program is an opportunity to engage with local communities, develop cultural understanding, and interact with experienced conservationists and university students who share a passion for marine life.

 

The sea turtle reserve is located in a picturesque coastal town with China’s only natural sea turtle breeding site. It also happens to be the largest marginal sea in the country. If you love animals and dream of spending your days making a difference while enjoying sunshine and beaches, this is the perfect program for you!

 

Program Highlights

  • Work hands-on with endangered sea turtles in China’s only natural breeding site.
  • Support conservation efforts by feeding turtles, cleaning their environment, and assisting in research.
  • Help educate local communities on the importance of protecting sea turtles.
  • Immerse yourself in Chinese culture and build friendships with local conservationists and students.
  • Enjoy stunning coastal views and relax on the beautiful beaches of Huidong.

Your Role

  • Assist in daily turtle care, including feeding and habitat maintenance.
  • Help clean enclosures and remove waste to maintain a safe environment.
  • Participate in conservation activities such as beach cleanups and habitat restoration.
  • Occasionally support scientific research projects focused on turtle conservation.
  • Engage with local communities to spread awareness about sea turtle protection.
  • Work alongside local conservationists and university students to learn more about marine life.

Aims & Objectives

  • Get a hands-on approach to help raise China’s sea turtles.
  • To educate and promote the importance of turtle conservation to members of the public.

Standard Shared Accommodation (2 pax) Sunday-Saturday noon of the last week

3 meals per day during weekdays and 2 meals per day during weekends (except Thursday night)

Pick up upon your arrival during the regular pick-up time (Sundays 9am - 8pm) and transportation during the program as per the scheduled activities

Program materials, tools and equipment needed

Training and supervision by experienced local project coordinators

24/7 local team support 

1 week : £522

Additional weeks : £499

Start Dates & Minimum Duration

2026 Start Dates: 

  • 13th July 2026
  • 20th July 2026
  • 27th July 2026
  • 3rd August 2026
  • 10th August 2026
  • 17th August 2026

 

2027 Start Dates:

  • 12th July 2027
  • 19th July 2027
  • 26th July 2027
  • 2nd August 2026
  • 9th August 2027
  • 16th August 2027

 

This program has various start dates throughout July and August. We recommend arriving the day before to check into your accommodation and prepare for your program to start the following morning.

 

Please note that program start dates could be affected by local holidays. However, we will give you as much notice as possible if any days of your program may overlap with holidays.

 

The minimum duration of this program is 1 week.

 

Please state your preferred start date on your booking application form.

What are the requirements to take part in this program?

Program Requirements:

  • Age limit: 18-65
  • Proof of DBS check required
  • Proof of travel insurance required
  • Copy of CV required
  • Minimum intermediate level of English
  • Physical fitness is essential due to the active nature of the program, which includes outdoor activities under the sun.
  • Time management and self-organisation skills are necessary, along with a strong willingness to take on new challenges and learn.
  • Ability to handle physically demanding conditions, such as long walks, hot weather, and exposure to insects.
  • Adaptability and respect for diverse backgrounds and nationalities. Flexibility, thoughtfulness, and cultural sensitivity are key when working with people from different cultures.

What is my working schedule?

Sunday

  • Arrival and Pick up from the Shengzhen airport
  • Check in to the accommodation

Monday

  • Take a high-speed railway from Shenzhen to Huizhou City(about 30 mins). From railway station to Huidong turtle reserve accommodation (about 50 mins).
  • Here you’ll receive an introduction about the work assignment.
  • Evening: Ice-breaker and team activities.

Tuesday

  • Morning: Pre-job training and Watch documentary films about Sea Turtle.
  • Afternoon: Take a walking tour of the sea turtle reserve, and observe different species and their living habit.
  • Evening: Sharing time - My first day with Turtles.

Wednesday

  • Morning: Working with the Sea Turtle keeper to do some cleaning or feeding etc.
  • Afternoon: Beach cleaning
  • Evening: Sea Turtle knowledge quiz game

Thursday

  • Morning: Working with Sea Turtle keeper to do some cleaning or feeding etc.
  • Afternoon: Design a turtle conservation poster.
  • Self-care dinner: Visit the night market.

Friday

  • Morning: Working with Sea Turtle keeper to do some cleaning or feeding etc.
  • Afternoon: Sightseeing on a speedboat.
  • Final dinner: BBQ Time

***This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances.***

What's the accommodation like?

Our accommodation is situated in Daao Village, offering standard rooms (shared between two people) with separate male and female dormitories. The facilities include hot showers, Western-style bathrooms, and limited WiFi (signal strength may vary based on local conditions). Public areas are available for participants to relax and socialise.

What meals are included?

Weekdays you will enjoy three meals a day (breakfast, lunch and dinner), except for Thursday nights, and two on weekends (brunch and dinner).

 

Meals are served in a traditional Chinese family-style round table setting (non-buffet). As we are located near the sea, seafood is commonly included in our menu. If you have any allergies, please inform us in advance so we can make the necessary arrangements. Vegetarian options are available upon request.

Fresh fruit, tea, and drinking water are provided at the house. However, tap water is not recommended for drinking.

Due to the Huidong Sea Turtle Camp's seaside location, some seafood dishes are inevitable. Please notify us in advance of any allergies or dietary restrictions.

 

Meals may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Breakfast:

  • Soybean milk
  • Dumplings
  • Noodles
  • Steamed stuffed buns
  • Porridge
  • Fried rice

Lunch & Dinner:

  • Stir-fried pork, chicken, or duck
  • Stir-fried vegetables or tofu
  • Scrambled eggs with tomatoes

Let us know if you have any dietary preferences, and we'll do our best to accommodate them!

What can I do in my free time?

Huidong Turtle Reserve is located in the Double Moon Bay scenic area, consisting of two half-moon bays adjacent to Daya Bay and the Red Sea Bay, with a bird's eye view resembling two crescent moons. The left bay is as horizontal as a mirror, and the right bay is choppy, known as the wonders of the world sea. It’s a good place for leisure vacations, and sunbathing. There are many leisure beaches near the town, also reef restaurants, authentic Cantonese dim sum restaurants, and so on.
 

What facilities will I have access to?

  • Hot shower
  • WiFi 
  • Laundry facilities
  • Bed linen
  • Towels
  • Air Conditioning
  • Daoao Village has limited facilities, including a small shop for basic necessities and a local clinic. The nearest town, which has ATMs, restaurants, and other amenities, is a 20-minute walk away. A weekly transfer to town is provided for shopping.

Arrival Information

Pick up is included on Sundays between 9am - 8pm, from SZX Shenzhen Bao'an Airport.

 

If you cannot make the designated meeting point or are arriving days in advance, you must contact us ASAP to confirm alternative arrangements for reaching the hostel on your own.

 

We'll send you full arrival details before your departure.

Secure your spot for only 10% deposit!

PRICES FROM ONLY £522

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