Trip Details

Turtle Conservation Volunteer in Ambalangoda Sri Lanka

Would you like to be part of a programme which cares for wounded turtles? Our Turtle Conservation Volunteer project in Ambalangoda, Sri Lanka is home to 42 disabled turtles who are not able to survive on their own or in the ocean. Here, you can make a real difference to the lives of these little creatures, who have been hurt by humans, or waste that has been recklessly thrown away.

Observe the Circle of Turtle Life from Egg to Adult as a Volunteer

On this programme, you will be tending to the needs of these turtles with a view to helping them live their best little turtle lives. However, you will also assist at a separate centre which hatches hundreds of eggs each year and oversees the baby turtles journey to the sea. Of course, a large part of protecting these species lies in educating communities. Locals often don’t know the impact that they can have on these gentle amphibians. So, as part of this programme, you will also work in the community, talking to locals and the fishing communities.  It’s a lot of work, but incredibly rewarding for turtle fans!

Discover the real Sri Lanka – far from the Tourist Trappings

Whilst we’re sure you won’t be in a hurry to venture from your accommodation, just metres from the ocean, adventure is a must! Visit ancient Sri Lankan temples, or delve deep into the rich history of Ambalangoda. Interestingly, this town (where you will be staying), is where the famed masks originated. Or, for those a little more adventurous, there are many great hiking and treking to test your stamina on! Finally, as you are in one of the most fascinating countries in Asia, we recommend a little local exploration. Here, you can spend time simply taking in your surroundings, with bustling marketplaces and exceptionally friendly locals!

Why be a Turtle Conservation Volunteer in Sri Lanka?

  • Learn about turtle conservation and wellbeing as you work with a great team
  • Help educate the local fishing community about this species and harm from humans
  • See Sri Lanka sites whilst you volunteer on this rewarding project
  • Stay in our comfortable accommodation and mix with new friends
  • Enjoy authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, with meals and beverages* included

*tea, coffee and drinking water

Get in touch to find out more or browse through our many other volunteer experiences.

Trip Itinerary

Your week ahead will depend on what’s needed at the centre, and also the beach weather conditions. Further, this programme can be hard work, as you support staff in the cleaning of the turtles, the tanks and the turtle conservation centre. However, the work itself is incredibly rewarding – and you are, of course, working with a fantastic team!

Typical daily tasks may include:

  • Feeding the turtles (every other day)
  • Cleaning the tanks
  • Careing for the turtles
  • Cleaning the beach
  • Helping with the weekly release of over 100 newborn turtles into the ocean (depends on the weather and season).

Daily Schedule

Monday to Friday

  • Breakfast
  • Turtle Conservation Volunteering
  • Lunch
  • Turtle Conservation Volunteering
  • Dinner
  • Free Time

Evenings and Weekends

After a day of child care volunteering, you can choose to explore the area or head further afield on the weekends. Many of our volunteers enjoy mixing with their new volunteer friends during the week and plan their weekend adventures as they go!

Places to Visit

Sailatalarama Vihara

This temple lies about 7 km inland from Ambalangoda, and sits on a domed hill with stunning views over spice plantations and lakes. Incidentally, the temple has a 35m-long sleeping Buddha statue which alone, is worth the effort of getting there!

The Ariyapala Mask Museum

A must-see, which, with its dioramas and explanations, give an excellent insight into Sri Lankan masks and the meanings behind them. Delve into the mysterious world of dance, legend and exorcism, and the psychology behind the masks.

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

Trip Accommodation

Ambalangoda is a coastal town located in Galle District, Southern Province of Sri Lanka, and is as close to authentic Sri Lankan life as you can get! In addition, the place is reputed for its golden beaches, puppet shows, devil dancing, moonstone, and antique furniture. Plantations of low country tea, rubber, coconut and cinnamon plantations and factories are also here, so there’s plenty to see on your doorstep!

Accommodation

Your accommodation is within our comfortable volunteer centre with single-gender rooms sleeping 4 – 8 people. Further, it has communal areas and is super close to the beach, where you will spend many an evening with fellow volunteers. You will be accommodated at our centre which is located a few meters from the ocean. Additionally, safety lockers are available to store your belongings, so, please bring your own padlock. Lastly, you may also request a private room. However, this is subject to availability, so do let us know your preferences at the time of booking.

Food Arrangements

You will be provided with three meals a day on weekdays and two meals per day on weekends. The meals are mainly Sri Lankan food, which its signature spices – mainly vegetarian dishes including rice and vegetables. Alternatively, you can also eat out at any of the local restaurants throughout the week if you choose.

Facilities

Our house is located a 10 minute walk from the city centre, where you can find anything you might need from ATMs to shopping essentials – and not so essentials!

Trip Country Info

Sri Lanka

Population: approx. 20 million
Capital: Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte and Colombo
Language: Sinhalese, Tamil
Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Time zone: UTC +5:30

Sri Lanka’s over 2000 years of history and culture can still be seen in every corner of its cities and the details of its ever-beautiful ancient temples. With eight UNESCO World Heritage sites and its short distances between the main sights, Sri Lanka is a country that, despite often being overlooked in itineraries, has left travelers filled with awe.

Visit the sacred home of the world’s oldest living tree in Anuradhapura, wander around the colonial architecture of Colombo, get sun-kissed at the untouched beaches that inclose the territory, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, head to the hills for a cooler temperature and get surrounded by lush natural, visit two thousand year-old temples or get overawed at the sight of hundreds of elephants in Minneriya.

While traveling through Sri Lanka you will experience adventures from the highest and chilliest mountains like the famous Adam’s Peak – a stairway mountain considered sacred in three different religions, thru the elephant shelters, to the most peaceful beaches up north near Trincomalee and their tiny- one floor- hostels facing the calm sea.

Tru Experience Travel welcome people from all over the world to join ongoing Sri Lankan programs and you can even compose your schedule the way you like it. With this flexibility it enables you to say when you are on site and when you spend time with the new friends you have made from all over the world.

Participant Criteria & Requirements

Standard Requirements

Under 18, Parental Consent is Required
Travel Insurance

Additional Requirements

No requirements have been provided.

What's included

  • 24/7 support in case of emergencies
  • Accommodation
  • Airport Pick up
  • English speaking coordinator
  • Meals
  • Orientation

What's not included

  • Airport drop off
  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Vaccination
  • Visa