Do I need diving experience?

No. Cage dives are guided and suitable for beginners. You can also add a scuba course if you wish.

What’s a “no-sea day”?

If weather prevents boat trips, you’ll join conservation activities or explore nearby attractions.

What kind of wildlife will I see?

Great white sharks, whales (in season), dolphins, penguins, and an array of seabirds and marine species.

Is it safe to cage dive?

Yes. You’ll be supervised by experienced crews and trained guides, with professional safety equipment.

Can I stay longer than a week?

Absolutely. You can stay from 1 to 12 weeks, with longer stays giving you more experience in research and rehabilitation.

Volunteer at the Marine Big 5 Project in Cape Town South Africa

Item: Marine Big 5
Rating: 5
Author: kareniwh-co-nz

Dive with Sharks and Protect Ocean Wildlife in South Africa. Swap your desk for a boat deck. Work with great white sharks, rescue penguins, and dive into an ocean adventure with real conservation impact.

Join the Marine Big 5 volunteer project in South Africa’s Western Cape, where every day is an encounter with extraordinary marine life. From cage diving with sharks to rehabilitating penguins and monitoring whales, this project blends real marine adventure with actual purpose. Live in beachfront cottages, work alongside marine biologists, and help protect some of the planet’s most iconic species.

Start any Monday – simply arrive in Cape Town the Sunday before, and we’ll organise accommodation and your project pickup.

What Sets Us Apart

For over 30 years, International Working Holidays has helped turn dreams into destinations, providing safe, ethical, and truly unforgettable work and volunteer experiences worldwide. Every project is carefully vetted, with secure accommodations, trained staff, and 24/7 support. We handle the details so you can focus on the impact.

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Swap your desk for a boat deck. Work with great white sharks, rescue penguins, and dive into an ocean adventure with real conservation impact.

Start any Monday – simply arrive in Cape Town the Sunday before, and we’ll organise accommodation and your project pickup.

Highlights

Shark Diving Adventures: Help Guests Cage dive with great white sharks year-round
Whale-Watching Experiences: Assist with whale-watching tours (June-December)
Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation: Help rescue and rehabilitate penguins and seabirds
Ocean Conservation Efforts: Join marine pollution clean-ups and eco-education efforts
Volunteer Accommodation: Stay in volunteer cottages with a pool, garden, and coastal views
Exploration on Free Days: Explore Cape Agulhas, heritage caves, and local wine country on no-sea days

Overall Trip Rating:

Total Reviews 1

Average Rating

5.0

Based on 1 travel review

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Verified Purchase

By Tracey September 2, 2025 From First Call to Returning Home - IWH Was There Every Step
When I decided I wanted to volunteer in South Africa, I rang around other volunteer companies asking for as much information as possible, it wasn't until I rang International Working Holiday's and spoke with Shelby, that I found where I wanted to volunteer. Shelby is a friendly, talkative person who obviously loves her job. She asked right from the get go what I wanted to do and experience in South Africa and answered all questions I asked with a lot of enthusiasm. She was very clear about the process and how long it would take for me to get to Africa and even when i was in Africa and when i returned home she made sure to get in contact with and ask about my experiences and if i enjoyed it. Overall i really appreciated all the behind the scenes work that Shelby and the rest of the team at International Working Holidays did for me to be able to achieve my dream by going to South Africa. I highly recommend if you get the chance speck with a member at International working holiday's and they will be able to help you achieve you dream of heading overseas.

Date of Experience: September 15, 2020