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MARINE BIOLOGY & CONSERVATION

South Africa's south-eastern coastline is a remarkable meeting point of terrestrial and marine ecosystems, supporting an extraordinary diversity of species and habitats. From the discovery of the ancient coelacanth off South Africa's east coast in 1938 to ongoing research into marine mammals, turtles, reefs and estuaries, the region continues to play an important role in marine science and conservation.

Our Marine Biology & Conservation Expeditions take you beyond the classroom and into these diverse coastal environments. Travel along South Africa's warm Indian Ocean coastline, explore coastal reserves and estuaries, and experience the marine environment through activities such as snorkelling and diving where conditions and qualifications allow.

The expedition combines marine biology with terrestrial conservation, giving you a broader understanding of how interconnected coastal and land-based ecosystems are. Our experienced guides and specialists bring the science to life through practical experiences, field observations and expert-led discussions.

Because we work with real-world conditions, our programmes remain flexible. Weather, tides, wildlife activity and conservation opportunities can influence the daily programme, while the core learning objectives remain consistent throughout the expedition.

Scheduled Departures for 2027

MBC04
18 Jul - 1 Aug

Programme Components

Marine Biodiversity & Conservation

Marine Biology in the Indian Ocean

Mangrove & Estuary Ecology

Dolphin Ecology

Marine Turtle Conservation

Coral Reefs & Coastal Habitats

Community Fishing & Conservation

Explore the incredible diversity of life along South Africa's south-eastern coastline.

Learn about the ecology, research and conservation challenges of the region's marine ecosystems.

Investigate these vital transition zones and their role in supporting marine and terrestrial life.

Study the behaviour and ecology of Indo-Pacific humpback, spinner and bottlenose dolphins.

Explore the ecology and conservation of leatherback and loggerhead turtles.

Experience the extraordinary biodiversity of tropical and subtropical marine environments.

Discover how coastal communities depend on marine resources and the challenges of balancing livelihoods with conservation.

ABOUT ECOLIFE

For the past 30 years, EcoLife Expeditions has been bringing people into the heart of wildlife conservation and veterinary science across Southern Africa. Our expeditions provide direct access to the field, where participants learn alongside experienced wildlife veterinarians, conservationists, researchers and rangers working on real-world conservation challenges. From wildlife medicine and veterinary procedures to rehabilitation, capture operations, disease management and conservation research, our expeditions connect scientific knowledge with practical experience. We believe the most meaningful learning takes place in the field, through direct involvement and interaction with the professionals doing the work. With small groups and carefully developed programmes, EcoLife offers an educational experience that is authentic, practical and deeply connected to the future of Africa’s wildlife.

CONTACT 

      (+27) 63-689 5659 

      wild@ecolife.co.za 

Emergency contacts:
(+27) 82 770 9513

(+27) 82 557 3142

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Visit our WeTravel Page:

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© 2026 EcoLife Expeditions

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