Sharklife Internship

Established in 2005 as a non-profit organisation, Sharklife works to address the alarming exploitation of both shark populations and ocean fisheries in South African waters. Our marine internship programs aim to nurture shark conservation ambassadors through knowledge development, hands-on training and many hours on the ocean encountering a multitude of marine wildlife. "The overall goal of the program is to imprint a deeper understanding of the shark species in the minds of participants" Sodwana Bay is located in Northern Kwa-Zulu Natal South Africa. The village borders the pristine world heritage site known as the isimangaliso Wetland Park. The park is South Africa's third-largest protected area, spanning 280 km of coastline and is one of the top ten dive destinations in the world. The coral reefs contain over 1 200 species of fish as well as a variety of underwater seascapes and marine flora and fauna making it a prime area to view sharks in their natural habitat.

Your days will be divided into land days and ocean days, depending on weather conditions.

Typical Land Day: 09:00-16:00 Theory sessions are given in our auditorium using graphics, videos and models to enhance your theoretical understanding of sharks. Interns use this opportunity to ask questions and discuss prevalent conservation topics. Interns are also tasked with collating research data and developing reports and findings. We then move to the lab where we conduct various examinations of the shark and ray specimens we have preserved, either frozen, dried or in solution. These specimens enable interns to get a feel of the various anatomical features of each animal. The rest of the day may be allocated to extra activities happening in the centre at the time such as; assisting with school groups, museum display development, boat maintenance etc.

Typical Ocean Day: 07:00 - 14:00 After preparing the boat and equipment for the sea we head to the beach. Interns assist directly with all beach and boating logistics. We launch through the surf and make our way along the coastline to the designated study area. We conduct various in-water surveys, record sightings data, location and environmental conditions. Interns get the opportunity to develop seamanship skills and encounter a wide variety of marine life.

The most popular free-time activity is a day trip to the Hluhluwe Umfolozi Big 5 Game Reserve. The park is home to Africa's big five game: elephant, rhinoceros (black/hook-lipped and white/square-lipped), Cape buffalo, lion, and leopard. You can just relax on the pristine beaches of Sodwana Bay. For the more adventurous, you can embark on a microlight flight over the coastline. There are also quad bike tours of the local lake systems and forests. You can scuba dive on the world-renowned reefs of Sodwana Bay.

Sharklife has its own intern camp which consists of four private rooms and one shared room with an en-suite bathroom. There is a large self-catering kitchen fully equipped with everything you need and a braai and picnic area outside.

There is a washing machine to do your own laundry

We are on-site every day to assist

Food and Drinks - There are daily trips to the local supermarket where all common food and beverages are available. There is a fully equipped kitchen to prepare your food or if you prefer catered food there are restaurants close-by you can visit. Flights Travel Insurance Vaccinations Weekend Activities