Spain
Volunteer in Spain
As a volunteer in Spain, you’ll discover this is a country of contrasts. Think sun-drenched beaches, buzzing city squares and tapas late into the evening, then swap the crowds for rugged coastlines, wild mountain landscapes, quiet wetlands and the volcanic scenery of the Canary Islands. There is a whole side of Spain beyond the usual holiday itinerary, where wildlife and wild landscapes take centre stage.
Wildlife volunteering in Spain gives you the chance to support conservation while getting closer to the country’s wildlife and wild landscapes. With The Great Projects, you can join Whale and Dolphin Conservation in Tenerife, helping monitor pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins, collect valuable research data and contribute to wider marine conservation work around the island.
With The Great Projects, you can get out there and experience it for yourself. Spend your days discovering the natural world of Spain, getting involved in practical conservation work and seeing a side of Tenerife you might otherwise never find. If you’re looking for volunteer opportunities in Spain that combine adventure, wildlife, and conservation, this is your chance to do more than visit.
Wildlife
Spain is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, making it an exciting destination for wildlife volunteering and conservation. Its Mediterranean forests, wetlands, mountains, rugged coastlines and Atlantic waters support species including Iberian lynx, brown bears, wolves, flamingos, griffon vultures, sea turtles, dolphins and whales. The Canary Islands add another dimension to Spanish wildlife, with volcanic landscapes and unique ecosystems supporting a fascinating range of species. Tenerife is particularly important for marine wildlife, with resident short-finned pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins, alongside other cetaceans that pass through its surrounding waters. For anyone interested in wildlife conservation in Spain, the country offers diverse habitats to explore, discover, and volunteer in.
Culture
Spain’s culture is shaped by its distinct regions, each with its own traditions, food and way of life. From the Moorish architecture of Seville and Granada to the lively streets of Barcelona and Madrid, there is plenty to discover beyond the beaches. Food is central to everyday life, with tapas, fresh seafood and regional specialities bringing people together over long, leisurely meals. In Tenerife, you’ll experience a distinctly Canarian culture, with local dishes such as papas arrugadas and mojo, colourful markets, traditional festivals and historic towns adding another layer to your time in Spain. For those choosing to volunteer in Spain, it is a chance to experience the country beyond the usual tourist trail and get to know the places and communities around you.
Popular Sights
Spain is packed with famous sights, making it a great destination for anyone looking to volunteer in Spain and explore beyond their time on a conservation project. Discover the Sagrada Família in Barcelona, the Royal Palace in Madrid, the Alhambra in Granada or the historic streets of Seville. Along the coast, the Costa del Sol offers golden beaches and lively resorts, while the Canary Islands are known for dramatic volcanic landscapes and Atlantic views. In Tenerife, you can explore Teide National Park, wander the historic streets of La Laguna, or discover colourful coastal towns and black sand beaches. With so many iconic places to visit, you can easily add sightseeing, adventure and cultural experiences to your volunteer experience in Spain.
Destination Information
Yes, wildlife volunteer projects in Spain let you get involved in hands-on conservation work while learning more about the species and habitats around you. Activities vary by project but can include wildlife or marine wildlife monitoring, research, surveys and habitat conservation.
You don’t usually need to speak Spanish to join a wildlife conservation project in Spain. English is commonly used within international volunteer teams, although learning some Spanish before you arrive can make everyday life and connecting with local people even more rewarding.
British citizens do not usually need a visa to volunteer in Spain for stays of up to 90 days. International volunteers can also volunteer for up to 90 days, although visa requirements depend on nationality. For stays longer than 90 days, a long-stay visa and authorisation may be required.
