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Underwater Africa is a structured volunteer program aimed at involving citizen scientists in the world-class scientific research and marine conservation work being conducted in the vibrant waters of southern Mozambique.

Underwater Africa differs from other volunteering programs by being coordinated by a highly-qualified scientist and working directly with world-leading experts in the fields of marine biology, ecology, oceanography, wildlife conservation, community outreach and education, to deliver a once-in-a lifetimeopportunity for each participant to enrich their lives and optimise their career paths.

Underwater Africa is based in Praia do Tofo, in southern Mozambique, and was born from the fusion of the Marine Megafauna Foundation, Casa Barry Beach Lodge and Peri-Peri Divers, the ‘hottest’ dive centre in Mozambique!

The entire program was designed by manta ray biologist and National Geographic Emerging Explorer Dr. Andrea Marshall (also known as BBC’s‘Manta Queen’) and whale shark conservation biologist Dr. Simon Pierce, both Founders of the Marine Megafauna Foundation.

Andrea and Simon spent the past decade conducting their daily research work on manta rays and whalesharks in the serene waters around Tofo, eventually striving to improve, both nationally and globally, the protection status of these gentle giants.

The Underwater Africa program aims to provide a perfect platform for nature enthusiasts and aspiring scientists to get involved in world-class scientific research and conservation work on some of the most charismatic marine animals on our planet.

Underwater Africa was created as an extension of the Marine Megafauna Foundation’s efforts in Africa.

We hoped by integrating young aspiring scientists and passionate volunteers into our dedicated research programs we could gain new perspectives, build capacity, and extend our reach along the eastern African coastline.

This is not your ordinary volunteer program, this is real science taught by world-leading experts in the field.

ANDREA MARSHALL, CO-FOUNDER