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Most Affordable & Trusted Volunteer & Gap Year Programs in Madagascar with IVHQ

Name: Most Affordable & Trusted Volunteer & Gap Year Programs in Madagascar with IVHQ
Brand: International Volunteer HQ - IVHQ
SKU: 43770
Rating: 4.79 (29 reviews)

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4.79 Rating

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Location

Madagascar
- Nosy Komba

Length

1 to 12 weeks

Project Types

Community Development Building Projects Conservation Marine Conservation Sea Turtle Conservation Environmental Conservation Reforestation Education Teaching

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Program Details

Language

English

Timeframe

Short Term Spring Break Summer Winter Year Round

Housing

Lodge

Travel Type

Budget Family Older Travelers Solo Women

Pricing

Starting Price

350

Price Details

Madagascar Program Fee includes airport pick-up, orientation, program supervision, accommodation and meals during volunteer program period, in-country 24/7 volunteer support and in-country administration costs.

What's Included

Accommodation Some Activities Airport Transfers Meals

What's Not Included

Airfare Travel Insurance Visa

Last Updated: Oct 13, 2022

Last Reviewed: Mar 30, 2020

Wish List

85 travelers are looking at this program

About Program

Trusted by 122,000+ volunteers, IVHQ offers the most popular volunteer programs in Madagascar and 50+ other destinations around the world.

Based on the stunning islands of Nosy Komba, Nosy Be and Ampoagna Beach, you can choose from 6 unique volunteer projects for periods ranging from 1 to 12 weeks. Your fully-hosted experience includes airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support, and you’ll be accommodated in locally built huts with other like-minded travelers from around the world.

IVHQ offers a multi-layered support network, so even before you depart, you’ll receive outstanding service from your Program Manager and gain exclusive access to volunteer training and preparation tools. With IVHQ, you can expect to establish real connections within the community while supporting projects that make a genuine difference.

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Video and Photos

Affordable Volunteer Programs in Madagascar from $600 for 1 week

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Program Highlights

IVHQ’s Madagascar programs are available year-round, starting the first and third Monday of the month
Fully-hosted volunteer experience from only $350 for 1 week - IVHQ provides the most affordable and top-rated programs
You’ll be joining a global network of 122,000+ volunteers backed by the world’s leading team of volunteer travel experts with an outstanding safety system and track record
Support impact-driven volunteer projects run by locals within your host community
Flexible booking and free changes so you can register with confidence

Popular Programs

Marine Conservation Volunteering

Love scuba diving and being in the ocean? Madagascar is home to some of the most stunning coastal areas and marine ecosystems in the world, however they are at risk due to the effects of humans and climate change. This is an opportunity to help with local conservation efforts - tasks include reef surveying, turtle monitoring, beach cleans and reef regeneration. You'll take part in four scuba dives per week as part of this program.

Community Development Volunteering

As a Community Development Volunteer, you help with ongoing construction-related projects to uplift local economies and communities. You’ll volunteer on projects in small village schools, where our Teaching volunteers work. You can help with a range of general maintenance and building, including on ablution blocks, painting, small construction tasks and repairs.

Forest Conservation Volunteering

As a Forest Conservation volunteer, you’ll help with research projects that are used to study and monitor the diversity and population of different animal species on Nosy Komba. The research enables the identification of changes in forest dynamics, populations, habitat health, and potential localized threats, all of which is invaluable in contributing to the protection of the highly threatened Sambirano forests found in Northwest Madagascar.

Teaching Volunteering

As a Teaching volunteer in Madagascar, you’ll teach English to children and adults in small village schools on the islands of Nosy Be or Nosy Komba, or to staff members at the Oceanographic Research Institute on Nosy Be.

Turtle Conservation Volunteering

As a Turtle Conservation volunteer, you'll play a pivotal role in helping preserve native turtle populations. You’ll spend your time split between Turtle Cove base camp on Nosy Komba island, and the mainland village of Ampoagna, where a safe turtle nesting zone has been identified. Volunteering with turtles is not only a great way to help the animals, it’s also a unique opportunity to get up close to some of the world’s most-loved creatures.

Program Reviews

4.79 Rating

based on 29 reviews

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Rating Spread Volunteer

5 rating 89.66%
4 rating 6.9%
3 rating 0%
2 rating 0%
1 rating 3.45%

Impact 4.6
Support 4.65
Fun 4.7
Value 4.65
Safety 4.55

Good for Solo Travelers, Students, Photographers

Showing 1 - 8 of 29 reviews

Apart from the immense gratification that I got from volunteering, I now have very close friends that live all over the world and with whom I share memories that will last forever. Honestly, one of the best things about this whole experience was getting to know so many people from different backgrounds, getting to form this diverse family in such a short period of time and sharing every laugh and every single moment with them. Madagascar was much more than a journey for me, it was the experience of a lifetime.

If you are looking for a volunteering experience overseas and are interested in engaging in conservation efforts that help restore our sacred marine ecosystems, Madagascar is the perfect place for you. I spent the most amazing six weeks of my life on a beautiful island off the north west coast of Madagascar, participating in the marine conservation program. I loved everything about the project, especially the fact that I felt like I was doing something meaningful reinforced with a very academic and scientific approach. We did tons of sea grass surveys in order to protect an otherwise overlooked but nonetheless extremely important habitat, we participated in beach cleans to collect waste and we used the plastic to make Ecobricks used for the development of the local community, we had daily rounds of turtle watch which consisted in observing and analyzing the turtle activity on our MPA (Marine Protected Area) and my favorite part of it all was of course getting to dive in our beautiful reef almost everyday of the week, studying and learning the species and being able to survey them.
Apart from the immense gratification that I got from volunteering, I now have very close friends that live all over the world and with whom I share memories that will last forever. Honestly, one of the best things about this whole experience was getting to know so many people from different backgrounds, getting to form this diverse family in such a short period of time and sharing every laugh and every single moment with them. Madagascar was much more than a journey for me, it was the experience of a lifetime.

This was my first experience volunteering through IVHQ and I have nothing but amazing things to say about my entire experience. I received constant support from the IVHQ staff throughout planning the trip, during my trip and when I came returned.

The trip and experience itself was incredible, the staff on site were supportive, encouraging, and overall, amazing. I learned so much in just two weeks, and was able to make lasting memories ad friendships with the staff, other volunteers, and community.

Overall I would highly recommend going on a trip through IVHQ, it was an incredible experience and I plan on scheduling another volunteer trip with them again!

What was your funniest moment?

In the Sea Turtle Conservation Program we complete multiple beach clean ups almost every day and the garbage is the cleaned and organized into hard and soft plastics. Once this is completed we save the garbage so that is isn't burned or left in the environment and then we complete an activity called "Ecobricks". This activity consists of washing all of the plastics, drying each piece and then tightly stuffing the plastic into used water bottles which then are used for support in buildings that the organization builds around camp.

On one of my last days we were working on ecobricks and we had laid a tarp down to prevent the plastics from getting dusty and we used some random shoes to keep the tarp down. one of the volunteers didn't realize that these shoes were actually someone and she ended up cutting up a different volunteers shoe by accident.

We hysterically laughed, and the one shoe that was destroyed now hangs up on a wall to remind everyone of the story.

My experience in Madagascar didn't just meet my expectations, it beat them, by far.
The landscape is breathtaking, the locals are very friendly and the volunteers will become your best friends in no time. I went to Madagascar for just two weeks but I know it will be an experience I will remember my whole life.
The nature is challenging and at times a little difficult to adapt to but totally worth it. I did teaching but I had the chance to try out some of the other programs such as construction and forest conservation. Even though it was super fun, I can say that teaching was the most fulfilling of them all. Not only did you see the impact of your help inmediatly but the happiness and energy you get from the kids is just incredible. Little tip: I totally recommend bringing ballons or pencils or any other material for the class as it will make a huge dofference!!
So if you are sitting there just doubting about if you should go or not, just listen to me, GO!! I was scared and doubted and was intimidated too, it's normal but trust me, you will have no regrets and IVHQ is honestly a great organization that will make things very easy and make you feel safe at all times.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?

My main advice would be to pack good!! What do I mean by this? Well, get a GOOD mosquito net and two pairs of sheets because when I was there it rained so you couldn't wash anything as it wouldn't dry. Bring beach towels, a lot of sun cream and clothes for very hot weather, that will dry soon when cleaned. Also, bring a BIG watter bottle and A LOT of snacks. Your diet is just going to be carb based so I would recommend maybe some dried fruits, nuts, bars...Of course you will be able to buy stuff once you are there but as you usually only go to the supermarkets on the weekeds, you might not have anything the first week. Finally, if possible, exchange money in the Nosy Be airport!!

This was the beach on the camp were all volunteers stayed, this was our backyard

Pictures I took walking to the school, the landscapes were unreal

I loved my experience in Madagascar! The forest conservation program was everything I hoped for and more! I went to Madagascar for the turtles and the lemurs and it didnt disappoint. The programme was structured and we were always doing meaningful work. I loved that we were given a chance to interact with the locals and participate in community building activities while also accomplishing our own agenda.

My first time solo travelling abroad was made more special with IVHQ as I felt more confident and safe in my journey. I am definitely going to be going back to madagascar again!

If you did this all over again, what's one thing you would change?

The regret I had at the completion of my programme was that I was leaving way earlier than I had wanted to. 4 weeks seemed like a long time in the beginning but it was definitely not. I wish I could have stayed longer.

Trying to collect lemur urine samples and failing miserably!😅

It was one of the best experiences of my life. MRCI camp made me feel like I was truly living an adventure. Exploring the main island of Nosy Be was also a huge source of fun and entertainment. The staff were all amazing and incredibly nice and helpful. If there is anything that I would note is that you should choose your programs wisely because they are truly the deciding factor in everything. I would definitely go back for another round because life in Madagascar truly charmed me.
I am currently planning my next IVHQ volunteering trip to a new destination in the world. Then maybe I'll head back to visit Madagascar later.

Program details:
I did both construction and Turtle conservation. They were both amazing programs. While doing those, I also joined the teaching english programs in my extra time, and I have to say, they all had me visiting different amazing places and meeting the new cultures.

Free time:
Nosy be is an amazing place to hang out. Whether its renting scootors and cruising(funny story happened to me with that!) or simply taking boats and exploring other islands. And its extremely cheap considering the normal expenses you have in everyday life.

What was your funniest moment?

I rented a scooter from a vendor, my friends told me to get from them from someone else, but I got lazy. Broke down 30 mins later and had to drag it back to the vendor. Then I rented from the other person and all was good. But that hour dragging back the scooter uphill wasnt fun.

Response from International Volunteer HQ - IVHQ

Hi Ahmad, Thanks for your review on the Madagascar program. I'm glad to hear that you had a rewarding and enjoyable experience on your project. The effort you put in is appreciated by the community. We look forward to having you volunteer with IVHQ again soon. ^ Stacey - IVHQ Madagascar Program Manager

By IVHQ on October 6, 2019

Hi my name is Matt Bradley, I am from Cape Town, South Africa. Volunteering in Madagascar on the Island Outreach Program was easily the most incredible experience I’ve had. With so many endemic species and untouched coastlines, you are able to get a real feel for how nature should be thriving. Conducting field surveys, cleaning up beaches, interacting with the local communities and working with an international team of volunteers definitely gave me a different perspective on life. The field surveys were an eye opening experience as you get an understanding to the extent of the variety of different species that call Madagascar their home. The highlight of the program would have to be the turtle watch surveys as well as playing football with the locals after the English lectures. IVHQ were extremely helpful and made all of this possible.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?

Go to Madagascar with an open mind and be willing to contribute to the growth and progress of this program.

Response from International Volunteer HQ - IVHQ

Hi Matt, it is so great to hear you had such an awesome time in Madagascar. Your volunteer work had a big impact on keeping the nature thriving, and is really appreciated. We hope to have you volunteer with IVHQ in the future! Acacia - IVHQ Program Manager.

By IVHQ on May 9, 2019

Hi, I'm Laura, from Reus, Spain. I am 22 years old and I volunteered in Madagascar for three weeks in the teaching project. The experience was amazing! I could teach kids classes in the mornings, and also English classes to adults in the afternoons. All the local people from Nosy Komba are so nice, friendly and interested in learning english as much as they can. This attitude and their smiles in their faces made my day everyday. Their lifestyle is really calm and atracts you to join their culture and all the beauty of the country.
On the other hand, there are all the other volunteers, lovely and open-minded people that you have to share everything with, and I will never forget. I am so glad to still be in touch with some of them and hope to see again soon!

What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?

I was snorkling in the ocean when all of a sudden I saw this amazing and giant turtle swimming in front of me, moving it's fins in the most beautiful way. It was something I will never forget

Response from International Volunteer HQ - IVHQ

Thanks for your review Laura! The time and experience you brought were really great. It sounds like you enjoyed both your work and relaxation time, and made the most of your time on the program. Claire - IVHQ Program Manager.

By IVHQ on February 27, 2019

Questions & Answers

Can you go with a friend?

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Is this opportunity available to school groups?

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Is there an age limit?

No! Every year we place thousands of volunteers abroad and around 15 percent of these volunteers are aged 30 years and older. While the opportunity to volunteer abroad is popular among young travelers, an increasing number of senior travelers are choosing to volunteer with IVHQ each year, delivering a great deal of value to the communities in which we work. Jordan McFadyen IVHQ Community Manager

By IVHQ on October 29, 2018

What is weather like in December on Nosy Komba?

The weather in December was generally pretty good. Generally in the high 80s for the temperature and varying clouds and sun. It is the transition period into the rainy season though, so towards the end of the December expect a bit more rain especially at night.

By Devin Liang on February 5, 2018

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Alumni Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with verified alumni.

Why did you decide to volunteer abroad with IVHQ in Madagascar?

Venesia: I decided to volunteer abroad with IVHQ because my friend volunteered through them doing childcare work in Cambodia last year. She had an incredible time and looked so happy in pictures.

Volunteering has always made me happy… it’s an important part of who I am. So volunteering abroad combines probably the two things I love the most: helping people and traveling.

Besides, it’s been a really tough year… I really needed to get away to regroup and I definitely needed the boost that comes from doing something you love. I chose Madagascar after browsing the IVHQ website.

I knew I wanted to do a project in Africa because people have told me about the landscape, the animals, the cultures… and it all sounded like such a wonderful experience, the perfect escape paradise. Participating in the Teaching Project in Madagascar seemed like an appropriate choice because I can speak and write in French and because I am studying to become a teacher.

Describe your day-to-day activities as a volunteer.

Venesia: As a volunteer teacher, after breakfast at seven, we would walk from camp to Ampangorina. It’s about a 35-minute walk depending on the conditions. Some parts are a bit slippery and I’ve definitely had my share of scrapes and cuts… but I’ve discovered a way – walking barefoot… it gives you a better grip.

The school day is not very long but we teach the entire day. Because students live far up the mountain, we would end at approximately one o’clock so that they would have time to walk back. They have two 20-minute breaks in between classes and I love playing with them during this time.

I also really enjoy the exercise sessions they have over by the beach once or twice a week. During my stay, they played a game that resembles “follow-the-leader” and practiced for the regional relay race. After school ends, we would have lunch and discuss how we thought the lessons went.

We would also plan and prepare our lessons for the next day. If we have time, we would help with the painting of the school buildings or go for a swim before our informal adult class in the afternoon. In the adult class, we teach vocabulary and phrases that might help them in their jobs as a tour guide or restaurant owner for example. After this, we would generally boat back.

If you could go back and do something differently, what would it be?

Venesia: Looking back, bringing a recorder or a guitar might have made it easier for us to learn songs. I would also like to have meshed our color lesson with some sort of activity that made use of the art supplies I brought.

It would have been more fun for the students to get creative. If I could go back and do something differently, I would also spend more time with the local teachers because they have a wealth of knowledge to share about what works and what doesn’t.

It would also help me get a better understanding of my students. There is so much to know about each group: learning difficulties, their strengths and weaknesses, their interests, their learning styles and so on.

This information would have helped me plan lessons and present material in a more effective manner. Talking to the teachers would also allow me to learn about the reward systems in place and effective classroom management strategies such as how to line them up or quiet them down.

We learned these as time passed but it would have been good to know them from the start. Keeping to these routines and systems is very important.

Tell me about one person you met.

Venesia: I was very fortunate to be with a great group of volunteers. I met lots of people with diverse backgrounds and different life experiences. I got to spend the most time with my fellow co-teacher Jessi.

We were after all the only teachers there at the time. We worked together to start and implement the teaching program. Along the way, she has taught me a few important things either directly or indirectly.

I hope I can pass these along to more people out there. When life throws any challenges your way, before looking to others for help, look inside yourself. Trust yourself. You’re more capable than you might think.

Never back away from opportunities and from things you might want to do for fear of inadequacy. No one is perfect but that doesn’t mean you don’t try. Rise to the occasion, step up and follow your heart.

One person can change the world, a step at a time. Anybody can make a difference. Don’t be sad when you see inequalities or things that you think could improve… act on it and be a part of the solution. Stay positive. Don’t let one person or one bad experience bring you down. In fact, don’t let anything bring you down!

How has this experience impacted your future?

Venesia: This experience helped me find myself. It helped me develop the confidence and presence a teacher needs and showed me what flexibility really meant. Being around other passionate teachers and such curious and lovely students, I see what education can be. I see a future for the volunteer project, a future for the school, a future for the students.

That’s what I believe education is all about – a future. And I want to be a part of that. As teachers, we’re creating a better future – inspiring curiosity and helping students unlock their potential. I have visions of starting a library in Ampagorina so students have greater access to books.

My hope is that one day they would be able to read to learn, to be entertained, but more importantly to be inspired. Even though I am back, my heart is still with the students and I continue to think of things I could have done better. New ideas, themes, games keep coming to me. And I know I can be a great teacher because I want to be.

About International Volunteer HQ - IVHQ

International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) brings people together from all walks of life to make a difference on the adventure of a lifetime. We offer the world’s largest range of volunteer programs with 300+ projects across 50+ destinations - from teaching and working with children to medical missions, conservation and wildlife volunteering. With over 15...

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