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Gap Year Programs in Madagascar

The magical island country of Madagascar is located off the coast of Southeast Africa in the Indian Ocean. It is home to some of the most diverse wildlife, friendliest people, and intriguing culture and history. If you’re looking to take a year to travel the world, why not jump on a flight to this isolated world where you can explore the blend of African and Malay culture, dive into a landscape of deserts, rainforest, mountains, and sea— and adopt a slowly slowly lifestyle. Not only will you expand your horizons, but a gap year in Madagascar will give you some adventure before settling down.
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11 Gap Year Programs in Madagascar

Madagascar

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

9.55

794

Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 9...

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GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

9.68

37

GoEco - Top Rated & Award Winning Volunteer Programs Abroad

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and medical initiatives. GoEco operates in over 50 countries, providing unique cultural immersive experiences that aim to make a positive impact on the environment and society. The organization also offers internships and academic programs for students. GoEco provides safe and meaningful experiences while promoting sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions.

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Projects Abroad

9.41

296

Global Leader In Meaningful Travel. Trusted By 130,000

At Projects Abroad, we’re passionate about travel with a purpose. Since being founded in 1992, more than 130,000 volunteers have traveled to over 20 destinations around the world. Our programs will make you step out of your comfort zone and engage with your new friends from around the world. These are long-term projects, led by local people and aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. By taking part in our programs, even for a short time, you will be contributing towards a sustained effort to support the communities that host us! We believe no other provider offers the safety and security to their volunteers and interns that we do. You'll receive 24-hour staff support from our trained staff, alongside a gold standard of safety planning of your trip - so you don't have to worry about a thing. Choose a project you are passionate about from working with children to medical internship, conservation, and wildlife volunteering. We offer projects starting at one week in over 20 stunning destinations across Asia, Africa, Latin America & The Caribbean, South Pacific & Europe. Ready to make a difference? Follow the link to visit our website!

Volunteer World

8.69

16

Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller grassroots NGOs and local specialists in more than 80 countries. All these with just one click! Find projects in wildlife, teaching, community development, and several other areas. Simply choose your desired destination and desired travel date, and our search engine will compare the best volunteer abroad programs on your behalf. Whether you wish to gain experience at a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa or teach English at a monastery in Nepal, we've got you covered. Volunteer World guarantees a quick and easy application. We will guide you through this process, as well as help plan your next meaningful trip. We provide free access to quality-checked projects and flexible options. And if anything goes wrong, we've got your back with our qualified support team and our refund guarantee.

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A Guide to Gap Year in Madagascar

Popular Locations

Madagascar, known as “Rainbow Island” for its biodiversity, is full of diversity when choosing a location to spend your gap year. Relax on the beach, take up extreme sports, join the hustle of city life, or nestle into the jungle – this island has it all! And if you have the time, don’t limit yourself to just one of these beautiful places.

Nosy Be. Sitting on the western coast of Madagascar, this city radiates chilled out vibes in all directions. This village is a top beach destination with year-round sun and endless water-based sports and activities. You can take up diving or snorkeling, exploring the diverse sea life first hand, or rent a sailboat with new friends to enjoy the ocean from above. If you need a break from the sun, venture out to explore sugar cane fields and vanilla plantations, rent a quad to take you to hidden waterfalls, or lounge in a hammock under palm trees.

Fort Dauphin. On Madagascar’s southeastern peninsula, you’ll find Fort Dauphin, nestled between sea and mountain. To enter this tropical paradise, you’ll have to fight your way through spiny forests, but don’t let this deter you. Search for lemurs in the pristine jungle and make an adventure out of the journey that takes you to this beautiful hidden coastal town.

Antananarivo. Nicknamed “Tana,” Antanarivo is the capital city of Madagascar. It’s home to the richest Malagasy history and culture, with grand colonial buildings and flourishing markets. Wanderers will never run out of things to experience in Tana and foodies will be in for a treat. Feast on some foza sy hena-kisoa (stir-fried pork and rice) at a fine restaurant for only a few dollars, or indulge in fresh mangoes at a local market. You’ll be eating like a king!

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Latest Program Reviews

Turtle conservation project in Costa Rica

April 30, 2018by: Drew Copping - CanadaProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
10

Costa Rica's Turtle Conservation Project was one thing I will never forget! Such an eye opening and amazing experience. The IHQV program is an amazing way to explore the world in a feasible way. Not only is it affordable but I would have never experienced anything like it! IHQV Brings so much more, more ham any guided tour, more than a resort, and more than anything you could experience on your own. They have demonstrated such strong dedication to make sure every part of the trip is a great learning exprenice while keeping it fun. One of my most memeroble moments would be seeing the indangered leather back turtle lay her eggs. Because the leather back is in such danger it is critical that her eggs are gathered and re-nested in the hatchery where they can be taken care of and monitered to keep them safe from predators. I was lucky enough to be able to personally collect her eggs and dig a new nest to place each egg carfully. It was truley an amazing experience. I wish I could go back to see them hatch! Not only was this such an amazing experience, but every single person I met on this trip through the program m, I will dearly miss. IHQV brings everyone with similar ambitions together and from all over the world. I loved to meet people from the UK, Australia and Italy. Never could I go anywhere and meet such amazing people in one single place. I would recommend this program a million times. Leaving was hard, I'll miss my friends I have made and most importantly all the work that was done everyday to help such a wonderful project!

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