Madagascar – Lemur Conservation

Madagascar is a beautiful island location with diverse landscapes ranging from deserts to beaches. The people living on the island come from many different countries, making it culturally diverse, so volunteers can acclimate with ease. This project takes place on the island of Nosy Be.

The natural population of lemurs is what the country of Madagascar is most commonly known for; however, these lemurs are currently on the list of endangered primates, even though the hunting of them is illegal. Unfortunately, most of their natural habitat in Madagascar has been destroyed over the years. Some locals keep them as pets and abuse them, and there are even some villages that still hunt them illegally. The goal of this project is to conserve this endemic species.

These rescued lemurs were taken illegally from their natural habitats. Since they cannot be returned to the wild, they will now live in safety at the center. Other animals at the center include the fish-eagle and Ploughshare tortoise.

As volunteer on this project you will be assisting the local staff with daily tasks to fulfill the various needs of both the lemurs and the center. In addition to cutting, preparing and serving food to the lemurs, you will also be responsible for planting and cutting the fruit trees that supply this food. Other tasks include maintenance and construction work at the center. Cleaning of the lemur enclosures is another task you will be assisting with during your stay. Your volunteering contribution will help this sanctuary to operate smoothly in addition to your direct positive impact on these rescued animals.

Some of your tasks may include:

• Preparing food for the lemurs, eagles and tortoises
• Cutting grass
• Planting fruit trees
• Feeding the animals
• Cleaning of enclosures
• Constructing and maintaining enclosures
• Creating informational boards on the different types of lemurs
• Transferring young lemurs to new enclosures

Sample Schedule: Volunteers will work Monday through Friday, four hours per day. Volunteers have the weekends free.

Please note: Tasks are subject to change based on local conditions and the current needs of the project.

Internet: There is no WiFi available at the accommodation or project site.

Laundry: Laundry services are available for an additional fee.

Accommodations: Volunteers will stay in shared, single-gender rooms at the volunteer center. There will be between four to six volunteers per room. Bathrooms are shared and cold-water showers are available. Fans are available in the rooms. There is a balcony and roof terrace for volunteers to relax, as well as a garden and lounge room.

Food: Three meals are provided on weekdays and breakfast and dinner are provided on weekends. Typical dishes include rice and vegetables, but there may be chicken twice a week. There is a kitchen and refrigerator at the house for volunteer use, to prepare their weekend lunches at their own cost. There is a supermarket within a 15-minute bus ride from the accommodations.

Please take note of this project’s minimum requirements:

• Basic level of English
• Love of animals
• Police clearance

Madagascar is a beautiful island with waterfalls, desert, caves and beaches just waiting to be explored. Popular activities throughout the island include hiking and water activities such as diving. Below are a few suggestions of where to specifically visit and what to do during your free time here:

Cirque Rouge
Also located in Mahajanga is Cirque Rouge, an amphitheater of natural red, orange and white rock. This amazing sight is breathtaking and a “must” for geology lovers.

Parc National de l’Isalo
Located in southwestern Madagascar is the National Park of l’Isalo, which can be explored by foot, horseback or bike. There are beautiful, natural pools to swim in and trails waiting to be discovered.

Parc National de Marojejy
The National Park of Marojejy is located in the northeast region of Madagascar. This jungle is home to natural waterfalls that will be sure to please our nature-loving volunteers.