Forest Conservation Volunteer Program
The Forest Conservation Volunteer Program in Madagascar is a hands-on environmental volunteering programme run by the Madagascar Research and Conservation Institute (MRCI) on Nosy Komba and in Lokobe Forest Reserve. Volunteers support the protection of the Sambirano forests through biodiversity surveys, wildlife monitoring, reforestation, habitat restoration, invasive plant removal, nursery work, sapling planting and non-invasive bat research. The programme helps preserve threatened forest ecosystems, native wildlife and plant species while contributing to structured conservation data collection and community-led environmental awareness. Volunteers stay at MRCI’s Turtle Cove camp on Nosy Komba and may join guided hikes, overnight forest campouts and conservation fieldwork in Lokobe Forest Reserve. No prior conservation experience is required, but moderate fitness is needed. The programme runs year-round for 1 to 12 weeks, with 2026 costs starting from $720. Volunteers receive a certificate after completion.
What is MRCI's Forest Conservation Volunteer Program?
MRCI’s Forest Conservation Volunteer Program is designed for volunteers who want practical field experience in one of Madagascar’s important forest ecosystems. Based on Nosy Komba, known as Lemur Island, the programme combines scientific research, habitat restoration and community-supported conservation. Volunteers work alongside the MRCI conservation team to collect biodiversity data, restore degraded habitats and support long-term protection of the Sambirano forests in Northwest Madagascar.
Forest Conservation Program at a Glance
| Program Feature | Details |
| Location | Nosy Komba & Lokobe Forest Reserve, Madagascar |
| Primary Activities | Wildlife Monitoring, Biodiversity Surveys, Reforestation, Habitat Restoration & Bat Research |
| Program Requirements | Moderate Fitness Level Required for Forest Hikes & Fieldwork |
| Minimum Stay | 1 Week |
| Starting Price | From $720.00 |
| Conservation Impact | Forest Restoration, Reforestation, Wildlife Conservation & Biodiversity Research |
Forest Conservation Volunteer Program Costs
2026 Costs for Forest Conservation Volunteering
- 1 Week - $720.00
- 2 Weeks - $995.00
- 3 Weeks - $1,270.00
- 4 Weeks - $1,545.00
- 5 Weeks - $1,820.00
- 6 Weeks - $2,095.00
- 7 Weeks - $2,370.00
- 8 Weeks - $2,645.00
- 9 Weeks - $2,920.00
- 10 Weeks - $3,195.00
- 11 Weeks - $3,470.00
- 12 Weeks - $3,745.00
What Your Program Costs Cover
- Accommodation: Stay at MRCI’s Turtle Cove camp on Nosy Komba, with additional overnight campouts and guided expeditions in Nosy Komba and Lokobe Forest Reserve. Accommodation is simple, community-supported, and located close to key conservation sites.
- Three Meals Per Day: Program fees include meals throughout your stay, helping keep volunteers energized during fieldwork and conservation activities.
- Transportation & Transfers: Program fees cover transportation and transfers associated with your volunteer placement and conservation activities.
- Field Research & Conservation Activities: Participate in biodiversity surveys, wildlife monitoring, habitat restoration, invasive species removal, nursery work, and reforestation projects alongside the MRCI conservation team.
- Equipment & Project Resources: All essential equipment and resources required for conservation activities, research projects, and habitat restoration work are included.
- Guided Forest Expeditions: Join guided hikes, overnight wildlife monitoring excursions, biodiversity surveys, and conservation fieldwork in both Nosy Komba and Lokobe Forest Reserve.
- Direct Conservation Impact: Your program fees directly support forest restoration, wildlife research, conservation initiatives, camp maintenance, and community development projects that help protect Madagascar’s unique ecosystems.
What is the Purpose of a Forest Conservation Program?
The Sambirano forests are part of a unique and delicate ecosystem. Therefore, this program supports long-term preservation by combining field research, habitat restoration, and sustainable community collaboration. The goal is to help protect biodiversity while building environmental awareness and shared responsibility.
The forest conservation program works to:
- Support the protection of native wildlife and plant species
- Restore habitats through nursery development and sapling planting
- Study and monitor biodiversity through structured field research
- Reduce invasive plant species that disrupt natural growth patterns
- Strengthen environmental awareness through community engagement
- Conduct non-invasive bat surveying to document nocturnal activity patterns and diversity
Who the Forest Conservation Program is Ideal For:
- Individuals passionate about forest conservation and biodiversity
- Volunteers seeking hands-on experience in environmental volunteering, research, and sustainable practices
- Nature lovers eager to experience Madagascar’s unique flora and fauna
- Adventurous travelers comfortable with basic accommodation and physical activity
- Students and graduates aiming to develop practical skills in fieldwork and forest conservation
Why Choose Our Forest Conservation Program?
As a forest volunteer, you’ll directly contribute to preserving the unique Sambirano forests and endemic wildlife. In addition, this program offers an extraordinary opportunity to:
- Directly contribute to preserving the unique Sambirano forests and endemic wildlife as a forest conservation volunteer.
- Experience one of the most bio-diverse regions on Earth with expert local guidance
- Opportunity to work on scientific research and make a tangible conservation impact
- Engage with local communities and support sustainable development
- Gain practical skills in field research, species identification, data collection, and ecosystem management
- Enjoy a truly immersive adventure, cultural exchange, and personal growth experience
- Participate in the first-ever acoustic survey of bats on Nosy Komba to help protect endemic species
Forest Conservation Program Details
The MRCI Forest Conservation Program on Nosy Komba, known as ‘Lemur Island,’ focuses on preserving the threatened Sambirano forests in Northwest Madagascar through active restoration and sustainable practices. As part of this environmental volunteering initiative, you’ll play a key role in supporting long-term forest conservation goals
Key project features include:
- Daily hikes to survey diverse biodiversity, including reptiles, amphibians, birds, and lemurs
- Acoustic monitoring of bats to identify cryptic species and build a local reference library of echolocation calls
- Data collection that directly informs conservation efforts
- Activities like alien plant removal, seed collection, composting, nursery work, and sapling planting
- Overnight night hikes providing opportunities to observe and record nocturnal wildlife
- Collaboration with the National Parks Department for population assessments and ongoing research
- Regular overnight guided walks and campouts in both Nosy Komba and Lokobe Forest Reserve
Accommodation
Accommodation for our forest conservation program volunteers is simple, community-supported, and located close to the key restoration sites.
Forest conservation volunteers stay at MRCI’s Turtle Cove camp on Nosy Komba, an island with no roads and challenging forest paths, thus moderate physical fitness is required.
Every alternate week, volunteers explore the forest on Nosy Komba through various walks and overnight campouts at either the Church or Baobab. Accommodation remains very basic and the cost is included in the forest conservation program fee, benefiting the local community.
Volunteers conduct fortnightly overnight guided walks in Lokobe Reserve. Accommodation is basic, with tented beach camps on the forest edge. Meals are arranged on-site through a local restaurant to support the community. Volunteers can upgrade at an additional personal cost to private tents with mattresses or private bungalows, subject to availability, arranged with the local community leader on-site.
Volunteer Activities and Impact
These activities form the core of our forest conservation program and ensure volunteers make a measurable impact.
As a forest conservation volunteer, you’ll participate in meaningful environmental volunteering tasks such as:
- Forest biodiversity surveys
- Alien/invasive plant removal
- Seed collection and nursery support
- Sapling planting and habitat restoration
- Overnight monitoring of nocturnal species
- Supporting community conservation efforts through data-sharing
Developing a species ID kit for under-studied mammal groups through bat research
These activities are essential components of the forest conservation program and contribute directly to long-term environmental protection.
Additional Activities for Forest Conservation Volunteers
For adventurous volunteers, we offer additional optional off-program excursions to the Ankarana Forest Reserve near Diego Suarez. Costs vary based on the number of participants and include transportation, guides, and accommodation. Ensure safety and standards when considering other operators offering lower prices. These optional excursions provide even deeper exposure to Madagascar’s biodiversity and complement the core forest conservation program.
Forest Conservation Volunteer Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a forest conservation volunteer?
A forest conservation volunteer participates in hands-on activities to protect and restore Madagascar’s unique forests and wildlife. Volunteers engage in tasks like biodiversity surveys, invasive plant removal, sapling planting, and habitat restoration.
Who can join the forest conservation program?
The program welcomes anyone passionate about nature, conservation, and environmental volunteering.
Is this program suitable for students or gap year volunteers?
Yes. The program is ideal for students, graduates, and gap year participants seeking forest conservation volunteer experience and practical environmental skills.
Do I need prior experience in conservation?
No. Volunteers receive training on all tasks, including species identification, data collection, and habitat restoration. This makes it suitable for students, graduates, or anyone interested in practical conservation experience.
Do I need a visa to volunteer in Madagascar?
Yes. All international volunteers require a tourist visa. MRCI guides application procedures and extensions to ensure compliance.
What vaccinations should I have before traveling?
Madagascar does not require any vaccinations to enter the country. Commonly recommended vaccinations for Madagascar include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus. Malaria prevention medication is also advised. Always check with your doctor or a travel clinic before booking flights.
How long does the program last, and when can I start?
The program runs year-round with start dates on the first and third Monday of each month. You can choose to participate for 1 to 12 weeks, depending on your schedule
What should I bring with me?
Bring sturdy hiking shoes, light long-sleeved clothing, rain gear, insect repellent, reusable water bottles, and personal items for overnight forest campouts. Conservation tools and materials are provided on-site.
Where will I stay during the program?
Accommodation is at MRCI’s Turtle Cove camp on Nosy Komba in shared dorm-style bungalows. Overnight forest excursions involve tented camps near the forest edge. Meals are included.
What will my daily tasks involve?
Volunteers conduct biodiversity surveys, remove invasive plants, collect seeds, plant saplings, monitor nocturnal wildlife, and assist in community conservation projects.
How physically demanding is the program?
Fieldwork involves walking through forest trails, carrying equipment, and participating in overnight excursions. Volunteers should be prepared for moderate physical activity.
Apply Today
By joining our forest conservation program, you will make a meaningful impact while gaining valuable hands-on conservation experience.
Contact us today to learn more and take your first step toward making a lasting impact.
