Considered one of the most bio-diverse places on the planet, Madagascar is a dream destination for our outdoor-loving volunteers. We’ve listed below some of the popular destinations and activities that IVHQ volunteers can experience while on the IVHQ Madagascar program.
In and Around Nosy Komba
The IVHQ Madagascar program is based on the island of Nosy Komba, just a few kilometers from the neighboring island of Nosy Be. Boasting beautiful tropical forest and private beaches, Nosy Komba is a popular destination for travelers in Madagascar to explore.
Ampangorina Markets
The charming village of Ampangorina is the most visited destination for tourists on Nosy Komba, showcasing an intricate collection of local woodcarvings and embroidered tablecloths available for purchase from the winding markets and beachfront stalls.
Lemur Park
True to its name, Nosy Komba (Lemur Island) is home to thousands of black lemur, endemic to Madagascar. Lemur Park is a popular stop for visitors to Ampangorina looking to gain up close encounters with black lemur and other wildlife, including chameleon, tortoise and boa constrictor.
Further Afield
While volunteering in Madagascar, volunteers can take advantage of the opportunity to travel further afield to see more of what the country has to offer. We have highlighted just some popular weekend destinations for volunteers in Madagascar, but our local staff are always willing to share with you the many other locations well worth exploring when you arrive in country.
Nosy Be
Take a short boat ride from Nosy Komba across to the bigger island of Nosy Be and hire a scooter or quad bike to explore the sacred lakes, beaches and waterfalls scattered across the island. Pay a visit to the popular tourist village of Ambatoloaka for a bite to eat and spend the night in one of the island’s many hotels, or take the 15 to 25 minute boat trip back to Nosy Komba to catch the sunset.
Diego Suarez
For volunteers traveling further afield, Diego Suarez is a must do, with plenty of adventurous activities on offer. Whether you’re into kite boarding, quad biking down dunes, snorkeling in the Emerald See, or hiking through rainforest, Diego Suarez is an unmissable destination for adrenaline junkies. En route to Diego Suarez from Nosy Be, be sure to visit the Ankarana and Mont d’Ambre National Parks.
If you would like more details on any of these locations or activities, our local team in Madagascar can assist you once you are registered onto the IVHQ Madagascar program.
To apply for the program or explore the volunteering opportunities available in Madagascar, visit our Volunteer in Madagascar page.
