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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
9.53749 reviews

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

World’s #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!

International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) brings people together from all...

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GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization
9.6534 reviews

GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

GoEco - Top Rated & Award Winning Volunteer Programs Abroad

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with awa...

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Volunteer World
8.7512 reviews

Volunteer World

Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find ...

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Projects Abroad
9.41296 reviews

Projects Abroad

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At Projects Abroad, we’re passionate about travel with a purpose....

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Turtle conservation project in Costa Rica

by: Drew Copping - CanadaProgram: World’s #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!

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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