Backpacking or traveling in Madagascar?

• A pretty off-the-beaten-path destination for most, except perhaps for nature lovers. Madagascar is an island with tremendously special nature and a unique culture. At the same time, it is also a country with a lot of poverty, and if you spend your money the right way, you can do something about this as a tourist!
• Activity spotting: admire the unique Baobab trees, visit Tsingy for an adventurous day filled with unique rock formations, go hiking in Isalo National Park, relax on the beaches of Nosy Be or find peace and quiet at Nosy Boraha, connect with different lemur species in Ranomafana National Park or Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, experience the capital Antananarivo, drive on the N5 through bizarre landscapes, go on a whale watching tour, discover the cuisine of Madagascar. 

Studying in Madagascar?

• There is not much choice of studies in Madagascar and the quality of education is not very good. In particular, there is a choice of Bachelor programs including biology, applied sciences, art, business administration. There are also collaborations with research institutions and universities especially in the field of nature. 
• Language: the official languages are French and Malagasy. 

Internship in Madagascar?

• There are mainly internships in research programs in the areas of nature and conservation, international organizations and education. 
• Competencies: adaptability, environmental awareness and ecological knowledge, adaptability, problem-solving skills, leadership and teamwork, French language skills. 

Volunteer in Madagascar?

• There are volunteer opportunities in the areas of conservation (such as turtle monitoring, marine conservation, forest protection, lemur research), teaching English, building and construction and in health care.   

Working in Madagascar?

• In Madagascar, you are most likely to get a job with international development or conservation organizations. Thus, there are jobs in the fields of biodiversity, climate, health care and development aid. 

Working as a digital nomad in Madagascar?

• There is no digital nomad scene in Madagascar (yet), but there is a group of expats working in development. Wi-Fi can be found here and there, and bringing your own Wi-Fi router is handy. The cost is relatively low and the facilities are not too good. 
• Favorite locations: Antananarivo. 

Living in Madagascar?

• Living in Madagascar means living in one of the most unique and diverse countries in the world. You are surrounded by friendly people and expats who mostly work for development or nature organizations. 
• The cost of living in Madagascar is relatively low, but poverty is also high. So be prepared (mentally) for this. Also, facilities are not good, including health care, education and infrastructure. 
• Make sure you speak French or Malagasy! 

Stories, tips and experiences from Madagascar