Volunteer on this one-of-a-kind Lemur Research Project in Madagascar and help protect lemur species on the brink of extinction.

Just like the animated film, Madagascar bursts with captivating colour, charismatic wildlife, and an energy that will leave you spellbound! Over 90% of the wildlife found in this extraordinary country, including its iconic lemurs, can be found nowhere else on Earth. Yet, this biodiverse wonderland is in danger, setting the stage for one of the world's biggest conservation emergencies.

An astonishing 98% of lemur species are at risk of extinction, making them the most endangered of all the primates and the most endangered mammal group in the world. That's why we established the Lemur Research Project in Madagascar, supporting the critical work of the NGO, Wildlife Madagascar. Founded in 2022, this dynamic NGO is on a mission to protect Madagascar's otherworldly wildlife through habitat protection, reforestation, sustainable livelihoods, education, and, most importantly of all, groundbreaking lemur conservation research.

Part wildlife rescue mission, part forest-saving crusade, and part scientific adventure, this unique lemur research project puts volunteers at the heart of the mission. In the depths of the last remaining highland rainforest, you'll not only spend time in the presence of wild lemurs but will also help to uncover the key to safeguarding their future.

Working alongside conservationists, researchers and local communities, you will assist with ecological surveys and lemur research (with a focus on indri and diademed sifaka lemurs), reforestation in areas of critical importance, such as wildlife corridors, and so much more. Wake up to the calls of lemurs, collect seeds beneath ancient canopies, restore habitats where life hangs in the balance, and experience Madagascar in a way few ever will!

Activities

Diedem Sifaka Spotted During Lemur Survey

Lemur Surveys If you’ve always dreamed of seeing lemurs in the wild, joining field researchers on lemur transects and surveys will be a dream come true. In this vast private forest, you’ll find 10 different species of lemur – with one only recently discovered to be in the area! You’ll record lemur sightings, behaviours, vocalisations, and group dynamics. These surveys help to monitor population trends and identify threats, informing long-term conservation strategies. Another benefit is having boots on the ground consistently, which helps deter poachers and those who illegally source forest materials.

Lemur Habituation Volunteers are a big part of the lemur habituation process, gently introducing these charismatic primates to human presence so researchers can observe them naturally and collect accurate, long-term behavioural data. You’ll venture along jungle trails following focal groups, such as the lively common brown lemur, recording their responses, spending time in their presence, and noting their movement patterns. This helps reduce observer bias, fuels groundbreaking conservation work, and helps secure a future where lemurs thrive.

Researcher Implementing Camera Trap - Lemur Research Project

Forest Biodiversity Surveys Heading out on different transects, you'll help conduct forest biodiversity surveys, collecting data on plants, insects, birds, and other incredible wildlife. With almost half of the world's chameleon species, you may focus solely on chameleon surveys. By tracking different species of flora and fauna over time, the team can monitor the health of the forest. During these transects, you'll also help deploy and retrieve camera traps, later reviewing them to identify species, activity patterns, and potential threats. Every photo could reveal something extraordinary!

Volunteers Collecting Seeds for Reforestation - Lemur Research Project in Madagascar

Seed Collection Lemurs are natural seed dispersers, making them a vital asset to the Malagasy forests. But with their habitats shrinking and numbers falling, this natural cycle is breaking, and the regeneration of native trees is at risk. As a volunteer, you will step in to help restore this balance. Rolling up your sleeves, you'll help collect native seeds using tarpaulins placed beneath fruiting trees, as well as by gathering seeds from lemur droppings found along survey routes! Back at base, you will learn to identify, sort, and prepare these seeds for germination in the on-site nurseries.

Volunteers Planting Trees - Lemur Research Project in Madagascar

Tree Planting & Nursery Care You'll be fully immersed in Madagascar's reforestation efforts from seed to sapling to forest! You'll help nurture native trees in community-run nurseries, watering, weeding, and preparing seeds and saplings for planting. When they're ready, you'll help plant the saplings in critical zones such as wildlife corridors and buffer areas around protected habitats. You’ll also get stuck in, helping to remove invasive plants, ready to replace them with native species. Reforestation is a critical cornerstone of conservation, as after all, preserving a species means nothing if there's no habitat left for them to call home.

Child in School - Community Outreach at Lemur Research Project in Madagascar

Community Outreach Conservation is about more than just wildlife; it's also about people. Community outreach is designed to strengthen the connection between local communities and the natural environment they depend on. Volunteers may work in the community garden, assist with conservation education activities for local schoolchildren, or help with light maintenance projects at the village school when needed. These experiences offer a meaningful way to engage with the local culture, share knowledge, and contribute to long-term change driven by local empowerment!

Lake by the Field Research Station - Lemur Research Project in Madagascar

Day by the River It's easy to become so immersed in the fascinating work that you forget to pause and take in the forest's beauty! One morning or afternoon, head to the river for a day of tranquillity. This spot offers a fresh perspective on the forest, where you can watch colourful birdlife along the banks and soak in the natural beauty around you. Why not try your hand at yoga, dive into a good book or for an extra touch of adventure, you might want to take the research site's canoe for a gentle glide across the water.

Volunteers Around Campfire - Lemur Research Project in Madagascar

Campfire Night After a day of hard work in the forest, a night around the campfire offers the chance to gather with your fellow volunteers, team members, and research students to toast to a job well done. Unwind, learn about Malagasy culture and traditions, sing a song or two and build friendships that often last long after the project ends. A night under the stars is a reminder of the community you're a part of and the difference you're making together.

Ring-tail Lemur at Lemur Park in Madagascar

Lemur Park Visit Before heading to the project site, volunteers will visit Lemur Park, which provides a refuge for some individuals that have been rescued from the illegal pet trade. Home to several lemur species, this offers the opportunity to see Madagascar's famous ring-tailed lemurs, arguably the country’s most iconic species. This visit serves as a poignant introduction to why your conservation efforts matter: ensuring that future generations of lemurs live safely in the wild.

Itinerary

Below is an example of a two-week itinerary. Please note, some activities may be subject to change depending on the needs of the project.

Day 1 - The Adventure Begins: Upon arrival at Ivato International Airport, you'll be met and transferred to a hotel for the night. Here you can rest and relax after your flight and later enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow volunteers and the project coordinator.

Day 2 - Lemur Park, Transfer & Orientation: After breakfast, you'll venture out to Lemur Park, approximately 45 minutes away, for your chance to see iconic ring-tailed lemurs, alongside other incredible species, some of which were saved from the illegal pet trade, and some you'll see out in the field! After a guided tour and lunch, you'll transfer to the research site (roughly a 3.5-hour drive). You'll have some time to settle in before orientation and dinner.

Day 3 - Lemur Survey: Your first full day in the field begins with an exciting early hike along forest transects to conduct lemur surveys. You'll make your way over a little bridge next to your accommodation before being met with a wall of primary rainforest! After entering, it won't be long before the lemurs are watching you, watching them. You'll help record sightings and behaviours, contributing valuable data to ongoing research. You'll head back to the field house for lunch before heading back out in search of other lemur groups.

Day 4-6 Research & Reforestation: Over the next few days, you’ll dive into a dynamic mix of lemur and forest research, hands-on reforestation, and community engagement. Mornings might find you shadowing playful lemur troops, setting up camera traps in hidden clearings, or helping record wildlife for biodiversity surveys. Afternoons may be spent gathering seeds from the canopy nets, nurturing young plants in the nursery, or planting new saplings in crucial habitat areas that need them most.

Day 7 - Lemur Habituation & Campfire Night: Today, you'll step into the forest to assist with lemur habituation. You'll keep focal groups company as they leap, forage, and call through the canopy. With researchers by your side, you'll become something of an expert yourself after essentially becoming one of the troop! After a rewarding week in the forest, unwind with an evening around the campfire with your team.

Day 8 - Relaxing River Day: Take a well-deserved break from fieldwork with a day by the river. The team's favourite spot by the river is a perfect way to see the forest from a new perspective. It's a great place to spot birdlife along the banks, try out yoga, read a book, or soak in the beauty of your surroundings. You may even be able to take the research site's canoe out on the river for a peaceful cruise. Today is yours to relax and prepare for another exciting week ahead!

Day 9-11 - Research & Reforestation: Back to the field with renewed energy! Over these three days, you'll continue contributing to vital lemur research, forest restoration and community outreach. Tasks may include lemur surveys, biodiversity monitoring, seed collection, and working in the community garden. By now, you'll be more confident in your field skills, moving through the forest with sharper eyes, deeper knowledge, and a stronger connection to the landscape you're helping to protect!

Day 12 - Lemur Habituation: Shaping the future of conservation, your final day will help lay the foundation for research that lasts for years. The day is dedicated to lemur habituation, offering a final chance to spend time with the remarkable characters you’ve come to know so well. The day will close with a celebratory farewell dinner, where you and your team can share stories, laughter, and the satisfaction of knowing your efforts have left a lasting mark on Madagascar’s wildlife.

Day 13 - Final Day: Today marks the end of your volunteer adventure. After breakfast, you'll be transferred to Ivato International Airport for your return flight or to begin your onward travel plans. If you're planning on exploring more of Madagascar and would prefer to stay in Antananarivo, we can recommend nearby hotels that offer airport transfers (please note that this option would be at your own expense).

Durations & Prices

To secure a place on this project, a deposit of £195 is required at the time of booking. The remaining balance is due 60 days before your start date.

Flexible Payment Options: If you select a start date more than 3 months in advance, we offer convenient payment plans, allowing you to pay off your balance in instalments.

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Accommodation

Volunteer Accommodation

Welcome to the most comfortable volunteer accommodation of any lemur research project! As a volunteer, you’ll stay in the brand-new field research station. It has everything you need for a homely yet exciting stay, including a welcoming social area, open-air kitchen and dining space, and a fire pit where you can relax with the researchers, local team members, and your fellow volunteers. Rooms are allocated on a twin-share basis, with the forest just a few steps away. This is a comfortable base where community, comfort, and conservation come together.

Meals & Beverages

Three meals a day are provided, with vegetarian options available, all prepared by a local cook. You'll get a taste of authentic Malagasy cuisine throughout your stay, along with a few Western dishes. Expect hearty, home-cooked food made with fresh, local ingredients, perfect fuel for your days in the forest. Drinking water, coffee and tea are readily available on-site, and a small selection of snacks and alcoholic drinks are available to purchase at the field station. You're also welcome to bring along any favourite snacks or beverages for between meals.

Project Details

When is the best time to volunteer?

The project runs from May to October, coinciding with the dry season, which is generally considered the best time to visit Madagascar. During this period, you’ll enjoy less rainfall and more sunshine, with temperatures ranging from highs of 19°C to 25°C (66°F - 77°F) and lows of 10°C to 15°C (50°F - 59°F).

Average Monthly Weather - Anjozorobe

Getting There

You will need to book a flight that arrives at Antananarivo Ivato International Airport (TNR) on your project start date. A project representative will meet you in the arrivals hall before you take a private transfer to a nearby hotel for the night. We recommend booking flights that do not arrive too late in the evening so that you can attend the welcome dinner with your fellow volunteers.

On the final day of the project, you will be transferred back to Antananarivo, roughly a 3.5-hour drive. You should book a late afternoon or evening flight that departs after 3pm to ensure you have enough time. Alternatively, you can book a night in a hotel and fly the next day if there are better flight options, but this will be at an additional cost. We can recommend hotels that provide airport transfers.

Visa Requirements

You can enter Madagascar without a visa for a stay of up to 15 days, but an administration fee of €10 must be paid on arrival.

For longer stays of up to 60 days, a tourist visa is required. Except for citizens of Burundi and Palestine, all foreign nationals can obtain a tourist visa on arrival at the airport. An administration fee must still be paid, which is €35 for a 30-day visa and €40 for a 60-day visa. Additionally, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your entry date and contain at least two blank pages.

For stays of up to 90 days, tourist visas can be extended when you are in Madagascar, and the cost is approximately €50. You can also apply for a tourist e-visa before travelling.

Fitness & Skills

No specific skills or experience are needed to join; however, the project involves regular trekking through steep, uneven forest terrain, so a good level of physical fitness is needed to take part. Volunteers should be comfortable with active days and extended hikes in a remote environment.

Vaccinations

There are no specific vaccination or medical requirements needed to join this project. The vaccinations required will depend on the individual medical history of each volunteer. We recommend that you consult with your doctor/GP regarding your own vaccination needs as this will ensure you are protected and prepared to travel. We also recommend that you take a look at the Fit for Travel website for more helpful information on how best to prepare for your experience.