About Us
Founded in 2013, MRCI is a government-approved organization dedicated to environmental research, conservation, community development, medical assistance, and content creation in Madagascar. Our work spans marine, forest, and turtle conservation, as well as English teaching and infrastructure projects in remote villages. In partnership with international organizations, we support long-term monitoring and species-focused initiatives to protect Madagascar’s unique biodiversity, both on land and underwater.
We provide a safe, inclusive environment for volunteers from around the world to create meaningful impact while fostering personal growth. Through sustainable research, conservation action, medical outreach, content development, and community engagement, we help improve local health and education. We also collaborate with other organizations to build a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future for Madagascar.
Program at a glance
Why choose us?
Our Sea Turtle Monitoring Program in northwestern Madagascar protects endangered green and hawksbill turtles by safeguarding nesting beaches, conducting in-water surveys, and collecting vital population data. During the nesting season (November to April), volunteers patrol beaches, monitor nesting activity, relocate at-risk nests, and assist in anti-poaching efforts. Outside this period, they focus on snorkel surveys, beach clean-ups, and community education.
By combining hands-on research, conservation, and local engagement, MRCI ensures that volunteers make a real difference, supporting the long-term protection of Madagascar’s unique marine and coastal ecosystems.
Requirements
Participants must be at least 18 years old on the program start date, although exceptions may be considered with written permission from a legal guardian or if accompanied by a parent. Volunteers should have an intermediate level of English to effectively communicate within the team and community. There are no nationality restrictions, and volunteers from all around the world are welcome. A commitment is required from Monday to Friday, 08:00 to 16:30.
Participants are also required to inform us in advance of any medical conditions, allergies, or dietary requirements so that we can ensure appropriate support during their stay.
Volunteer experience
NOTE: The schedule may vary depending on boats, tides, and other field conditions. Volunteers must follow instructions from in-country staff and remain flexible. Daily life in Madagascar is closely linked to family, boats, and tides. We encourage all volunteers to embrace the “mora-mora” way of life—slow down, be patient, and enjoy the journey.
Typical Day: Each program includes morning and afternoon activities. The Sea Turtle Monitoring Program also includes night activities during nesting season. After dinner each day, a briefing is held to review the next day’s activities. Please note that schedules may vary depending on the project, tides, and field conditions.
Sample Schedule:
- 05:00–07:00 Breakfast at camp
- 06:00–08:00 Morning activities
- 12:00 Lunch at camp
- 14:00 Afternoon activities
- 16:00–17:00 Activities usually conclude
- 18:00 Dinner at camp
- 18:45 Evening briefing for next day
To ensure the sustainability of our programs and support our partners and local communities, program fees are essential. Below is a list of costs for each program:
Turtle Monitoring Program:
- 1 week: €648
- 2 weeks: €896
- 3 weeks: €1,143
- 4 weeks: €1,391
- 5 weeks: €1,638
- 6 weeks: €1,886
- 7 weeks: €2,133
- 8 weeks: €2,381
- 9 weeks: €2,628
- 10 weeks: €2,876
- 11 weeks: €3,123
- 12 weeks: €3,371
Our camp consists of a series of locally built bungalows fitted with bunk beds that serve as volunteer sleeping quarters. Volunteers can expect to share a hut with three to four other volunteers and must bring their own bedding, mosquito net, and towels. There are several bathroom facilities equipped with running water, flush toilets, and cold-water showers.
Private rooms are available at an additional cost and are subject to availability. Single private rooms cost $230 per week, and double private rooms cost $280 per week.
Our camp is eco-friendly, with solar-powered lighting throughout. There are no charging facilities for electronic devices, so volunteers are encouraged to bring a solar panel and battery pack to keep their devices charged.
On camp, three meals per day are provided seven days a week. Each meal is prepared by our on-site cooks using traditional Malagasy cooking methods and fresh, locally grown, seasonal produce. Most meals are rice-based, typically served with beans cooked in a vegetable sauce, along with side vegetables. Menus vary depending on the season and availability of local produce.
Some meals may include fish or seafood, beef (zebu), or chicken. When included, meat is typically prepared in a sauce, cut into small pieces, and served over rice. In addition to bananas, breakfast usually consists of baguettes with jam, eggs, or crêpes.
A vegetarian option is available for all meals. However, due to logistical constraints and the remote location of the camp, we are unable to provide a vegan option.
Only cash is accepted on Nosy Be and Nosy Komba. There are no ATMs on Nosy Komba, so all cash must be withdrawn from ATMs on nearby Nosy Be. ATMs accept VISA cards, while only a few accept MasterCard. Depending on weekend activities and purchases, volunteers typically find $50–$150 USD per week sufficient spending money.
Note: Unless stated otherwise, volunteers organize trips independently and not through MRCI. Contact details from past volunteers are available on camp for arranging trips.
- Lokobe Forest Reserve
- Discovery scuba dive (through MRCI)
- Scuba training (through MRCI)
- Guided exploration of Nosy Komba (medicinal plants, wildlife)
- Tanikely Natural Reserve
- Nosy Iranja or Nosy Sakatia (snorkeling)
- Whale shark watching (seasonal)
- Sacred Tree or Waterfall (Nosy Be)
- Mount Passot hike (Nosy Be)
- Lemur parks (Nosy Be & Nosy Komba)
- Ankarana National Park
- Amber Mountain National Park
- Ambanja plantations visit
- Diego Suarez: Emerald Sea, Three Bays, Tsingy Rouge
Photos (9 total)
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