HQ Volunteering

The dates shown in the table are the accommodation check-in and check-out dates.
Projects start on Mondays and finish on Fridays.

Nosy Komba is a small volcanic island located between Nosy Be and the northwestern coast of Madagascar. Also known as the “island of lemurs” due to its population of black lemurs, it is covered in lush tropical forest and surrounded by black-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. The island is home to small fishing and artisan villages where daily life moves at a relaxed and authentic pace.

Nosy Komba is an ideal destination for those who wish to connect with nature, take part in conservation projects, and experience the warmth and simplicity of Malagasy culture, away from mass tourism. 

Volunteers are accommodated in locally built open-air huts on the island of Nosy Komba, shared with up to five people of the same gender. Rooms are basic, with bunk beds and shared cold-water showers and flush toilets. Volunteers are expected to help maintain the cleanliness of bathrooms and common areas.

Lockable storage boxes are available in the main house, though volunteers should bring a padlock for their luggage. Towels, bed sheets, pillow, pillowcase, mosquito net, and a light sleeping bag or blanket (recommended between June and August) must be brought from home.

Electricity is supplied by solar panels, with a backup generator used sparingly. As power is limited, volunteers are encouraged to bring few electronic devices or solar chargers. The camp is isolated and accessible only by boat or a 30-minute walk over rocky terrain. Wi-Fi is not available at camp but can be accessed in the nearest village, or volunteers can purchase a local SIM card with mobile data.
Three meals per day are provided. Special dietary requirements cannot be catered for.

For destinations in partnership with HQ Volunteering, 25 scholarships of €300 are available.
Costs vary according to the duration of the volunteering project and are divided as follows:

• Application fee: €35 (non-refundable) - required during the program application phase.
• Deposit fee: €200 - required after the close of applications to confirm the intention to proceed with the enrollment.
• Programme fee: (requested directly from HQ after eligibility confirmation, see table):
   

A 5% international banking fee is added at point of payment.

Projects dedicated to supporting local communities through the construction and maintenance of essential infrastructure in schools and villages on the island of Nosy Komba and its neighboring islands. Volunteers help improve school and community buildings, making them safer, more functional, and welcoming for local residents.

Activities may include small-scale construction work, painting, repairs, and general maintenance. As the project often takes place in remote locations and involves physical work, a good level of fitness and adaptability are required.

This programme gives volunteers the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in sustainable construction while actively contributing to community development and improving living and learning conditions in the area.

Projects dedicated to the preservation of biodiversity and the protection of forest ecosystems on the island of Nosy Komba. Volunteers work alongside local biologists and researchers on activities that monitor flora and fauna, collecting and analyzing data to support long-term conservation and sustainable environmental practices.

Activities may include wildlife observation and data collection, forest hikes, mangrove planting and care, forest cleaning, identifying and removing invasive species, and assisting local farmers in adopting sustainable agricultural methods.

This project is ideal for volunteers who enjoy spending time in nature and have a strong interest in conservation and biodiversity. A good level of physical fitness is required, as the work involves walking through untouched forests and occasionally climbing over rocks or up steep mountain trails.

Projects dedicated to teaching English to children, youth, and adults in schools and communities on the islands of Nosy Komba and Nosy Be. Volunteers help improve the English proficiency of local people, expanding their educational and employment opportunities, particularly within Madagascar’s growing tourism sector.

Activities may include leading grammar and conversation lessons, assisting local teachers, organizing educational activities, and collaborating with institutions such as the Oceanographic Research Institute on Nosy Be, where English is essential for international communication and research exchange.

This programme is ideal for energetic volunteers passionate about education and eager to help others learn English. A good level of physical fitness is required, as some schools are located in villages accessible only by hiking over rocky terrain. No previous teaching experience is required, although relevant training, such as a TEFL certificate, is highly valued.

Projects dedicated to the protection and conservation of endangered sea turtles that nest on Madagascar’s beaches. Volunteers work alongside local biologists and conservation teams to monitor turtle activity, safeguard nesting zones, and contribute to the preservation of marine biodiversity and fragile coastal ecosystems.

Activities vary depending on the season: during the nesting period (November–April), volunteers collect and record species data, nesting information, and population dynamics; in the off-nesting season (May–October), they identify turtle activity areas, restore nesting beaches, conduct seagrass snorkeling surveys, and participate in turtle watches and beach clean-ups.

The project is ideal for active volunteers with a medium level of fitness and a strong interest in marine conservation and biodiversity. Participants receive comprehensive training on species identification, equipment use, and data collection techniques. Volunteers must bring their own snorkel, mask, and fins, as these are not available on Nosy Komba.

In addition to research activities, volunteers may also take part in community education programs and small-scale sustainability projects, such as creating eco-bricks and bamboo straws, helping promote long-term turtle protection and environmental awareness