Wildlife Madagascar Researcher Guidelines

We are pleased that you are considering joining our team as an international graduate student. Your work at one of our three incredible field sites—La Mananara, Anjanaharibe-Sud Special Reserve (ASSR), or Namoroka National Park—will make a meaningful contribution to conservation efforts in one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. This guide has been carefully compiled to help you prepare for your trip and your time in the field, ensuring a productive and fulfilling experience. For an overview of our field sites, please visit Wildlife Madagascar Field Sites Overview.

All researchers and students must coordinate their proposed project(s) with the Chief Conservation Officer. Upon request, you will be provided with a current proposal template. We recommend you draft your research proposal and submit it a minimum of two to three months before your planned departure.

You will need to fill out the Liability Waiver Form and submit it to the Chief Conservation Officer for his signature.

All students are expected to become members of Wildlife Madagascar. Membership is $25 USD and can be purchased online at Become a Member. Members receive a monthly newsletter, and we encourage our researchers and students to contribute to the newsletter.

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Living and Working in the Field

Field Etiquette and Professional Conduct

Maintaining appropriate behavior while in the field is crucial to fostering a safe, respectful, and productive environment for everyone involved. Smoking is strictly prohibited at all field sites to prevent fires and ensure the health and safety of the team. Excessive alcohol consumption and drunkenness are not allowed, as they can compromise safety, impair judgment, and disrupt the team dynamic. Wildlife Madagascar has a zero-tolerance policy for any form of sexual harassment. All team members are expected to treat one another with the utmost respect, upholding a professional and inclusive atmosphere that reflects the organization’s values. Violations of these guidelines will result in immediate action, including potential removal from the field site. Your cooperation ensures a positive experience for everyone and supports our vital work.

Accommodation

Each main research camp provides tents for your stay. However, if your research requires work in remote locations, you will need to bring a tent for yourself, your Malagasy student counterpart, and your guide.

Field Equipment

Please consult with the Chief Conservation Officer about specific field equipment needs for your project. Recommended items include:

Food

Meals at the camps are simple, consisting of staples like rice, beans, pasta, vegetables, and occasional servings of meat. If you have specific dietary requirements, please inform us before your arrival.

Healthcare

Health care facilities near the sites are extremely limited, and serious treatment will require travel to Antananarivo. Please consult your doctor to prepare for potential health issues in advance and bring:
Antibacterial drugs
A first aid kit

A malaria prophylactic is essential. Discuss side effects with your doctor.

Discuss the following vaccinations with your travel doctor:
Diphtheria-Tetanus
Hepatitis
Measles, Mumps, and Rubella
Polio
Rabies
TB
Typhoid Yellow Fever

Consult your doctor about the following medications:
Allergy medication
Analgesics (Advil, Aspirin, Tylenol)
Antacid
Anti-fungal cream
Anti-itch medication
Antibiotics for gastrointestinal issues
Band-Aids
Condoms
Cough medicine
Disinfectant/iodine
Pepto-Bismol
Prescription medications
Rehydration salts
Seasickness medication
Yeast infection treatment (for women)

Dress

Fieldwork requires modest, practical clothing. You should: Dress conservatively to respect local customs. Avoid tank tops, short shorts, halter tops, and see-through tops.

Laundry

Washing services are available at each field station.

Internet

Starlink is available at all main research sites for daily communication and emergencies. It is recommended to have a WhatsApp number for maintaining communication. Local SIM cards (Orange, Telma, Airtel, or an eSIM) work with most US and European phones for calls and internet.

Money and Credit Cards

While Visa cards are accepted at some establishments in Antananarivo, cash is necessary in most places. ATMs are available in large cities, including Ivato Airport. Withdraw $500 USD (approximately 2,250,000 MGA) upon arrival for incidentals. Notify your bank of your travel dates to avoid account freezes.

Transportation

We will assist with transportation arrangements to your field site. You are responsible for transportation costs, including all transfers and other travel needs during your visit.

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Getting to Madagascar

VISA

Contact your embassy for requirements related to your stay.
For stays under two months: Obtain a tourist visa on arrival at the airport with exact change in USD or Euros.
For stays over two months: Apply for an extendable visa through the Malagasy consulate in your home country. Start early and coordinate with the Chief Conservation Officer for necessary host documentation.

Insurance

International travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is mandatory and must cover the full duration of your stay. We must receive documentation a minimum of two weeks before departure. Additionally, you must sign a release form acknowledging that Wildlife Madagascar is not responsible for accidents or medical issues during your stay.

Airline Tickets

International: Multiple international carriers service Madagascar, typically to Antananarivo (Tana, for short). The price of your ticket will depend on the carrier and the time of year. You can consult with Wildlife Madagascar for updated options.

Domestic: Madagascar Airlines is the only airline available for domestic travel. While domestic flights are not necessary for accessing Wildlife Madagascar’s field sites, they may save multiple days of overland travel for more distant locations. Domestic flights can be booked directly on the Madagascar Airlines website or at one of their offices in Tana.

Baggage

International carriers generally allow two 50 lbs (22.7 kg) bags per flight. Check with your airline for their specific baggage policies. Pack all valuables, medications, and a change of clothing in your carry-on. Remember, stores are not available near field sites, and 95% of field equipment is not available in the country, so you must plan ahead and bring all of your needed equipment with you.

Arrival

We will share our WhatsApp numbers in advance so you can contact us if your flight is canceled or delayed. One of our team members will meet you at the airport with a sign displaying your name. We will introduce you to them in advance via WhatsApp.

Hotels

There are many comfortable hotels and guest houses in Tana and Ivato (the town where the international airport is located). We are happy to provide suggestions and coordinate airport transfers. Depending on your schedule, it may be possible to stay at the Wildlife Madagascar office, which has a guest room.

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Welcome!

We hope this guide answers your questions and helps you prepare for a successful field experience. Should you have additional queries, please do not hesitate to contact us. Safe travels! We look forward to your contributions to Wildlife Madagascar.