Please note that this itinerary is an example only. The Pioneer program is designed as a 10 week scheme although shorter periods (from 5 weeks) may be available by prior arrangement.

Week 1: Arrival and Orientation
Situated at the beautiful lake-side camp of Lanirano in Fort Dauphin, you will receive a detailed orientation about Madagascar, local customs, and lessons in the Malagasy language. Coordinators from the projects give a basic introduction to the work they do and the projects that you will be working on. As well as being home for volunteers whilst in the Fort Dauphin area, Lanirano is a demonstration and training site for many of the projects going on in the villages. Volunteers will also visit Nahampoana Reserve where you will be able to get up close to several species of lemur.

Weeks 2-4: Ebakika
Volunteers engage in hands on construction of a village school - building a school house, equipped with tables and chairs, blackboard and shelving, and a well and latrines to provide clean water and sanitation for the children. During this time, volunteers will also assist in giving English lessons to the local community.

Break
There will be a break of three to four days back at Lanirano, to enable you to write up your work, do your post, emailing, dining out if you wish, shopping, and having a break from the routine of the bush.

Weeks 5-7: Sainte Luce
Volunteers will be helping in a wide range of activities including endangered plant seed collection and improving and expanding existing tree nurseries. Health education, environmental education and English teaching are also conducted with the local people. Return to Fort Dauphin for a well earned break.

Weeks 7-10: Belavenoka
Volunteers help to clean and repair the village's existing wells and build a fuel efficient stove in a nearby hamlet. You will also help create a vegetable garden for the school so that school meals of rice and beans can be supplemented with fresh fruit and vegetables

* Optional independent travel as roughly three weeks remain on the Malagasy visa.