FAQ

Given the particular and complex context of the initiative, the selection of participants will be based on the following criteria:

• documented practical experience in archaeological excavation;

• knowledge of French or English;

• active involvement in NGOs or volunteer organisations (preferably in Civil Protection) operating in comparable socio-economic contexts;

• previous travel experience in emerging or low- or middle-income countries;

• a motivation letter clearly outlining the applicant’s personal commitment and its coherence with the objectives of the initiative.

In addition to the preparatory seminars and training activities preceding the trip, the participation fee includes:

• round-trip flight from Milano Malpensa International Airport “Silvio Berlusconi” (MXP) to Antananarivo–Ivato International Airport (TNR), with a stopover at Paris Charles de Gaulle International Airport (CDG);

• domestic transport within Madagascar (by road and air);

• accommodation with international breakfast at a hotel in the capital and at a private residence in Antsiranana;

• dinner on the first and last day at the hotel in the capital, and all lunches (as packed will be consumed at the archaeological site) and dinners during the field school working days at the villa in Antsiranana;

• bottled or sealed drinking water, up to 2.5 litres per person per day.

Costs not included:

• meals not included in the above list and ordered à la carte (at the student’s own expense);

• vaccinations;

• medications for self-medication (either over-the-counter or prescription);

• high-concentration skin repellents; and insect-repellent treatments for clothing.

Each participant is required to bring their own trowel. Additional personal equipment is allowed, provided it complies with airline regulations.

Personal protective equipment (PPE), including a protective helmet (mandatory inside the cave), work gloves (for handling sediments, rocks, and tools), and a dust mask (FFP2 or equivalent) when working with dust or guano, will be provided locally.

To minimize inconvenience and potential issues during travel, all excavation equipment may be consolidated into a single piece of checked luggage.

With regard to teaching activities, students (regularly enrolled at the University of Milan – UniMi) are covered by the existing academic insurance policy (Ref.). To cover the archaeological university activities carried out on the excavation site, this policy will be supplemented with a specific additional coverage (Ref.?).

Students regularly enrolled in equivalent degree programmes at other italian universities who are selected to participate must provide, within the required timeframe, a copy of their university insurance policy, duly supplemented to cover archaeological university activities carried out on the excavation site.

For all other activities (?), an insurance policy will be arranged through a service package arranged by "Viaggi d'amare Agency - Gattinoni Un Mondo Di Vacanze Network" (Ref.). 

Passport (with at least 6 months of remaining validity and one blank page)

Tourist visa (included in the cost of the trip).

No vaccinations are required for entry into the country; however, a specific certificate may be requested during the return journey. Since fieldwork involves the use of manual tools, tetanus vaccination is recommended.

Further precautionary guidance regarding appropriate health and safety practices will be provided before and during the trip.

Travel insurance, within the contractual limits, will cover medical assistance.

Although efforts will be made, through agreements with local authorities, to ensure a consistently safe operational and social environment, participants are required to maintain a prudent and responsible attitude throughout their stay. It is essential to follow the instructions of staff and local coordinators, avoid unauthorized movements (especially during evening hours)and remain attentive to personal belongings. Participants are also encouraged to respect local customs and maintain awareness of environmental and health-related conditions.

The LAAC project is carried out in a tropical summer environment, within an archaeological shelter located in the forest understory. Potential exposure to high temperatures, humidity, insects, and uneven or slippery surfaces requires lightweight, breathable, and protective clothing. Appropriate clothing is required for safety. Participants lacking adequate equipment may be restricted from participating in field activities.

Recommended clothing:

• lightweight, durable long trousers (trekking or light workwear) and long-sleeved breathable shirts (to protect against UV radiation, scratches, and insect bites).

• loose fit is recommended to allow air circulation and help the skin breathe; preferred materials include quick-drying technical fabrics, linen, lightweight merino wool, or very light cotton (a spare change is recommended). Avoid denim or heavy cotton; choose light-colored clothing and avoid dark, neon, or very bright colors.

• lightweight, breathable safety footwear with non-slip soles (S1P standard).

• breathable technical socks (essential to prevent blisters and infections).

• wide-brim hat to protect the head and neck and help regulate body temperature.

• bandana or neck gaiter, useful for wiping sweat from the forehead and protecting the neck from sun exposure and humidity.

• light waterproof jacket.

Additional useful health and logistical supplies:

• zinc oxide cream (e.g., baby diaper cream) or an anti-chafing stick (for runners), to be applied to sensitive areas before starting excavation;

• DEET-based insect repellent (30–50%): This is the most effective active ingredient. For tropical or very humid climates, consider products such as Bio-Kill (for clothing) or Jungle Formula. See the FAQ “Health regulations / recommendations.”;

• broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen, water- and sweat-resistant, with a lightweight texture (fluid/gel) suitable for hot, humid climates. 

• electrolyte supplements (sachets): Bring magnesium and potassium salts (e.g., Polase or similar). Avoid sugary drinks; sachets to dissolve in a water bottle are lighter to carry when flying;

• after-bite pen: Ammonia-based or with hydrocortisone, to quickly relieve itching and avoid scratching (scratching with dirt-covered hands is the number one cause of skin infections during excavation);

• sanitizing wipes: For cleaning hands before eating if running water is not available on site;

• hand sanitizer gel: Use sparingly (it dries the skin), but useful after handling artifacts or dirty tools;

• headlamp: field accommodations often have unstable electricity or poor lighting;

• portable chargers (power banks) for smartphones.

Nonostante, attraverso un accordo con le autorità locali, si cercherà di garantire costantemente un contesto operativo e sociale sicuro, si invitato i partecipanti a