Set in the central-north part of Madagascar along the banks of the Ikopa River, along the national road RN 4 to Antananarivo and Mahajanga, the town of Maevatanana is set in the district of the same name, and is surrounded by nature parks. At the Ankarafantsika National Park, explorers can hike through dry deciduous forest filled with baobabs and orchids, and see over 100 rare and endemic species of birds, as well as various lemurs and reptiles. Nearby, the coastal National Park of Baly Bay offers gorgeous coral reefs for diving, picturesque golden beaches, and the chance to see the extremely rare ploughshare tortoise. The area has a history of gold, monazite and apatite findings, which may be interesting to explore. Make sure to see the amazing Red Cirque bright red rock formation, and visit the two enthralling caves at Anjohibe.