Located on the western coast of Madagascar, the resort town of Ifaty offers visitors the perfect laidback setting in which to wind down and get away from it all. The town is comprised of two small fishing villages: Mangily and Madio Rano. Thanks to an extensive coral reef that keeps rough conditions away, the surrounding waters are calm and offer fantastic diving, fishing and snorkelling opportunities. Towards the interior, birdwatchers and botanical enthusiasts will enjoy the spiny forests dotted with spectacular baobab trees and home to a large number of interesting bird and plant species. Throughout July and August, lucky visitors can spot migrating whales as they pass through the Mozambique Channel.