Evolution has occurred more or less in isolation on this remote island – located 400 kilometres off Africa’s east coast – with the result that much of its indigenous wildlife is found nowhere else on earth. Madagascar’s menagerie of weird and wonderful creatures includes the world’s biggest and smallest chameleons and over 70 species of lemur – long-tailed primates endemic to the island. The Madagascan landscape is no less compelling than the resident wildlife, with terrain ranging from lush jungles and palm-fringed beaches to the knife-edged karst tsingys of the Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park’s ‘stone forests’. Madagascar is an otherworldly paradise where visitors are offered a unique glimpse into a fantastical one-of-a-kind world.
Madagascar’s capital, Antananarivo, is known fondly as Tana and crowns a majestic mountain range at around 1400 metres above sea level. The city boasts a rich historical heritage that is complemented by scenic landscapes and a large network of sublime hiking routes. From here, it is possible to explore several nature reserves (don’t miss Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, which contains incredible limestone karsts). Known for its vibrant nightlife, Antananarivo features exciting local live music at a variety of clubs and bars. History and architecture enthusiasts have plenty to see - from the remnants of the French colonial era in the old heart of the city to ancient Malagasy palaces and forts. Other bucket-list items include the fascinating Musée de la Photo; the popular Parc de Tsarasaotra (an excellent bird sanctuary), and the vibrant Analakely Market.
The seaside town of Morondova is situated on the west coast of Madagascar. The town serves as a gateway to the area’s claim to fame and main attraction: the world-renowned ‘Avenue of the Baobabs’. These massive, ancient Baobab trees tower over the terrain and create magical otherworldly silhouettes at sunrise and sunset. Other places to explore in the surrounding area include: Kirindy Forest, home to a host of endemic lemurs; and the magnificent Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park to the north, featuring unique, spiny rock formations. Don’t miss the opportunity to browse Morondava’s local market for a selection of locally made textiles and other sought-after Madagascan handicrafts.
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Located in eastern Madagascar in the Moramanga District, the small village of Andasibe is surrounded by a belt of protected rainforest and several parks boasting incredible natural scenery and an array of exotic Madagascan wildlife. It serves as an excellent base from which to explore the spectacularly scenic surrounds. Visitors can look forward to discovering the natural wonders of the nearby Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, Analamazaotra Reserve and Perinet Special Reserve. Don't miss the opportunity to hear the unique song of the large indri lemur, explore a network of incredible trails that wind past glistening lakes and magnificent waterfalls and discover the rich biodiversity in the local flora and fauna.
Also known as the Palmarium Reserve, Akanin'ny Nofy Reserve is located on the banks of the Ampitabe Lake on the eastern coast of Madagascar. The literal translation from Malagasy is ‘the nest of dreams’ - an apt name for this slice of paradise - which boasts coastal dunes, lush forest, and a well-maintained trail for visitors to explore. It is home to a variety of flora and fauna as well as a variety of reptiles, frogs, palm trees, carnivorous pitcher plants and an array of orchids. The reserve also features some rare and unique animal species, including the famous dancing sifaka, and seven lemur species including the Indri. Nature enthusiasts will delight in the breathtaking natural scenery and abundant wildlife. The reserve is only accessible via boat, making for a wonderfully adventurous entry into this wild wonderland.
The port city of Toamasina, also known as Tamatave, is situated on Madagascar’s eastern coast on a sandy peninsula. The town features beautiful beaches, excellent restaurants, and wide avenues filled with traditional Malagasy pousse-pousse carts. Visitors can look forward to a number of historical attractions and fun activities. Explore the stilted Creole houses lining the streets of the charming Old Town, relax in the shade of ancient banyan trees, view the faded grandeur of the crumbling colonial mansion in the Place Bien Aime Park, and stroll down the palm-fringed Independence Avenue to the scenic beachfront boulevard. Don’t miss the colourful Bazary Be street market, featuring an array of locally made handicrafts and exotic spices.
This long, narrow island off Madagascar’s east coast might be just the piece of heaven you’re looking for. Also known as Nosy Boraha, the island offers the same privacy and mystique they did for the legendary pirates that held out here after their plunders in days gone by, among its lush islets, bays and coves. The waters are endowed with significant coralline growth and provide first-class diving opportunities. If you prefer being ‘onboard’, take a traditional pirogue ride in the calm bays. From July you can witness the migration of substantial groups of humpback whales. History-lovers should make sure to visit the pirates’ cemetery of Saint-Pierre.
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