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.
Antananarivo, also known as Tana, is Madagascar’s capital city. It is perched at 1400 metres above sea level crowning a spectacular mountain range. Founded in 1625, Antananarivo, often considered only as a starting point to the South, North, East and West regions, Antananarivo still has a rich historical heritage that is complemented by scenic landscapes covered in a large network of popular hiking routes.
Known for its vibrant nightlife, Antananarivo features local live music at a variety of clubs and bars.
The city is divided into 3 parts, the upper, middle and lower city. The upper town is the most visited part with its Rova or Queen's Palace which dominates the whole city and offers an exceptional panorama. Another curiosity not to be missed is the large market of Tana or Zoma located in the lower town and whose scents and colours will delight you.
Perched in the Central Highlands, Antsirabe serves as the capital of the Vakinankaratra Region. Known as the ‘Malagasy Vichy’ because of its numerous hot springs and thermal baths, Madagascar’s third largest city offers tourists a bustling and gritty atmosphere in a setting reminiscent of the Belle Epoque. The city can be experienced on foot or on one of the many colourful pulled rickshaws - referred to locally as 'pousse-pousses'. The city’s charming attractions include French colonial buildings dating back to the early 20th century, Scandinavian villas, vibrant markets, and artisan workshops. Nno visit is complete without a trip up Ivohitra Hill, where a panoramic view of the scenic highlands awaits.
The lush, hilly town of Miandrivazo is found in the district of the same name, towards the centre of the island. This is said to be the hottest region in Madagascar, making breezy boat trips on a pirogue or motorboat, down the nearby Tsiribihina River, the area’s most popular activity. The journey offers great opportunities to view birds and wildlife including lemurs swinging through the trees and crocodiles lurking silently in the shallows. Visitors can catch glimpses of daily local life in villages nestled on the river bank and visit a beautiful waterfall at Anosin’ Ampela.
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.
With the Mozambique Channel to its west and encircled by lush natural landscapes, the Kirindy Private Reserve lies on Madagascar's beautiful western coast. This privately managed reserve provides a sanctuary for a host of endangered ecosystems namely dry deciduous forests, and a collection of wildlife which includes the giant jumping rat, seven endemic lemur species and an array of bird species that inhabit this swathe of unique vegetation. Known for its extreme seasonal changes, this reserve is most popular after the rainy season when verdant landscapes explode into existence. Visitors can look forward to night hikes, spotting the giant umbrella-branched baobab tree, catching a glimpse of a variety of nocturnal mammals, reptiles, and insects filling the spectacular night skies.
Set close to the southern boundary of the Tsingy of Bemaraha National Park, the town of Bekopaka lies in the district of Antsalova, Madagascar. It offers visitors a host of comfortable accommodation options and serves as an excellent base for exploring the spectacular Tsingy of Bemaraha National Park, a world-renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is known for its unique geology boasting forests of ‘tsingy’, which are spiky limestone karsts creating an otherworldly landscape for visitors to discover. Other attractions include the park’s untouched woodlands, mangroves and glistening lakes abundant with an array of wildlife such as the endemic lemur and almost 100 different bird species.
As previously described
Tsangajoly is a tiny rural town just east of the Mania River, within the exquisite Menabe Antimena Protected Area on Madagascar’s northwestern coast. Set among vast salt pans and open plains, this is a unique getaway destination where visitors can quietly discover the richness of Madagascan landscapes and wildlife. Dry deciduous forests and groups of enthralling Lemurs make this a truly special place. It also offers a chance to learn about salt harvesting and the authentic traditions of the area. Tsangajoly is also known for its exceptional seafood.
As previously described
As previously described
