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.
Situated on the northeast peninsula of Madagascar, Masoala National Park is known for its incredible biodiversity. Ranging from flooded marshlands and coastal forests to mangroves, the habitats allow a number of animal species to live here, including aye-aye, red-ruffed lemur, Madagascan red owl and the extremely rare serpent eagle, which are all endemic to the peninsula. The park is also home to chameleons, geckos, and frogs, as well as several species of butterflies and fish which are new to science. Visitors can swim at the clean, picturesque beaches and explore the corals at Tampolo, Ambodirafia and Marofototra offshore. Other activities include: snorkelling, sea kayaking, traditional pirogues, whale watching, and experiencing sustainable life in the rainforest with the local Malagasy community. The nearby Nosy Mangabe Island also offers more to discover, including traditional Malagasy tombs in a cave.
Situated on the northwest coast of the exotic island of Madagascar, the Anjajavy area is home to a biodiverse reserve, luxurious beachfront lodges, a small fishing village and spectacularly scenic landscapes. Anjajavy features pristine beaches with sandy coves fringed by crystal clear turquoise waters, abundant and diverse wildlife, and tropical landscapes covered with rosewood and baobab trees. This remote paradise offers visitors a multitude of activities including: lounging on secluded beaches, indulging in a relaxing spa day, catching a glimpse of the Madagascan lemur or enjoying ocean-fresh seafood.
Dotting the ocean just off the northwest coast of Madagascar, Nosy Komba is a spectacularly scenic volcanic island sandwiched between Nosy Be Island and the mainland. This popular tourist destination is known for its remarkably beautiful landscapes featuring a rugged coastline covered in forested hills meeting the crystalline waters and interrupted by magnificent white-sand beach beaches hidden in picturesque coves. Visitors can look forward to an array of activities including visiting the friendly black lemurs at the Black Lemur Sanctuary, discovering a host of fishing villages scattered along the shoreline and exploring the dusty streets of Ampangorinana, the main village, where visitors can browse the market stalls for beautifully embroidered goods, intricate wood carvings and woven baskets. Other highlights include: bird watching, whale spotting, diving, and snorkelling.
