Madagascar is the fourth largest island in the world. 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, making Madagascar one of the most important treasure troves of biodiversity on the planet. 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.
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.
Set across a series of hills in Madagascar's central highlands, Antananarivo is the country's vibrant capital and cultural heart. Often referred to as "Tana", the city combines a rich history with a lively urban atmosphere, where colourful markets, colonial-era buildings, and bustling streets reflect a blend of Malagasy traditions and past influences. Visitors can explore the historic Upper Town, admire panoramic views from the restored Queen's Palace, and browse local crafts, spices and produce in the city's markets. The scent of street food drifts through the air, while narrow lanes and steep stairways reveal hidden corners of everyday life. Dynamic and energetic, Antananarivo offers an authentic introduction to Madagascar's culture, history and distinctive character.
