Where to go in Madagascar

Probably one of the best lemur experiences in the world, Andasibe National Park is the best place to spot the Indri, the largest living lemur! The park is separated into two distinct areas, Speciale d’Analamazaotra (usually known as Perinet - the old name of a French nearby town and rail station) to the south, and Park National de Mantidia to the north. Created in 1989, it encompasses the same humid lush forest throughout, covered with moss and trees, peppered with over 100 extraordinary orchid species and dotted with lakes.

Nestled amidst the southwest terrains of sweeping canyons, dramatic bluffs and jutting rock formations, the Isalo National Park offers some rewarding trekking opportunities amongst natural pools and through uniquely Jurassic landscapes.The park was established in 1962 and is popular with trekkers who enjoy the agreeably warm climate, diverse colours of the scenery and some of the natural attractions you come across on the various circuits. Monkey Canyon is accessed through the dense forest shrub-land, a wonderful ravine that runs through the massif, where it is sometimes possible to see the unusual gait of the sifakas as they dance sideways along the ground, as well as ring-tailed lemurs leaping through the trees. It is possible to combine a visit to Monkey Canyon with the natural pools, and as the heat from the canyon builds, the green and inviting pools provide the perfect opportunity to cool off after a challenging hike.

The Palmarium Reserve, also known as "Ankanin'ny Nofy" (meaning "Nest of Dreams"), is a spectacular private reserve nestled along the shores of Lake Ampitabe, on the eastern coast of Madagascar.

Meaning ‘hot water’ in Malagasy, due to the hot springs found in the area, Ranomafana National Park is one of the most picturesque national parks in Madagascar. Covering a mountainous area of 415 kilometres, the park is set at altitudes that range between 800 and 1,200 metres in a vast tract, comprised mainly of dense rainforest. The rare golden bamboo lemur was discovered here in 1986 by Dr. Patricia Wright, which led to the area gaining National Park status. It now provides a protected environment for these endangered animals and is one of the island’s most accessible and appealing stops on any itinerary.

Just 8 kilometres off Madagascar’s eastern coast, Ile Sainte Marie is a small island paradise with pristine beaches lined with coconut palms. Known for its tranquil villages and laid-back atmosphere, the island is a great spot for relaxation and exploration.

Known for its incredible array of biodiversity, the Masoala National Park and its offshore island reserve of Nosy Mangabe represent the largest of Madagascar’s protected land areas and some of its least visited. The habitats you are likely to come across here are wide-ranging, from flooded forest marshland and coastal forests to mangroves, which collectively teem with life and provide a fascinating look at the island’s many natural wonders.

Known as the "Perfumed Island" due to the fragrance of vanilla, pepper, and ylang-ylang in the air, Nosy Be is a popular island destination off the northwest coast. Its deserted beaches and vibrant sunsets make it perfect for relaxation, while its rich history and accessible location attract visitors from around the world.

Vibrant, alive and chaotic, Antananarivo, usually termed by its colloquial short hand Tana, is the capital city of Madagascar and its political and economical powerhouse. Located in Antananarivo Province, this commanding city is usually the first stop for visitors to Madagascar, being home to the International Airport. However, to pass through Tana without stopping to explore would be to miss out on understanding the core of Madagascar’s psyche. With a population of about 1.4 million, Tana is divided into two distinct regions; Lower Town and Upper Town. Upper Town is shrouded with purple jacaranda trees in the summer, and here you will find arts and crafts markets and intimate jewellers.