WILDERNESS
Island of biodiversity
Known as the island of lemurs, Madagascar is the only country where you can admire lemurs in captivity in their natural environment. But not only that, Madagascar also has a rate of endemicity of fauna and flora incomparable in the world. This natural wealth, Madagascar shares it with all those who love adventure, discovery and safaris.
See lemurs
Every country has a special feature that makes it unique and attracts tourists. But in Madagascar, known as the Red Island, it’s the beauty of its lemurs that makes it famous. Among these primates are the Indri Indri, the largest species ever discovered on the island, which can be seen during your visit to the central-eastern part of the island. By exploring the Analamazaotra protected forest, you’ll even have the opportunity to admire them in their natural habitat.
The Maki catta, a type of ring-tailed lemur often depicted on Madagascar logos, is a must-see when visiting the south of the island. Take the time to appreciate the natural beauty of the Andringitra massifs or relax in the peace and quiet of the southern spiny forest, and you’ll have the chance to observe these makis up close in their natural environment in protected reserves.
The dancing sifaka, also known as the Verreauxi sifaka, is one of Madagascar’s sifaka species. With its thick fur and long tail, this sifaka lives mainly in the southern part of the island. If you’re hiking through the forests of Isalo, you may well come across one.
For Birdwatching
The large island of the Indian Ocean has more than 258 species of birds, of which more than 100 are endemic. These birds are dispersed in many protected areas. The birds are easy to observe between November, October and December. It’s in Madagascar that you can see the beauty of the Ankoay (Madagascar Fish-Eagle), kingfishers, flamingos and many others.
All kinds of birds can be observed in the protected areas like those of Ankarafantsika where you can see more than a hundred species of which 75 are endemic.Masoala national park will make you discover more than fifty endemic bird species.
The northern part of Madagascar to appreciate the beauty of birds with 1001 colors, such as pink flamingos, fishing eagles or sacred ibis.
The park of Tsimembo- Manambolomaty is the favorable destination of the birdwatchers wanting to observe the ankoay.
Whale safari
In the northeastern part of the island, via Sainte-Marie Island, an extraordinary spectacle awaits you every year between August and November: whales amaze you with their parade. On Nosy Be, whale sharks perform a unique dance between October and December. Early in the morning, when sea currents are even gentler, come and observe these giants of the seas.
A great diversity of endemic plants
Madagascar has a unique flora in the world, there are
There are more than 10,000 species of native plants, of which about 90% are endemic.
Among these plants the most famous, is the baobabs which are classified under 7 species of which 6 are endemic to the island. This tree can reach between 10 – 40 meters in height and and 6 meters wide. The visit of the baobab avenue in Morondava is highly recommended , not only do you discover giant baobabs but also a wonderful sunset that will plunge you into a nostalgic atmosphere.
