Madagascar Safaris

Things To Do in Madagascar

The Avenue of the Baobabs: A Photographer’s Dream

One of the most iconic and photographed sites in Madagascar is the Avenue of the Baobabs, a stunning collection of massive baobab trees that line a dirt road near the town of Morondava on the island’s western coast. These ancient trees, some of which are over 800 years old and 30 meters tall, are a testament to the resilience and adaptability of nature in the face of harsh and changing environments.

Visiting the Avenue of the Baobabs is a must-do for any traveler to Madagascar, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light is soft and golden and the trees cast long shadows across the landscape. Many tour companies offer guided excursions to the site, which typically include transportation, a local guide, and plenty of time to explore and take photos.

In addition to the baobabs themselves, the area around Morondava is home to a variety of other natural and cultural attractions, such as the Kirindy Forest Reserve, where visitors can spot lemurs and other endemic wildlife, and the traditional fishing villages along the coast, where locals still use dugout canoes and hand-woven nets to catch fish and crabs.

Ranomafana National Park

For those seeking a more immersive and off-the-beaten-path experience, Ranomafana National Park is a must-visit destination. Located in the southeastern part of Madagascar, Ranomafana is a lush and verdant rainforest that is home to an incredible diversity of flora and fauna, including 12 species of lemurs, 130 species of frogs, and countless species of birds, reptiles, and insects.

Visiting Ranomafana is a true adventure, with rugged trails, dense vegetation, and the constant sound of birdsong and animal calls. Visitors can choose from a variety of guided hikes and walks, ranging from short and easy strolls to multi-day treks that take you deep into the heart of the forest.

One of the highlights of any visit to Ranomafana is the chance to see the park’s most famous resident, the golden bamboo lemur. This critically endangered species was only discovered in 1986 and is found nowhere else on earth. Other notable lemur species in the park include the greater bamboo lemur, the red-bellied lemur, and the Milne-Edwards’ sifaka.

In addition to its wildlife, Ranomafana is also home to a variety of other natural and cultural attractions, such as the Namorona River, which runs through the heart of the park and is home to dozens of endemic fish species, and the nearby village of Ranomafana, where visitors can learn about traditional Malagasy culture and handicrafts.

Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park

For those seeking a truly unique and otherworldly experience, Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park is a must-visit destination. Located in the western part of Madagascar, Tsingy is a vast and surreal landscape of razor-sharp limestone pinnacles, deep gorges, and hidden caves that is unlike anything else on earth.

Visiting Tsingy is a true adventure, with challenging hikes, steep climbs, and narrow passages that require a good level of physical fitness and a sense of adventure. Visitors can choose from a variety of guided tours and treks, ranging from short walks to multi-day expeditions that take you deep into the heart of the park.

One of the highlights of any visit to Tsingy is the chance to see the park’s unique and endemic wildlife, such as the Decken’s sifaka, a rare and endangered lemur species that is known for its incredible agility and acrobatic leaps among the limestone pinnacles. Other notable species in the park include the Madagascar harrier-hawk, the fossa (a cat-like predator), and the Madagascar fish eagle.

In addition to its wildlife, Tsingy is also home to a variety of other natural and cultural attractions, such as the Manambolo River, which runs through the heart of the park and is home to a variety of endemic fish and reptile species, and the nearby village of Bekopaka, where visitors can learn about traditional Malagasy culture and handicrafts.

Isalo National Park

For those seeking a more arid and rugged experience, Isalo National Park is a must-visit destination. Located in the southern part of Madagascar, Isalo is a vast and beautiful landscape of sandstone cliffs, deep canyons, and hidden oases that is home to a unique and diverse array of flora and fauna.

Visiting Isalo is a true adventure, with challenging hikes, steep climbs, and the chance to swim in crystal-clear natural pools and waterfalls. Visitors can choose from a variety of guided tours and treks, ranging from short walks to multi-day expeditions that take you deep into the heart of the park.

One of the highlights of any visit to Isalo is the chance to see the park’s unique and endemic wildlife, such as the ring-tailed lemur, the Verreaux’s sifaka, and the Madagascar harrier-hawk. Other notable species in the park include the fossa, the Madagascar iguana, and the Madagascar pygmy kingfisher.

In addition to its wildlife, Isalo is also home to a variety of other natural and cultural attractions, such as the Window of Isalo, a stunning natural arch that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, and the nearby town of Ranohira, where visitors can learn about traditional Malagasy culture and handicrafts.

Andasibe-Mantadia National Park

For those seeking a more accessible and lemur-focused experience, Andasibe-Mantadia National Park is a must-visit destination. Located just a few hours’ drive from the capital city of Antananarivo, Andasibe is a lush and scenic rainforest that is home to an incredible diversity of lemur species, as well as a variety of other endemic wildlife.

Visiting Andasibe is a relatively easy and comfortable experience, with well-maintained trails, knowledgeable guides, and a variety of accommodation options ranging from simple campsites to luxurious eco-lodges. Visitors can choose from a variety of guided walks and night hikes, which offer the chance to see a wide range of lemur species up close and personal.

One of the highlights of any visit to Andasibe is the chance to see the park’s most famous resident, the indri. The largest living lemur species, the indri is known for its haunting and melodic calls that can be heard echoing through the forest at dawn and dusk. Other notable lemur species in the park include the diademed sifaka, the black-and-white ruffed lemur, and the brown mouse lemur.

In addition to its lemurs, Andasibe is also home to a variety of other endemic wildlife, such as the Madagascar pygmy kingfisher, the Madagascar long-eared owl, and the colorful Madagascar day gecko. Visitors can also take guided walks through the nearby Mantadia National Park, which offers a more rugged and remote rainforest experience.

Ifaty and Anakao

For those seeking a more relaxing and beach-focused experience, the small fishing villages of Ifaty and Anakao on Madagascar’s southwest coast are a must-visit destination. With their white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs, these villages offer the perfect combination of natural beauty and laid-back island vibes.

Visiting Ifaty and Anakao is a relatively easy and comfortable experience, with a variety of accommodation options ranging from simple bungalows to luxurious beach resorts. Visitors can spend their days lounging on the beach, swimming in the warm waters of the Mozambique Channel, and exploring the nearby spiny forest and baobab groves.

One of the highlights of any visit to Ifaty and Anakao is the chance to go snorkeling or diving on the nearby coral reefs, which are home to an incredible diversity of marine life, including sea turtles, reef sharks, and a variety of colorful fish and coral species. Visitors can also take boat trips to nearby islands and sand banks, where they can enjoy picnics, beach walks, and even overnight camping under the stars.

In addition to their natural beauty, Ifaty and Anakao are also home to a variety of cultural attractions, such as the traditional fishing villages where locals still use dugout canoes and hand-woven nets to catch fish and lobsters, and the nearby town of Tulear, where visitors can explore the lively market and sample local specialties like grilled seafood and spicy curries.

Nosy Be

For those seeking a more upscale and developed beach experience, the island of Nosy Be off Madagascar’s northwest coast is a must-visit destination. Known as the “Perfume Island” for its ylang-ylang plantations and fragrant spices, Nosy Be offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern amenities.

Visiting Nosy Be is a relatively easy and comfortable experience, with regular flights from the capital city of Antananarivo and a variety of accommodation options ranging from simple guesthouses to luxurious beach resorts. Visitors can spend their days exploring the island’s lush interior, lounging on its white sandy beaches, and snorkeling or diving on the nearby coral reefs.

One of the highlights of any visit to Nosy Be is the chance to see the island’s unique and endemic wildlife, such as the Nosy Be panther chameleon, the Nosy Be sportive lemur, and the Nosy Be mouse lemur. Visitors can also take guided hikes through the island’s ylang-ylang plantations and spice gardens, where they can learn about the history and production of these fragrant crops.

In addition to its natural beauty, Nosy Be is also home to a variety of cultural attractions, such as the lively market in the town of Hell-Ville, where visitors can sample local specialties like vanilla and rum, and the nearby islands of Nosy Komba and Nosy Tanikely, where visitors can see habituated lemurs and explore pristine coral reefs.

Fort Dauphin

For those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience, the town of Fort Dauphin on Madagascar’s southeast coast is a must-visit destination. Known as the gateway to the south, Fort Dauphin offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure opportunities.

Visiting Fort Dauphin is a relatively easy and comfortable experience, with regular flights from the capital city of Antananarivo and a variety of accommodation options ranging from simple guesthouses to upscale hotels. Visitors can spend their days exploring the town’s colonial-era buildings and museums, lounging on its white sandy beaches, and taking day trips to nearby natural and cultural attractions.

One of the highlights of any visit to Fort Dauphin is the chance to explore the nearby Andohahela National Park, a vast and rugged wilderness that is home to an incredible diversity of endemic flora and fauna, including several species of lemurs, birds, and reptiles. Visitors can take guided hikes through the park’s lush rainforests and dry spiny forests, and even camp overnight in the heart of the wilderness.

In addition to its natural beauty, Fort Dauphin is also home to a variety of cultural attractions, such as the traditional Antanosy villages where locals still practice ancestral customs and crafts, and the nearby town of Manafiafy, where visitors can learn about the history and production of silk and other textiles.

Masoala National Park

For those seeking a truly remote and untouched wilderness experience, Masoala National Park on Madagascar’s northeast coast is a must-visit destination. Accessible only by boat or small plane, Masoala is a vast and pristine rainforest that is home to an incredible diversity of endemic flora and fauna, including several species of lemurs, birds, and reptiles found nowhere else on earth.

Visiting Masoala is a true adventure, with rugged trails, dense vegetation, and the constant sound of birdsong and animal calls. Visitors can choose from a variety of guided hikes and walks, ranging from short and easy strolls to multi-day treks that take you deep into the heart of the forest.

One of the highlights of any visit to Masoala is the chance to see the park’s most famous resident, the red ruffed lemur. This critically endangered species is known for its striking red fur and loud, raucous calls that can be heard echoing through the forest canopy. Other notable species in the park include the helmet vanga, the Masoala fork-marked lemur, and the Masoala woolly lemur.

In addition to its wildlife, Masoala is also home to a variety of other natural attractions, such as the stunning Tampolo Marine Reserve, where visitors can snorkel or dive among colorful coral reefs and schools of tropical fish, and the nearby island of Nosy Mangabe, where visitors can explore the ruins of an ancient pirate hideout and spot the elusive aye-aye lemur.

The Tsingy Rouge

For those seeking a truly otherworldly experience, the Tsingy Rouge near the town of Diego Suarez on Madagascar’s northern tip is a must-visit destination. This stunning geological formation, also known as the “Red Tsingy,” is a vast and surreal landscape of razor-sharp red limestone pinnacles, deep gorges, and hidden caves that is unlike anything else on earth.

Visiting the Tsingy Rouge is a true adventure, with challenging hikes, steep climbs, and narrow passages that require a good level of physical fitness and a sense of adventure. Visitors can choose from a variety of guided tours and treks, ranging from short walks to multi-day expeditions that take you deep into the heart of the park.

One of the highlights of any visit to the Tsingy Rouge is the chance to see the park’s unique and endemic wildlife, such as the crowned lemur, the northern sportive lemur, and the Madagascar crested ibis. Visitors can also explore the nearby Ankarana National Park, which is home to a variety of other natural and cultural attractions, such as the stunning underground rivers and caves, and the traditional Antankarana villages where locals still practice ancestral customs and crafts.