Madagascar – the ultimate island adventure
Situated off the south-east coast of Africa, the large island of Madagascar offers many different reasons to visit. Whatever you’re looking for on your African adventure, from unique wildlife to pristine beaches and diverse cultures – you’ll find it in Madagascar, and in abundance.
Diverse flora and fauna
Madagascar’s separation from the African mainland – and the many unusual species that live there – have led to it being labeled a ‘laboratory of evolution’. Even if you’re a safari veteran, you’re certain to see new species – and perhaps even some creatures you may never have heard of.
Madagascar’s most iconic wild animals are undoubtedly the lemurs. These endearing primates are found nowhere else on Earth. We’ll come back to them a little later in this blog. Other unique creatures include the cat-like fossa, over 100 species of birds that live only on Madagascar, and many species of chameleons including some so tiny they can fit on the tip of your finger.
The flora of Madagascar includes towering baobab trees and many colorful species of orchids – a stroll through any forested area on the island is a fiesta of colors, shapes and scents.
Tropical islands
Madagascar is surrounded by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and there are numerous smaller islands dotted around the main island. This means pristine beaches, clear azure waters, and ample opportunities for relaxing beach time.
Much like many of the other island groups off the eastern seaboard of Africa, Madagascar offers snorkeling and diving on busy coral reefs, blue water fishing, and encounters with marine turtles, manta rays, whale sharks and even dugongs (the mammal that may have started the mermaid myth).
Madagascar is also home to some of our favorite island lodges and eco-resorts – destinations that let you get away from it all, and focus on your wellness and on the connection you’ll feel with nature.
Diverse culture
Being located between Africa and Asia means that the Malagasy people have absorbed many different cultural influences, and these are reflected in all areas of their life but especially their music and food.
When you spend time here, you’ll likely hear sounds that will be as new to your ears as they are tempting to your feet – and you’ll delight the local people if you let go of your inhibitions and join in with the dancing!
Rice is a staple food, and it’s served with a variety of side dishes and stews. Pork is a popular ingredient, and as you’d imagine, the seafood, fruit and spices are all superb.
The ultimate adventure destination
If you’re looking for a destination that’s different, then Madagascar offers almost limitless potential for adventure. This is particularly true if you get off the beaten track and explore places like Antananarivo, the bustling and vibrant capital city, with its colorful houses and cobbled streets, the ‘stone forest’ of Tsingy de Bermaraha with its unique rock formations, or the centuries-old trees that form the Avenue of the Baobabs.
Ranomafana National Park protects mountain rainforest habitats and hot springs – a combination of ecosystems that you may not have encountered elsewhere. Try hiking through the sandstone canyons of Isalo, followed by a refreshing dip in the natural water pools that form in the rocks before watching the setting sun make the rocky towers and cliffs glow.
Lemurs
We may just have saved the best until last! Lemurs are the wild creatures that are most associated with the island of Madagascar. They are fascinating in their behavior and occupy a unique place in zoology.
Ring-tailed lemurs are the most famous examples of these primates – you’re certain to enjoy the way they move together as a group across the forest floor, stripy black and white tails held vertically so they don’t lose track of each other amongst the jungle foliage.
Many smaller lemur species are nocturnal – in fact, the name ‘lemur’ comes from an ancient word for ‘ghost’ or ‘spirit’ which gives you a sense of how elusive they can be. Lemurs are great at climbing, and have unique features like tooth combs and ‘toilet claws’ that set them apart from other primate species.
The importance of lemurs in Malagasy culture is reflected in the fact that they are protected by cultural taboos – an example of traditional conservation that helps to explain why Madagascar has retained its biodiversity and another reason why you need to visit. To explore the wonders of this magical destination, have a look at our Explore Madagascar itinerary and contact us us to make this dream destination a reality.
