The world’s fourth largest island is a strange place with a diverse culture of French, African, Asian and Arab influences. Perhaps it is mainly the strange animal species and unique plants that arouse the desire to travel to the realm of lemurs and monkey bread trees. Madagascar broke away from the African continent 160 million years ago and has lived its own life ever since. Plants and animals have evolved at their own pace and created unique species that only exist here. The island is covered with high plateaus, dramatic mountain landscapes, lakes, tropical rainforest, mangrove swamps, cocoa, tea and coffee plantations. Beautiful swimming and some of the Indian Ocean’s premier diving and snorkeling waters can be found off Isle Sainte Marie. With Trackers you can combine your trip to Madagascar completely according to your own wishes.
Antanarivo
Madagascar’s capital Antananarivo, also called Tana, is dramatically located on three hills with a ridge (over 1400m) that cuts through the city. It was founded as a fortress in the early 18th century by Merina rulers. The Queen’s Palace overlooking Antananarivo from the top of the ridge was a spectacular monument until it was recently destroyed in a fire. The ruined castle, the market and the botanical garden are well worth a visit.
Andasibe
Andasibe is located on the mountain slopes on the island’s rainy eastern side. The area you travel through has high humidity and offers views with rainforest and small lakes. In Andasibe you explore the Vakona Forest Reserve together with your guide. Vakona is located in the province of Toamasina (930-1040 masl) and is one of Madagascar’s main nature reserves for finding the “Indrin” the largest Lemur species. In Mantadia National Park you will find no less than 11 endemic Lemur species, the world’s smallest chameleon and the colorful Mantella frog to name a few.
Ranomafana National Park
Ranomafana National Park is located in the southeastern part of Madagascar in Haute Matsiatra and Vatovavy-Fitovinany. With more than 41,000 acres of tropical rainforest, it is home to several rare species of flora and fauna, including the golden half-mackerel a species first discovered in 1987, Great Bamboo Lemur, Black and White Var and Milne-Edwards Sifaka, and over 120 species of frogs . Several endemic bird species can be seen here. The park was founded in 1991 with the aim of preserving the unique biodiversity of the local ecosystem and reducing human pressure on the protected area. It is part of the world heritage of Atsinanana’s rainforests.
Isalo
Isalo is known for its canyon landscape with strange rock and rock formations. Here are Sifakor warming up in the morning sun, Brun Maki and Ringsvanslemur. Isalo National Park is located between 500 and 1,200 m above sea level. Here you have the chance to see i.a. Madagascar parrots, flowering aloe species and a variety of beautiful butterflies and orchids. Inlaid between the sandstone massifs is a natural small pool with crystal clear water that invites to a dip.
Isle Sainte Marie
Isle Saint Marie is 55 km long and only 3 km wide. The Indian Ocean that surrounds the island shows a fantastic marine diversity for those who want to snorkel or dive. Together with a guide or on your own you have the opportunity to explore the island. Here you will find small villages where life goes its own way, mangrove swamps, rainforests, spice plantations and a rich history that tells about pirates and ancient kings.
MADAGASCAR
is very much about remote and unknown places, endemic animals and plants, the local everyday life where life goes its own way. The journey of discovery is best done with your own guide and by traveling by plane, car, boat or on foot depending on distance and destination.
Together we plan your trip to Madagascar.
MADAGASCAR
According to countryaah, Madagascar is the world’s fourth largest island, about 30 percent larger than Sweden. It is located in the Indian Ocean about 50 km east of the African continent with Mozambique as the nearest neighbor on the mainland.
Climate
Short for MA by abbreviationfinder, Madagascar is located in the tropical zone, but the climate varies between different parts of the country. It is hot and humid along the east coast, but hot and dry on the west coast and farthest south.
Visa
Yes – Visas are required for Swedish citizens.
Currency
Malagasy Ariary MGA.
100MGA = 0.30SEK.
Language
Malagasy, French and English are official languages.
Vaccinations
Mandatory – The yellow fever vaccination is required if you arrive from certain countries in Africa or South America.
Recommended – Malaria prophylaxis, Polio, tetanus and diphtheria vaccinations are reviewed. Check with your vaccination center for personal needs.
