Madagascar: It's Africa, but not as you know it

It’s the differences that make you unique and thanks to its isolated location off the southern coast of Africa, Madagascar has developed many differences.

In fact, the world’s fourth largest island is so-bio-diverse that many refer to it as the ‘eighth continent.’ As soon as you step foot onto its ubiquitous red earth, you’ll notice that landscapes, wildlife and cultures you encounter are uniquely Malagasy. 

Who Should Visit Madagascar? 

It certainly isn’t a mainstream destination but if you find yourself constantly looking outside of the norm for ‘something different’ you may find that Madagascar is your type of place to travel to. 

Love nature and wildlife? You’ll find 5% of the world’s plant and animal species here, many of which are endemic to the island. There are also over 100 types of lemurs, only to be found on Madagascar, and of course the iconic Baobab trees. 

Prefer activity on your travels? The varied and often challenging landscapes provide some wonderful trekking opportunities through landscapes such as the Tsingy de Bemaraha, sharp limestone formations. 

Looking for genuine cultural encounters? Malagasy culture is a hypnotising blend of cultures and customs combining Africa, Asian and Arabian influences. 

Is it safe to visit Madagascar?

There are a host of tips and information about the safety and security of destinations like Madagascar for those looking to travel solo. A guided group tour of Madagascar will provide you with a safe opportunity for you to travel with someone local with a group of like-minded people with the same spirit for adventure. 

What is there to see and do in Madagascar? 

Our itineraries have been carefully designed to ensure you take in the must-see highlights of Madagascar, plus a few extra places that even AI can’t spit out a result for. 

Unique Wildlife Experiences 

• Lemurs are perhaps the islands’ most famous residents, with over 100 different species found only here. Andasibe-Mantadia National Park is one of the best spots to see them. 
• Baobabs: The towering baobab trees are a sight to behold, and to see so many of them lined up in the Avenue of the Baobabs, is an experience you won’t get anywhere else
• Chameleons and Other Reptiles: Madagascar boasts a diverse range of reptiles, including chameleons, geckos, and the intriguing Madagascar hissing cockroach. 

Explore Diverse Landscapes

• Tsingy de Bemaraha: These sharp limestone formations, called “tsingy,” create a surreal landscape and is a great place for exploring.
• Rainforests of the East Coast: The eastern part of the island is lush with rainforests, ideal for birdwatching and spotting rare plant species.
• Beaches and Marine Life: Madagascar’s coastline offers pristine beaches, with Nosy Be and Ile Sainte-Marie being popular spots for snorkelling, diving, and whale watching. 

Genuine Cultural Encounters

• Tribal Traditions: From the music to the dance and traditional Malagasy flavours, Madagascar’s 18 ethnic groups ensures there is no lack of variety
• Historic Sites: The Royal Hill of Ambohimanga and the old French colonial architecture in cities like Antananarivo provide insight into the island’s history. 

When is best to visit Madagascar?

Madagascar is in the southern hemisphere, with the cooler months generally in the middle of the year. However it is the rain you really want to avoid and the dry season is the time to visit. 

• April to October (Dry Season): Temperatures are cooler, and rain is minimal. 
• June to September (Best Wildlife Viewing): Ideal wildlife viewing months for experiences like baby lemurs in the forests. 
• November to March (Rainy Season): Although it’s rainy, this season can still be appealing for those seeking solitude and wanting to avoid crowds. However, some areas might be inaccessible due to muddy conditions. We prefer not to travel then. 

What adventure options are there on Madagascar?

Like any place outside, if you have the spirit for adventure, you’ll find it. Whether its canoeing along the Manambalo River, searching for lemurs on foot in the Ranomafana Nature Reserve or trekking amongst the granite peaks of Andringitra National Park, the options are many, but the number of companies who offer such active adventures in Madagascar are few. 

Check out our active trips in Madagascar. 

Isolated from Africa millions of years ago, Madagascar has evolved an incredibly rich ecology and a landscape that is as bizarre as it is unique. It has also evolved into one of Africa’s most sought after adventure travel destinations – visit when you can.