If you have never been to Madagascar – an isolated island off the coast of Southeast Africa, consider visiting this extraordinary destination by all means, as the experience you’ll get here is something unrivaled Spectacularly beautiful nature reserves, fascinating flora and fauna with most species found nowhere else in the world, miles of verdant landscape with pretty beaches, scenic towns and ports, and even more, much more – this is what you can find in this inspiring and mysterious land.
Nowadays when people think of this magic place, first of all they think about the famous cartoon movie. However, this enchanting country is far beyond an animated place, it’s a dreamscape vacation spot with many unique sites waiting to be explored. And while tenth of thousands of tourists flock to Madagascar to meet Mother Nature’s most curious creatures – lemurs, others head to this adventurous getaway to get acquainted with amazing sites, including the not to be missed Tsingy de Bemaraha, Ile Saint Marie, Masoala Peninsula, and Royal Hill of Ambohimanga.
Tsingy de Bemaraha
Found in the southern region of Madagascar’s largest nature reserve, Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve, this amazing natural wonder is definitely one of the must-see attractions of Madagascar, which has been added to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list in 1990. There are two parks, Big Tsingy (large park) and Small Tsingy (small park). Climbing the rocks is quite difficult as it takes one complete day via 4×4 on very rough terrain. It’s worth mentioning that the sharp cliffs of Tsingy de Bemaraha are not as harmless as they look in photos. Many have lost their lives when trying to climb these natural stone-knives that reach the height of about 180 meters.
Ile Saint Marie
Off the east coast of Madagascar lies a beautiful sleepy island, Ile Sainte Marie, composed of a main island and several islets. Once the center of attention of Indian Ocean pirates today the island is a popular beach spot in Madagascar, blessed with kilometrical sandy beaches shaded by coconut palms, exclusive bays and coves protected by amazing coral reefs and traditional fishing villages. The island is where visitors can enjoy some of the best whale watching in Africa. Make sure to visit the island July through September, when substantial groups of humpback whales come to breed and calve in the tranquil waters of the Antongil Bay. The Island is 50 km long and 7 km wide and is visited mostly by European tourists.
Masoala Peninsula
Renowned for its extensive tropical rainforests and high biodiversity of plant and animal life, the awe-inspiring Masoala Peninsula, only accessible by boat or foot, is a place visitors to Madagascar should never miss out. Located east of Maroansetra, most of the peninsula is a National Park since 1990, covering an area of 410,000 hectares. Empty tranquil beaches, mangrove forests, and rocky coves unfurling alongside a warm sea are some of the highlights of the peninsula. From July to August, these waters become the home of humpback whales, which are more common than tourists. The peninsula is an ideal getaway for indulging water sports, including kayaking, snorkeling, and sailing. Hikes, wildlife watching and guided walks can also be arranged. The Masoala peninsula’s splendid isolation guarantees guests’ unruffled and memorable experience.
Royal Hill of Ambohimanga
A UNESCO World Heritage Site that lies approximately 20 kilometers north from Madagascar’s capital city of Antananarivo, the Royal Hill of Ambohimanga comprises a royal city and burial site, and an ensemble of sacred places. The place is closely associated with the Merina people, whose origins trace back to a phase of immigration from Indonesia some 500-600 years ago. Perched high atop one of the 12 sacred hills of Imerina, the Royal Hill of Ambohimanga has been and remains one of the most spiritual and historic sites for the Malagasy people. Set in a lush green countryside environment and a peaceful atmosphere, the Royal Hill of Ambonhimanga is an ideal venue for a day excursion.
Madagascar is a year round travel destination ideal for those who love nature, adventure and fun.
