Madagascar
Often referred to as the ‘eighth continent’, Madagascar is home to a staggering 5% of the entire planet's flora and fauna.
Intro
Situated east of Mozambique in the Indian Ocean, it is believed that a staggering 5% of the entire planet's flora and fauna can only be found in Madagascar. Although the island’s charismatic lemurs understandably grab most of the headlines, it is a treasure trove of flora and fauna, including the very recent discovery of rare whale sharks in its waters.
Having split off from the African continent almost 160 million years ago, Madagascar's unique biodiversity has evolved free from hunters and mass human development which has endangered so much of the rest of the world's wildlife and environment. Culturally, Madagascar is also very different to mainland Africa, with the island's first settlers arriving from as far away as Borneo with a gradual influx of people from other Southeast Asian countries. Surprisingly the first wave of Africans arrived relatively late considering its proximity to Africa's east coast. French influence can also be felt all over the island due to seventy years of colonial rule.
Why travel with us ?
Our extensive research travelling around the island has resulted in some truly authentic off-the-beaten-track tours. Whether you travel in a small group or on a private tailormade trip, you will come face-to-face with many species of lemurs, kaleidoscopic chameleons, and other endemic mammals as well as enchanting forests filled with birdsong and stunning coastal towns.Experience Madagascar's breathtaking landscapes - from rainforests, primeval jungles and crater lakes to the canyons of Isalo National Park; from jaw-dropping massifs and peculiar tsingy (unique limestone pinnacles) to the ‘Avenue of Baobabs’ in lesser-visited western Madagascar. Our knowledgeable local guides will also enable you to get a feel for rural life. You will take village walks, visit silk weaving workshops, learn about tribal customs and discover sacred tombs hidden in forests.
Madagascar is an enthralling destination, and although a very poor country, the Malagasy are hardy people who have endured much; their captivating smiles and willingness to help travellers at any opportunity make this an off the beaten track destination well worth visiting.
Whether you would like to join one of our small group tours or have us put together a tailormade experience for you in Madagascar do get in touch and one of our travel specialists will be happy to help.
Quick Facts
Capital: Antananarivo
Population: Around 24.9 million
Languages: Malagasy & French
Featured Group Tours
