Madagascar, off Africa’s eastern coast in the Indian Ocean, is the world’s fourth largest island and sits at the top of many nature lovers’ bucket list of places to visit on the planet. The combination of unique wildlife, stunning reefs and pristine beaches, fascinating culture, over 100 endemic bird species, delicious local cuisine, amazing scenic diversity, 750 species of endemic orchids, some of the best chocolate in the world and of course, the famous Lemurs, makes Madagascar an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Following the breakup of the super-continent Gondwana, Madagascar split from the Indian peninsula around 88 million years ago, allowing the fauna and flora to evolve in relative isolation. Consequently, Madagascar is a biodiversity hotspot; over 90% of its wildlife is found nowhere else on earth! The island boasts a remarkable array of endemic flora, reptiles, frogs, birds and mammals, the famous Lemurs and two thirds of the world’s chameleons. This is the reason Madagascar has often been called an “alternate world” or “a world apart”, or even the “Eighth Continent”.
Geographically, Madagascar can be divided into five geographical regions: the east coast with its lowlands, the Tsaratanana Massif in the north, the central highlands with its prominent rift valley running north to south, the west coast that contains deep bays and well-protected harbours, and the southwest that contains the Mahafaly Plateau and the desert region. The Tsaratanana Massif region at the north end has the highest mountain on the island namely Mount Maromokotro, at 2,876 metres (9,436 ft) above sea level.
The diversity of Madagascar’s peoples, its incomparable natural beauty, its unbelievable fauna and flora and other major attractions will undeniably leave an indelible mark on each and every visitor for the rest of their lives.
The Nature Travel group of companies offer several different options for your perfect Madagascar tour. Our 13 day Wildlife Tour (starting on 17 September 2019) will highlight the absolute best of what this fascinating island country has to offer, while our 14 day Birding Tour (starting on 19 October 2019) will visit the south and east of Madagascar focusing on different types of habitat, especially the rainforests, wetlands and spine forests, in order to see as many of the endemic bird species as possible.
Visit www.naturetravelafrica.com or www.naturetravelexpeditions.com or www.naturetravelbirding.com for more information on these magical Madagascar tours, or enquire directly at info@naturetravelafrica.com