This island nation of Africa is rightly famous for its lemurs and other wildlife, but there are many other amazing things to do in Madagascar. This island paradise with genuinely spectacular wildlife is rich in natural and cultural beauty and more often than not exceeds travellers expectations. From the traditional lifestyle of the Mikea people and the ‘Avenue of the Baobabs’ to the iconic Tsingy National Park there's no shortage of amazing things to do in Madagascar.
1) Visit the Avenue of the Baobabs
The ‘Avenue of the Baobabs’ is like nowhere else on earth (helped by the fact that 6 of the 8 species found globally are endemic to the island) which explains the increasing number of travellers coming to take in this otherworldly sight. Growing up to 30 metres tall, these giant trees dominate the surrounding scrubland – a reminder of the dense tropical forests that once covered the area. Driving down the dirt avenue, with the Baobabs flanking each side, is breathtaking at any time but there is something particularly special about it at sunset. The kind of view that no photo could ever really do justice.
2) Play Witness to Unique Wildlife
It’s hard to think of Madagascar without lemurs coming to mind – they are the country’s most famous resident after all. And you’re not going to have a chance to see them in the wild anywhere else in the world. That's right, Madagascar is the only place on planet earth to see them in their natural habitat! But don’t think lemurs are all Madagascar has to offer; the island is a bona fide paradise for all kinds of wildlife of all different shapes and sizes. There are over 300 species of birds, 260 species of reptiles and hundreds of species insects and other mammals. Definitely enough to keep even the biggest wildlife lover occupied. There's no question that Madagascar is one of the top places to visit for a wildlife tour in Africa.
3) Meet the Mikea
Take a peek into a rapidly vanishing world by meeting the shy Mikea people of Southern Madagascar whose traditional way of life is facing challenges as the modern world encroaches. It’s a real privilege to see how these hunter gatherers live and thrive in a relatively harsh environment that only receives 60mm of rain each year. Visiting the Mikea is a sensitive issue, but in accordance with our responsible tourism policy we believe we do this in the most ethical way possible. The proceeds of our stays at Mikea Lodge help to sustain the forest and their precarious way of life. It's a fascinating experience to meet and understand a culture that probably won't last forever.
4) Experience the Tsingy National Park
The Tsingy National Park seems to give visitors a spikey welcome, being a hostile, alien landscape – in fact the Malagasy word ‘Tsingy’ can be translated as ‘where one cannot walk barefooted’. Little wonder considering the sharpness of the limestone formations! But don’t let that put you off, this stone forest is one of the great natural wonders of the world and should be near the top of the list for anyone visiting Madagascar. If you like to experience nature in it's most raw and unique form, the Tsingy National Park is not to be missed during a visit to the island paradise of Madagascar.
5) Drive the Coast from Morondava
There are hundreds of coastal road trips around the world, but like a lot of things in Madagascar, the road between Morondava to Tulear is truly a unique experience. For one thing, after each cyclone season the route changes as the river crossings shift up or down river. The terrain is rugged and villages are few and far between. The truth is, there's a good chance this might not be the smoothest ride you've ever done and there's bound to be some bumps along the way. However, it just might be one of the more memorable drives you've ever done, so driving the coast from Morondava is definitely an amazing thing to do in Madagascar.
Now that you know some of the most amazing things to do in Madagascar, it's time to pay a visit to this stunning island paradise. Wild Frontiers specializes in adventure tours and holiday to Madagascar. Let us take you on the journey of a lifetime so you can see for yourself what Madagascar is all about!
Still need more inspiration as to why you should visit Madagascar? Check out the Below blogs:
14 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT MADAGASCAR
SCRAMBLING UP THE TSINGY DE BEMARAHA IN MADAGASCAR
