Exploring East Madagascar

My adventure in east Madagascar began in Antananarivo, the country's bustling capital. After returning from the northeast, our group set out just before lunch, embarking on a 4-hour and 30-minute journey to the enchanting region of Andasibe. As evening approached, we arrived at the serene Relais Mantadia Lodge, a luxurious haven nestled on a hillside just north of Andasibe village.

The following days were a delightful immersion in the natural wonders of Madagascar's national parks. Our quest to encounter the island's extraordinary wildlife led us to some unforgettable experiences. One of the most magical moments was during a night walk, where the forest came alive with the presence of nocturnal creatures like the tiny mouse lemur, as well as various frogs and lizards.

Andasibe is renowned for its unique lemur species, and our expedition did not disappoint. In the lush Perinet Forest, we marveled at the sight of the Indri Indri, the largest living lemur, whose haunting calls resonate through the trees. The Diademed Sifaka, also known as the "dancing lemur," added a playful charm to our trek through this vibrant forest.

While exploring Mantadia National Park, we encountered the stunning Black and white ruffed lemur and the delicate Brown lemur. Our journey culminated at the picturesque Rianasoa waterfall, where we paused for a scenic picnic lunch, surrounded by the sounds and colors of the forest.

Our days in Andasibe were filled with incredible wildlife photography opportunities, capturing moments to cherish forever. Upon returning to Antananarivo, we indulged in a brief shopping excursion, soaking up the vibrant local culture before heading home. This journey to one of my dream safari destinations was truly a remarkable experience, filled with nature’s splendor and unforgettable encounters.

Safari Pictorial 

Having a moment to enjoy the sounds of nature at Rianasoa waterfall at Mantadia Forest

Madagascar Sparrowhawk

Walking through Andasibe village for a cultural experience of rural Madagascar 

Standing at the railway that goes through Andasibe. A Cargo train goes through here 2 times a week

An old train station at Andasibe

Trying out a Rickshaw at Moramanga ("The Rickshaw Town")

Driving to the East gives you a view of the rural rice farming life 

Exploring North Western Madagascar

My adventure began in the vibrant capital of Madagascar, Antananarivo, commonly referred to as Tana. From there, I boarded a chartered flight that whisked me away to Soalala airstrip, a journey of about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Once we landed, the excitement continued with a scenic 2-and-a-half-hour drive to our destination: the Namoroka Tsingy Camp. Nestled in the wilderness, we would be staying there for three memorable nights.

During our stay at Namoroka Tsingy, we were treated to unique experiences that felt like stepping into another world. One of the highlights was a thrilling night walk in search of Madagascar's elusive nocturnal lemurs. We were fortunate to spot a mouse lemur and a fork-marked lemur, showcasing the incredible biodiversity of this region. By day, our quest for more lemur sightings led us to the rufous brown lemur and the stunning Viner Decken's lemur, making every moment an adventure.

Beyond the fascinating lemurs, Namoroka Tsingy National Park boasts pristine landscapes that have remained untouched by mass tourism, with only about 50 visitors a year. The striking tsingys and the numerous caves, many of which are still unexplored, provided a sense of wonder and mystery. In one cave, we stumbled upon fossils of ancient animals, remnants waiting for archaeologists to process and document.

The natural beauty wasn't limited to lemurs; we encountered around 16 new species of birds, adding to the rich tapestry of wildlife. Our camp provided a wonderful base for our explorations, featuring spacious, comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and delicious meals that refueled us after long days of hiking and discovery.

As my journey in North Western Madagascar came to an end, we took a flight back to Tana, filled with memories that would last a lifetime. Our adventure was not just about exploring a new destination; it was about connecting with nature, witnessing its wonders, and appreciating how little some places are touched by the outside world. After Tana, we were ready to connect to our next adventure, but the beauty of Madagascar would always hold a special place in my heart. 

If you’re looking for a destination that is off the beaten path and teeming with natural wonders, I highly recommend the captivating landscapes and unique wildlife of North Western Madagascar.

My trip started with a city tour of Antananarivo  which included few historical  places