Madagascar is a fourth-largest island in the world which is the true treasure trove of natural beauty and biodiversity. Madagascar, which is situated on the eastern side of the African coast, in the Indian Ocean, comprises some of the most distinctive ecologies on earth. Its seclusion to other land masses has resulted in evolution of thousands of species uncommon to other places in the world which has made it a destination to the wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers and adventure seekers.
When visiting such a fantastic island, it is good to be aware of the top things to explore in Madagascar in order to make the most out of your time there. Madagascar is the ultimate tourist destination with its lush rainforests, nice beaches, exciting wildlife and excellent cultural experiences among other things. We will talk about the best 15 things to do in Madagascar in this guide and reveal to you the amazing natural beauty of the country, the great variety of wildlife and the rich culture of the country.
1. Take a walk through the alley of the baobabs.
The Avenue of the Baobabs, a beautiful stretch of dirt road which is lined with majestic baobab trees some as old as 800 years, is one of the most iconic sights in Madagascar. These trees with their huge trunks and peculiar form are one of the real images of Madagascar wildness.
Taking a walk on the Avenue of the Baobabs is regarded as one of the most common activities in Madagascar, particularly in the evenings at sunset when the trees are illuminated by the golden light which makes them look awe-inspiring. The region is found in the western region of the island adjacent the town of Morondava, and it is accessible by car or 4×4.
2. Explore Lemurs of Andasibe-Mantadia National Park.
Madagascar is home to lemurs and Andasibe-Mantadia National Park is one of the most appropriate spots to visit the unusual animals (around 3-4 hours away to the capital of Madagascar, Antananarivo). The park boasts numerous species of lemurs, including the indri, the largest living lemur which is known to make haunting and melodic lemur calls.
As you meandar in the park you will find not only lemurs, but also a host of other wildlife like the chameleon, frogs, and several birds species. One of the best things to do in Madagascar when one wants to enjoy wildlife in the area is Andasibe-Mantadia where the park has different ecosystems and people have an option of taking tours during the day and at night.
3. Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park.
Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site which is one of the most marvelous natural landscapes in Madagascar. The park boasts of a titanic terrain of rocky limestones called Tsingy which create an unearthly and surreal surroundings. There are also numerous endemic species in the park, such as lemur, birds, and reptiles.
To learn about Tsingy de Bemaraha, you will have to go on a guided tour of the subdued park along these narrow bulky spires of rocks. The increases might be problematic, yet the breathtaking scenery and the geological peculiarities introduce it to the list of the most enjoyable things in Madagascar offered to adventure travelers and nature enthusiasts.
4. Rest on the Beaches of Nosy Be.
In need of some relaxation, Nosy Be is an island off the northwest coast of Madagascar which is a tropical paradise boasting of beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters. Nosy Be shall be one of the destinations of beach lovers as there are a variety of activities like snorkeling, diving and sailing.
A series of minor islands including the Nosy Komba and Nosy Tanikely are encircling the island and make it ideal to contemplate the beaches of the island and colorful coral reefs. Nosy Be is also a wildlife rich site with both sea turtles and dolphins being amongst the marine wildlife found there. Nosy Be is one of the places that every tourist should visit regardless of whether he or she is chilling on the beach, underwater, or doing any other thing on the island to learn about its culture.
5. Hike the Rainforests of Ranomafana National park.
Ranomafana National Park is a leading rainforest in Madagascar, it is found in the southeast of Madagascar. It is a wet and biodiverse park that hosts a number of species of lemurs, such as the golden bamboo lemur, which was identified in the 80s. The park also has amazing flora including orchids and endemic trees in addition to diversity of birds and reptiles.
A trip to Ranomafana National Park gives a tourist an opportunity to walk through its thick tropical rain forest, the rivers, and the hot springs. One of the best activities in Madagascar to enjoy biodiversity and natural beauty of the island, it is also among the favorite activities of nature lovers and wildlife fans in Madagascar.
6. Pangalanes Canal Boat Trip.
Pangalanes Canal is a chain of waterway located along the Madagascar Eastern coast. The channel was initially constructed by the French during the 19th century but now it is one of the most picturesque routes to individualize the east coast of Madagascar. The canal moves across more than 600 kilometers of villages, lakes and rich sceneries.
A boat tour of the Pangalanes Canal is also an opportunity to get the feel of rural life on this island as the boat traverses local Malagasy villages, tropical forests, and wetlands with wildlife. It is a tranquil and special event, hence it is among the best activities to undertake in Madagascar to experience an off-beat adventure.
7. Go to the Avenue of the Baobabs at Sunset.
The Avenue of the Baboons is one of the most common activities in Madagascar and is actually magical when it is observed during the sunset. The special baobab trees point to the sky providing an amazing image when the sun sets. It is the dream of every photographer and tourists come to this famous place to take the beauty.
The Avenue can be found at Morondava city on the west coast which despite being a popular attraction spot is also among the best Madagascar attractions to the visitor who wants to enjoy an impressive natural scenery on the island.
8. Visit the Unique Flora and Fauna of Isalo National Park.
Isalo national park in Madagascar southwest is known to have sandstone structure, deep canyons and variety of plant and animal species. The landscape of the park is the most peculiar, as it consists of large and dry plains, mountains, and green oases that are absolutely ideal places to hike and observe wildlife.
On visiting the park, you can get to learn about the wide variety of ecosystems in the park sighting endemics like the ring-tailed lemur, chameleons and a wide range of bird species. Natural swimming holes are also available in the park so you can go swimming in cool waters after hiking. Isalo National Park is among the best activities to undertake in Madagascar especially by outdoor lovers.
9. Explore the Anja Community Reserve.
Anja Community Reserve is a great place to the people who want to see the most recognized lemur in Madagascar, the ringtailed lemur. This community reserve is home to the high population of the ring-tailed lemurs that are found in the south of the island of Madagascar at the northern area of Ambalavao.
Tours of the reserve organised by visitors allow them to see the lemurs jumping between the trees and interact with the surrounding environment. Other wildlife that can be seen in the reserve consists of chameleons and birds besides providing breathtaking scenery of the surrounding scenery. One of the best things to do in Madagascar is it is a great place to see the wildlife as well as the local Malagasy culture.
10. Sightseeing in Nosy Tanikely Marine Reserve
Nosy Tanikely, which is situated off the coast off Nosy Be, provides some of the best underwater activities in Madagascar among the diving enthusiasts. The Nosy Be Marine Reserve comprises the island which has crystal-clear waters, colorful coral reefs and a rich array of marine animals such as the sea turtles, rays, and colorful fishes.
Snorkeling or diving on Nosy Tanikely is an experience which would remain in the memory as it is the site where one is provided with the opportunity to explore one of the most clean marine areas in Madagascar. This is obviously one of the best activities to take part in Madagascar in case you are looking forward to having a unique underwater adventure.
11. Tour Royal Palace of Antananarivo.
One of the historical and cultural sites in the capital city is the Royal Palace of Antananarivo (Rova of Antananarivo). the palace was formerly the home of the Merina kings and it provides an insight into the royal history of Madagascar.
The palace grounds are situated on a hill and provide panoramic views of Antananarivo to visitors who are able to determine the ground of the palace. It is one of the most significant activities that history lovers must understand about Madagascar because the palace offers a lot of information about the history of Madagascar and royalty.
12. Learn the Culture and History of Antananarivo.
The capital city of Madagascar, Antananarivo, is a city full of life that contains cultural and historical sites. Exploration of the markets, colonial architecture and the museums of the city is among the best activities in Madagascar.
There are numerous sites of interest in the city such as the Andafiavaratra Palace that was once a home to the Prime Minister Rainilaiarivony and the Prime Minister Palace with the lovely gardens. This is also a place where the tourists can visit the Analakely Market where they may buy local crafts, spices and textiles, enjoying the colourful climate of the Malagasy capital.
13. Go Whale Watching in Ile Sainte-Marie.
Whale watching in Ile Sainte-Marie is also among the best activities which the wildlife enthusiasts should engage in in Madagascar. Humpback whales migrate in the waters surrounding this beautiful island during the months of June to September thus making it be one of the best places in the world to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
The ile Sainte Marie, which is of the east coast of Madagascar, is a very beautiful place to do whale watching but one may also find dolphins and other animals in the sea. Tours of whale sightseeing are provided over the season and the experience is really memorable.
14. Trekking the Andringitra National Park.
Andringitra National Park is the place on the island which is the most scenic and this is located on the south eastern side of Madagascar. This park is characterized by dramatic mountains, fertile valleys and a variety of wildlife. It harbors the second-highest mountain peak in the whole island, Pic Boby, and contains various trekking activities with its clean mountain scenery.
Andringitra is the place to be in case you are an outdoor enthusiast and nature lover, and you will have hiking trails that will bring you to the isolated villages, clean forests, and calm rivers. It is also a wonderful location to view the endemic plant and animal species of the island such as lemurs, birds, and chameleons. Trekking across the Andringitra National Park may be included among the best activities of Madagascar to adventure lovers.
15. Pay a visit to the Nosy Komba Island.
Nosy Komba is an example of a small beautiful Island that is right beside the Nosy Be, and which provides a peaceful escape of more tourist-packed parts of Madagascar. Nosy Komba is also referred to as Lemur Island and it hosts a huge number of black lemurs that one can spot during hikes in the forested hills of this island.
One of its greatest attractions is also the picturesque beaches and crystal-clear waters of Nosy Komba, which should make even those interested in relaxing, swimming, or snorkeling want to visit this place. It is a peaceful and lovely place that would not be missed during the exploration of Madagascar.
Conclusion
Madagascar is the country of extraordinary biodiversity, extraordinary landscapes, and cultural experiences. You can hike through rainforests and see some of the rare lemurs, spend time on some of the cleanest beaches or immerse yourself into the history of Madagascar; there is so much to be done on the island that you will not forget the experience you had.
Madagascar is a destination that is good in all ways, with accommodation ranging from the Avenue of the Baobabs to the gorgeous beaches of Nosy Be and the antics of the wildlife at Andasibe-Mantadia National Park would certainly impress one. Whatever your interests be, this amazing island will be in your heart and soul. Therefore, grab your bags and get prepared to adventure the best 15 best things to do in Madagascar in what will be the best experience in your lifetime.
