Exploring the lost world of Madagascar

Discover all the fascinating things Madagascar has to offer.

Madagascar, National Park of Ankarafantsika, Canyon walk at sunrise
Madagascar, National Park of Ankarafantsika, Canyon walk at sunrise | Stephanie Rabemiafara/Art in All of Us/GettyImages

Madagascar is not just another tropical island; it is an evolutionary marvel. Over 90% of its wildlife is found nowhere else on Earth, making it one of the most unique ecosystems in the world. This isolation has fostered a wildly diverse range of species

Avenue of the Baobabs

Sunset at Baobab Alley (Grandidier's Baobab trees Adansonia...
Sunset at Baobab Alley (Grandidier's Baobab trees Adansonia... | Wolfgang Kaehler/GettyImages

The road between Belo sur Tsiribinha and Morondava in west Madagascar is home to the fabled Baobab Avenue. It's like entering an old dream when you walk through this bizarre terrain. A natural alleyway that extends into the horizon is formed by these enormous trees, some up to 30 meters high belonging to the species of Adansonia grandidieri and are considered to be Madagascar’s landmark.

Some of these giant trees are allegedly on the island for more than 800 years. It's one of the most recognizable pictures of the island and a photographer's paradise.

Tsingy de Bemaraha

View of the bizarre limestone pinnacles known as Tsingy at...
View of the bizarre limestone pinnacles known as Tsingy at... | Wolfgang Kaehler/GettyImages

Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve is a nature reserve in the Melaky Region of Madagascar, close to the country's western coast. Because of its distinctive topography, intact mangrove forests, and abundant populations of wild birds and lemurs, the region was inducted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990.



Like the teeth of a gigantic, ancient beast, these sharp limestone spires erupt from the ground. It is like going on an excursion to an other world to explore this "forest of stone." Climbers are challenged by the Tsingy's jagged edges and tight corridors, but the payoff is unparalleled: breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment that will last a lifetime.

Unique Biodiversity

Red-fronted brown lemurs (Eulemur rufifrons) sitting on log...
Red-fronted brown lemurs (Eulemur rufifrons) sitting on log... | Wolfgang Kaehler/GettyImages


It is often referred to as a "living museum" since every nook and corner is filled with a huge quantity of species that seem much more like myths and legends rather than living, breathing reality. Arguably the most famous are the Indri lemurs, whose haunting calls ring through the forests, and chameleons of Madagascar, which can range from the tiniest, almost invisible species right up to the world's largest: up to 30 inches long. It is also home to an amazing primate, the Aye-Aye. Its huge, spindly fingers are modified to tap tree bark and fish out insects that hide inside.

Beneath the Waves

Green sea turtle swimming
Green sea turtle swimming | Alexis Rosenfeld/GettyImages

Madagascar is more than just a paradise on land; some of the most pristine and vibrant marine ecosystems in the world can be found in the surrounding waters.

Such marine ecosystems madagascar has to offer:

1. Nosy Be Archipelago

Encircled by crystal-clear waters and flourishing coral reefs, Nosy Be is a tropical paradise off the northwest coast.Vibrant underwater life can be seen here when diving, including schools of rainbow-colored fish, curious sea turtles, and the elegant manta rays that float through the water.

2. Ile Sainte-Marie

Ile Sainte-Marie is a small island off the eastern coast, mostly known for attracting its seasonal visitors: the humpback whales. Every year from July through September, these huge mammals congregate in the warm waters, giving birth and breeding-a very unique experience with a chance to witness these whales and go snorkeling in one journey.

3. Masoala National Park

Some of the rarest species in the world can be found in the rich ecosystem that is created when the sea meets the coastal rainforest of Masoala on the northeastern edge of Madagascar. A popular spot for both snorkelers and divers, this area boasts pristine coral reefs and a wealth of marine life.