Madagascar — the fourth largest island in the world, which should be visited by absolutely everyone who wants to experience, without exaggeration, emotions and impressions completely unlike anything else. You will be enchanted by Madagascar because it offers something special for absolutely everyone! We have prepared for you the TOP 5 reasons why travelers choose Madagascar.
1. Bird watching
There are approximately 265 bird species in Madagascar, of which 120 are endemic to the island. Madagascar was once home to the giant apiornis birds, which were similar to the ostrich, but weighed about 500 kg and were 3 to 5 m tall. From May to mid-August, the rainforests are quite quiet and it is more difficult to see the “life” of the birds than during the autumn season, so most bird watchers come to Madagascar from late August to December.
If you want to go bird watching in Madagascar, we recommend you visit the Andasibe Martadia and Masoala National Parks.
2. Island walks and hikes
Madagascar boasts spectacular landscapes — mountain peaks and extinct volcanoes, stunning flora and fauna. 70% of the island's landmass is between 1000 m and 1500 m above sea level.
Lonely Planet has rated Masoala National Park and Isalo National Park as two of the best places in the world to hike. Masoala is the island's largest nature reserve and is famous for its scenic trails through the dense forests that wind along the peninsula. Isalo is known for its unique landscape, an amazing combination of rare vegetation, tropical savannas, strange rocks, caves and crystal clear ponds.
Madagascar has it all — from sunset walks along the coast to multi-day marathon hikes!
3. Wildlife watching
Thanks to Madagascar's unique geological history, you can see animals here that you won't find anywhere else in the world. Masoala National Park is the largest protected area in Madagascar and home to many species of wildlife, from the chameleon and gecko to the aye-aye, fossa and fanaloki.
Many travelers are looking forward to meeting the lemur of Madagascar. In Andasibe-Mantadia National Park you will find 14 different species of lemurs. We also recommend you visit Ranomafana National Park because there are less than 200 golden bamboo lemurs left in the wild — This is your chance to see them in their natural habitat.
4. Wonderful kitchen
Did you know that Madagascar — a foodie's paradise? This is a place in the Indian Ocean where, for centuries, traders from Africa, the Middle East and India stopped and shared their recipes. Traditional Madagascar cuisine may not seem very refined or simple, but over the centuries, it has been shaped by several cultures and has absorbed the flavors of both French bread and African spices.
The national dish of Madagascar is “Ravitutu” — assorted pork or beef stewed with cassava. You may also like “Ro” – a traditional rice salad seasoned with spices and herbs, “Anana” – a rice salad with shrimp, vegetables, bananas, potatoes and cassava leaves, “Kitosa” – fried or dried meat, cut into strips.
5. Beach holidays and water activities
This island has crystal clear waters, soft white sand beaches and light blue skies. The aquatic world of this magical place attracts diving, snorkeling and avid fishermen. Here, humpback whales swim very close to the shore and miracle fish are found.
Madagascar has many secluded beaches and coves. We recommend that you visit the island of Nosy Be and the island of St. Mary, which are famous not only for their cozy sandy beaches, but also for their fashionable hotels, nightclubs, good restaurants, waterfalls, nature reserves, many lakes, and National Underwater Parks.
With Golden Holidays you can book accommodation in the best hotels in Madagascar and go on an exciting sightseeing tour.
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