Remember the movie ‘Madagascar’? Only if you’ve seen it’s wonderful animation and storyline did create a spark in movie lovers and the very name seems so enchanting and full of fun. The place itself is all full of fun and beauty and is must have in the bucket list if you wish to see the world. A huge island nation Madagascar is located in the Indian Ocean and off the coast of East Africa but still a great portion of the place remains unexplored. With an astounding biodiversity, only two seasons, gorgeous lemurs, stunning forests, silver beaches and the natural beauty that allures everyone, this place will make you fall in love instantly. Here are some of the places in Madagascar you just cannot ignore. Check out-
- Antananarivo
The largest city and capital of Madagascar, Antananarivo is all packed with history, culture and stunning architecture. The grand city is divided into three parts i.e. the down town or the ancient swamp, the intermediate level which is located in the middle of the cliffs and the old city in upper town and this is the area where you’ll find the palaces and cathedrals. This area is the residential area of the noble families. The old city gate, the town square, Lake Anosy is some of the places in the city you’d surely love to see.
- Ranomafana National Park
One of the most important and popular parks in Madagascar, the Ranomafana National Park was established in the year 1991 after the discovery of the golden lemur in the year 1987. Blessed with rare flora and fauna and high levels of biodiversity, the national park houses a great variety of lemurs and more than 130 species of frogs. A World Heritage Site, this place is one worth visiting.
- Tsingy de Bemaraha
Located in the northwest of Madagascar in the Melaky region, the Tsingy de Bemaraha is the newest park of the region. The place is widely popular because of its tsingy sharp limestone pinnacles reaching to about 150 ft in height. Rich in fauna and flora, the Bemaraha houses a number of wildlife including 11 varieties of lemurs. The place is a World Heritage Site and is frequented by tourists.
- Tsiribihina River
A river of the western Madagascar, the Tsiribihina River flows through the Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park. What you can expect from this river is a unique and all fun tour throughout the country via a canoe. To get the real taste of Madagascar, you can get in touch with some of the reputed tour companies there who would arrange you camping on the river bank where you can enjoy the nature and spend the evening cooking under the night sky.
- Nosy Be
An island in the northwest coast of Madagascar, the Nosy Be is the largest and busiest tourist resort in Madagascar. Translating the very name, it means ‘big island’. The lovely tropical climate and the pristine beach make it an adorable place you’d love to visit. The peaceful and serene beaches here are perfect for swimming and of course an ideal spot for some “me time”.
- Avenue of the Baobabs
Lined up with Baobabs trees the dirt road between Morondava and Belon’I, the Avenue of the Baobabs is one of the important and striking landscapes that attract travelers from around the world. These rows of trees some about 20-25 are real eye catching and you surely wouldn’t mind the dirt filled road while traveling. The place also served as a center of local conservation efforts and was the first step in to making Madagascar’s first natural monument. Simply look at the trees they are stunning. Aren’t they?
7. Ifaty
The dirt road connects Ifaty which lays south comprising of two small fishing villages namely Madio Rano and Mangily. Though Ifaty isn’t that big but yet it has the potential to fulfill the travelers’ thirst for wander. The place is highly frequented by tourists and a very popular spot for trekking and exploring wild life. You can enjoy these sports or simply go fishing on the gentle waters. Since the place is a favorite tourist spot, you would find many small bungalows of the locals turning into hotels or accommodating guests. If you plan to travel in the months of July and August, there is possibility that you can spot migrating whales as well.
These are some of the most popular spots in Madagascar to go gaga about. Make sure you do visit them once you’re in Madagascar.
