Madagascar – also known as the ‘great red island’ is reckoned by scientists to be a living laboratory of evolution. The world’s fourth-largest island is home to a kaleidoscope of rare species of lemurs, primates, chameleons and birds. If you’ve seen the movie ‘Madagascar’, you’ll know just how endearing lemurs can be. They’re the superstars of Madagascar, with many different species to look out for.
The Malagasy people are renowned for their friendliness – whether you’re in a city or a tiny village, you’ll be made to feel welcome. They have a fascinating cultural heritage, with Arabic, Indian and African influences present in the language, food, and music.
With a diverse topography of terraced rice fields, natural wonders, untouched rainforests, unique geology, jagged coastlines, pristine beaches, and giant baobabs, there’s no shortage of sites to see in Madagascar.
Madagascar enjoys a tropical climate year-round and can be a year-round destination. Winter generally occurs between May through October and means drier conditions and cooler temperatures, only a light jacket is recommended.
Between the months of November through April expect high humidity and intense tropical thunderstorms including cyclones.
May – October: This is the long dry season with typical clear skies and mild temperatures in the high 80s F (low 30s C). This is peak season for tourism, particularly August when it is dry and cool.
November – April: This is typically the rainy or ‘green’ season, when landscapes are lush but high temperatures, humidity, and chance of thunderstorms or cyclones.
Search the lush forests for any of the 111 species of lemurs in their natural habitat.
Explore amazing rock formations, spectacular canyons and natural swimming holes at Isalo National Park.
Photograph the giant baobabs near Morondava at sunset.
Visit the largest example of a tsingy forest on earth in the Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Immerse yourself in the culture of the Malagasy people on a boat excursion on the Mandrare River.
Explore the lush rainforests and white sand beaches of the Indian Ocean at Manafiafy Beach & Rainforest.
Pamper yourself on the island of Nosy Ankao with the chance to spot turtles, whales and dolphins, along with scuba diving and fishing.
Lemur Encounters
Helicopter Excursions
Scuba Diving & Snorkelling
Visit to the Baobab Forest
Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve & Stone Forest
Flights are arranged into Antananarivo usually via gateways like Paris, Istanbul and Dubai; or African gateways like Johannesburg, Nairobi, and Addis Ababa.
We recommend 10-21 days in Madagascar for an in-depth safari. Madagascar is a destination in its own right and not usually added on to a mainland safari—but it is possible!
Madagascar is for nature lovers and intrepid travelers. Families are welcome to explore the island together.
Visas are required for most visitors and it’s best to be organized in advance. Inoculations may be recommended. We suggest you see a travel medicine specialist for advice.
Infrastructure is limited due to the size of the country and remote destinations. Flying is typically recommended throughout the North and limited flights are available. In the South, most safaris are overland but not all roads are in fair conditions.
Malagasy and French are the main languages, with limited English spoken in the hospitality industry. Basic French is helpful!
Guides will have qualifications to operate the activities and excursions you choose.
Malagasy food ambushes your senses—in a good way! As with most islands, the food is reflective of a crossroads of cultures and is flavorful and exciting.
Olo Safaris is a small, value-driven travel company with extensive insider knowledge of Africa.
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