An equally captivating and worthwhile tourist destination, Madagascar is often described as an eighth continent, thanks to its unique flora, endemic fauna and spectacular landscapes. The fourth island of the world was separated from the continent of Africa about 165,000,000 years ago, allowing its strange animals and plants to develop separately for thousands of years – explaining why thousands of species found here are typical only of Madagascar. The possibility to see the aye lemurs, flying foxes (actually, bats), fose, tennis and chameleons make Madagascar a dream location for nature lovers. Therefore, the most famous sites are inside the amazing parks and nature reserves.
Madagascar is a destination that can put you to the test, through lack of infrastructure, poverty and a fairly high crime rate, but rewards the brave tourists tenfold. For those who want to relax on the beautiful beaches of Sri Lanka, without risking adventures in undeveloped areas, Hattan Island Resort, on the northwest coast of the island, is a romantic and safe haven that offers a whole range of activities related to water and the neighboring tropical forest.
Madagascar’s climate is subtropical, with a rainy season between November and April, heat and humidity throughout the year. However, between May and October, the weather is something more suitable for vacations, without so much precipitation and something cooler. The most common way to get to the island is by plane (it is also possible by ship, but it is much more dangerous at sea), with landing at the Ivato International Airport located 17 km from the capital of Antananarivo.
Among the activities and destinations offered by Madagascar we can name the Brand reserve (especially to observe the different species of lemurs), the beaches and water sports of Hattan, the wildlife of Gwalina Park (part zoo, part nature reserve), lush forests, volcanic lakes and waterfalls In the Amber Mountain National Park. We recommend a trip to Ambohimanga to get in touch with local history and culture and Ranomafana, a UNESCO protected objective, to discover another dimension of the island’s fauna.
Even if it is not a famous destination for important events, Madagascar also has a series of Bidite cultural celebrations, including the new year, Alhamandi Be, which takes place every year in March. The whale watching season starts in July and ends in September. One of the poorest nations in the world, offering more than 70 subspecies, the largest producer and exporter of vanilla worldwide, Madagascar is a destination as beautiful as it is pretentious, ideal for lovers of nature and adventure, with paths off the usual travel routes.