National Parks In Madagascar To Visit With Family or Friends
Approximately 88 million years ago, the island nation of Madagascar separated from the Indian subcontinent. Since that time, its flora and fauna have evolved in a state of isolation. Currently, over 90 percent of the species found in Madagascar—including 103 distinct types of lemurs—are endemic, meaning they exist nowhere else on the planet.
This remarkable level of endemism has earned Madagascar the title of the “eighth continent,” making it a sought-after destination for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Regrettably, despite its recognition as a biodiversity hotspot, Madagascar faces significant threats from human activities such as deforestation, hunting, and the introduction of non-native species, which have resulted in extensive damage to its natural resources. Consequently, the national parks serve as crucial refuges for the island’s remaining wildlife.
National Park Entrance Fees / Prices
To know the exact entrance fees of all the national parks and the costs per park, you can view the Madagascar National-Parks website. On average, A Visitor can pay an entrance fee of 45.000 – 65.000 ariary per day or person, which is around $11- $17. Guiding fees are regulated by the National Park Authorities.
From the extraordinary stone forests of Tsingy de Bemaraha to the stunning waterfalls of Amber Mountain, each park offers unique and captivating attractions. Here are the top recommendations.
List Of Best National Parks In Madagascar
1. Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park
Accessible solely during the dry season from April to November, Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park is situated in the secluded wilderness of northwest Madagascar. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it spans an area of 580 square miles and is renowned for its two distinctive geological formations: Great Tsingy and Little Tsingy. The term “tsingy” is derived from the Malagasy language, meaning “the place where one cannot walk barefoot,” aptly describing the karstic plateaus characterized by sharp limestone pinnacles.
Exploration of these extraordinary landscapes is possible only through a series of aerial suspension bridges, offering various routes for adventure. In addition to the park’s breathtaking vistas, visitors may encounter 11 species of lemurs (five of which are endemic to western Madagascar), as well as falanoucs, fossas, and 96 species of birds. Notably, certain species, such as the Antsingy leaf chameleon and the Tsingy wood rail, are exclusive to this national park. Furthermore, excursions in dugout canoes along the Manambolo Gorge present another remarkable experience, with stops at natural swimming pools, Vazimba tombs, and caves adorned with stalactites and stalagmites.
National Parks In Madagascar
2. Isalo National Park
Isalo National Park, one of Madagascar’s most renowned reserves, spans over 300 square miles in the southwestern region of the country. It is celebrated for its stunning sandstone formations, which have been shaped by erosion into a remarkable variety of mineral-stained plateaus, canyons, outcrops, and pinnacles. Interspersed within this landscape are rivers and streams that meander through grassland plains and dense forest areas. This ecological variety has established Isalo as a premier destination for hikers, who seek to challenge themselves on trails that range from a few hours to several days in duration.
Along the hiking routes, visitors can encounter picturesque natural swimming pools adorned in vibrant shades of jade and turquoise, as well as the sacred burial sites of the indigenous Bara people. The park is also rich in wildlife, hosting 14 species of lemurs and 81 bird species, 27 of which are endemic to the region. Notably, Isalo National Park is regarded by birdwatchers as one of the prime locations to observe the elusive Benson’s rock thrush. It is important to note that hiring a guide is mandatory, and arrangements can be made at the park office located in Ranohira village.
National Parks In Madagascar
3. Amber Mountain National Park
Amber Mountain National Park is positioned in the far northern region of the country, resting on a secluded volcanic massif that rises prominently above the surrounding arid landscape, creating a distinct microclimate. While the adjacent areas receive an average of 39 inches of rainfall each year, Amber Mountain enjoys a remarkable 141 inches. This park is a lush paradise characterized by dense montane rainforests, interspersed with rivers, streams, crater lakes, and stunning waterfalls. The biodiversity of plant life is exceptional, featuring over 1,000 species of unique lianas, orchids, and ferns.
The park is also home to 25 species of mammals, including eight varieties of lemurs. Notable among these are the endangered crowned lemur, Sandford’s brown lemur, and aye-aye, as well as the critically endangered northern sportive lemur. The area is rich in endemic reptiles and birds, with particular attention warranted for two notable species: the Amber Mountain leaf chameleon, recognized as one of the smallest reptiles globally, and the Amber Mountain rock thrush. Visitors can navigate the park via 19 miles of designated hiking trails, including one that ascends to the mountain’s peak, and there are multiple campsites available for those wishing to stay overnight.
National Parks In Madagascar
4. Ranomafana National Park
Ranomafana National Park is one of the six Rainforests of the Atsinanana, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated approximately eight hours southeast of Antananarivo, it spans 160 square miles of untouched montane rainforest. The park is particularly renowned for its remarkable biodiversity. Established in 1986 following the discovery of the golden bamboo lemur, it is now home to 12 species of lemurs, including the endangered Milne-Edwards’s sifaka and the critically endangered Sibree’s dwarf lemur. Among the 115 bird species recorded in the park, 30 are endemic to this specific region of Madagascar.
Visitors are drawn to the park for its five hiking trails, which offer experiences ranging from half-day excursions to three-day treks. Along these trails, one can encounter sacred lakes, waterfalls, traditional Tanala villages, and the thermal pools that inspired the park’s name, derived from the Malagasy term meaning “hot water.” Additionally, kayaking opportunities are available on the park’s primary river, the Namorona.
National Parks In Madagascar
5. Ankarafantsika National Park
Ankarafantsika National Park, situated in northern Madagascar, serves as a sanctuary for one of the island’s last remaining expanses of dry tropical forest. The park encompasses an area of 520 square miles on both sides of the R4 highway and is home to numerous endemic and endangered species, including over 800 rare plant and tree species. Among the eight distinct lemur species inhabiting the park, only the Coquerel’s sifaka is diurnal, making it advisable to schedule at least one night walk during your visit.
The golden-brown mouse lemur is among several species exclusive to Ankarafantsika National Park. Of the 129 bird species documented in the area, at least 75 are endemic. The park features 11 well-maintained hiking trails, with attractions that include groves of towering baobab trees and sacred sites of the Sakalava people. Ravelobe Lake, known for its crocodiles and rich avian life, is a must-see, particularly for the endemic Madagascar fish eagle. Additionally, visitors have the opportunity to partake in a boat cruise on the lake.
National Parks In Madagascar
6. Andringitra National Park
Andringitra National Park, another significant component of the Rainforests of the Atsinanana UNESCO World Heritage Site, spans an area of 120 square miles in the southeastern region of Madagascar. The park is characterized by the impressive granite massif of the Andringitra Mountains, which includes Imarivolanitra, the second tallest peak in the nation. The dramatic ridges and deep valleys contribute to breathtaking landscapes, while the park encompasses three distinct ecosystems: low altitude rainforest, mountain forest, and high altitude vegetation, each supporting a rich diversity of plant and animal life.
In total, Andringitra is home to over 1,000 species of plants, 100 species of birds, and more than 50 varieties of mammals. Notably, it hosts 13 species of lemurs, including the ring-tailed lemurs, which possess particularly dense fur as an adaptation to the colder mountain climate, where snowfall has been recorded during winter months. The national park provides a range of guided hiking options, from short excursions to multi-day treks, featuring unique flora and fauna as well as sacred waterfalls along the routes. Adventurers can also ascend to the summit of Imarivolanitra, with several campsites available within the park for visitors.
National Parks In Madagascar
7. Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
Situated a 3.5-hour drive from the capital city of Antananarivo, Andasibe-Mantadia National Park ranks among the most accessible and popular protected areas in Madagascar. Spanning an area of 60 square miles, it is divided into two main sections: the Analamazaotra Special Reserve to the south and Mantadia National Park to the north. Both sections are part of the same primary rainforest ecosystem, characterized by dense, humid vegetation that hosts a variety of exotic plant and animal species.
The park is particularly renowned for its 14 species of lemurs, with the indri being the most notable, as it is the largest lemur species in Madagascar. Several habituated families reside within Andasibe-Mantadia, making it the premier location on the island for intimate encounters with these critically endangered primates.
Additionally, the park serves as a vital habitat for over 100 endemic bird species that rely on the rainforest. Visitors can observe these birds through a network of guided hiking trails. The Analamazaotra section offers the most accessible paths, while the Mantadia section features the most picturesque routes.
National Parks In Madagascar
8. Masoala National Park
Encompassing an area of 888 square miles of rainforest and 38 square miles of marine parks, Masoala National Park stands as the largest protected region in Madagascar. Situated in the northeastern part of the country on the Masoala peninsula, it is recognized as one of the six UNESCO-designated Rainforests of the Atsinanana. Due to its extensive size, the park features an impressive array of habitats, including tropical rainforests, coastal forests, marshlands, mangroves, and vibrant coral reefs.
The park is remarkably rich in biodiversity and serves as a habitat for numerous endemic species. Among these is the red ruffed lemur, one of the ten lemur species inhabiting the park. Birdwatchers visit to seek out the Madagascan serpent-eagle, a bird so rare that it was once believed to be extinct. Visitors can explore the park through a network of guided hikes, some of which extend over several days. Additional activities include searching for the elusive aye-aye lemurs on the island reserve of Nosy Mangabe, as well as snorkeling and kayaking in the marine reserves, and relaxing on pristine beaches. From July to September, migrating humpback whales gather in Antongil Bay.
