TOP THINGS TO DO IN MADAGASCAR

High-tail it to Vakona Forest or Andasibe-Mantadia National Park to see the lemurs in action. Hear the haunting calls of the world’s largest lemur species, the Indri as you wander through the misty forest in the morning. A lemur tracking experience is not to be missed.

You won’t find a forest like this anywhere else in the world. But you may be surprised that lemurs and bird life still choose to live in this barren landscape. I joined a guide on night walk through the spiny forest and it was the most magical, surreal experience. I felt as if I’d stepped into another realm.

Step back in time 400 years and see a market filled with wooden wagon wheels, cattle, goats and deep-fried birds. This is not a market where they are touting t-shirts, this is a market where the local people want to buy their wares as they have done so for centuries.

Join a wildlife expert for a whale watching tour. You can become a marine biologist for the day and help collect data about the whales’ songs, diving length and location for a global whale data base. If you are short on time, you can also visit the whale watching tower at Manafiafy Beach and Rainforest Lodge. It gives you a great vantage point for spotting whales and looking out over the Sainte Luce area.

Foodies will want to try this pop-up Malagasy experience, where you enjoy traditional Malagasy fare al fresco. You sit on the floor and eat with your hands. If they serve you koba (a banana, vanilla bean and crunchy peanut traditional dessert that comes wrapped in a banana leaf), you’re in for a treat.

The Lightfoot Team travels to Africa at least three times a year and can recommend the best safaris and experiences. Let us help you experience Africa with a tailor-made itinerary that suits you. Enquire now!