Because I’ve always wanted to…
Greetings All,
I have often been asked whether I knew Madagascar – I can safely now say yes, very well!
Last June I spent three weeks travelling all over this huge Island Country. It is certainly unlike any other place I have ever visited and in so many ways does not feel like Africa.
What stands out most is the unique flora and fauna, epic landscapes of amazing diversity, dry and wet forests, the stunning coastline, the tropical islands and the delicious food (it was a French colony).
For those who are a little more curious, it’s a must see Country!!
Laterally yours,
Madagascar is utterly unique – 5% of all known animal and plant species are only found here. It is the world’s 4th largest island and in just 300 km you can travel from rain forest to desert… on the worst roads I have ever experienced! Madagascar has 500 km of coastline, extensive reefs and 250 islands.
Beaches, snorkeling, diving and sailing around the islands are all very much on offer. Lemurs, chameleons, baobabs and rainforests all contribute to making Madagascar a dream destination.
Best time to visit – July to October.
Click here for a detailed itinerary showing some of the highlights of Madagascar.
Vakona Lodge.
Canoeing, horse riding, mountain biking on paths within the forest is all readily available. Great family hotel with lots to do for all concerned.
Constance Lodge Tsarabanjina.
60 km and an hour by boat off the coast from Nosy Be (near Nosy Komba) lies the Mitsio group of islands.
There you will find Tsarabanjina – a real Robinson Crusoe Island, with 25 thatched very comfortable air-conditioned beach villas spread over 2 beaches.
To be honest you could be in the Maldives or the Seychelles but if it’s snorkelling, swimming, diving, kayaking, sailing or just lying on the beach you are after, then this place certainly got my vote after those arduous Madagascan roads!!
Litchi Tree.
This hotel has been beautifully restored with excellent facilities. Accommodation is at the rear of the property and the restaurant and bar situated within the house. It is located 3.5 km away from Amber Mountain National Park which is a fascinating area to walk and trek with its wonderful waterfalls and pristine forest.
You will certainly see lemurs and very colourful chameleons as you hike along the pathways.
Anjajavy.
It has a glorious swimming pool, excellent boating facilities, numerous nature walks, superb cuisine and the fishing wasn’t half bad either! 11/10!
Tsara Komba.
You will find this gem of a hotel 20 minutes by boat from Ankify on the North-West coast of Madagascar. It is an 8 lodge hotel tucked away on the slopes of Nosy Komba Island. Each lodge has a seaview from their terraces.
The surroundings are a private nature reserve home to lemurs, chameleons, hummingbirds, parrots, vanilla, cocoa and wild pepper.
No roads here – just walking, canoeing or travelling by boat – a must stay!
Up Periscope
In the next month’s e-letter I will update you on travelling laterally in Brazil. Salvador – Trancoso overland by ferry, 4WD, beach buggy and road. A trip I returned from in late August.
