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Is it a New World or an Old World? It’s both! Madagascar, the island of its origin, is a blend of both. It combines buildings from the old world and technology from the new world. It also incorporates old-world customs with newer beliefs and cultures.
But what is even more surprising about this island nation in the Indian Ocean is how much it feels like an entirely different planet! There are some amazing natural wonders that you won’t see anywhere else on our planet. If you would rather get away from the touristy areas and go to a truly one-of-a-kind place, then keep reading our list of the most beautiful 5 places Madagascar has.
Tsiranana Falls
Tsiranana Falls is named after the first president of Madagascar, named Philibert Tsiranana. They can be found in Ankarana National Park, about a 5-hour drive from the capital Antananarivo using the RN7 northward highway. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since it is the largest intact coastal desert in the world.
The desert climate has contributed to fossil preservation in this region, where some marine species originated more than 20 million years ago, so for anyone who loves the insight of fossils, this place can be the perfect visit. However, even though you don’t like fossils, you can be sure of course that you will get awed by the Tsiranana Falls island by a lot of things if you go on a trip. You can hike along the trail close to the waterfalls, which is part of the magnificent scenery.
Sakomoyana Turtle Reef
The Sakomoyana Turtle Reef is a segment of the Sakomoyana Turtle Reef and Marine Conservation project, managed by Rara-Tilorintany, a local organization. The reef is situated in the southeastern region of the island, in the city of Tulear, a distance of about 5 hours from the capital city Antananarivo. Do you visit Sakomoyana Turtle Reef if you love animals and want to see some amazing sea creatures? Through this project, the project tends to save endangered sea turtles from being disadvantaged and damaged habitats. Here, you have a remarkable chance to watch green sea turtles, hawksbill sea turtles, and olive ridley sea turtles. There are also representatives of other marine species like seahorses, octopuses, and rays.
Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve
The Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most amazing places in Madagascar. The term “tsingy” means “jagged” in Malagasy, which perfectly describes the limestone tsingy formations. The tsingy are ancient rock formations that have been subjected to the forces of nature for thousands of years and have become truly wonders of nature.
There are several kinds of tsingy, among which tsingy vertical, tsingy à sucre, and tsingy couloir are some of the main types. The most popular and frequently visited sites are the vertical tsingy. Most pictures of the Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve are captured in the vertical Tsingy area, thus, they may be the first sight you see. You can explore these fascinating forms on the trails, and the photo opportunities are superb!
Ruins of Fort-Dauphin
In Fort-Dauphin, a city located on the southeastern coast of Madagascar, you will find the ruins of Fort-Dauphin. Fort-Dauphin was an important place for more than 100 years. It was both a trading post and a political capital. Also, this was the place where the French settlers in Madagascar built their fort, which is the reason behind its name. Experts say that the ruins of this fort are one of the most interesting places to visit in Madagascar and that they are also the most haunted.
The ruins of Fort Dauphin are enveloped in a myriad of ghost stories making it an ideal place to investigate the paranormal side of this wonderful country. The services of various different tours are available taking you to the fort ruins where you can listen to the most famous ghost stories of the city.
Merina Culture Show
The Merina Culture Show is indispensable for anybody visiting Antananarivo or its vicinity. It is an event characterized by traditional dances and music performed by the Merina people, the largest ethnic group in Madagascar. Furthermore, it provides a glimpse into the history of this culture and its homeland, the magnificent island.
The performance is a thrill and vivacious with numerous colors that will not fail to get your heart racing. This event brings to life a diverse range of outfits that are very much a work of art, and they will make you wonder how they were created. This show serves people of all ages and is also an excellent way to learn about the Merina people and their interesting culture.
Antananarivo
Antananarivo, or simply “Tana” as the locals nickname it, is the capital city of Madagascar. This is also the place where you will find the Antananarivo Cathedral, the largest cathedral in the country. The cathedral was built in the 19th century, and you can tell because of the amazing architecture and intricate carvings, it is a true masterpiece.
The cathedral is also known as “The Cathedral City” because it is the biggest church in the country and nothing else is even close in size. You can also visit the Isoraka Sacrarium, a temple that honors the ancestors of the Merina people, which is situated not far away. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is the best place to know about the culture of the Merina people.
Stone Forest
The granite forest is a truly unique place that is recognized as one of the most amazing places in Madagascar. The stone forest is made entirely of giant stone termites. These termites have been carving out their homes and creating this incredible forest for more than 20,000 years.
The forest is located in the southern region of the country taking a 3-hour drive from the capital city Antananarivo. Should you have an interest in seeing the wonders of these termites, the stone forest is a must-see. It is well known for hiking and exploring, and it is something that you cannot miss.
Lokobe Nature Special Reserve
The Lokobe Nature Special Reserve is the perfect place to see an unique blend of artificial and natural marvels. The location of this Special Reserve is in the southeastern part of the country, which is at least about a 6-hour driving distance from the capital city Antananarivo.
The landmark attraction of the Lokobe Nature Special Reserve is the Mangrove Explorers Trail, which allows you to go through a mangrove forest and view the surrounding wildlife in an up-close way. The Lokobe Nature Special Reserve offers a variety of attractions like the Coastal Trail and the Saltwater Crocodiles Trail. Meanwhile, the Coastal Trail fitness trail leads you to a nearby beach, which provides the amazing panoramic scene of the Indian Ocean.
Isalo National Park
The Isalo National Park is the western portion of the island, about a 6-hour drive from the capital city of Antananarivo. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to abundant unique plants and animals, as well as the Andean geology which is unlike anything you will find anywhere else in the world.
The most famous attractions in the park are the Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve and the magnificent Andean geology therein. The park is great for hiking, bird-watching, and exploration, and it is a must-see if one visits the island. Thus, Isalo National Park is a good place to see many animals including the locals.
