Madagascar

Enter a hazy timelessness embracing several centuries. Witness a catalogue of idiosyncratic characters and surrealistic situations. Get to know the bizarre - a concept synonymous with this otherworldly place. These are just some qualities, which make Madagascar the compellingly unique destination it is.

Because of dramatically contrasting climatic zones, it’s as though Madagascar is composed of a few very different countries crammed into one island. Each region has its own compliment of plants and often decidedly odd animals. Nearly everything you’ll see and touch on Madagascar is found nowhere else. Madagascar has its share of beautiful beaches and magnificent coral reefs. The 14 million Malagasy constitute the world’s only Afro-Asian nation. Man arrived at most 2000 years ago by means of outrigger canoes from Melanesia, Polynesia, Indonesia and Africa. The contemporary Malagasy, separated into 16 major tribes are united by language and culture. Best known of the Malagasy ceremonies is the ‘bone-turning’ or ‘famadihana’, held from June to August. The world’s 4th largest island, Madagascar measures 1571 km in length and 571 km across at its widest point (587 042 km2).

A mountainous central ‘spine’ separates the permanently damp east from the drier west and sub-desert south. One of the world’s poorest nations, Madagascar is not for everyone. Prospective visitors must be aware of the island’s ‘lowlights’ before going there. Travel opportunities are unlimited.