Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
Home of the lemurs
Tropical rainforest meets exotic wildlife: discover one of Madagascar's most beautiful natural paradises in Andasibe-Mantadia National Park. Follow the call of the indri, the largest lemur species in the country. On five hiking routes of all levels of difficulty, you can cross the protected area in the east of the island state, which was opened in 1989. Numerous endemic animal and plant species make your visit an unforgettable experience.
Accompanied by experienced guides, you will immerse yourself in the tropical idyll between blooming orchids, giant ferns and waterways. From exciting activities to the most promising spots for animal sightings: Here you will find practical tips for your Madagascar adventure.
Find out more now and get to know the unique biodiversity of Andasibe-Mantadia National Park!
Best Travel Time for Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
Climate and best time to travel
The warm and humid tropical climate in the central highlands of Madagascar is characterized by moderate influences. Average daily temperatures of around 20 degrees Celsius provide ideal conditions for long hikes and hours of wildlife watching. The fact that it rains around 200 days a year in this region is often only indirectly noticeable in the forest areas. The rainfall allows the untouched nature to flourish.
In addition to the orchid blossom in the months of September to November, Andasibe-Mantadia National Park is a year-round travel destination. If you want to see the 11 species of lemurs in the national park, you are free to choose your travel time. Many travelers opt for the low-rainfall southern winter between May and October. Please note that it can freshen up in the high altitudes of 800 to 1,200 meters, especially at night. Warm clothing should not be missing from your luggage.
Flora and fauna
The Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, which covers around 154 square kilometers, is made up of two areas. The Analamazoatra Reserve in the south is located in the immediate vicinity of the small town of Andasibe, which gives the park its name. This is also the most touristically developed part of the national park. In the north, the Mantadia National Park awaits you with more pristine vegetation and dense rainforests. Tree ferns, mosses, lianas and palm trees line the challenging trekking routes for experienced outdoor fans.
In addition to the indri, which can grow up to one meter tall, you can also see another 10 species of lemur in the wild. Several exotic frog species, chameleons, birds and insects can also only be seen in Andasibe-Mantadia National Park. Other examples of the country's endemic fauna are the Madagascar dog-headed boa, the giraffe-necked beetle and the Madagascar kingfisher with its bright plumage.
Madagascar is considered a particularly old island from a geo-ecological point of view. Due to its long isolation, away from the African mainland more than 400 kilometers away, the island state offers a rare mega-diversity. Around 12,00 species of flowering plants and around 80 percent of native mammals are exclusively represented here. A feast for all those who enjoy discovering new things when traveling.
Activities and excursions
The shrill calls of the indri resound through the park from dawn until midday. This is not only a wake-up call for the lodge guests, it is also the unofficial starting signal for guided tours. Most tours start at the main entrance at Analamazaotra, a few kilometers from Andasibe. Follow the expert guides through the rainforest. They have a keen sense of where the best spots are for spotting animals.
Keep your eyes on the horizon. The agile primates such as lemurs and maki often hide in the treetops. As nocturnal species such as brown mouse lemurs, brown fat-tailed lemurs and woolly lemurs are common, night safaris are also worthwhile. Would you like to explore the surroundings of the national park on your own? The Analamazaotra Forest Station is a smaller, privately managed conservation reserve in the immediate vicinity.
Are you interested in the way of life of the locals? In Andasibe, you can admire the traditional wooden houses of the region and sample local specialties in the station restaurant. Madagascar's capital Antananarivo is a three- to four-hour drive away.
Nature conservation
Not only in Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, but also in other regions of Madagascar, the focus is increasingly shifting to nature and species conservation. The second largest island state in the world in terms of area is aware of its unparalleled biodiversity and wants to protect it sustainably.
Environmental protection is even firmly anchored in the Malagasy constitution as a national objective. A number of nature reserves are to be added to the country's 50 or so. In total, the number is set to triple in the future - and to curb the illegal logging of precious woods such as rosewood. By visiting the Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, you are doing your bit to support the conservation measures to preserve this mega-diversity. In this way, you are giving Madagascar's nature a little bit of life back.
Would you like to enjoy the natural idyll of Andasibe-Mantadia National Park with all your senses? Book your trip to the most beautiful places in Madagascar directly with us!
Traveling in Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
- explore Antananarivo
- experience nature reserves around Andasibe
- Beachdays up North
My trip to Madagascar was like a voyage of discovery into a world full of surprises. From the mysterious rainforests to the breathtaking coastal landscapes, I was enchanted by the diversity of this island. Every moment was a new experience, and the encounters with the unique wildlife and the warm hospitality of the people made my trip unforgettable.
Accommodation in Andasibe
To book a trip or for more information, contact us. We'll help you plan and guide you through your upcoming adventure!
