Northern Madagascar

The north of Madagascar is known to possess truly tropical weather with perfect beaches and forests. Premier hiking trails, wildlife and bird-watching, snorkelling, diving and exploring are available.

Nature lovers and historic enthusiasts will find equal appreciation in the north of Madagascar, from quiet beauty to one-of-a-kind natural formations, like the Tsingy rocks.

The northern part of Madagascar is one of the country's most multi-ethnic regions, consisting of Muslim, African, Indian, Arabic and French, as well as the local Antakarana.

Nosy Be is Madagascar's largest, most popular holiday resort. It is surrounded by smaller islands like Nosy Komba, Nosy Tanikely and Nosy Sakatia, each of which is an incomparable tropical paradise.

Domaine de Fontenay is a country house hotel on the outskirts of Joffreville, a short drive from Amber Mountain National Park in the Antsiranana Province. Top achiever of Madagascar’s prestigious 2007-2008 Green Label award, Domaine de Fontenay is reputed as one of the best lodges in Madagascar.

La Note Bleue is located in a destination of dreams known as the City of Seven Hills. The hotel is inspired by the extraordinary landscape, offering superb outdoor recreational activities and renowned spa treatments.

Situated just 2 minutes from the eastern entrance of Ankarana Park, Hotel Relais de l’Ankarana is the perfect place to stay for an exploration of northern Madagascar. The intimate family-run hotel boasts spectacular views, and the serene setting and excellent service ensure that all guests are treated to a memorable holiday experience.

How to Get There

Sun Safaris can arrange scheduled flights for visitors to Madagascar. Ivato International Airport is an airport located in Antananarivo (Tana), the capital of Madagascar. Ivato Airport is main hub for Air Madagascar and the majority of flights around the island originate from here, which is a good thing considering the bad state of the roads. Besides the big cities, lots of little hamlets are also served via light air transfers.

By road is the only inexpensive way to get around, but Madagascar's roads are mostly very poor quality (except for two routes leading in and out of Tana). These road excursions will take guests into beautiful forested areas; however, if there is a time limit on the journey, travellers should be reminded that these trips will take a while longer than expected.

There are not many direct routes on land and the many small towns are accessible via one road only, meaning guests should be advised on which routes to take should they be self-driving. The best option is light air transfer to destinations on the island.

Northern Madagascar Activities

A visit to northern Madagascar alone is rewarding enough for some people. Such a diverse region is brim-full of activities that incorporate the pristine beaches as well as the tropical nature reserves and unique forests. From snorkelling to guided walks, bird-watching and observing the lemurs, chameleons and snakes; holiday makers are bound to enjoy the exploration that awaits.

The lakes and waterfalls of the Amber Mountain National Park are a vision of wonder, while the forest of trees amaze with their Amber-covered bark. The Tsingy limestone formations and grottos in Ankarana present glorious hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Premier hiking destinations, montane rainforests, crater lakes and ancient volcano massifs. A slightly thrilling addition to Madagascar placid charm is the presence of crocodiles at the seaport Antsiranana, which is found at the most northern point of the island. Explore the network of caves and underground rivers in the Ankarana Special Reserve, about 108 km south of Antsiranana.