Madagascar

My visit to Madagascar was an unforgettable experience, filled with vibrant scenery, rich culture, and fascinating wildlife. Starting from the east coast, we journeyed across Nosy Be, a lush island known for its beaches and biodiversity. Our destination was Nosy Komba, famously known as the “Island of the Lemurs.”



The journey took us past the verdant Lokobe Mountain, a stunning green expanse that added to the island’s natural beauty. Eventually, we arrived at a small village, where I had a glimpse into the daily lives of the locals. Children played joyfully around the village school, and it was clear that tourism — particularly visits to see the lemurs — played a significant role in supporting the community.


As we approached the trail leading to the forest and the lemur sanctuary, vendors lined the path, selling colorful pareos and scarves in vibrant colors. Their cheerful displays added a lively charm to the surroundings.


Once inside the sanctuary, we encountered numerous lemurs. The black ones were said to be male, while the brown ones were female. These curious creatures seemed quite comfortable around visitors. One particularly bold black lemur caught my attention. When I offered him a banana, he eagerly grabbed the entire fruit and stuffed it in his mouth. To my surprise, he then climbed onto my shoulders, wrapping himself around my neck as he searched for more treats.


The sanctuary offered more than just lemurs. We also encountered other fascinating creatures, including chameleons, lizards, snakes, and turtles. Each new discovery highlighted Madagascar’s incredible biodiversity and made the experience all the more memorable.


This visit to Nosy Komba was not only an adventure but also a meaningful reminder of the connection between local communities, tourism, and conservation efforts.


Antsiranana

As a photography enthusiast, my journey to Madagascar was sparked by a captivating image of the iconic Avenue of the Baobabs. These majestic trees, known locally as renala or reniala, meaning “mother of the forest,” are remnants of the island’s once-dense tropical forests. Endemic to Madagascar, the baobabs have distinctive umbrella-like canopies and bottle-shaped trunks that vary in appearance with the seasons.


During my visit to Antsiranana, I encountered these remarkable trees near the Bay of Diego Suarez and the French Mountains. Unlike the dry, skeletal silhouettes often seen in photos, the baobabs I witnessed were lush and verdant, their greenery thriving in the rich landscape — a refreshing contrast to the arid scenes I’d expected.



Antsiranana itself offered a stunning backdrop, surrounded by natural wonders. From the striking French Mountains to the forested peaks of Amber Mountain and the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain overlooking the bay, the scenery was breathtaking. The dramatic Tsingy Rock Formation, with its jagged limestone spires, was another marvel I had hoped to explore.


Yet, with so much to see and do, I found myself overwhelmed by the endless possibilities. Instead of venturing into the mountains for a hike, I opted to unwind by the beach, soaking in the serene coastal beauty. While I may have missed out on some inland adventures, the peaceful moments by the water, camera in hand, felt just as rewarding.



Madagascar’s diverse landscapes — from lush forests to rocky peaks and tranquil beaches — left me inspired and eager to return, camera ready, to capture even more of its natural splendor.


PHOTO GALLERY: 


















Sugar Loaf Mountain


NOTE:  

All photos by the author

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