Madagascar is often referred to as the 8th continent and rightly so. The high level of biodiversity with much of it found nowhere else on earth, makes this ‘island’ any naturalist’s playground! And the island is almost the size of Texas or twice the United Kingdom.

International flight access is now easier than ever whether coming from the African mainland or direct from Europe and the Middle East. Ideally Madagascar is a single destination safari to try and see just some of the very different regions and attractions. But a taste of Madagascar can be had in combination with safari time in Africa.

The rainforest region on the Masoala Peninsula is the highlight – think a combination of comfortable Robinson Crusoe beach living and rainforest adventure. The lemurs here are the highlights, but orchids, chameleons and birds are all outrageous. Ocean adventures abound at islands like Miavana and around Nosy Be whether for fishing and watersports or marine wildlife. The Whale Sharks are perhaps the most impressive. Elsewhere, high mountains, bizarre limestone formations, semi-desert and other forest types can be found, each with its own unique species. The sacred baobab trees can be found in different regions. A Madagascar safari is done on foot, hiking forest trails to find the endemic species and marvel at all the oddities that make it unique.