Located off the east coast of Africa after having broken away from the mainland some 150 million years ago, Madagascar may seem like an unlikely travel destination for families with children. Having said that, as 80% of the country’s flora and fauna is endemic, it has plenty to offer for people for all ages, especially kids, as they are known to love wildlife. Moreover, since the animal species found here pose no threat to humans, the endless number of national parks can be explored even on foot. Plus the friendly people and the experiences while traveling on the way will be more than enough to make the vacation worthwhile.
This article will guide you to some of the high-end family-friendly destinations of Madagascar and its protected rainforests full of lemurs. Furthermore, active teenagers can have a great time hiking, kayaking,snorkeling and visiting development projects to educate themselves better about the country. If you are traveling with family, it is always recommended to go through a reputed agency like Sundowner Holidays for a tailor made holiday.
#1 Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
Andasibe also known as Perinet, is a true paradise for nature lovers as it is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. Additionally, because of its proximity to the capital(135 km/3 hours) this Protected Area is one of the most visited in Madagascar. The park is predominantly covered by dense rainforest and is home to nine species of lemurs, including Indri Indri, the largest living and critically endangered lemur species. The Vakona Forest Lodge located nearby offers excellent family accommodation and kids will enjoy the chance to interact with lemurs from close quarters in a semi-wild environment.
#2 Antsirabe
You will soon find out why families fall in love with Antsirabe regardless of their age and interests. This charming spa town in central Madagascar is located on the slopes of Tsiafajavona, the second highest peak in the Ankaratra mountains. The cool air of the mountains makes Antsirabe a perfect place for a stopover enroute to the south. Here you can see local craftsmen at work, after which a visit to the thermal baths is a must. Children will love to splash and frolic in the hot waters. For great accommodation, Couleur Cafe is the universal choice with its picturesque eight brick bungalows amidst a pleasant garden setting. This charming owner-run property also has a small shop for buying souvenirs. An afternoon trip to Chez Marcel in the town to sample the traditional sweet making is recommended to keep the kids happy and engaged.
#3 Ranomafana National Park
Meaning “hot water” because of the abundance of thermal springs found in the area, the Ranomafana National Park is located in a mountainous region of the country, and comprises mainly of dense rainforests. The park is home to the extremely rare golden bamboo lemur which led to the place getting National Park status. In all, 12 species of lemurs can be found here, apart from 115 bird species and 62 reptiles. Located near the entrance of the park the Setam Lodge is a decent property having comfortable air conditioned rooms and WiFi connectivity throughout the property. The well-stocked restaurant has a generous wine list and the nice terrace is perfect for enjoying views of the stunning region before retiring for the night after a hard day.
#4 Isalo National Park
Located in the southwest part of Madagascar, the Isalo National Park is another popular destination for families and naturalists alike. The park is marked by desert and savannah landscapes and visitors are often rewarded with epic views of the iconic ring-tailed lemur, the country’s most famous animal. Hiking is another way to experience the high diversity and the red and yellow landscape of Isalo. Just outside the park, the Relais de la Reine is an excellent luxury family stay option. The place has a restaurant, outdoor pool and gorgeous rooms with entertainment and family services. Baby sitting and chid services are also available at an extra charge. If you prefer some riding, the property has some stables as well.
#5 Ifaty Beach
Surrounded by palms and covered with pristine white sands, the small fishing village of Ifaty is the perfect place to relax and unwind on a family vacation to Madagascar. Located ninety minutes north of Tulear town, the area is not only blessed with 300 days of sunshine per year, but is also home to three areas of prime forest harboring lemurs birds and some of the biggest ancient baobab trees in the country. The most upscale accommodation option here is Hotel le Paradisier with spacious and comfortable bungalow like rooms overlooking the sea. The beach is situated on the Mozambique channel and is covered with white sands and surrounded by palm trees.The lodge itself is built using traditional natural materials like stone and wood to evoke a sense of natural charm and sustainability.
#6 Ifotaka Forest
Also known as Fort Dauphin, the Ifoka Community Forest is a prime example of effective conservation by the Government of the country to preserve its ecologically sensitive areas in order to promote eco-tourism. Moreover, these parts of spiny forest are home to all the indigenous species found in Madagascar, especially the cheeky ring-tailed lemurs, the endearing Verreaux’s sifakas, not to forget a wide variety of birds. The area is also very rich in culture and it is possible for visitors to interact with local Tandroy tribe in the village of Ifotaka and learn about their beliefs and customs. As far staying options are considered, the six well-appointed tents at the lux intimate African style safari Mandrare River Camp have all the facilities that a guest may ask for. Apart from excellent hearty meals, the camp employs local guides to take guests on walking tours to explore wildlife as well as explain their common customs and rituals.
#7 Manafiafy
Manafiafy is a remote tropical paradise founded by French colonists in 1638 and life here in the local fishing villages has remained this way over the centuries. The beautiful community forests found here are some of the last remaining stretches of coastal rainforests in southern Madagascar and a prime location of the world to see humpback whales which come here to breed from June to November. A journey through the tangled mangroves can unearth crocodiles, ibis and kingfishers apart from the thick-tailed dwarf wooly and mouse lemurs once you are done with whale watching from the idyllic beaches. The Manafiafy Beach & Rainforest Lodge offers an excellent mix of relaxation and outdoor nature activities like canoeing, bird watching, snorkeling, whale watching and fishing. The lodge has four spacious and luxurious beachfront bungalows, plus a two-room family bungalow nestled in the heart of the coastal rainforest and offers a magical view of the bay and the forests.
