The last of the Lemures
And magical Madagascar.
Embark on a creative journey to a remote corner of Madagascar photograph one of the most endangered groups of animals in the world. With a majority of their homeland’s forest cover already lost, the lemur population has plummeted by highly disturbing 95 percent in the last 17 years.
During your journey you’ll be staying on the Masoala Peninsula, which holds Madagascar’s largest remaining tract of lowland rainforest and is a haven of biodiversity and endemism. The perfect retreat from which to explore Madagascar’s unique species.
Focus Species
Lemur
Group Size
6 Guests
Location
Madagascar
Best time of Year
Jan to Mar
Itinerary Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive in Madagascar
Welcome to Masoala Forest
Fly into Madagascar's capital, Antananarivo. From here you'll catch a small charter flight to the small coastal trading town of Maroantsetra,.
From Maroantsetra, you'll catch a boat across Antongil Bay to the secluded Masoala Forest Lodge.
Day 2
Masoala Forest
Red Ruffed Lemurs
After a leisurely breakfast, you'll head to the primary forest in search of Red Ruffed Lemurs, Helmet Vangas and an array of other rainforest wildlife.
After lunch enjoy snorkeling and swimming in front of the camp, and after dinner the adventure of a forest night walk.
Day 3
Masoala Forest
Northern Bamboo Lemur
Snorkel the reefs at Tooth Rock near the lodge in the morning. In the afternoon enjoy a coastal walk to the Tampolo River and take the traditional dugout canoe up the river.
Here you have a good chance of spotting Northern Bamboo Lemur, Nelicourvi Weaver and various kingfishers.
You will also encounter the unique scenery of mangroves and volcanic rock formations and enjoy the magical silence on the river.
Day 4
Bandipur National Park
White Fronted Brown Lemurs
An exciting full-day trip lies ahead of you, exploring the most beautiful section of the coast on the Masoala peninsula.
Take a 15-minute boat trip past Tampolo Point to a long white sand beach, where you have the option to swim and
snorkel.
Afterwards, we explore the mangrove river by kayak. Followed by a picnic lunch at the beach.
On your return to the lodge, you have the option to either walk, kayak or boat back.
We recommend the 4 km walk through the national park which provides you with stunning forest and beach views. You have good chances of seeing white fronted brown lemurs on this walk.
Day 5
Masoala Forest
Masoala Reforestation Project
We will walk along the beaches and coastal forest to the Masoala reforestation project where we will plant endogenous trees from the lodges nursery.
In the afternoon take the sailing boat out for a sunset cruise and on return to camp join the bonfire before dinner.
Day 6
Ambodiforaha
Meet the Betsimisaraka
Take a short walk to visit the Betsimisaraka people. We will stop by the Masoala preschool before continuing to the local village of Ambodiforaha.
Here we interact with the villagers, learn about their lifestyle and culture and enjoy a performance by the local dance group. A spice market with local crafts completes the experience.
Day 7
Beach Day
Explore the sea.
Today belongs to the beach – we will pack you a picnic and take you by boat or foot out to one of the many beautiful beaches.
Equipped with snorkelling kit, sunscreen, beach mats, towels and picnic basket you will have a whole day to relax, sunbath and explore the reefs.
Day 8
Tampolo cascades.
Explore the Tampolo cascades.
Today is a trip to the Tampolo cascades.
Learn about the local plants and spices during the hike.
And look out for lemurs, chameleons, and birds.
At the cascades, you might want to have a swim in the clear mountain waters before enjoy a peaceful picnic.
Day 9 and 10
Masoala Forest
Search for the Aye-Aye
Spend your final two days in Madagascar exploring at your liesure. Return to the primary forest in search of more endemic wildlife or relax on the secluded beaches.
Don’t miss the chance to do explore the forest at night as you search for the Aye-Aye.
Day 11
Departure
Farewell Madagascar
Today after a leisurely breakfast we head back by boat to Maroantsetra to catch your scheduled charter flight to Antananarivo and your onward travel arrangements.
FAQ
When is the best time to visit Madagascar?
African-Eye recommends visiting Madagascar in the rainy season and the days and weeks immediately after the end of the rainy season for explorers with a passion for spectacular and extraordinary photography. The vegetation on the island is at its greenest and in full bloom during this time.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend securing your place on this incredible photographic journey 9 to 12 months in advance to avoid missing out.
What can I expect to see in the Masoala Forest?
Masoala Forest is home to many of the charismatic flagship species of Madagascar like Red Ruffed Lemur, White-fronted Lemur and Helmet Vanga found nowhere else on the island.
What sort of camera should I bring?
Whatever you wish to shoot with! Our specialty is creating optimal conditions for everyone (long-lens photographers to cell phone documentarians) to get amazing footage to post, frame, or sell for years after a trip with us.
What health and safety precautions should I take.
We recommend talking to your doctor before you travel to get the best health and safety advice for you.
Please let African Eye know in advance if you are traveling with any dietary restrictions or medical conditions that we may need to be aware of.
My dietary restrictions/preferences make traveling abroad more challenging
Please let the African-Eye team know if you are travelling with any dietary restrictions or allergies so we may ensure your lodge is well aware and prepared to cater to your individual needs on your arrival.
