Safari in Northern Madagascar & Nosy Be Archipelago
Discover the dramatic tsingy formations of Ankarana, the lush cloud forests of Montagne d'Ambre, and the idyllic islands of Nosy Be in Madagascar's vibrant north.
Northern Madagascar & Nosy Be Archipelago Parks Map
Explore safari parks across Northern Madagascar & Nosy Be Archipelago
Northern Madagascar & Nosy Be Archipelago Safari Parks
Explore safari parks in Northern Madagascar & Nosy Be Archipelago
Analamerana
Analamerana is a protected area in Madagascar.
Barrière Corallienne Nord
Barrière Corallienne Nord is a protected area in Madagascar.
Barrière Corallienne Sud
Barrière Corallienne Sud is a protected area in Madagascar.
Bora
Bora is a protected area in Madagascar.
Lokobe
Situated on Nosy Be island, Lokobe is the last remaining primary forest on the island, famous for its black lemurs and the tiny Nosy Be panther chameleon. It offers guided walks through dense rainforest, providing an intimate wildlife viewing experience.
Manongarivo
Manongarivo is a protected area in Madagascar.
Parc National de la Montagne d’Ambre
A lush montane rainforest park surrounding an extinct volcano, known for its cool climate and numerous waterfalls. It's a fantastic place to see crowned lemurs, Sanford's brown lemurs, and a remarkable diversity of chameleons, frogs, and orchids.
Réserve Nosy Hara
Réserve Nosy Hara is a protected area in Madagascar.
Réserve Spéciale Ankarana
Famous for its dramatic limestone 'tsingy' formations, caves, and underground rivers. It's home to several lemur species, including crowned lemurs and Sanford's brown lemurs, and offers unique opportunities for caving and exploring its distinct geological features.
Réserve Spéciale de la Forêt d'Ambre
Adjacent to Montagne d'Ambre National Park, this reserve offers similar montane rainforest habitats and wildlife. It's particularly good for spotting lemurs like the crowned lemur and Sanford's brown lemur, as well as a variety of reptiles and amphibians.
Sahamalaza - Nosy Radama
Sahamalaza - Nosy Radama is a protected area in Madagascar.
Compare Parks in Northern Madagascar & Nosy Be Archipelago
Side-by-side comparison of safari parks in Northern Madagascar & Nosy Be Archipelago
| Park | Area | Wildlife | Lodges | Crowds | Malaria | Airport |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Réserve Spéciale Ankarana | - | 117 | - | Very Quiet | High | AMB (35km) |
| Parc National de la Montagne d’Ambre | - | 117 | - | Very Quiet | High | DIE (35km) |
| Lokobe | - | 101 | - | Quiet | High | NOS (10km) |
| Réserve Spéciale de la Forêt d'Ambre | - | 117 | - | Quiet | High | DIE (17km) |
| Analamerana | - | 117 | - | Very Quiet | High | DIE (54km) |
| Barrière Corallienne Nord | - | 37 | - | Very Quiet | High | HVA (82km) |
| Barrière Corallienne Sud | - | 25 | - | Very Quiet | High | HVA (62km) |
| Bora | - | - | - | Very Quiet | High | WAI (25km) |
| Manongarivo | - | 122 | - | Very Quiet | High | IVA (65km) |
| Réserve Nosy Hara | 125,471 km² | - | - | Very Quiet | High | FMNK (66km) |
| Sahamalaza - Nosy Radama | - | 25 | - | Very Quiet | High | HVA (69km) |
27 species recorded in Northern Madagascar & Nosy Be Archipelago3 threatened
We love the sheer drama of Madagascar's north. Standing amidst the Ankarana tsingy feels like stepping onto another planet, a labyrinth of stone that humbles you. Then there's the cool, misty embrace of Montagne d'Ambre's cloud forest, a world away from the arid coast. And the islands, oh the islands - Nosy Be and its neighbors offer a tropical paradise that perfectly complements the rugged mainland, a place where the scent of ylang-ylang hangs heavy in the air.
Terrain & Altitude
A diverse landscape ranging from dramatic karst pinnacles and rugged highlands to coastal plains and volcanic islands.
Sea level to 1,475m above sea level
Vegetation
Dense tropical rainforests, dry deciduous forests, spiny thickets, and coastal mangroves dominate, interspersed with savannas.
Water Sources
The region is crisscrossed by numerous rivers, including the Sambirano and Ramena, with seasonal streams and the surrounding Indian Ocean providing vital water.
Unique Features
The iconic, razor-sharp limestone pinnacles known as 'tsingy' are a defining and breathtaking geological marvel.
Getting to the north requires a bit more effort, but it's absolutely worth it. We always fly into Nosy Be (NOS) and then arrange boat transfers or charter flights to the mainland parks. Don't underestimate the driving times from Antananarivo; it's a true Malagasy road adventure, best tackled with a reliable vehicle and a sense of humor.
Nearest Airports
Nosy Be Fascene Airport (NOS)
Varies by island, typically 30-60 minute boat transfer
Daily connections from Antananarivo (TNR) on Tsaradia
Antananarivo Ivato International Airport (TNR)
12-16 hour drive to Diego Suarez, then 1-2 hour drive to Ankarana/Montagne d'Ambre
International hub with connections to major African cities and Europe
Bush Airstrips
Driving Routes
From Antananarivo
A long but scenic drive north via RN4 to Diego Suarez. The road is mostly paved but can be rough in sections. We recommend breaking the journey in Mahajanga.
From Diego Suarez (Antsiranana)
The most convenient gateway to Ankarana National Park and Montagne d'Ambre. The roads are generally in fair condition, but a 4WD is always a wise choice in Madagascar.
Temperature
24.2°C
76°F
Rainfall
593.8 mm
Heavy rains
Humidity
87%
Sunshine
8.5 hrs/day
Data source: Open-Meteo Archive API
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Health & Travel Info
Important health and safety information for Madagascar