Bora

Bora is a protected area in Madagascar.

Bora at a Glance

Location
Northern Madagascar & Nosy Be Archipelago, Madagascar, Indian Ocean Islands
Coordinates
-14.916189, 48.223717
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
High
Best Time to Visit
April to November (dry season) for wildlife and trekking. September to November for lemur births.

Getting to Bora

Nearest airport: Aéroport d'Arrachart (DIE), 308 km away.

Weather & Climate in Bora

The warmest temperatures in Bora occur in October, averaging 27.2°C (up to 35.0°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 24.6°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in July with average rainfall of 2.2mm. Average humidity: 53.7%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 25.3°C (rainfall: 639.7mm)
  • February: 25.9°C (rainfall: 362.7mm)
  • March: 26.0°C (rainfall: 365.7mm)
  • April: 26.9°C (rainfall: 93.6mm)
  • May: 26.4°C (rainfall: 26.6mm)
  • June: 25.1°C (rainfall: 19.6mm)
  • July: 24.6°C (rainfall: 2.2mm)
  • August: 25.1°C (rainfall: 6.3mm)
  • September: 26.2°C (rainfall: 7.0mm)
  • October: 27.2°C (rainfall: 55.5mm)
  • November: 27.0°C (rainfall: 181.0mm)
  • December: 26.5°C (rainfall: 290.9mm)

Best Time to Visit Bora

The best months to visit Bora are June, July, August, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 25.33°C, rainfall 639.7mm, sunshine 8.5 hrs, humidity 86.4%
  • February: Good, temperature 25.87°C, rainfall 362.7mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 84.8%
  • March: Good, temperature 25.96°C, rainfall 365.7mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 83.9%
  • April: Great, temperature 26.89°C, rainfall 93.6mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 73.5%
  • May: Great, temperature 26.35°C, rainfall 26.6mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 63.4%
  • June: Great, temperature 25.12°C, rainfall 19.6mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 56.7%
  • July: Great, temperature 24.57°C, rainfall 2.2mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 53.7%
  • August: Great, temperature 25.15°C, rainfall 6.3mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 52.2%
  • September: Great, temperature 26.19°C, rainfall 7mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 50.5%
  • October: Great, temperature 27.22°C, rainfall 55.5mm, sunshine 11.7 hrs, humidity 59.6%
  • November: Good, temperature 26.99°C, rainfall 181mm, sunshine 11.8 hrs, humidity 71.7%
  • December: Good, temperature 26.54°C, rainfall 290.9mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 78%

Wildlife in Bora

Home to 1 recorded species including 1 birds of prey.

Recommended Packing List for Bora

Based on average temperature of 26.0°C, typical conditions, humidity 68%.

  • Lightweight breathable clothing - warm 26°C weather calls for light fabrics
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Bora

18 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Northern Madagascar & Nosy Be Archipelago

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Madagascar

Travel advisory for Madagascar

Bora FAQs

When is the optimal time to visit Bora for wildlife viewing and comfortable trekking conditions?

The dry season, typically from May to October, offers the best conditions for exploring Bora. During this period, trails are more accessible, and wildlife, particularly lemurs and chameleons, are often more active and visible, making for excellent viewing opportunities. The cooler, drier weather also enhances the overall trekking experience in this less-crowded park.

What unique wildlife can I expect to encounter in Bora that sets it apart from other Madagascar parks?

Bora is renowned for its specific lemur populations, including the rare Silky Sifaka and various nocturnal species like the Aye-Aye, which are challenging to spot elsewhere. The park's diverse habitats also support an impressive array of endemic chameleons and unique birdlife, offering a truly distinct Madagascan wildlife experience.

Beyond malaria precautions, what specific safety considerations should I be aware of when planning a trip to Bora?

Due to Bora's remote and rugged terrain, it's crucial to always trek with an experienced local guide, which is mandatory for park entry. Be prepared for varying trail conditions and carry sufficient water and sun protection. While the park is generally safe, it's wise to secure valuables and follow your guide's advice regarding local customs and wildlife encounters.

What are the typical costs and logistical challenges associated with accessing and exploring Bora National Park?

Accessing Bora often requires a 4x4 vehicle due to unpaved roads, and transport costs can be significant given its remote location. Expect to pay park entrance fees, mandatory local guide fees, and potentially porter fees. Accommodation options are generally basic, ranging from designated campsites to simple guesthouses in nearby villages, making advance planning essential.

What kind of activities and unique experiences can visitors expect during a safari in Bora, given its low crowding?

Visitors to Bora can enjoy intimate guided day and night treks through diverse forests, focusing on spotting endemic lemurs, reptiles, and amphibians. The low crowding level ensures a more personal and immersive wildlife viewing experience, often allowing for extended observation times. Birdwatching is also exceptional, with opportunities to discover unique Madagascan species.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Lonely Planet Madagascar by Lonely Planet - The definitive guide to the world's most unique wildlife destination. Covers lemur-spotting, rainforest reserves, baobab avenues, and practical travel logistics.
  • Bradt Guide: Madagascar by Hilary Bradt & Daniel Austin - The original and best Madagascar guide, from the publisher who pioneered travel to the island. Covers every national park, lemur species, and practical logistics for this complex destination.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.