Madagascar is like a mini continent jam-packed with mystery. Don't believe us? Well, there are tons of things to discover about this unique island destination. For example, did you know that Madagascar is home to over 200,000 different species of wildlife plus 10,000 plant species, too? What's more, over 90% of these species aren't found anywhere else on our planet...
1. She's Here, She's Queer – Gay-friendly Island
We have to start our list with the jolly good fact that Madagascar is a super choice for all LGBTQ+ travellers. It's legal for adults to be gay in the country, and tourists older than 21 years old are generally left to do as they please in tourist areas. However, don't worry about a thing, as our Travel Experts will brief you on every single detail about a country before you set foot there.
No stress here, only zen vibes
2. She's a Golden Oldie – The Oldest Island on Earth
You've got to respect your elders, and as islands go, this one demands it as it's the oldest! Located to the east of the African continent in the Indian Ocean, Madagascar is between 80-100 million years old. Phew! But she's been ageing like a fine wine and only getting better with each passing year.
Madagascar has been around the block
3. She's Got Body – Fourth-Largest Island
Size doesn't always matter (wink, wink), but in this case, it certainly helps! If a holiday to you means endless new activities and sights to explore, then Madagascar promises all this and more. As the fourth-largest island in the world, she boasts plenty of varying terrains to discover.
There's nothing small about Madagascar
4. She Likes to Move it, Move it – Unique Wildlife
The adorable lemur King Julian and his entourage in the film "Madagascar" do, in fact, exist! And they're just as comedic. When visiting the real island, you'll be treated to their antics as they scramble and leap through the trees, those striped tails erect and huge eyes darting about as if they've had too many espressos! But what you might not know is that King Julian has many cousins, with over 100 different lemur species living here.
But that's not all! Other fascinating wildlife include chameleons. And not just one colour-changing creature, either. Nope, half of our planet's chameleon species call Madagascar their humble abode, some as tiny as your fingernail to as big as 68cm in length.
The surprises do not stop on land, however, with whale sharks in the ocean being another drawcard to the island. Plan your visit between September and December to see them mill about the northwestern Nosy Be region.
King Julian is real!
5. She's a Little Beachy – Sandy Shores Galore
If you're coming to an island, you've got some beach bumming on your mind. Well, honey, don't you worry, as Madagascar is a dream come true for catching rays and sipping cocktails.
Can't sit still for too long? Around 2,000km long with around 5,000km of pristine coastlines, long walks on the beach are in store for you too! Plus, there are plenty of watersports to keep you occupied! For those true adventurers at heart, we also recommend kayaking to some of the smaller islands.
Every day is beach day
6. She Likes to Make a Scene – Pretty-as-a-Picture Landscapes
So, other than beaches, what's in it for those who want to rack up their step count? Well, Madagascar is super diverse, from flourishing forests to dramatic mountain ranges, as well as some extraterrestrial-looking salt pans and rock formations. One of our favourites is Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, where you can ooh and aah over the limestone needles, creating a prehistoric-like rock forest.
Then there are the baobabs. Oh, how we love the look of this tree! At the Avenue of the Baobabs or Baobab Alley, you can admire these striking trees, some over 30 metres (100 feet) tall! And, just like the island, they're ancient – as old as 2,800 years!
She's beauty, she's grace, she's Miss Madagascar
7. She's Oh-So Cultured – Rich History
She's not just wild; she's also pretty refined, with more than 18 ethnic groups making up the Malagasy culture, merging the best of African, Arab and Indian origins. Our guests also always comment that the locals are some of the friendliest people they've encountered on their travels!
Local woman donning her traditional "lamba" dress
Let's Get You to Madagascar
She's waiting for your arrival. Let's get to know you so we can tailor the ultimate adventure to Africa that ticks all the right boxes! As the LGBTQ+ experts in luxury travel, you'll be in good hands. Reach out to our fabulous Travel Experts today, and let's start planning!
Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
