Discover Madagascar

The famous Avenue de Baobabs near Morondava features centuries-old baobab trees that turn into striking silhouettes especially at sunset — one of the most photographed sights in all of Africa.

Andasibe-Mantadia National Park is home to the indri, the largest living lemur, whose loud call echoes through the rainforest from far away. Nowhere else can you experience these primeval primates so up close.

The "Scented Island" in the north is known for ylang-ylang plantations, turquoise bays and offshore islets like Nosy Komba. Diving and snorkeling on colorful coral reefs are among the main attractions.

A bizarre labyrinth of razor-sharp limestone spikes forms this UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in the west of the country. Suspension bridges and via ferratas lead right through the surreal "stone forest" landscape.

Direct flights land at Ivato International Airport near the capital Antananarivo, usually with a stopover in Paris, Addis Ababa or Nairobi. Nosy Be in the north is also partly reachable directly with charter flights.

The official languages are Malagasy and French. In tourist areas like Nosy Be and Antananarivo, English is also somewhat spoken, but French is the most widespread second language.

The Malagasy ariary. Credit cards are only accepted in larger hotels and cities, so it's important to carry enough cash for remote regions.

Over 90 percent of animal and plant species occur only in Madagascar, including more than a hundred lemur species. This unique biodiversity combined with pristine beaches makes the island an extraordinary destination.