Masoala eco trails

Eco and Wildlife tour in Maroantsetra

Tour Price : $1000-2500 Duration : 5-7 days Languages: English Discount: 20

Masoala National Park, in northeastern of Madagascar, is the largest of the island’s protected areas. Most of the park is situated in Sava Region and a part in Analanjirofo. Created in 1997, the park protects rainforest and marine parks. The Masoala peninsula is exceptionally diverse due to its huge size, and variety of habitats. Altogether, the park protects rainforest, coastal forest, flooded forest, marsh, and mangrove. Three marine parks protect coral reefs and a dazzling array of an Aquatic Jungle life.

Masoala provides an excellent opportunity to experience the unique flora and fauna of the big island. There are 10 lemur species, including the flamboyant Red Ruffed Lemur, which is native to the Peninsula. The island reserve of Nosy Mangabe is one of the best sites in Madagascar to try and glimpse the elusive nocturnal Aye-aye.

Masoala harbors many Endemic Wildlife, such as the Madagascar day gecko, Leaf-tailed gecko, chameleons of all sizes, spectacular birds such as the Helmet Vanga, and rare species such as the Red Owl and Tomato frog. Masoala is also home to the spectacular day-flying sunset moth, Chrysiridia rhipheus. The Madagascar Serpent-eagle was recently rediscovered here, and exists in healthy populations only in this part of north east Madagascar.

03 marine parks are included in the Masoala National Park: Tampolo in the West, Ambodilaitry in the South, and Ifaho in the East. These are among the most interesting marine environments in Madagascar and are superb destinations for kayaking and snorkeling.

Each year from July to early September, hundreds of Humpback Whales visit the Antongil Bay during their long migration. The warm protected waters of the bay provide an ideal breeding and calving ground for these magnificent marine mammals.

The main trails are at Nosy Mangabe, Tampolo/Ambodiforaha, Cap Est, and a several-day hike is possible across the peninsula. Campsites are maintained at Nosy Mangabe, Cap Est, Ambatolaidama, and each of the three marine parks. Many villages on the peninsula also provide inexpensive bungalows or basic guest rooms. Antalaha and Maroantsetra both offer a wide array of accommodations, as well as guides and porters for travel on the peninsula. All visits to the park must be accompanied by an official park-approved guide. Detailed information on arranging trips is available from the National Park or guide offices in Maroantsetra.

In June 2007, Masoala was designated as a World Heritage Site as part of a cluster of parks that represents the biodiversity of the eastern rainforests of the country.

DETAILS OF ITINERARIES

The Tour starts a day after arrival or on arrival at the international airport.

Day 01: ANTANANARIVO – MAROANTSETRA

Once in Maroantsetra, you will meet your Local  guide and will be Boat transfert to your Hôtel . A journey crossing the bay of Antongil between 1 –3 hours, with the possibility to meet Dolphins and whale in season (august – September) and the Green Thicky forested mountains of the peninsula as a dramatic backdrop to the destination. Walking tour to Spot the for Red Ruffed Lemur, the Masoala endemic lemur; visiting a small waterfall the afternoon. Night walk can be organized here too for Insects .

DAY 2 : A JOURNEY  IN MASOALA PARK

With your Local Guide, morning Walking  to Masoala Forest, Black white Ruffed Lemurs, Helmeted Vanga, Leaf Tailed Geckos, and relaxing in the Marine Park, Picnic food can be organized.

Accomodation Full Board Included

Overnight at chez Arrol Eco lodge.

DAY 3: BOAT TRIP TO THE MARINE PARK OF MASOALA

This is more a honey moon holiday. With your picnic lunch, you will be transported to the marine park of Masoala. You will have your own beach; you can dive or just relax to enjoy your day. You may see the hump backed whales while you are relaxing on your own white and soft sandy beach.

Speed boat back to Masoala lodge, Overnight in a Hotel Recommended Ecolodge in Masoala

Accomodation Full Board Included

Overnight at chez Arrol Eco lodge. 

Day 4: NOSY MANGABE, the “AYE AYE Island”

Morning boat trip to Nosy Mangabe; visit of the island for its wildlife.  Night walk with the local guide to see the nocturnal species of animals: mouse Lemurs, leaf tailed Geckos, Mantella Laevigata and visit Betsimisaraka tribe tombs. Walk at night looking for Aye aye.

Overnight Camping in Nosy Mangabe Full Board

DAY 5: BOAT TRANSFER FROM NOSY MANGABE TO MAROANTSETRA, FLY TO TANA

In the Morning, transfer by boat from Nosy Mangabe to Maroantsetra then drive to the airport to catch the flight to Tana. In Tana, transfer to the Hotel.

End of the Masoala tour.

Additional information