Madagascar: Evolution Gone Wild

We are returning to one of the most sought-after destinations — the fabled and mystical island of Madagascar. On our previous tours we have been very successful in spotting the wildlife with 15 species of lemurs, a large percentage of the endemic birds, and many of the chameleons of the island observed.

This isolated island, which has borne wildly strange creatures and plants, is remarkable in every way. Since the island separated from the east coast of Africa more than 60 million years ago and drifted into the Indian Ocean, its wildlife has followed an independent course of evolution. The complement of life forms here is remarkably different from that in mainland Africa. The large size of the island (the world’s 4th largest) and its many different landforms and habitats have also allowed a great diversification of these forms. We will experience this overall uniqueness and great variety as we visit different parts of this island nation.

We’ll visit some of the best wildlife reserves in the country in search of the many species of lemurs, the unusual primates found only in Madagascar. We should see the Common Brown, Black-and-white Ruffed, and Ring-tailed Lemurs among others, plus the largest of all lemurs: the Indri. The island also contains a large number of endemic bird species, including bizarre and wonderful ones such as the Sickle-billed Vanga, Long-tailed Ground-Roller, and Blue Coua. In the undergrowth and on matching plants skulk wonderful weird and colourful chameleons, geckos, and skinks. Some of the frogs flaunt their wonderful colours in broad daylight.

We’ll have time to dip in the warm Indian Ocean, enjoy the beautiful beaches and boat to special island habitats nearby. Through meeting the Malagasy people along the way, we’ll also be introduced to the island’s fascinating human culture, which has been palpably influenced by its French colonial history yet retains a strong fidelity to its ancestral roots.

Few other places in the world are as threatened as Madagascar. Intense human population pressure has already shrunk the habitat available to the large numbers of endemic species of mammals, birds, and plants that reside on this island. Now is the time to visit one of the most interesting natural history destinations in the world.

For those looking to extend their time and add an element of relaxation and adventure, consider our post-tour extension to the amazing Masoala Peninsula! Please download the detailed itinerary for more details.