OFF THE WALL MADAGASCAR
MADAGASCAR IS...
BY JO AUSTIN …the Galapagos of Africa, featuring
unique wildlife, fauna and flora including over 40 species of lemur and seven of the world’s eight species of baobab. Situated 400 km east of Mozambique
in the Indian Ocean, Madagascar is the fourth largest island in the world stretching 1600 km from north to south and 576 km at its widest point. The mixed topography of the island has created five distinct climatic zones resulting in a total paradise for anyone with the merest interest in nature, wildlife and geography. The Malagasy people are a complete hotchpotch of cultures from Africa and Asia. It is this diversity that attracts
adventurers, photographers, eco- travellers, nature lovers, culture vultures, honeymooners, hikers, divers and anyone in search of African culture with a difference. However, this is not a holiday destination to be sneezed at. In spite of all its natural attractions and stunning coastline, Madagascar is one of the poorest countries in the world.
Main pic: Cycling in Andringita National Park; from top: chameleon; travelling by zebu cart and the native baobab tree
70 February 2012 •
www.sellinglonghaul.com
MADAGASCAR
Top Selling Tips... • Get yourself a guide... “Tell your clients not to go without one of Hilary Bradt’s amazing guides to Madagascar
...remember to buy a map of the island. The Michelin road map is good”
In 2011, the population was estimated at around 21.9 million, 90% of whom live on less than two dollars per day. While crime rates are extremely low
and tourists are quite safe to travel around, we must respect the fact that things do not always go smoothly. The pace of life is generally slow; the infrastructure is erratic; the roads are pot-holed; but while service levels may not be up to Western standards, they are always given with a genuine smile. It all adds to the sense of adventure and requires an expert tour operator to make it all come together. There are no direct flights from the
UK but being a former French colony, having gained independence in 1960, there are plenty of flights out of Paris.
The French legacy is felt all over the island and visitors can expect superb hotels and fabulous cuisine in the major tourist areas. The capital, Antananarivo, (known as
Tana), is a bustling, cosmopolitan city full of cars and zebu (ox)-drawn carts, thriving markets, handicrafts, colourful houses and colonial architecture. While Malagasy is the spoken language French is also widely understood. While this magnificent island
requires a minimum of two weeks to experience, there is little or no jetlag. Madagascar may require a bit of effort but the rewards are great and with 5000km of coastline, unique wildlife, natural wonders and intriguing history, I challenge anyone not to have an amazing time.
Where To Book It RAINBOW TOURS - 020 7666 1250
www.rainbowtours.co.uk A popular package suitable for families, honeymooners and nature enthusiasts who want to combine seeing wildlife and local culture with some time at the coast and with good accommodation. Madagascar Made Easy Deluxe is from £3684 pp including flights ex UK. •
General information
VISA: All British passport holders require a visa. You can obtain a free month visa at Ivato airport on arrival.
HEALTH: No vaccinations are required if arriving from Europe. Malaria precautions are strongly advised. Bottled mineral water is widely available.
CURRENCY: Ariary. Credit cards are accepted in major cities and Euro or US$ are the recommended currency.
TIME: GMT +3
WHEN TO GO: A year-round destination. The rainy season is typically mid-December to mid-March.
GETTING THERE: Air France flies to Madagascar four times a week via Paris. Kenya Airways flies to Madagascarvia Nairobi three times a week.
NATIONAL TOURIST OFFICE:
www.madagascar-tourisme.com
Photos supplied by: ISLAND CONTINENT TOURS MADAGASCAR
www.ictours.mg
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