Madagascar

The world's 4th largest island, Madagascar measures 1571 km in length and 571 km across at its widest point (587 042 km2). A mountainous central 'spine' separates the permanently damp east from the drier west and sub-desert south.
Berenty is Madagascar's best known reserve, because its large populations of sub-desert Lemurs: Ringtails, Verreaux Sifaka and Brown lemurs. Berenty is in the weird 'spiny desert' of Madagascar's sub-desert South. Perinet (Analamazaotra) is Madagascar's most visited reserve, because it is so easy to get to. It holds a large variety of rare rainforest animals, notably the baboon-sized Indri, largest of the Lemurs. All sorts of rainforest-dwelling birds, reptiles and other animal oddities abound there too. Nosy Be's tropical climate and classical 'Indian Ocean holiday island' appeal make it Madagascar's leading sea, sun & sand destination. To make the most of your time on Nosy Be, be sure to visit some of the surrounding islands. Deservedly the most popular of these, is Nosy Tanikely, a marine reserve around which the reefs offer astounding snorkelling and diving opportunities.

Flight arrangements:
Air Madagascar usually operates 2 flights per week between Antananarivo/ Madagascar and Johannesburg/South Africa.
Schedule: From Johannesburg to Antananarivo: Sundays and Friday
From Antananarivo to Johannesburg: Sundays and Fridays
Inter Air flies from JNB to Antananarivo and back on Tuesdays.
Flight duration is 3 hours

ACCOMMODATION

MADAGASCAR BEACH: SAINTE MARIE ISLAND
Sainte Marie, (Nosy Boraha), a 57 km-long island off Madagascar's east coast, has become the premier Malagasy holiday venue. Visitors will soon understand why: This island is beautiful, offering the ultimate escape from civilisation. The hotels along its coast range from basic (perfect for students & budget travellers) to classy, upmarket establishments with all necessary modern facilities. The lush tropical surroundings bring to mind images of an enormous tropical garden. It's ideal for honeymoon couples and easily affordable. Sainte Marie boasts numerous stunningly beautiful beaches and secluded coves, fringed with coconut palms. The coral reefs offshore offer excellent snorkelling and scuba diving. In August and September, hump-backed whales migrate here and are a huge attraction. The roads beckon mountain bikers and most of the hotels hire bicycles and snorkelling gear.
Ile Aux Nattes/ Nosy Nato is a small island south of Sainte Marie. Off its idyllic beaches are some of the best reefs in the Malagasy region. The basic but charming Hotel Napoleon has an international following thanks to its restaurant. This is a wonderful option for budget travellers. Boat transport to the nearby Sainte Marie island is easy to arrange.

MADAGASCAR BEACH & NATURE: NOSY BE & PERINET :
This package is one of the best choices for first time visitors. As all the areas covered are accessible year-round, it is possible at any time.
Nosy Be's tropical climate and 'Indian Ocean holiday island' appeal make it one of Madagascar's leading sea, sun & sand destination. To make the most of your time on Nosy Be, we included a visit to some of the surrounding islands. Deservedly the most popular of these, is Nosy Tanikely, a marine reserve around which the reefs offer astounding snorkelling and diving opportunities. Then there's Nosy Komba, an unofficial 'sanctuary' for a thriving population of endangered Black Lemurs. Perinet (Analamazaotra) is Madagascar's most visited reserve, because it is so easy to get to. It holds a large variety of rare rainforest animals, notably the baboon-sized Indri, largest of the Lemurs. All sorts of rainforest-dwelling birds, reptiles and other animal oddities abound there too. Set in lush montane rainforest, Perinet is 3- ½ hours from Antananarivo by good road. Its trails are well mapped. Forest guides will invariably find many animal and plant oddities.

WEATHER
When to go: This depends on your interest. Nature enthusiasts should go from late August to January. Certain parts of western Madagascar are not accessible in summer (December - March) after rains. Avoid the north-east from March to July. Cyclones occur in January - mid February. April / May is also good for mammal watching.

TOURIST INFORMATION: VISAS AND IMMIGRATION
All visitors need visas. Malagasy consulates in Johannesburg/South Africa or Durban issue one month visas for any passport holder. A valid passport is required.

DEPARTURE TAX
Nothing payable on departure Included in the ticket

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
No immunizations are necessary. Malaria prophylactics are essential. Drink only bottled water or take water purification tablets. Travel insurance is essential (medical cover).

DIVE DOCUMENTATION
Necessary to make dive bookings – logbooks and certification cards

LOCAL CURRENCY
The Malagasy Franc (Fmg). US $ 1 = approximately Fmg 6.400. Take cash and traveler's cheques in US$ or Euros or other hard currency. Only a few hotels accept credit cards. Please note: The South African Rand is not accepted in Madagascar. Do not change all your money into the Fmg since you cannot change it back on your departure (and you are not allowed to take Fmg out of Madagascar)

CULTURE
The 14 million Malagasy constitute the world's only Afro-Asian nation. Man arrived at most 2000 years ago by means of outrigger canoes from Melanesia, Polynesia, Indonesia and Africa. The contemporary Malagasy, separated into 16 major tribes are united by language and culture. (There are regional variations). Best known of the Malagasy ceremonies are the 'bone-turning' or 'famadihana', held in winter (June - August).