Get your international Driving Permit for Madagascar in 8 minutes

On the east coast of Africa, across the Mozambique River, is Madagascar. Being one of the most notable for its lemurs, vivid chameleons, beautiful orchids, and majestic baobab trees, Madagascar is renowned for its rare flora and fauna. A majority of the reptiles and amphibians, half of the avian species, and all of the lemur species are native to Madagascar, and they cannot be found somewhere else on Earth.

Madagascar is best for both animal lovers and outdoor adventurers. At national parks, tourists can come face to face with a variety of animals and vegetation. The Avenue of the Baobab is lined with towering baobab trees, while rock formations and hiking opportunities are also available on Madagascar.

Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve

Located along the western coast of Madagascar, the Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve is home to impressive geological formations and a range of threatened species. More than 328 miles of woodland make up the UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the home of 11 species of lemurs, 17 species of mammals, six species of birds, and more. The highlight here is the tall gray limestone pinnacles of the preserve, which are 328 feet tall.

Avenue of the Baobabs

The 853-foot-long Avenue of the Baobabs, as its name implies, is a stretch of giant baobab trees that are centuries years old. The Avenue of the Baobabs is definitely one of the best places in the country to take pictures, particularly at sunrise and sunset.

Mantadia National Park

The Mantadia National Park is one of the most convenient parks to visit in Madagascar. Situated about 100 miles east of the main city of Antananarivo, the Mantadia National Park is home to 14 species of lemurs, including 117 species of birds and 84 species of amphibians. Bean lovers will find a lot to enjoy here, too. Over 1,200 species of plants grow in this lush park, 120 of which are orchids.

Past travelers enjoyed walking along the five trails of Mantadia National Park, adding that every path and stairway has been well-preserved. What's more: others say this protected area is a must-see if you love lemurs. Plus, consider hiring a guide for a cost at the park reception desk. Every local guide is an accomplished spotter who ensures that you can increase your chances of seeing a variety of animals.

Mantadia National Park is open at 8 a.m. every day. Tickets sold at the reception desk and the Analamanga Regional Tourist Office in Antaninarenina cost 45.000 Malagasy ariary (about $14) to adults and 25.000 Malagasy ariary ($8) to children.

Lokobe National Park

If your vision of a trip to Madagascar consists of hiking in the tropical forest and seeing lemurs in the wild, then you must visit the Lokobe National Park. Located on the southeastern tip of Nosy Be, an island off the west coast of Madagascar renowned for its picturesque beaches and sunsets, Lokobe National Park is one of the few remaining forests in the Sambirano region. Only motorized, canoe-like boats called pirogues will enter the park, contributing to its quiet, unspoiled environment.

While some recent tourists warned that it may be very exhausting to get to the park and explore it, they were most enthralled by its scenery and its wildlife. You'll have the opportunity to spot three species of lemurs, as well as various kinds of amphibians and reptiles. Highlights for former travelers included seeing boa constrictors slither in the trees, seeing chameleons blend in with their surroundings, and feeding lemur bananas. The same as Mantadia National Park, Lokobe National Park is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

You're going to have to row one of the park's pirogues from Nosy Be to Lokobe National Park, which takes about 20 to 40 minutes. Transfers of pirogues are included in the Park entrance fee of 55,000 Malagasy ariary (or $17.50) per adult and 25,000 Malagasy ariary ($8) per child. You'll find three walking trails, restrooms, and a gift shop inside the park.

The Three Bays

If you want to enjoy a water view without trekking offshore to islands like Nosy Sakatia or Nosy Be, go to The Three Bays. It's made up of three bays, Sakalava, Pigeon, and Dune. The region includes pristine beaches where sports such as diving, camping, windsurfing, and kitesurfing can be enjoyed. You'll also have plenty of chances to snap jaw-dropping pictures here.

Visitors rave about the magnificent environment of The Three Bays, adding that the conditions for kitesurfing in the Bay of Sakalava are excellent. The place is also easy to access by road since it is just 10 miles northeast of Antsiranana. For those who would rather visit The Three Bays on a quad bike, Diego Raid provides four-wheel-drive tours for $21 per person (or $120 per vehicle).

Anja Community Reserve

While Madagascar provides many places to spot lemurs, one of its most unusual wildlife sites is the Anja Community Reserve. Located roughly 41 miles southwest of Fianarantsoa along National Road No. 7, this environmental and cultural conservation site aims to conserve local flora and fauna within a populated area. Ring-tailed lemurs, chameleons, mice, and more can be found here. The nearby granite rock reserve features hiking trails and caves.

When you're steering a car, by yourself or with others, being safe should always come first. It's crucial to know and follow basic safe driving rules whenever you're on the road. If you plan to drive in Madagascar, make sure you understand Madagascar driving rules. Here are some tips for your journey:

Drunk Driving

Driving under the influence of liquor is one of the main contributors to road traffic injuries in the country. Authorities force intense and sincere discipline on all those who find themselves driving drunk in Madagascar. Liquor and drugs can disable the abilities and discernment of the driver by influencing the sharpness of the driver. It's easier to flag a cab when you had liquor than harm others, especially when you're driving in a foreign country.

Speeding

Some highways are designated as low-speed areas. It also involves high road traffic areas, such as school areas and streets with a number of intersections close together. Driving over the maximum speed limit will place you and others at risk of injury.

The maximum speed limit enforced in the city is therefore 50 km/h. Wild and domestic animals, as well as teenagers, frequently escape into the streets sometimes. On rural roads, you can travel at a speed of 60-70 km/h. The maximum speed limit allowed for public paved roads is 80 km/h.

Other Important Rules

Other important rules you need to remember are the following:

• Never pass a stopped bus with a stop sign on your left. That means the kids are going down the driveway.
• When you hear a siren approaching behind you, pull your side if you can, stand, and wait before a patrol officer or a fire engine passes past.
• Stop at the stop sign and watch for other cars and pedestrians before you continue.