From the Expert’s Desk

Madagascar unfolds as a natural wonder, housing over 80% of endemic species in its fauna and flora, crafting an authentic natural paradise.

This month, we turn our spotlight on Michael Horn, the Founder of Le Voyageur Ltd. Michael represents Madagascar as a the diverse landscapes with a sensation of a global journey, from tropical rainforests to secluded sandy beaches, offering a kaleidoscope of experiences for the senses.

Approaching the locals reveals an abundance of cordiality, warmth, and zest for life, leaving an indelible impression. This engagement becomes a cherished souvenir carried forever in the heart, symbolizing the unique essence of Madagascar. The island’s distinct faces range from tropical rainforests to barren steppes, monumental sandstone formations to crystal-clear lakes, picturesque terraced rice paddies to remote white sandy beaches – each offering a unique facet of this captivating destination.

What to see in Madagascar:

East : The eastern part of Madagascar is a tapestry of rainforests adorned with lush green treetops, rare orchids, and exotic fauna. This region beckons exploration with various national parks offering a natural canvas of vibrant colors. Among these are Marojejy and Masoala National Parks, in which you can see silky Sifaka and the red ruffed lemur. In the biosphere reserve of Mananara or the Aye Aye island near Akanin’ny Nofy, the elusive Aye-Aye can be spotted. Additionally, there’s the Andasibe/Périnet Reserve with the majestic Indri lemurs with impressing cry and the golden bamboo lemurs of Ranomafana National Park.

Off the eastern coast lie the captivating islands of Sainte Marie and the Ile aux Nattes, boasting crystal-clear waters and serene white coral sand beaches. In the waters surrounding Sainte Marie and Antongil Bay, witness the mesmerizing spectacle of humpback whales passing through from July to September.

South : The journey south unfolds with a tapestry of diversity, leading you through winding roads that traverse highlands adorned with rice paddies, vegetable fields, and tranquil forests. As you venture further, the imposing Andringitra mountains beckon, their towering walls inviting rock climbers to explore, and hikers can conquer Pic Boby, the second highest summit of the country. Lemur lovers can also visit the nearby Anja Reserve, which is home to a colony of ring-tailed lemurs.

Continuing south, you encounter a chain of hills whimsically named “the bishop’s cap,” and the vast steppe of the Horombe plateau reminiscent of African landscapes. A pinnacle highlight along this route is the awe-inspiring Isalo mountains, adorned with canyons and towers, creating a breathtaking panorama.

The journey takes an adventurous turn at Ilakaka, a bustling town reminiscent of the California gold rush, they find sapphires here in the surroudings. Moving forward, the Zombitse National Park introduces you to some of Madagascar’s endemic birds, and around there, some baobabs can also be seen.

West : The renowned Baobab Avenue near Morondava stands as one of Madagascar’s iconic landmarks, captivating visitors with its magic moments during sunset, when golden-red rays illuminate the giant trees. In the nearby Kirindy reserve, observe lemurs, geckos, and a variety of bird species. Embark on a Tsiribihina River safari, witnessing turtles, crocodiles, lemurs, and diverse birdlife. After over two days, the journey leads to Belo/Tsiribihina, accessible from Morondava via a dirt track.

Continuing by 4WD, reach the Tsingys, remarkable « forest » of karstic limestone pinnacles resembling a moonscape, designated as a UNESCO World Nature site. The Tsingy also host diverse fauna and flora, including birds, reptiles, lemurs, and rare plants. Alternatively, opt for a canoe trip on the Manambolo River from Ankavandra to access the Tsingys of Bemaraha.

North : Diego Suarez, the principal city and economic hub in the north, nestles charmingly in a bay with panoramic views of the Malagasy “Sugar hut.” The region’s highlights include the three bays, Windsor Castle, the emerald sea, and the expansive 18,000-hectare Amber Mountain National Park. This park hosts diverse lemurs, birds, endemic plants, and impressive waterfalls.

En route to Ankify, a rewarding side trip awaits at the red Tsingys and Ankarana National Park. The park’s cave holds sacred significance, serving as a site for local ritual celebrations. Off the north coast, numerous tropical dream islands like Nosy Be, Nosy Iranja, Nosy Tsarabanjina, and Nosy Sakatia boast white coral sand beaches, palm trees, and inviting sapphire waters.

Nosy Be, the most renowned among these islands, is evolving into a paradise for travelers. It offers a range of hotels, diverse water activities, quad biking, Ylang Ylang plantations, Lemurialand, and the Lokobe Reserve, ensuring varied and enjoyable days.

Places to try cuisines in Madagascar:

You will arrive by airplane to Antananarivo, where you have the choice of many quiet hotels from two to five-star, and also some guesthouses. In Antananarivo, you can visit the newly renovated Queens palace now also from the inside, with a guided tour. Another site is the prime minister’s palace

Antananarivo is also a good place for foodies. It has some restaurants with Indian dishes, such as the Quantum with Mediterranean and Indian cuisine Quantum-isoraka or the Little India at Anjary Hotel  Or the le Paris – Delhi at the Grand Mellis Hotel.

The French or fusion gourmet restaurants are worth mentioning particularly the La Varangue Restaurant restaurant with very beautiful decoration a lot of antiques, and great food. Or then the perhaps best restaurant in Madagascar, the Le Marais  with chef Lalaina, who has won quite many prices, also internationally. This is also the place to taste caviar made in Madagascar.

The above-mentioned restaurants are in the city center, another nice Indian restaurant is near the airport, the Basmati restaurant.

Michael Horn

Founder of Le Voyageur Ltd

Michael Horn, born in October 1963, came to Madagascar the first time in 1996. He fell in love with a local woman and the country, and he decided to come back there and open up in Antananarivo, the capital city, a tour operator and travel agency company named Le Voyageur. This company was fully operational in January 1998, and has the licence of the tourism ministry. He lived in Madagascar for many years, but now, he lives part time in Switzerland and part time in Madagascar

Michael Horn

 Founder of Le Voyageur Ltd

Michael Horn, born in October 1963, came to Madagascar the first time in 1996. He fell in love with a local woman and the country, and he decided to come back there and open up in Antananarivo, the capital city, a tour operator and travel agency company named Le Voyageur. This company was fully operational in January 1998, and has the licence of the tourism ministry. He lived in Madagascar for many years, but now, he lives part time in Switzerland and part time in Madagascar