Andasibe and the Lemurs

Madagascar, an island of extraordinary and unique wildlife found nowhere else on earth, is above all the land of the lemur, and the rainforests around Andasibe, a few hours east of the capital, are the most accessible and rewarding place to encounter them. This lush reserve is home to the indri, the largest living lemur, a striking black-and-white creature whose haunting, eerie, whale-like calls echo hauntingly through the misty forest at dawn, alongside other lemurs, chameleons, colourful frogs and a wealth of endemic life, seen on guided walks.

What you actually see

• The indri - the largest lemur and its haunting dawn calls.
• The other lemurs - the diademed sifaka and other species.
• The chameleons and frogs - the endemic reptiles and amphibians.
• The night walks - the search for nocturnal lemurs and creatures.

When to go

April to November, the drier season, for the best weather and trails, though it is a rainforest so rain is possible any time; the indri call most reliably in the morning, so an early start is best. The reserve is far more accessible than Madagascar's remote west.

Honest expectations

It is the most accessible major wildlife site, a few hours from the capital, making it a highlight of most first trips, though the roads, like all Madagascar's, are slow. A guide is required and greatly improves sightings. Wildlife, while rich, still takes patience and luck in the forest. The haunting call of the indri and the encounters with lemurs, chameleons and endemic creatures, though, are unforgettable.

Nearby

The capital Antananarivo and the eastern rainforests are within reach.