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Tsingy in west Ankarana, Ankarana Special Reserve
Home Destinations Africa Madagascar Ankarana Special Reserve

Ankarana Special Reserve

This remote and undeveloped park is almost a fantasy grotto of stark tsingy pinnacles and dry forests, where bats and crocodiles hide in subterranean caves and forest filled canyons.

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The imposing grey cliffs are dotted with splashes of green, as the weird and wonderful flora found here take hold, providing both habitat and food for the 10 species of lemur found here.

Tougher than other parks but definitely worth it, Ankarana is one of the more accessible tsingy regions in the country (when compared to the 10-hour drive to reach Tsingy Bemaraha in the East.)

Lady on rope bridge, Ankarana Special Reserve, Madagascar
Ankarana Special Reserve, Madagascar

A little more about Ankarana

When not squeezing through fissures following the trail on the ground, or clambering up steps cut into the side of the rocks, those with a head for heights can see the park from a very different perspective by crossing the carefully constructed and well-maintained walkways that span the pinnacles themselves.

This not only allows you to get a true sense of scale, but watching lemurs leap from one impossibly sharp pinnacle to another is heart-stopping.

Ankarana Massif, Ankarana Special Reserve, Madagascar
Ankarana Special Reserve, Madagascar
Where to stay

Iharana Bush Camp

Iharana Bush Camp is one of the nicest places to stay in the reserve. The setting alone is worth a trip, overlooking a huge lake, looking up at the Ankarana massif which makes for some spectacular sunsets (and great birding).

As the plan of the camp itself, the handful of rooms are a wood, stone and thatch combination, which manages to combine a very natural feel, with a surprisingly stylish look.

Read more about Iharana Bush Camp

Experiences

What do you really love doing? We curate your itinerary especially for you.

Lady on rope bridge, Ankarana Special Reserve, Madagascar
 

Hanging Bridges

Follow the challenging but well-maintained walkways, where hanging bridges link limestone pinnacles.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Tsingy in west Ankarana, Ankarana Special Reserve (2)
 

Dawn Hike

Get up before dawn and hike up into the western tsingy. Watch as the sun rises over this dramatic landscape, lighting up the coastal plans far below.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Below western tsingy, Ankarana, Madagascar
 

Sunset Canoe

Canoe on the lake beneath the western tsingy as the sun begins to set. Watch as the orange light of dusk illuminates the jagged formations.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Ankarana Massif, Ankarana Special Reserve, Madagascar
 

Caves and Canyons

Explore river caves and canyons full of stalagmites.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Meet our experts

A passion for travel runs right through every one of our experts - meaning they're always ready with first-hand insight about their specialist countries.

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Illona Cross

Before joining Steppes Travel over 25 years ago, I spent a decade working as a ranger, guide and lodge manager across Southern and East Africa. It’s also deeply personal place for me: I got married in Africa, honeymooned in Africa and still return every year with my family – proof that my love for the continent runs far deeper than just professional experience.

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Chris Johnston

Having trekked through rainforests, searched for ancient tombs and been mistaken for a priest, I continue to travel the length and breadth of this beautiful, baffling country. Whilst many people consider Madagascar a wildlife destination, I find the culture and landscapes just as captivating.

Talk with our experts
  • 01285 880 980
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Need Inspiration?
Browse our Madagascar holiday ideas.

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Take a journey along Madagascar’s spine, travelling through some of the country’s most beautiful and prolific national parks, following the winding Route Nationale 7 (RN7). Visit mist-shrouded Andasibe, colourful Ranomafana and the dramatic canyons of Isalo.
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Why Choose Steppes?

Our knowledge, curiosity and expertise set us apart, driving us to create remarkable holidays and Beautiful Adventures tailored perfectly to you, carefully curated to help protect and conserve our planet.

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