Tsingy in west Ankarana, 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.

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

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
Ankarana Special Reserve

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)
Ankarana Special Reserve

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
Ankarana Special Reserve

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
Ankarana Special Reserve

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.

Illona Cross

Born in a small South African town, I have always followed my passion for nature and discovery. After studying Nature Conservation in Pretoria, I was one of the first women to complete a very tough cadetship in the Natal Parks Board. It was here where I cut my teeth in African wildlife management.

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  • 01285 880 980

Chris Johnston

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

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  • 01285 880 980

Need Inspiration?
Browse our Madagascar holiday ideas.

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