Guide to Madagascar

Set adrift in the Indian Ocean, Madagascar lies 400 kilometres off the Mozambique coast and is the fourth largest island in the world. Separated from Asia and Africa at the time of the dinosaurs, animal life has evolved here in a startling array of forms, creating a profusion of endemic species found nowhere else on the planet.

The island’s most famous inhabitant is, of course, the lemur. But there are many more weird and wonderful creatures, from the cat-like fossa, colourful chameleons and oddly-shaped insects to graceful turtles and sting rays, several species of sharks and humpback whales.

Matching the impressive flora and fauna is the incredible diversity of landscapes. There are verdant forests, sandstone canyons, fertile fields cascading with rice paddies, mountains and rich, red soils. This is not forgetting the 5,000 kilometres of coastline, lapped with sparkling turquoise waters and presenting opportunities for a once-in-a-lifetime yacht charter.

Most superyacht vacations centre on Madagascar’s jewel-like islands. Easiest to reach is the volcanic Malagasy archipelago. Seek out the endangered black lemur at Nosy Be’s Lokobe Reserve, visit the craft markets of Nosy Komba, snorkel in the coral-rich marine reserve of Nosy Tanikely and relax on the sun-kissed beaches of Nosy Iranja, two dream-like islands joined by a sand spit.

Venture further afield to the Mitsio Islands where yacht-goers can experience outstanding diving, unwind on pristine, palm-fringed beaches, discover ancient tribe remnants and meet with a village of local shark fishers. The four unspoilt Radama Islands are also a scuba diver’s paradise with sea turtles nesting on the shores and lemurs roaming freely in the forested interiors.

There are, in fact, a range of activities on offer in Madagascar. Adventurers can pick from hiking, mountain biking, kite-surfing, surfing and rock climbing, while history buffs will love uncovering the fascinating history of the island. A cultural melting pot of different beliefs and traditions also makes for a fascinating charter experience. For sheer diversity, Madagascar cannot be beaten.

To discover more about the ways in which you can discover this magical world, take a browse of all the superyachts available to charter in Madagascar.