Rainforests of the Atsinanana, Toamasina Province, Madagascar

5.0 (1 review) Spent Ranking #1 in Fenoarivo Atsinanana National Parks

Amazing 5 nights stay

My husband and I stayed 3 nights in Masoala National Park, and 2 nights on Nosy Mangabe island in end March 2010. We were the only tourists at that time. In Masoala Park, we spotted Red Ruffed Lemur, Sportive Lemur, Lowland Streaked Tenrec, Ring-tailed Mangoose, Brookesia Superciliaris, Brookesia Peyrierasi and many other reptiles (mainly frogs) which we do not have the names, after hours of walk in the rain forest and with the help of the expertise of a highly professional guide. Three Red Ruffed Lemur seem to live close to our accommodation, Chez Arol, and were spotted twice during our three nights stay. On Nosy Mangabe island, we spotted Black and White Ruffed Lemur, White Fronted Brown Lemur, Rufous Mouse Lemur, Fruit Bats and several Leaf-tailed Geckos, among others. Dolphins were spotted while we sailed from Masoala to Nosy Mangabe. A group of White Fronted Brown Lemur seems to visit the campsite on the island regularly in mornings. We did not see any sign of Aye-Aye during our two nights stay. People say Aye-Aye are well hidden in the deep forest. It was far easier to spot lemurs on Nosy Mangabe than in Masoala. Nosy Mangabe seemed to be well protected. We were explained that logging of rosewood in Masoala forest has been a problem. We were also told that people used to hunt wild animals for food. Co-existence of humans and nature seems to be a challenge. Our host encourages tourists to visit these area, since it stimulates local economy and would motivate local people to protect the nature. It was a wonderful stay for us, this place is very special. The rain forest is an irreplaceable asset of the globe. We admire people who are making efforts to find a way for coexistence between people and nature and wish the efforts will be successful.
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