Exploring the Untamed Wilderness of Masoala National Park

A Promising Start in Masoala

The air is thick with humidity, a familiar embrace from the rainforest, as Liam and I settle into our Madagascar adventure. The journey here was long, hopping from Calgary to Antananarivo, and then a smaller plane to Maroantsetra. Finally, a boat ride delivered us to the edge of Masoala National Park, a place I've dreamt of photographing for years. Today was all about easing into the rhythm of Madagascar, a gentle introduction to the vibrant life that surrounds us.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Masoala Forest Lodge. Fuelled up, we set off to explore Nosy Mangabe, a small island just a short boat ride from Maroantsetra. The island is a protected reserve, a sanctuary for several lemur species and a haven for reptiles. As a wildlife photographer, I was eager to see what treasures it held.


Explore the natural wonders of Nosy Mangabe, Madagascar's hidden gem known for its lush forests and diverse wildlife.

The boat ride itself was an experience. The waters of Antongil Bay shimmered under the tropical sun, and the air was filled with the cries of seabirds. Liam, ever the attentive husband, made sure my camera gear was secure as we navigated the gentle waves. I couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement – this was it, the start of our immersive adventure into Madagascar's untamed wilderness.

Landing on Nosy Mangabe, we were immediately enveloped by the lush greenery of the lowland rainforest. Our guide, a local expert with an uncanny ability to spot even the most camouflaged creatures, led us into the heart of the island. The trails were a bit muddy from recent rains, but nothing my trusty hiking boots couldn't handle. I did miss my portable solar charger though, a forgotten item that would have been useful in this humid environment.

It wasn't long before we encountered our first lemurs – black-and-white ruffed lemurs, to be exact. They are strikingly beautiful creatures, with their long, flowing tails and expressive faces. I managed to capture a few decent shots, though the lighting within the dense forest canopy was challenging. Liam, with his usual wit, joked that the lemurs were posing just for my camera.

The magic of Madagascar lies not just in its unique wildlife, but in the way it makes you feel utterly connected to the natural world.

As we continued our hike, we spotted white-fronted brown lemurs, leaf-tailed geckos, and a variety of colorful birds. Nosy Mangabe is truly a reptile paradise. The camouflage of the leaf-tailed gecko is something to behold.

After a morning of wildlife spotting, we headed back to Maroantsetra for lunch. We stopped at Pily Pily Restaurant at VOI Andilana Beach Resort, where we enjoyed fresh seafood with a beautiful view of the coast. The flavors of Madagascar are so unique, a blend of French, African, and Asian influences.


Experience exquisite dining at Pily Pily Restaurant within VOI Andilana Beach Resort—where local flavors meet stunning ocean views.

In the afternoon, we took some time to explore Maroantsetra itself. We visited Tranombarotra Goulamhoussen Maroantsetra, a local shop, where I picked up a few souvenirs – a hand-carved wooden lemur and a colorful woven basket. I am always drawn to local markets; they offer a glimpse into the heart of a community. Maroantsetra is a bustling town, full of life and energy. The people, known as Antimaroa, are warm and welcoming.


Discover the vibrant shopping scene at Tranombarotra Goulamhoussen in Maroantsetra, where local culture meets diverse merchandise.

Before dinner, we strolled along the beach, watching the local fishermen bring in their daily catch. The sky was ablaze with color as the sun began to set, painting a breathtaking scene over Antongil Bay. It was a perfect end to a day of exploration.

For dinner, we chose Albert et Lily, a restaurant recommended by our guide. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was lively. I tried a local Malagasy dish called Romazava, a hearty stew made with beef and leafy greens. Liam, ever the adventurous eater, opted for the grilled zebu, a type of local cattle.


Discover exquisite Swiss-Malagasy cuisine at Albert et Lily, where culinary artistry meets stunning natural landscapes in Mantasoa.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post from our tent, I can hear the sounds of the rainforest all around me. It's a symphony of chirps, croaks, and rustles, a constant reminder that we are in the heart of something truly special. I am a little concerned that I forgot extra memory cards for my camera, but I will make sure to ration what I have.

Tomorrow, we venture deeper into Masoala National Park, heading to the Red Ruffed Lemur Sanctuary and Lagon de Masoala. I'm particularly excited about the lemur sanctuary – red ruffed lemurs are endemic to the Masoala Peninsula, and I'm eager to capture some stunning photographs of these beautiful creatures. We are also planning to visit Rive Droite, a local bar.

I am also looking forward to seeing the Lagon de Masoala, I have heard it is a great place to spot marine life and relax on the beach. I'm hoping to get some underwater shots, so I'll make sure to pack my waterproof camera housing. I am also looking forward to dinner at Le Carnivore - Restaurant Bar Lounge tomorrow night.

Madagascar has already cast its spell on me. The warmth of the people, the vibrancy of the culture, and the sheer abundance of wildlife are intoxicating. I know this is just the beginning of an unforgettable adventure, one that I'm thrilled to share with you all.

Goodnight from Masoala!

P.S. I am really looking forward to spending the next few days in the park with Liam. It is always special to share these experiences with him. His support and encouragement mean the world to me. It is also nice to know that back in Banff, the brewery is in good hands.