Exploring the Untamed Wilderness of Masoala National Park

Jungle Beats and Azure Dreams

Today was a symphony of sights, sounds, and tastes, a true immersion into the heart of Masoala National Park. From the playful antics of red ruffed lemurs to the serene beauty of the lagoon and the delightful culinary experiences, Madagascar has truly captured my heart. It’s incredible how much this island has to offer, and I'm so excited to share it all with you.

The day began with the vibrant calls of the rainforest, a natural alarm clock that stirred Liam and me from our slumber in our cozy campsite. After a quick breakfast, we set off for the Red Ruffed Lemur Sanctuary. The air was thick with humidity, a reminder that we were deep in a tropical paradise. As a wildlife photographer, I was buzzing with anticipation, eager to capture these unique creatures in their natural habitat.

The sanctuary was a haven of green, the trees alive with the rustling of leaves and the occasional flash of red. It wasn't long before we spotted our first red ruffed lemur, its rusty-red coat a stark contrast to the dark green foliage. They are the largest members of the two-genus family, Lemuridae, and the females are larger than the males. The lemurs were incredibly active, leaping from branch to branch with an agility that left me in awe. I managed to snap some incredible shots, their expressive yellow eyes seeming to peer right through the lens. Liam, ever the patient companion, helped me adjust my camera settings and find the best angles. I learned that the red-ruffed lemur is native to the island of Madagascar and is found only in the Masoala Peninsula. They primarily eat fruit, but may also eat pollen, nectar, seeds, leaves, and flowers.


Explore the breathtaking Red Ruffed Lemur Sanctuary in Madagascar, a vital conservation area for the endangered red ruffed lemurs and a paradise for nature lovers.

The rainforests of Masoala whispered secrets of a vibrant world, where every creature played its part in a delicate dance of life.

After spending a blissful morning with the lemurs, we decided to explore the lagon de Masoala. The lagoon was a tranquil oasis, its still waters reflecting the surrounding forest like a mirror. We rented a small boat and paddled along the edge, marveling at the diverse ecosystem. The air was filled with the calls of exotic birds, and the water teemed with colorful fish. It was the perfect opportunity to unwind and soak in the serenity of the park. I took a moment to reflect on how lucky I was to experience this pristine environment, a world away from the hustle and bustle of Banff.


Explore the stunning natural beauty and vibrant biodiversity of Lagon de Masoala, Madagascar's hidden tropical paradise for nature lovers.

As the sun began to dip towards the horizon, our stomachs started to rumble, reminding us it was time to seek out some sustenance. For breakfast, we enjoyed a meal at L'ORION RESTAURANT. For lunch, we dined at Sakamanga Restaurant. For dinner we ate at Le Carnivore - Restaurant Bar Lounge.


Experience authentic Malagasy cuisine at L'ORION RESTAURANT in Antananarivo - where flavor meets tradition.

L'ORION RESTAURANT offered a delightful fusion of traditional Malagasy and Chinese cuisines. We started with some zebu burgers and fresh seafood. The chef clearly had a passion for his craft, and the presentation was as impressive as the taste. The owner was very kind and accommodating.

Next, Sakamanga Restaurant was friendly and animated, and offered French cooking and Malagasy specialties. We sampled home made foie gras and tournedos of zebu with green pepper sauce. The restaurant had a very Rhum-flavored atmosphere.


Discover the exquisite flavors of Europe at Sakamanga Restaurant in Antananarivo – where culinary excellence meets local charm.

Finally, Le Carnivore - Restaurant Bar Lounge, combined the best of a restaurant and lounge, offering guests a unique dining experience. The menu showcased an impressive array of dishes, with an emphasis on fresh local ingredients that highlight the culinary heritage of Madagascar. The staff were friendly and attentive, ensuring that every guest feels welcomed and valued.


Discover the flavors of Madagascar at Le Carnivore - Restaurant Bar Lounge in Antananarivo; where exquisite cuisine meets vibrant atmosphere.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to check out Rive Droite, a local bar, for a nightcap. The bar was buzzing with locals and tourists alike, all eager to share stories and experiences. We sipped on some local rum, its rich flavor a perfect end to a perfect day. As we walked back to our campsite, the stars twinkled above us, a gentle reminder of the magic of Masoala.


Experience the vibrant flavors of Madagascar at Rive Droite in Maroantsetra, a must-visit restaurant for every traveler seeking authentic local cuisine.

As I lay in my tent, listening to the sounds of the rainforest, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible journey. Madagascar had exceeded all my expectations, and I knew that tomorrow would bring even more adventures. Tomorrow, we plan to visit cap Baldrisy and Ambodilaitry. I'm particularly excited about the prospect of visiting Digue Market. I drifted off to sleep, dreaming of lemurs, lagoons, and the luscious flavors of Madagascar.

P.S. I almost forgot! I did manage to pick up a beautiful hand-woven scarf at a local shop today. It’s a little piece of Madagascar I can take back home with me, a reminder of this incredible adventure. I can already imagine wearing it on chilly evenings in Banff, reminiscing about the warmth and vibrancy of this amazing island. I´m also very happy that I did not forget my camera gear, hiking boots, insect repellent, raincoat, binoculars, field guide to Madagascar wildlife, and reusable water bottle. I´m a bit sad I forgot my portable solar charger and extra memory cards for my camera.

Good night from Masoala!