Exploring the Untouched Beauty of Masoala National Park

A Symphony of Sights and Sounds

Day two in Masoala National Park was nothing short of magical. The air was alive with the calls of exotic birds and the rustling of unseen creatures, creating a symphony that enveloped Jean-Pierre and me as we ventured deeper into this untouched paradise. It was a day of vibrant colors, playful encounters, and profound connection with nature.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at the Masoala Forest Lodge. The lodge is nestled in a sheltered cove, surrounded by the National Park, opening onto the warm, coral-rich waters of the Tampolo Marine Reserve. The Beach House, with views over the beach and Antongil Bay, served as a communal dining, lounge and bar area. Sipping on locally grown coffee and savoring fresh rainforest fruits provided by the local community, we prepared ourselves for the day's adventures. I made sure to thank the staff in Malagasy, a small gesture that always seems to bring a smile. It’s these little connections that make traveling so rewarding.

Our first stop was the mesmerizing Lagon de Masoala. The lagoon's serene waters reflected the clear sky, creating a breathtaking panorama. We decided to explore the lagoon by kayak, gliding silently through the water. The gentle rhythm of the paddles and the occasional splash were the only sounds, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the tranquility of the surroundings. The protected lagoon of Masoala is a perfect place to discover sailing or paddling.


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

As we paddled, we observed the intricate dance of life beneath the surface. Brightly colored fish darted among the coral reefs, and the sunlight filtering through the water illuminated the vibrant ecosystem. Jean-Pierre, ever the enthusiastic photographer, captured the stunning underwater scenes with his camera. I, on the other hand, simply enjoyed the moment, feeling grateful for the opportunity to witness such natural beauty. We even tried our hand at snorkeling, marveling at the kaleidoscope of colors and the diverse marine life. The water was so clear that we could see for what seemed like miles, and the experience was nothing short of surreal.

The Earth has music for those who listen.

After our aquatic adventure, we set off to the Red Ruffed Lemur Sanctuary. This sanctuary is a haven for one of Madagascar's most iconic creatures, the red ruffed lemur. As we entered the sanctuary, we were immediately greeted by the loud calls of the lemurs, a chorus of joyful sounds that echoed through the forest. These lemurs are endemic to the Masoala Peninsula.


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.

It wasn't long before we spotted a group of these beautiful animals swinging through the trees. Their vibrant red fur stood out against the green foliage, creating a striking contrast. We watched in awe as they leaped from branch to branch, their movements graceful and seemingly effortless. I couldn't help but feel a sense of connection with these creatures, a reminder of the shared ancestry that binds us all. I was particularly thrilled to see a mother with her baby clinging to her back. The little one looked so vulnerable and yet so secure in its mother's embrace. It was a heartwarming sight that I will cherish forever.

We learned from our guide that these lemurs are critically endangered due to deforestation and hunting. It was a sobering reminder of the importance of conservation efforts and the need to protect these incredible animals and their habitat. I made a mental note to donate to a local conservation organization, feeling a sense of responsibility to contribute to their survival.

For lunch, we had planned to visit Le Carnivore - Restaurant Bar Lounge. However, due to a slight miscalculation on my part, we found ourselves a bit further away than anticipated. Embracing the spirit of adventure, we decided to picnic amidst the rainforest. I had packed some local delicacies from the Digue Market the day before. The Digue Market is a vibrant shopping mall that is more than just a place to purchase goods; it is a cultural experience that showcases the local lifestyle, art, and culinary delights. We savored the flavors of Madagascar while surrounded by the sounds of the rainforest, an experience that was both unique and unforgettable.


Experience the vibrant culture and flavors of Madagascar at Digue Market, the ultimate shopping destination in Antananarivo.

As the afternoon wore on, we made our way back towards our camp, stopping briefly at the Digue Market. Though I had planned to simply replenish our supplies, I couldn't resist browsing the local crafts and souvenirs. I ended up buying a beautifully carved wooden lemur as a memento of our trip. Jean-Pierre, on the other hand, found a small, intricately woven basket that he thought would be perfect for storing his camera lenses. The Digue Market provides a cultural experience with colorful stalls brimming with fresh produce, handcrafted souvenirs, and traditional Malagasy crafts.

Dinner at Sakamanga Restaurant was a delightful culinary experience. The restaurant offers French cooking and Malagasy specialties. The set is embellished by an international wine list. The friendly and animated Sakamanga restaurant offers French cooking and Malagasy specialties. We sampled home made foie gras, tournedos of zebu with green pepper sauce, and chicken with Antalaha vanilla-sauce. The meal was a perfect blend of local and international flavors, a testament to Madagascar's rich culinary heritage.


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

As the day drew to a close, we reflected on the incredible experiences we had shared. From kayaking in the serene lagoon to encountering playful lemurs and savoring local cuisine, every moment was a celebration of Madagascar's natural beauty and cultural richness. I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore this untouched paradise with my beloved Jean-Pierre. It was a day that will forever be etched in our memories, a reminder of the power of nature to inspire and connect us.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Nosy Mangabe and the Alamaitso Marine Reserve. I am particularly excited about the prospect of spotting the elusive aye-aye lemur on Nosy Mangabe. The island is small and easy to navigate. The island has its own wildlife viewing potential. I’ve heard it's an experience unlike any other, and I can't wait to share it with you all. Good night from Masoala!