Home to the highest mountains in Madagascar, visitors can climb the highest peak of the island, the Maromokotra standing at 2, 876 metres/9,440 feet.

The Northeast is still home to the last relics of giant tree rainforest, which has all but disappeared elsewhere on the island. Head to Masoala National Park, the largest of the island’s protected areas situated between two Regions; the Sava and Analanjirofo. The average traveller will opt for a 3 to 9 day hike in the incredible rainforest, experiencing nature at its best, raw, untamed and magnificent.

A visit to the largest city along the Northwestern coastline is the port city of Mahajanga, lined with beaches and a corniche lined with palm trees and street-food stalls culminating to a massive baobab tree.

Nosy Be Archipelago is one of the most popular tourist destinations with its stunning beaches and paradise islands. In addition to soaking up the rays and chilling, you can explore rainforests looking for lemurs, enjoy snorkelling and practise your diving.

There are several other national parks to explore this part of the country, top on the list are Amber Mountain, Ankarana and Marojejy. The Vanilla coast, a name given to the north-eastern coastline between Vohemar and Antalaha offers solitary white-sanded beaches and stunning scenary.

This part of Madagascar offers luxury and unspoilt beaches, untamed rainforest and beautiful mountain ranges. Stay tuned, as we explore the East & West of Madagascar next week!