Masoala National Park was just superb. It is the largest of Madagascar’s protected national parks and covers an area of 2,300km2 and another 100km2 of marine parks. The park is home to the red ruffed lemur and the elusive aye-aye. Many other species also call Masoala home; the brown tailed mongoose is only found there and humpback whales use the shallow coastal waters as a nursery ground for young. Sadly, many parts of Masoala are still under threat from illegal logging operations that sell rosewood on international black markets.
We took a small motorboat from Maroantsetra down the peninsula to a small rural village which was to be our home for the next few days. The boat ride was spectacular, with huge peaks of rainforest looming up on both sides and clear calm waters. We had lunch followed by a relaxing swim and an afternoon walk in the park. It was really beautiful, with primary forest and lots and lots of wildlife. We certainly could understand why it is considered one of the best national parks in Madagascar.
We spent three nights in Masoala, in a very basic bungalow, no running water and cold bucket showers. It wasn’t exactly your typical Christmas experience, but it was really enjoyable. We saw red ruffed lemurs, white fronted brown lemurs, the brown tailed mongoose, many chameleons, frogs and even a few tenrecs (like small hedgehogs). The insects of Masoala were also quite beautiful and the moss camouflaged mantis was one of the highlights.
We spent three nights in the coastal village of Masoala and trekked to different parts of the park over the three days. This was a good amount of time to spend in the same place. Those with more time (2 weeks) can trek the coastal route around the peninsula from Antalaha to Maroantsetra. Don’t forget your mosquito repellant and malaria meds.
