Madagascar things to see and do

This natural avenue of imposing Grandidier’s baobabs is one of Madagascar’s must-see sights. Located some 35 minutes from Morondava, on the dusty track to Kirindy Reserve, Baobab Alley is best visited around sunrise or sunset because the softer lighting brings out the red tones of the tree trunks and makes for a splendid photo opportunity.

For almost half a century, this estate has been producing green tea (and black tea since 2004). The 335ha (828-acre) plantation yields more than 550 tonnes of tea every year, most of which is destined for Kenya. Guided factory tours take around one hour and end with a tasting.

Unique to Madagascar, the dry and inhospitable spiny forest of the far south is a most curious and startling ecosystem. All of its botanical wonders are perfectly adapted to this tough environment, often preserving precious water in their swollen succulent forms protected by vicious prickles. The strange waving fingers of octopus trees add to the habitat’s otherworldly feel.

Near to Tuléar, this botanical garden showcases some 900 plant species endemic to Madagascar’s arid south. You’ll learn about the plants and how they are used in construction, food and medicine. Birders will also find this place rewarding and there are some bungalows for those wishing to linger.

Discover waterfalls, orchids and lemurs at Amber Mountain. This 18,500ha (45,715-acre) national park is the country’s oldest, protecting some splendid montane rainforest. Ranging in altitude between 850m (2,790ft) and 1,475m (4,840ft), the mountain has its own microclimate. Sanford's lemurs and crowned lemurs are easily seen, as well as countless reptiles and birds.

Grab your surfboard and hit the waves that break on offshore coral reefs to experience the island’s little-known surf thrills. The surf at Libanona Beach in Fort Dauphin is suitable for beginners. Other top riding spots include Lavanono and Anakao, while the far northeast of Madagascar is the place for kitesurfing.

Relax on the idyllic beaches in this isolated southwestern Vezo fishing village. On offer are pirogue (dugout canoe) trips to nearby mangroves and islands, including one that’s home to the world’s southernmost breeding colony of red-tailed tropicbirds. A day trip to the salt lake at Tsimanampetsotsa National Park is a must.

Delve into one of the most striking national parks on the planet. At Tsingy de Bemaraha, there are undisturbed forests, lakes and canyons – but top of the bill is the incredible limestone karst known as tsingy. These vast forests of limestone pinnacles make for a landscape unlike any other.