Red-fronted Lemur, Kirindi Forest, Madagascar

Kirindy

One of the most rewarding, yet least visited wildlife habitats in Madagascar, the remote Kirindy Reserve sees few visitors.

In addition to the excellent brown lemur sightings, it is the most reliable place in Madagascar for sightings of the cat-like fossa and one of the best places in the country for night walks, to seek out the numerous nocturnal lemurs and chameleons found here.

Oustalet's chameleon, Kirindy, Madagascar
Oustalet's chameleon, Kirindy, Madagascar

Why go to Kirindy

With a dry forest setting and lack of thick vegetation, everything here is easy to see making Kirindy particularly good for photography. The road to the park is bumpy and the journey slow but this is the best place to look for a number of endemic dry forest species like the giant jumping rat (not as bad as it sounds), narrow-striped mongoose and pygmy mouse lemur.

Kirindy is also great for birding with over 70 species, including the cuckoo roller, Madagascar Harrier Hawk and the rare white-breasted mesite. Add to this its proximity to the famous Avenue of Baobabs and it is easy to see why this is David Attenborough’s favourite park in Madagascar.

Baobabs, Madagascar
Madagascar

The Avenue of Baobabs

This is possibly one of Madagascar’s most iconic sites. Comprising dozens of beautiful and enormous Grandidiers baobabs, the avenue is best visited at sunrise (much quieter) or at sunset (a little busier) or both if possible.

The area around the avenue is also worth a look, as there is a beautiful lily-filled lake where farmers sometimes bring their cattle to drink and that makes for some amazing pictures at sunset. The area is also home to a number of traditional huts, so it is usually busy with families tending cattle or preparing meals.

Experiences

What do you really love doing? We curate your itinerary especially for you.

Oustalet's chameleon, Kirindy, Madagascar
Kirindy

Night Walks in Kirindy

Experience exceptional night walks looking for nocturnal species of lemur and chameleon.

Suggested camp

Bush Baby, Kirindy, Madagascar
Kirindy

Wildlife Photography

Make the most of the dry and deciduous forests for brilliant wildlife viewing and perfect photographic opportunities.

Fosa, Kirindy, Madagascar
Kirindy

Search for the Fossa

Visit Kirindy, the best place to see Madagascar’s only large predator – the elusive fossa.

Avenue of Baobabs, Morondava, Madagascar
Kirindy

Avenue of Baobabs

Visit the iconic Avenue of Baobabs, where these ancient trees line a dusty road. Sunset and sunrise make for beautiful photography.

Suggested read: blog

Tent, Camp des Amoureux, Kirindy, Madagascar
Camp Amoureux, Madagascar

Camp Amoureux

Named after the two entwined baobabs in front of the bar, this is by far the best place to stay in an area of limited choices. But that doesn’t change the fact this is a great, and surprisingly comfortable camp.

The dome tents, under thatched roofs, with small verandas at the front and flushing loos and cool showers at the back, provide all you need.

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Meet our experts

A passion for travel runs right through every one of our experts - meaning they're always ready with first-hand insight about their specialist countries.

Illona Cross

Born in a small South African town, I have always followed my passion for nature and discovery. After studying Nature Conservation in Pretoria, I was one of the first women to complete a very tough cadetship in the Natal Parks Board. It was here where I cut my teeth in African wildlife management.

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Chris Johnston

Having trekked through rainforests, searched for ancient tombs and been mistaken for a priest, Chris continues to travel the length and breadth of this beautiful, baffling country. Whilst many people consider Madagascar a wildlife destination, he finds the culture and landscapes just as captivating.

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