Travel Information
Birding in Madagascar
Targeting the full list of endemics needs time — they are quite widespread all over the country. A good trip plan and great field knowledge make your birding tour the most successful.
The birding fields from this continent-island range from tropical forests to wetlands and then to coastline as well as semi-desert areas. Even though Madagascar is among the world's best biodiversity hotspots and the wildlife exists for real, climate change and the human pressure toward the natural environment have greatly impacted the birds' life and behaviours. Birds tend more and more to escape to some remote areas. Read about Madagascar's avifauna and explore our top birding sites.
For local experts like our Cactus team, it is possible to bird the whole year round — but some periods will require more time and energy than others due to the birds' activities, pace and behaviours. Plan around Madagascar's climate and check health care information and practical travel tips before you go.
Practical Information
Trip Notes
Physical Requirements
The birding tours require a reasonable level of fitness. All Madagascar reserves and parks are mostly visited on foot, and so are the birding trails. Walking duration may vary from 30 minutes to several hours — at an acceptable pace for fit persons. Any physical limitations should be notified on your reservation form.
Porters
Depending on the type of tour, porters can be hired to help carry equipment and luggage for your comfort. This is particularly relevant for more remote or extended expeditions.
Lodging
Most tours allow for decent, good-standard accommodation. The best and most comfortable options available are booked whenever possible. Any accommodation below standard will be clearly mentioned — as it would be the best available closest to the birding field.
Weather
As Madagascar has several micro-climates, it is always advised to bring a light raincoat. Climates vary from the moist, fresh rainforest to the dry desert areas with very high temperatures. We will plan and cater the best possible to help you enjoy every birding session.
Getting Here
International Connecting Flights
Antananarivo is the main airport for international flights. Nosy Be has become the second biggest airport of the country where several international flights also connect. You can consider flying with the following airlines depending on your departure location and routing:
Domestic Flights
Tours might be slightly or entirely reviewed/customized as per local flight schedules — or because of last-minute changes by air companies. We do our best to re-arrange alternative plans, if necessary. Being a local tour company, our team is very reactive and flexible regarding this.
Check-in luggage is generally limited to 20 kg — hand luggage should not exceed 8 kg.
Charter Flights
We organize charter flights on light and medium size aircraft for birdwatchers who have limited travel time to reach sites of interest. Quotes are entirely subject to the number of participants, weight of passengers and equipment, and distances involved.
Ready to plan your Madagascar birding adventure? Our team provides 24/7 assistance and tailor-made itineraries.
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