Excursion Ankarana special reserve & hike tour at Antsiranana

Depart the port and drive to The Ankarana Special Reserve, located 108km's south of Antsiranana, covering 18,220ha and created in 1956. It is a small, partially vegetated plateau composed of 150-million year-old limestone, which has eroded to form the Tsingy.

The Ankarana Special Reserve is a scenic challenging hiking destination but rewarding, with a number of trails and pathways that wind through the rocks and with the focus being on seeing the Tsingy, caves and lakes. (Weather permitting)

Among the forests and rivers of the lower levels of the park lie several caves, stretching for miles back into the limestone. Colonies of hundreds of bats live within, and twisted limestone formations. Ankarana also has over 90 bird species including the lesser vasa parrot, Madagascar crested ibis and the Madagascar pygmy kingfisher.

After the hike, enjoy a local lunch before driving back to Antsaranana.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Ankarana Special Reserve, The Tsingy (limestone formations), Bat Caves

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking/hiking (approx.2 to 4 km or 1.2 to 2.4 miles) over uneven surface, steep terrain and rocky trails with 40 steps to negotiate. The drive one way in 4WD jeeps is 3 hours. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes are recommended. The local guide will switch between 2 vehicles on this tour. If there have been heavy rains, the hike may be changed and visiting the Cave may not be possible. Tourism infrastructure is limited in Madagascar; local vehicles may not have air-conditioning nor PA system. We urge flexibility.