🐾 Ankarana National Park: Madagascar’s Tsingy Jungle and Lemur Wonderland 🌿🦧

Welcome to Ankarana National Park, Madagascar’s northern treasure where limestone spires, mysterious caves, and dancing lemurs await your discovery! Located approximately 108 km southwest of Antsiranana (Diego Suarez), this park is a haven for adventurers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Established in 1956, Ankarana boasts a rich tapestry of ecosystems, from dry forests to subterranean rivers, all teeming with unique flora and fauna.

🐒 Lemurs of Ankarana: The Forest Celebrities

Ankarana is a sanctuary for lemur lovers, home to 11 confirmed lemur species, each with its own charm:

🌳 Daytime Stars

• Crowned Lemur (Eulemur coronatus): Easily spotted during the day, these lemurs are known for their distinctive crown-like fur.
• Sanford’s Brown Lemur (Eulemur sanfordi): Active both day and night, they are often seen in the forest canopy.
• Northern Rufous Mouse Lemur (Microcebus tavaratra): A nocturnal species, they are among the smallest primates in the world.
• Western Lesser Bamboo Lemur (Hapalemur occidentalis): Prefers bamboo-rich habitats and is mostly active at night.
• Amber Mountain Fork-marked Lemur (Phaner electromontis): Known for their distinctive forked crown and loud vocalizations.

🌙 Nighttime Wonders

• Ankarana Sportive Lemur (Lepilemur ankaranensis): A nocturnal species endemic to Ankarana, known for its large eyes and bushy tail.
• Fat-tailed Dwarf Lemur (Cheirogaleus medius): Stores fat in its tail and is active during the night.
• Fork-marked Lemur (Phaner furcifer): Recognizable by its forked crown and active at night.
• Eastern Woolly Lemur (Avahi laniger): A nocturnal lemur with dense, woolly fur.
• Aye-Aye (Daubentonia madagascariensis): Famous for its oversized ears and specialized middle finger used to tap trees for insects.

🏞️ Exploring Ankarana: A Journey Through Nature’s Wonders

Ankarana offers a plethora of natural attractions:

• Tsingy Formations: Sharp limestone pinnacles formed by erosion, creating a unique landscape.
• Caves and Underground Rivers: Home to over 100 km of cave passages, including the Grotte d’Andrafiabe.
• Green Lake (Lac Vert): A picturesque crater lake surrounded by lush vegetation.
• Suspension Bridges: Providing breathtaking views of the Tsingy and surrounding forests.

🚶 How to Visit Ankarana

✈️ Getting There

• By Air: Fly into Antananarivo, then take a domestic flight to Antsiranana (Diego Suarez). From there, it's a 2-hour drive to the park entrance.
• By Road: From Antsiranana, drive south on Route Nationale 6 to reach the park entrance at Mahamasina.

🥾 Activities

• Guided Tours: Explore the park's diverse ecosystems with a local guide.
• Hiking Trails: Embark on trails leading to Tsingy formations, caves, and the Green Lake.
• Wildlife Watching: Spot various lemur species and other wildlife along the trails.

🏡 Accommodation

• Camping: Set up camp within the park for an immersive experience.
• Lodges: Stay at nearby lodges offering comfortable amenities.

🎟️ Fees

• Park Entry: Approximately 25,000 Ariary per day.
• Guide Fees: Additional costs apply for hiring a guide.

📸 Tips for Your Visit

• Best Time to Visit: The dry season, from April to November, is ideal for visiting.
• What to Bring: Sturdy footwear, insect repellent, binoculars, and a camera.
• Respect Nature: Follow park rules, stay on marked trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure in Ankarana National Park, where nature's wonders and wildlife await your discovery! 🐾🌿