MADAGASCAR
If
Darwin had sailed the Indian Ocean rather than the Pacific, he would
have been inspired to formulate his scientific theories on Madagascar,
a living museum of natural history. A
huge country which runs lengthwise for 1600 kilometres, along the tropic
of Capricorn and swarming with many different micro-climates.
Not
only are there rain forests, unique species of tropical vegetation and
the largest variety of orchids anywhere, as well as cacti and deciduous
plants which have adapted to different climatic situations. Although there
are no predatory animals, there are various species of crocodiles and
chameleons, butterflies and lemurs, the most popular have been named by
visitors, they are sifaka, indri, maki.
Although
there are numerous ethnics mixed in one ancient culture, more Asiatic
than African: the fishermen of Vezo with their balance canoes; the Merina
of plateaus, who are masters of unending herds of zebu; the Betsileo,
are the producers of rice which grows on beautiful green terraces. They
are all united by one language, protomalese and the same love for their
heritage.
The
outward appearance of European culture which was briefly imposed at the
start of the last century, remains a sign of the modernisation of Madagascar.
Astrology and divination are daily parts of life in Madagascar, consolidating
and reinforcing their relationship with their ancestors who have always
influenced their life. The elements of Arabic culture which have been
acquired through commerce, have blended with the existing culture so that
they seem natural and almost indigenous.
For
those who want to unite their taste for adventure with their love of nature,
Madagascar knows how to communicate its unique, magic and wild qualities.
The fourth longest island in the world, Madagascar lies to the East of
Africa parallel to Mozambique, floating in the Indian Ocean in all its
wonder.
Its
vegetation is rich and flowering even in the south where the lack of water
is felt. The countryside continues to change colour depending on the season
and harvesting. The coast of the island is surrounded by a corral reef
rich in fish of thousands of colours, and sandy white bays and immense
beaches which appear one after the other. The sea is not the only area
of this land which has not been entirely explored. The animals of Madagascar
are part of the uniqueness of this island, and contact with them will
without doubt be an unforgettable experience; from birds which only the
imagination of a child can sum up, lemurs which can be traced to fossilisation,
to the giant turtles which lay their eggs on the white sands of Nosy Iranja.
The Malagasy are a simple people, who laugh joke and enjoy what they have,
rather than ponder on what they do not. The people are inherently kind,
hospitable and happy to share the wonders of their home where the sights,
sounds and tastes are all authentic and unique. Perhaps not everyone is
capable of appreciating this country where there are no big hotels or
modern conveniences. Gaming tables are mostly found on tombs in graveyards
where the bet is 100 Ariary, dancing is a far cry from the discos or ballrooms
that we are used to, and where dress codes are the norm. The “Big
Land” is a land of discoveries and wonders: its climates, lights,
colours, songs and music along with its beautiful women are to be admired,
it’s a nature sanctuary which awaits anyone who has not lost their
love of life.
In
order to best appreciate your holiday it's necessary that you return to
nature without letting your imagination do it for you. Prepare your trip
with attention and care, in order to savour the essence of the country
and its natural simplicity. Ready to receive its Tonga Soa…. Welcome
!!!
