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 !!!
|