When biologists make their way to search for new species, the name Tsaratanana National Park often falls on Madagascar. For example, two new species of leaf-tail geckos have been discovered on the slopes of the Tsaratanana mountain range. This region on the “Red Island” in the Indian Ocean is characterized by an unusual density of endemic individuals – and that is why this National Park is of great importance, above all for scientists.
The Tsaratanana National Park in Madagascar is covered by a tropical rainforest and spreads over 486 square kilometers. It is located some 60 miles north of the small village of Bealanana and reaches the summit of Maromokotra to a height of 2,876 meters . Anyone who believes himself to be a scientist and has a good physical condition can go with care of local guides and climb the volcanic massif.
Several endangered species are to be observed with a little luck in the national park with its numerous rivers, brooks, thermal baths and waterfalls. Among them are only eleven different species of lemurs. Extremely rare are the black lemur and the forked lemur. Tsaratanana is also an Eldorado for ornithologists , because among the almost one hundred different species of birds are the rare Short-toed Eagle, the Sunbird, Red Owl, Crested Ibis and the ground roller.
Up to altitudes of two thousand meters, a dense rainforest with palisander, ebony and palm trees can be found. Above, the bamboo forests is eventually replaced by a mountain forest and then a grassland made of grass. The unique flora and fauna on the slopes of the towering mountain can be reached from the north and the south. The southwestern entrance to the park leads from Ambanja to Marotolona and finally to Beangona Ambevy.
The roads in the rainforest in Madagascar are only passable during the dry period between June and November. For tourists the national park is not open so far. Therefore, there is no infrastructure within the area.
Highlights
– various rare lemur species
– different species of birds
Equipment
– hiking shoes or trekking shoes
– enough liquid
– sunscreen
Condition:
Only as a scientist is access possible
