Ankarana National Park

The Ankarana National Park is located halfway between Diego Suarez and Ambanja — an 18,225-hectare limestone plateau that hosts the second-largest Tsingy formations in Madagascar (after Bemaraha). But Ankarana offers more than just Tsingy: caves, underground rivers, crocodile lakes, and surprisingly rich wildlife.

Tsingy & Caves

• Tsingy Meva & Tsingy Rary: Not as tall as in Bemaraha, but equally fascinating — and much easier to reach. Short hikes (1–3 hours) lead through the needle karst labyrinth.
• Grotte des Chauves-Souris: A huge cave where thousands of bats hang upside down from the ceiling. The smell is intense, the spectacle at dusk is spectacular.
• Lac Vert (Green Lake): An emerald-green lake hidden deep in a Tsingy gorge, home to Nile crocodiles. Swimming: definitely not recommended.

Wildlife

Ankarana is surprisingly rich in species: 11 lemur species (including the rare Ankarana sportive lemur), fossas (Madagascar's largest predator, a type of giant mongoose), chameleons, boas, and countless birds. The guides know the best spots for sightings.

Practical Information

The park is located on the RN6 between Diego Suarez and Ambanja. The main entrance is at Mahamasina (campsite available). The trails are well-marked and easily walkable in the dry season (May–November). A guide is mandatory. Ankarana can be easily planned as a stop on the way between Diego and Nosy Be (1–2 days are sufficient).