Birdwatching

Bird Watching in Madagascar:
Discover a World of Endemic Wonders

Embark on an unforgettable birding adventure through Madagascar’s unique ecosystems. From the lush rainforests of Andasibe to the dry deciduous forests of Ankarafantsika, you'll encounter rare and endemic species like the Madagascar Fish Eagle, Vangas, and Ground Rollers. Led by expert guides, this journey offers intimate encounters with the island’s most elusive and vibrant birdlife — a dream come true for any nature enthusiast.

Top Birdwatching Areas in Madagascar

Madagascar is one of the world’s most exceptional birdwatching destinations, with over 280 bird species, of which more than 100 are endemic — meaning they are found nowhere else on Earth. The best birding areas span across various ecosystems, from rainforests and wetlands to spiny deserts and highland plateaus. Here’s a breakdown of the top regions for birdwatching in Madagascar:

🟢 Andasibe-Mantadia National Park (East)

• Location: 3 hours east of Antananarivo
• Habitat: Lush rainforest
• Key Species: Madagascar Blue Pigeon, Velvet Asity, Red-breasted Coua, Madagascar Long-eared Owl
• Highlights: Easy access, great for beginner birders, also home to Indri lemurs

🟤 Ankarafantsika National Park (Northwest)

• Location: About 8 hours northwest of Antananarivo
• Habitat: Dry deciduous forest and lakes
• Key Species: Schlegel’s Asity, Van Dam’s Vanga, White-breasted Mesite, Madagascar Fish Eagle
• Highlights: High density of endemic species, great photographic opportunities

🔵 Ranomafana National Park (Southeast, along RN7)

• Location: On the RN7 route, near Fianarantsoa
• Habitat: Cloud forest and rainforest
• Key Species: Pitta-like Ground Roller, Rufous-headed Ground Roller, Yellow-browed Oxylabes
• Highlights: One of the most diverse ecosystems in Madagascar

🟡 Zombitse-Vohibasia National Park (Southwest, RN7)

• Location: Along RN7 between Isalo and Tulear
• Habitat: Dry forest
• Key Species: Appert’s Greenbul (found only here), Giant Coua, Cuckoo Roller
• Highlights: Lesser-visited park with highly localized species

🔴 Ifaty & Spiny Forest (Southwest Coast)

• Location: Near Tulear
• Habitat: Unique spiny forest and coastal scrub
• Key Species: Long-tailed Ground Roller, Subdesert Mesite, Lafresnaye’s Vanga
• Highlights: One of the only places to see the critically endangered Ground Rollers

🟣 Masoala National Park (Northeast)

• Location: Remote, accessible via Maroantsetra
• Habitat: Dense rainforest
• Key Species: Helmet Vanga, Bernier’s Vanga, Short-legged Ground Roller
• Highlights: Richest biodiversity in Madagascar but harder to access