The Route East holidays

The route east links the capital Antananarivo with Madagascar’s principle port and second city, Tamatave. Originally a pirate settlement, Tamatave was developed by the French during the colonial era. Today, the city lies on a long and scenic stretch of coastline and has an air of shabby elegance with some fine palm-lined boulevards and once-impressive colonial houses. Continuing east, you will reach two reserves; Andasibe and Mantadia. Both are part of the little remaining unspoilt rainforest in Madagascar and home to 11 species of lemur, over 100 frog species and many native birds. There are excellent opportunities for walking with a local guide to enjoy the peace and beauty of these wonderful reserves. The other area of interest in this region is Sainte Marie Island. Once the domain of pirates and political prisoners in the 17th and 18th centuries, Sainte Marie is now a natural paradise of tropical vegetation, windy clay roads and sandy creeks, with a small tropical island charm. Several varieties of lemur as well as the majestic orchid (season dependant) can be seen. During the season (July to September) the 20 metre long humpbacked whale can be seen around the island where they come to give birth or to look for a mate